The official line on the transfer of power is continuity. But Russia's "managed democracy" appears to be entering a new phase of even stricter management and even less democracy. ... more
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U.S. troops and Shi'ite militants are clashing daily in Baghdad's volatile Al-Sadr City. The focus of much of the fighting is a wall coalition forces are building to stop rocket attacks on the Green Zone. ... more
In an editorial titled "Cyberjamming," "The Wall Street Journal-Europe" discusses the recent cyberattacks against RFE/RL's Belarus Service and other sites. ... more
A new report by RFE/RL senior analyst Daniel Kimmage examines how Al-Qaeda-affiliated groups use the Internet to spread their message of global jihad. ... more
Russia's next president, Dmitry Medvedev, is considered to be more palatable for the West. But under his leadership, Russia's domestic and foreign-policy course is unlikely to change in fundamental ways. ... more
In a speech at the Heritage Foundation, President Jeffrey Gedmin said RFE/RL's broadcasts represent the belief that free speech and an independent press are the essential components of a healthy civil society. ... more
The fighting in Beirut is likely to heighten warnings from Washington that the conflicts in Lebanon and Iraq are part of a broader struggle between the West and Iran for influence in the region. ... more
After a two-month lull in the violence that has plagued Pakistan's border regions, a suicide bombing highlights obstacles on the path to peace and development. ... more
Noted historian Norman Stone reflects on the impact and the legacies of World War II and other wars of the 20th century on the Soviet Union, Turkey, and the Balkans. ... more
Russia is busy dusting off its heavy weapons for what will be the biggest military extravaganza seen on Red Square since the collapse of the Soviet Union. The message? No apologies. ... more
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