The links between security and globalization were highlighted by the 2001 terrorist attacks on New York City and Washington, DC, and the subsequent long wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. Lingering poverty, inequality, religious extremism and war can sow discontent and resentment as unprecedented global mobility lends access to education and travel in other countries. Despite use of drones, cyber-warfare and other advanced weapons technology to mount counterterrorist attacks, the marginalized can strike out at vulnerable urban or economic centers. Annual global defense spending exceeds $1.6 trillion. Containing the trade in weapons, whether nuclear bombs or assault rifles, and preventing them from falling into the wrong hands remain a challenge.

Russia Emerges as New Power Broker in Middle East

The United States sits back after Russia asserts itself in the Syrian civil war by organizing a ceasefire and proposing a constitution
Dilip Hiro
January 31, 2017

Sino-Indian Tensions Roil Geopolitics in Asia

India and China’s rivalry intensifies over China’s veto on UN issues, territory, Pakistan and the Dalai Lama
Harsh V Pant
January 12, 2017

Don’t Bet on Enduring Republican Reset With Russia

For domestic politics, Russia’s President Putin may need rivalry with the US more than Trump as friend
Daniel Twining
January 10, 2017

Russia Pivots to Asia

Russia adroitly links seemingly distant global events, using each as leverage for plans elsewhere
Taehwa Hong
December 20, 2016

Fall of Eastern Aleppo Marks Turning Point for Syrian Civil War

Russian airstrikes ensured victory for the Assad regime, a setback for the United States and its allies
Dilip Hiro
December 13, 2016

Taiwan, Thorn in China’s Side, Gets New Attention

Taiwan issue underscores limits of power for the US and China – and the calcification of international policymaking
Mark Harrison
December 6, 2016