Kosovo Independence
Serbia and Russia have refused to recognize Kosovo’s independence arguing the declaration is illegal and sets international precedent that is applicable to other breakaway regions including pro-Russian South Ossieta and Abkhazia in Georgia.
AFRICOM Marks Battle for Africa
The recent establishment and operation of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) signals the militarization of U.S. foreign policy in Africa.
Al-Sadr Struggles for Iraq Control and Legitimacy
An intra-Shiite power struggle is underway as cleric Muqtada al-Sadr attempts to maintain control over his militia (the Jaysh al-Mahdi, JAM) and transform it into a legitimate political movement.
Darfur & Chinese Arms Sales
China is selling small arms to Sudan, which are used in the Darfur conflict to maim and kill civilians, in exchange for access to Sudanese oil. The violence in Darfur will continue as long as China continues its oil-for-weapons trade with Sudan.
Syria and Israel’s Hollow Peace Talks
Syria announced last week the existence of back-channel peace negotiations with Israel.
Dangerous Brinkmanship between Iran & the West
This past week, Iran noticeably softened its anti-West rhetoric, and European negotiators hinted that Iran may cooperate and abandon its nuclear program. Meanwhile, Israel conducted a massive military exercise simulating a mock attack on Iran, and the Bush administration has begun funneling $500m towards Iranian insurgency groups.
China Securing Access to Middle East Oil
Dubai recently announced its partnership with China in the creation of a billion dollar investment fund. Saudi Arabia recently announced its commitment to double oil exports to China by 2010.
“War on Terror” Extends Somalia’s Crisis
A recent Amnesty International report documenting war crimes by US-backed forces in Somalia and US air strikes that have killed more Somali civilians than alleged al-Qaeda operatives underscore Washington’s role in Somalia’s humanitarian crisis.
US-Sudan Rapprochement over Oil, Security
Despite its accusations of “genocide” in Darfur and an outbreak of violence in oil-rich Abyei, the US is negotiating with Sudan to normalize diplomatic relations.
Israeli Prime Minister’s Peace-Talk Strategy
Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert is being investigated for bribery and tax evasion. His popularity has plummeted, and he may be indicted within the month in which case he has pledged to resign.