America's strategic ambiguity in Afghanistan and elsewhere has made understanding its operational doctrine all the more crucial.
Employees of the private security firm Xe, formerly known as Blackwater, directly participated in CIA counterinsurgency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. European leaders threaten Iran with imminent sanctions. North Korea announces that it is ready to co-operate with the United States. All this
Presidential elections are looming in the Abkhazia, the breakaway republic which Russia recognised as an independent state after the Georgia war. This time, Russia has backed off from playing a candidate, says Ivan Sukhov. But whatever the outcome closer integration with Russia will continue.
The war on terror has been a disaster. But out of its ashes a deeper understanding of global security capable of addressing real 21st-century threats may emerge.
Diana Francis finds in an exhibition of quilts and arpilleras made by women from Ireland to Chile, a rallying call to say no to violence, public and private, on any scale; to work for the abolition of war and to transform the culture of violence in which women are objectified and subjugated.
Kiribati announces plans at Copenhagen for “practical and rational” exodus due to climate change. Violence and displacement in north western DRC suggests UN proposals for early drawdown may be premature. Spread of violence in Yemen could affect regional stability. Pirates seize another ship off th
The degrading aftermath of Sri Lanka’s civil war demands international action to ensure protection of its civilians from their overweening rulers, says Martin Shaw.
Wealthy nations are accused of 'carbon colonialism' as leaked climate draft sparks anger. General McChrystal welcomes the new surge-and-exit strategy in Afghanistan. Fourteen wounded as Malaysian PM visits Thai south. No deal yet on Israel's Shalit according to Palestinian Authority. Iraq's Prime
Multiple explosions kill over 100 people in Baghdad. Gates to put pressure on Karzai in Kabul. US envoy commences talks with North Korea. Deadly attacks strike Pakistani cities. All this and more in today’s update.
Disputes over the allocation of votes threatens not only to delay Iraq's January elections but to enflame sectarian tensions and Sunni alienation from the political establishment.
The Indonesian state’s promise of empowerment to Papuans has proved inadequate. A new focus is needed, says Charles Reading.
Anti-government protesters in Iran subject to police violence. US clueless on Bin Laden’s location. Police in Sudan break up opposition rally. Zimbabwe still in need of $378m in aid. India and Russia reach agreement on nuclear programme. All this and more in today's update.
