Xi’s Parade Projects Power, but True “Autocratic Alliance” Still Not Realized
Background
Last week’s rare gathering of Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un in Beijing — timed with China’s massive Sept. 3 military parade...
NATO Articles 4 & 5: Could the Ukraine War Trigger Collective Defense?
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced that he requested NATO consultations under Article 4 after Poland shot down 19 drones during a significant Russian...
French PM Resigns, Leaving Macron Cornered By Fragmented Parliament
Background
France’s Fifth Republic, created in 1958, was designed to ensure stability by giving the president strong executive powers and a reliable parliamentary majority. Yet...
Nepal’s Gen Z rises up: what’s behind the protests?
At least 19 people died in Nepal on Monday, with many injured as police used tear gas and rubber bullets against protesters trying to...
Why the Race to Replace Ishiba May Be More Complex Than It Looks
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba announced his resignation on Sunday due to pressure from his ruling party following recent election defeats, including the July...
How Japan’s Next Leader Will Be Chosen — and Why It Matters
Following Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's resignation, the process for selecting Japan's next leader is detailed. The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), the dominant political...
From Cannabis Crusader to Premier: The Rise of Anutin Charnvirakul
Background
Thailand’s politics have long been defined by clashes between populist parties linked to Thaksin Shinawatra and the conservative establishment, resulting in multiple coups and...
France’s Political Crisis Explained
Background
France has been mired in political instability since President Emmanuel Macron’s snap parliamentary elections in 2024 left the National Assembly fragmented. His ruling alliance...
Veterans Drive Europe’s Defence Tech Boom Amid Ukraine War – Analysis
Background
The war in Ukraine and NATO’s increased military spending have accelerated Europe’s defence technology sector, bringing in record investment. Unlike the U.S., Europe traditionally...
China’s Weapons Parade Underscores Deterrence Message
BackgroundChina has been rapidly modernizing its military as part of Xi Jinping’s goal of building a “world-class” armed force. Its strategy emphasizes deterrence, technological...