East Timor’s Challenges Two Decades After Independence
East Timor has become a stable democracy after securing independence in 2002. But its finances are precarious, and nearly half of its people live in poverty.
Trump Team Leaves Behind an Alliance in Crisis
European leaders felt certain about one thing after a whirlwind tour by Trump officials — they were entering a new world where it was harder to depend on the United…
Trump’s Ambition to Redraw the World Map Ignores Those Affected Most
President Trump’s approach to foreign policy deals is reviving a bygone imperial approach that may backfire, experts say.
Putin Has Long Wanted More Power in Europe. Trump Could Grant It.
Remarks by Vice President JD Vance and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth are fueling concerns that the U.S. will move away from Europe and align with Moscow.
British Couple on World Motorcycle Tour Is Detained in Iran
The couple last posted online from Iran in early January. Britain’s foreign office confirmed their detention after Iranian reports about British nationals accused of “security crimes.”
Cuts to U.S.-Backed Rights Groups Seen as a Win for China
U.S. funding for the promotion of democracy has been frozen, disrupting the work of groups that expose abuses in China. Chinese nationalists are celebrating.
Tensions Mount in Lebanon as Deadline Nears for Israeli Withdrawal
The United States has reportedly told Lebanese officials that Israel’s military intends to remain in five strategic points inside Lebanon, but will withdraw from towns it still occupies.
As Ukraine Presses for Role in Russia Peace Talks, Trump Offers Reassurances
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine and European defense ministers had expressed concern that they might not be present for talks between President Trump and Russia’s leader to end the war.
Hamas Signals Progress Toward Resumed Hostage Releases
The group said that mediators were working “to remove obstacles and close gaps” after the cease-fire deal with Israel hit a roadblock.
Putin’s Call With Trump Delivers a Victory for Russian Leader
Vladimir Putin’s call with President Trump reinforced the Russian leader’s view that Moscow and Washington should decide the fate of Ukraine — and other weighty matters.