Month: April 2009

The United States of Europe?

On March 26 the European Parliament issued voted overwhelmingly (503 votes for, 51 against and 10 abstentions) in favor of a resolution “on the state of transatlantic relations in the aftermath of the US elections (2008/2199(INI)).” If you want to understand why Europe as a political power has been unable to play its role in … Continue reading “The United States of Europe?”

Thursday: 1 Marine, 96 Killed; 157 Wounded in Iraq

Updated at 8:40 p.m. EDT, Apr. 23, 2009 At least 96 people were killed and 157 more were wounded, mostly in two significant suicide-bombing attacks. Over 50 of the dead and about 77 of the wounded are believed to be Iranian pilgrims. This came on the same day that Iran and Iraq announced a oil deal. The DoD reported the death of a Marine from non-combat causes in Anbar. Meanwhile, the A.P. has learned that 87,000 Iraqis have “officially” died in violent attacks since 2005. Also, one of the most wanted al-Qaeda figures, whether he actually exists or not, has been reported captured.

Despite Americas Summit, US-Cuba Ties Still in Limbo?

Despite a growing sense of anticipation coming out of the Trinidad Summit of the Americas last weekend regarding the possibility of a historic breakthrough in U.S.-Cuban relations, specialists here remain uncertain about how and even if that breakthrough will be achieved. The uncertainty revolves around the question of whether the administration of U.S. President Barack … Continue reading “Despite Americas Summit, US-Cuba Ties Still in Limbo?”

Iran Hands Netanyahu a Gift

JERUSALEM — Just when it seemed that the international community was gearing itself up to put pressure on the new Israel government to engage the Arab world and the Palestinian Authority seriously on peace, Iran’s president hijacked the moment. But, in again lashing out against Israel, he handed the Israeli prime minister a whip of … Continue reading “Iran Hands Netanyahu a Gift”

Wednesday: 1 US Soldier, 10 Iraqis Killed; 30 Iraqis Wounded

Updated at 7:25 p.m. EDT, Apr. 22, 2009 At least 10 Iraqis were killed and 30 more were wounded in the latest violence. A U.S. soldier was killed while on patrol in Baghdad. Meanwhile, the U.N. delivered a report on Kirkuk to the Iraqi government, while the U.S. Senate confirmed Christopher Hill to be the next ambassador.