Stanford Commentary

Kim III

Pyongyang’s nuclear antics are prompted by domestic turmoil, not schemes for global domination. While the West frets over proliferation, Kim Jong-il is worrying about his heir.

Pole Dancing

Rising powers like China, Russia and India are moving up in the world. Will their ascendance come at the expense of the United States?

Jacob's Jottings: The Case of Fouad Ajami

Five years after the start of the Iraq War, most of its early champions have yet to be held to account for its spectacular failures.

NI Online's Continuing Russia Coverage

Six Russia-watchers weigh in on the Russian elections, the internal state of the country, and Vladimir Putin's nomination of a successor.

Putin's Heir?: NI Online's Continuing Russia Coverage

After Vladimir Putin’s announcement today that he would support Dimitri Medvedev to be the next Russian president, Nikolas K. Gvosdev gives some perspective.

Back in the USSR?

The central role of Vladimir Putin in shaping Russian politics now seems assured for years to come. But what are the implications of this new reality?

Whither Venezuela?

This December, Venezuelans will vote on whether to amend the constitution and expand the powers of President Hugo Chavez. What does this referendum mean for the future of democracy in the country?

Being Right Matters

When it comes to foreign-policy pundtiry, putting our reputations where our mouths are would teach us a great deal.  

The Next Iranian Elections

With parliamentary and presidential elections slated for the next two years, political posturing in the Islamic Republic provides insight into potential power shifts in Tehran.

ISG: Cut and Hedge

The authors’ political hedging will allow the president to seize on just those elements of the report that would seemingly endorse his most ruinous policy innovation: a troop surge in Iraq.

Follow The National Interest

May 26, 2012