#The true price of Hamas’s hostage endgame

#The true price of Hamas’s hostage endgame

In the world of kidnapping, there are generally two types of motivation: ransom and politics.  Kidnap-for-ransom is more common and more conducive to a positive resolution because it is about money — a paid ransom brings the abductee home. Kidnapping for political reasons is more difficult and often leads to a more protracted situation. The…

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#McConnell backs Speaker’s spending proposal despite lack of Ukraine money 

#McConnell backs Speaker’s spending proposal despite lack of Ukraine money 

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) is backing Speaker Mike Johnson’s (R-La.) two-step proposal to fund the government, even though it will not include funding for Ukraine, which is a top McConnell priority.   McConnell’s decision to embrace the new Speaker’s spending strategy means Republican leaders are united heading toward the Nov. 17 government funding…

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#Decision time in Ukraine — will Biden make the right choice?

#Decision time in Ukraine — will Biden make the right choice?

Contrary to recent arguments presented by John Mearsheimer and retired U.S. Army Col. Douglas Macgregor, Ukraine’s counteroffensive has not failed. But it has reached a transition point, and decisions must be made. We are now 20 months into a war that then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley told us would last three days. Russian planners estimated 10 days.  A Ukrainian military…

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#China, once an unstoppable economic powerhouse, has hit a wall

#China, once an unstoppable economic powerhouse, has hit a wall

For decades, China’s unstoppable rise to global superpower has been a dominant narrative in international affairs. Its sustained economic growth, massive infrastructure investments, and remarkable technological advancements have all contributed to this perception. However, while China’s ascent has been undeniable, it now faces four key structural challenges that threaten its global leadership aspirations.  China’s economic…

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