Section: Project Syndicate (Czech Republic)
The Kremlin’s Tragic Miscalculation
Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is one of the great tragedies of our time, not only because of the tremendous human cost, but also because it is utterly pointless. Indeed, Russia’s leaders fundamentally misjudged the West’s intentions and created an unnecessary confrontation that undermines both sides’ interests....
Are Sanctions Saving Russia?
The economic sanctions imposed on Russia by the West in March 2014 have undoubtedly been painful. But they have so far failed to achieve their goal of compelling President Vladimir Putin to change his policy toward Ukraine, and they may end up leaving Russia – and Putin – even stronger than before. …read more Source: Project Syndicate...
Russia’s European Game in Syria
Vladimir Putin is an old-school imperialist, whose military intervention in Syria is partly designed to divert attention from his dismemberment of Ukraine. And his thinly veiled threats against the Baltic states, Poland, Finland, and now Turkey reveal a strategy that has as its chief goal the weakening of Europe. …read more Source: Project...
Vladimir Putin’s Soviet Dream
From China’s activities in the South China Sea to the Islamic State’s advance in the Middle East, competition and conflict are threatening long-standing regional orders. But perhaps the most critical conflict, with implications for all the rest, is in Ukraine, which has become central to Russia’s expansionist ambitions....
The Right Intervention in Ukraine
The ongoing Greek drama may have transfixed Europe and the world, but the great crisis in Europe’s east has not gone away. If Russia is serious about resolving the conflict with Ukraine, it should be prepared to endorse the deployment of an international peacekeeping mission to the Donbas region. …read more Source: Project Syndicate...
Russia’s War on Ukraine’s Economy
Ukraine’s primary economic problems are not homegrown but the result of Russian aggression. The international community, with the EU in the lead, must provide substantial humanitarian assistance and help stabilize the country’s economy. …read more Source: Project Syndicate (Czech...
Why Ukraine Deserves a Haircut
The battle in Ukraine over the future of reform is far from won, but real progress has been made. The country’s private creditors must now do their part and join the international community and the IMF in taking a haircut on their debts. …read more Source: Project Syndicate (Czech...
Saving Ukraine
Addressing the challenges facing Ukraine will require policymakers inside and outside the country to stabilize its economy, protect its territory, and create breathing room for reforms. In order to accomplish this, they will also have to secure greater cooperation from Russia. …read more Source: Project Syndicate (Czech...
Shelter from the Storm in Europe
To secure a prosperous future, Europe must confront three distinct challenges: the Greek crisis, Russia’s incursion in Ukraine, and the rise of populist political parties. While Europe could address each of these challenges individually with relatively little risk, all three must be addressed simultaneously. …read more Source: Project...
The Living Legacy of Helsinki
Forty years ago, 35 countries, including the US and most of Europe, signed the Helsinki Final Act, setting the stage for the end of the Cold War. As violence in Ukraine rages on, Europe’s leaders would do well to reaffirm the principles underlying that world-changing pact. …read more Source: Project Syndicate (Czech...
