- Social:
Eurasia Group
European Director for Eurasia Group, a global risk analysis firm
PROFILE
Mujtaba Rahman
Guest
FROM Mujtaba Rahman
To the Point
Ukraine and Crimea: The Fallout Continues In yesterday's speech to Russia's ruling elite, Vladimir Putin said , according to this translation, "Don't believe those who scare you with Russia, who yell that Crimea will be followed by other regions." He said he did not intend to further divide Ukraine, but that annexing Crimea is part of re-unifying what he calls "historical Russia." Despite international outrage, it looks like a done deal. So far, Russia is feeling no pain from economic sanctions, but the US and Europe plan three steps of escalation starting tomorrow. How much economic damage will the West have to absorb in order to make a difference? Might Ukraine be better off without a restive Crimea? What will a confrontation with Russia mean for US policy toward Syria and Iran?
Which Way, L.A.?
Is Time Running Out on the Eurozone? With a bigger economy than the United States, the Eurozone has the resources to avoid a break-up. But does it have the political will? With Greece imposing drastic austerity measures, Germany's parliament gave Chancellor Angel Merkel a bigger vote than expected today in support of increasing the Eurozone's bailout fund . We hear about the latest efforts to hold it together and the prospects for a double-dip recession worldwide.
To the Point
Is Time Running Out on the Eurozone? The German Parliament today approved expanded powers for the European Union's main bail-out fund , a big victory for Chancellor Angela Merkel. But with Greece in the throes of protest over austerity measures, there's still concern that the can is being kicked down the road. How much longer will frugal Germans be willing to support other countries they regard as undisciplined spenders? Could Greece still default on its debt? Would that trigger an economic "contagion" threatening the global economy with drastic consequences for the United States?
Recommended
To the Point
Ex-FBI Director Comey tells his side of the story Today, former FBI Director James Comey came close to calling the President who fired him a liar. The White House denied the claim and called it insulting, but Republican Senators did not challenge Comey’s truthfulness. Many questions remain: did the President try to obstruct a federal investigation? Later, we’ll go behind the “velvet rope” for a look at 5-Star health care for the richest Americans.
To the Point
Terrorism and tweets, hate speech and murder Just days before an election, Britain is coping with a rash of deadly terrorism, and Prime Minister Theresa May is on the defensive. And again today, President Trump has tweeted criticism of the Mayor of London. Later, a double murder in Portland, Oregon has revealed the ugly past of a supposedly “progressive” city. One immediate question: is “hate speech” protected by the First Amendment?
To the Point
Will the Senate write a healthcare bill in secret? While Democrats and Republicans argue White House relations with Russia, another question is being decided behind closed doors: who gets help buying health insurance and who doesn't? We hear how the pros and cons are being shrouded in secrecy.
To the Point
The longest US war: Will Trump send more troops to Afghanistan? The Trump White House is divided over the Pentagon's request for more troops in Afghanistan—where the US has been fighting for the past 16 years. Is there a formula -- either for "victory" or a political settlement? Is there an end in sight for America's longest war?