📰 Responsible Statecraft · 56
United StatesVance on the clock with Iran deal under fire
Vice President Kamala Harris is now officially on the clock to negotiate a nuclear deal with Iran, following a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that failed to extract significant concessions from Tehran. Harris defended President Trump's preliminary deal during a White House briefing, stating that the 60-day clock for further talks would begin today. She attempted to downplay controversial provisions of the MOU, including the immediate lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil exports and the eventual creation of a $300 billion reconstruction fund for Iran. Harris was scheduled to travel to Geneva,
U.S. and Iran peace talks postponed and U.K. PM Keir Starmer braces for leadership battle: Morning Rundown
Peace talks between the U.S. and Iran have been postponed following Vice President JD Vance's cancellation of a planned trip to Switzerland. This decision comes amid intensified Israeli strikes in Lebanon, which have raised concerns about the future of efforts to end the ongoing conflict. The talks were meant to begin a 60-day negotiation period aimed at resolving key long-term issues and achieving a permanent cessation of hostilities. Switzerland's foreign ministry confirmed that the meeting at the Bürgenstock resort will not proceed, though no specific reason for the postponement has been给出.
Alleged mastermind behind foiled UFC terror plot is an Obama-era 'Dreamer' in U.S. illegally
The Department of Homeland Security announced that Abraham Alvarez, an undocumented Mexican national who benefited from the Obama-era DACA program, was the alleged mastermind behind a foiled terror plot targeting the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House. Alvarez entered the U.S. in 2001 on a tourist visa, which expired, but he remained in the country. He was granted deferred action under DACA in 2014. Prosecutors allege Alvarez planned to attack President Trump and other high-profile individuals using explosive drones and snipers. Four other suspects were also charged in connection with a
Senate delays Jay Clayton’s nomination for intel director after Trump post
The Senate delayed the confirmation hearing for Jay Clayton, President Donald Trump's nominee to be the next director of national intelligence, following Trump's decision to cancel it due to political disagreements with Democrats. Trump cited frustrations over a lapsed surveillance tool and a stalled voter ID bill as reasons for the cancellation. He also linked the approval of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Section 702 program to his SAVE America Act election reform proposal. Trump stated that the hearing would be postponed until Jamie McDonald is confirmed as U.S. Attorney. In the
Don't be fooled by the new China-North Korea love fest
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, signaling a return to pre-pandemic levels of bilateral relations. The summit aimed to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties between the two countries. However, the relationship is described as a 'marriage of convenience' with limitations. North Korea has recently shifted closer to Russia, forming a military alliance and supporting Russia's actions in Ukraine, which has reduced its reliance on China.
Hyper-militarized 'war on narco-terror' is not stopping drug flows
The article discusses the Trump administration's militarized approach to combating drug trafficking through targeted strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific regions, resulting in significant casualties. It highlights Colombia's potential shift toward a more aggressive stance against drug trafficking under a new president. The author critiques the effectiveness of such military strategies, citing historical data from Plan Colombia, and proposes alternative approaches focusing on state presence, rural development, legal enforcement, and targeting key points in the drug supply chain.
The forgotten fugitives of US forever wars
The article discusses the impact of U.S. military interventions on global displacement, citing data from the UNHCR showing over 117 million people forcibly displaced worldwide. It attributes much of this crisis to American militarism, specifically referencing interventions in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and Syria. The piece argues these actions have led to widespread destruction, instability, and forced migration.
Who asked for Doug Feith's opinion anyway?
The article critiques Douglas Feith, a former key figure in the planning of the Iraq War, for publicly opposing the U.S.-Iran Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by President Donald Trump. The author argues against Feith's credibility due to his historical involvement in past military failures and questions his suitability to lead opposition to the MoU.
Trump ended his idiotic Iran war. Good.
The author, who has opposed former President Donald Trump's approach to Iran, acknowledges Trump's recent decision to end the conflict with Iran through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The author argues that ending the 'costly, unnecessary war' was the correct move and criticizes the idea of evaluating the war's worth. They reference Rob Malley, a former Obama administration negotiator, who suggests the MOU is preferable to other available options.
The power decisions that could shape the next century
The article discusses the impact of AI-driven power demands on the U.S. electricity system, highlighting the need for major decisions regarding infrastructure growth. It notes that data centers are consuming large amounts of electricity, comparable to entire cities, which raises questions about cost distribution, access, and grid connectivity. The piece outlines ongoing debates at key regulatory bodies like PJM and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, including proposals for data centers to connect directly to power plants or generate their own power. These decisions are expected to have远
U.S. and Iran sign deal ahead of schedule, sources say
The U.S., Iran, and their mediators are considering moving up the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to as early as Wednesday, instead of the originally planned in-person signing on Friday. This would allow the parts of the deal related to the Strait of Hormuz to take effect earlier. Discussions suggest Iran wanted the full text of the agreement kept confidential until the formal signing, while the White House has not confirmed whether this is due to political pressure. No final decision has been made regarding the change in timing, and the U.S.-Iran delegation meetings scheduled 1
Palestinian Death Toll In Gaza Tops 73,000 As Israel Continues Launching Strikes Despite Ceasefire
The Palestinian death toll in Gaza has exceeded 73,000 due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. Israeli military operations continue despite a stalled ceasefire. The health ministry reports nearly 1,000 deaths in Gaza since the ceasefire began, with five Israeli soldiers also killed. The total number of injuries since the war started exceeds 173,000. The health ministry, which is part of the Hamas-led government, states that approximately half of the fatalities are women and children. Israel claims it aims to avoid civilian casualties and attributes such
Meet the biggest winner of the war with Iran
The article discusses the upcoming interim peace agreement between Iran and the United States, highlighting Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf's role as the head of Iran's negotiation team. It provides background on Ghalibaf's education, early involvement with the Basij militia, and his military-political career.
The US wants to end aid to Israel but replace it with something worse
The article discusses the potential shift in U.S. policy regarding military aid to Israel, suggesting that ending direct military aid could be replaced by deeper integration of U.S. and Israeli defense and intelligence operations. It claims that this move is supported by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and certain pro-Israel members of Congress, arguing that the change aims to obscure the U.S.-Israeli relationship from public and congressional oversight.
What would happen if US actually cut off military aid to Israel?
The article discusses tensions in U.S.-Israel relations, focusing on President Donald Trump's criticism of Israel's actions toward Lebanon and the potential implications of cutting military aid to Israel as a means of influencing its behavior. It highlights the disagreement between the U.S., Iran, and Israel regarding ending the conflict in Lebanon and suggests that the U.S. might need to exert pressure on Israel through military aid reductions.
The Taiwan Lobby moves to put a full court press on Trump
Taiwan has been actively engaging with U.S. political figures and organizations through lobbying efforts, including hiring firms connected to both Republican and Democratic circles. This includes working with firms linked to Donald Trump's inner circle, such as Checkmate Government Relations, as well as Democratic-aligned groups like Gephardt Government Affairs. These efforts are coordinated through the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO), which oversees a broad influence network.
Is Pakistan using US weapons to kill civilians in Afghanistan?
Pakistan conducted airstrikes in Afghanistan, resulting in civilian casualties, according to UNAMA. Pakistan claims the strikes targeted militants but provides no evidence. Similar incidents occurred previously, such as the attack on a drug rehabilitation center in Kabul, which resulted in numerous deaths. Local residents describe the impact on innocent civilians.
Turns out F-35 is fully mission capable only some of the time
A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report indicates that the U.S. Air Force's F-35 fighter jets are only fully mission capable approximately 25% of the time, down from 38% in 2021. The report also notes a decline in the jets' ability to perform at least one assigned mission, dropping from 67% to 44%. Issues cited include a shortage of spare parts, software problems, repair backlogs, and corrosion. The F-35 program has proposed a new sustainment strategy aiming for an 80% mission capable rate and 65% full mission capable rate by 2030, requiring an additional $14 billion.
Trump is blowing his chance to make peace in Ukraine
The article discusses former U.S. President Donald Trump's attempts to broker peace in Ukraine during his second term, highlighting that these efforts have failed to bring an end to the conflict. It attributes the setbacks to fundamental flaws in the negotiation process and suggests that Trump's administration needs to change its strategy by focusing on more realistic commitments and including all relevant parties.
Thune says Senate will move FISA bill without SAVE America Act, rebuffing Trump
Senate Majority Leader John Thune stated that the Senate will attempt to pass an extension of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA)'s Section 702 surveillance provisions as a standalone bill, without attaching the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE America) Act, despite pressure from President Trump to combine the two measures. Thune emphasized concerns about national security risks if Section 702 expires and noted that passing the SAVE America Act separately would be 'unrealistic.' He also mentioned that the confirmation of Jay Clayton as director of national intelligence,
Politically charged Dems call Trump deal 'surrender' and 'humiliation'
The United States and Iran have reached a memorandum of understanding that extends the current ceasefire for 60 days and reopens the Strait of Hormuz. While the Trump administration celebrates the deal as a diplomatic success, some Democratic lawmakers are critical, with Senator Chris Murphy calling it 'essentially surrender' and Representative Brad Schneider expressing cautious optimism while awaiting further details.
The Kushner-Israel nexus behind the Albania 'flamingo revolution'
Albania has become the focus of international attention due to protests against a proposed luxury resort by a Kushner-linked firm on the Vjosa-Narta Delta, a newly designated Wild River National Park. The project, which involves significant environmental concerns, has sparked controversy, including allegations of preferential treatment granted by the Albanian government. The situation also involves an Iranian exile group opposing the current Iranian government and raises questions about the European Union's involvement.
Trump's Middle Eastern Ceasefire: Fiery But Mostly Peaceful
President Donald Trump stated that a peace deal in the Middle East is close, though he acknowledged potential obstacles. This came after Iran and Israel exchanged airstrikes following a ceasefire that began on April 7. The ceasefire was intended to allow both sides two weeks to negotiate a final agreement to end the U.S.-Iranian conflict and promote regional peace. However, two months later, no deal has been reached, and tensions have escalated with increasing violence between the parties. Trump referred to the exchanges as 'love taps.' The conflict involves Israel fighting the pro-Iran group,
Lawmakers target private equity’s growing chokehold on arms industry
Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation aimed at increasing oversight of private equity's influence on the U.S. defense industry. The proposed bill, called the Critical Defense Ownership Review Act, seeks to ensure the Pentagon has visibility into situations where private equity firms acquire critical defense contractors. The legislation was introduced by Rep. Ro Khanna in the House and Senators Elizabeth Warren and Richard Blumenthal in the Senate. The article explains how private equity firms operate by acquiring businesses, reducing costs, and reselling them for profit, which can,据
In an age of 'false realism,' Pope Leo presses for strategic restraint
Pope Leo XIV's encyclical 'Magnifica Humanitas' addresses the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and challenges the prevailing political culture of militarization and great-power rivalry. The document argues that technology can take on the characteristics of those who control it and warns against a 'false realism' that frames international relations as a perpetual struggle for dominance.
Europe wants to force Ukrainian refugees to return home to fight
At a recent European Union summit, Sweden's migration minister indicated strong support among European governments for excluding military-age Ukrainian men from the EU's temporary protection scheme for Ukrainian refugees. This policy currently covers over 4.3 million Ukrainian refugees in the EU, mostly women, children, and the elderly, while Ukrainian men aged 23–60 are legally restricted from leaving Ukraine without authorization. However, some adult men in the EU were already present before the war or left to avoid conscription. Public opinion in several European countries has shifted, with
'Break their will!' Republicans want Trump to fight Iran, not make deal
Two Republican lawmakers, Rep. Don Bacon and Sen. Joni Ernst, urged President Trump to abandon negotiations with Iran and instead apply military pressure to force Iran into a favorable agreement. They argued that Trump's eagerness to reach a deal was counterproductive and that breaking Iran's will through economic and military measures would be more effective.
Trump vows to take Kharg Island despite risk of ‘suicide mission’
President Donald Trump has vowed to take control of Iran's Kharg Island, threatening to seize Iranian oil infrastructure there. He made the statement on Truth Social, suggesting a potential escalation in tensions with Iran amid ongoing diplomatic discussions. Retired Army Major Harrison Mann previously described such an operation as a 'suicide mission' due to the high risks involved for U.S. forces.
Why a single 'peace deal' for Ukraine war just won't work
The article argues that a single 'peace deal' for the Ukraine war is unlikely to succeed and suggests that multiple interlocking agreements are necessary for a durable peace. It references former U.S. diplomat Dan Fried's comments on Russia ending the war unilaterally and critiques his role in shaping sanctions policies tied to the Minsk II agreement, which the author claims delayed peaceful settlements.
Is Trump finally burying the zombie US-Mexico-Canada trade pact?
The article discusses the likelihood that the USMCA trade agreement, negotiated under former President Donald Trump, will not be renewed by the June 30 deadline. While the agreement will remain in effect without immediate consequences, it will trigger annual reviews over the next decade. The article notes that the U.S. appears intent on significantly revising the agreement, which could benefit Mexico but disadvantage Canada. It also highlights the deterioration of U.S.-Canada relations during Trump's second term, including alleged U.S. interference in Mexican politics.
'A Nakba of 2026': An IDF reservist recounts his time in Lebanon
An IDF reservist describes experiences during Israel's military operations in Lebanon and Gaza, referring to the destruction of villages as a 'Nakba of 2026' and criticizing the Israeli military's actions as driven by revenge. The reservist's account questions U.S. support for Israel's war efforts and highlights concerns about deeper U.S.-Israel military integration. The interview was conducted by a Palestinian journalist and a whistleblower advocate, with the reservist's identity kept confidential.
DoD wants to water down curbs to let ex-officials lobby more
The Department of Defense (DoD) is proposing changes to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would reduce restrictions on former officials working as lobbyists for the defense industry. The proposed changes would narrow the 'cooling off' period for former defense officials seeking to lobby the Pentagon or military agencies, limiting it to their previous workplace rather than applying universally. The DoD argues these changes are necessary to retain expertise and avoid adverse effects on recruitment and retention.
Big surprise: Bolton gets Petraeus treatment after copping to charges
John Bolton is expected to plead guilty to a single count of retaining classified information as part of a plea deal with the Justice Department. He was charged in October 2025 with 18 counts related to mishandling sensitive information during his tenure as National Security Advisor under the first Trump administration. The charges involve sharing diary notes from that period with family members while preparing his memoir, 'The Room Where it Happened.' A Trump administration lawsuit in 2020 sought to block the book's publication, citing claims that it contained classified material and violated
Putin denies economic stagnation after four years of war
At the 29th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed concerns about economic stagnation amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. While avoiding direct mention of the conflict, Putin expressed confidence in Russia's economic stability, referencing Mark Twain's quote about rumors of his death being exaggerated. However, this stance contrasts with the Russian Ministry of Economy's revised GDP growth forecast, which projects stagnation for the remainder of 2026. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has also adjusted its 2026 GDP growth estimates for Russia.
Armenia's most critical elections since independence
Armenia recently held its most important election since gaining independence 35 years ago. Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan's Civil Contract party retained its parliamentary majority but did not achieve the two-thirds majority required for constitutional reforms. Opposition blocs Strong Armenia and Armenia Alliance entered parliament. International observers have focused on the election as a contest between pro-Russian and pro-Western forces, though the article argues this framing oversimplifies the situation and could harm Armenia's stability.
Did CNN just out Azerbaijan as Israel's secret military partner?
CNN reported that Israel secretly deployed military and intelligence units to southern Azerbaijan during the recent conflict with Iran, based on anonymous sources with knowledge of sensitive Israeli operations. Azerbaijan denied the claims, calling them 'entirely baseless.'
WaPo op-ed backs Section 224, omits author's direct Israeli stake
The Washington Post published an op-ed supporting Section 224, a proposal to deepen U.S.-Israel military cooperation. The author, Aaron Kaplowitz, is president of the U.S.-Israel Business Alliance and founder of 1948 Ventures, a venture capital firm with investments in Israeli military technology. The article notes that Kaplowitz did not disclose his financial ties to Israeli military startups in his op-ed.
Next 72 hrs will tell us whether Israel plans to kill Trump peace
The article discusses the potential shift in the regional power dynamics between Israel and Iran following recent military actions. It notes that Israel conducted strikes against Iran despite U.S. pressure to avoid escalation, while Iran retaliated with attacks on Israel. However, the full impact of these attacks remains unclear due to Israeli military censorship. The article suggests that the upcoming decisions by Israel, particularly whether it will strike Beirut again, will determine whether a new strategic balance has formed, taking into account the possibility of a direct Iranian response
Iran strikes Israel, proving it will use hard power on behalf of Lebanon
Iran conducted its first direct attack on Israel following an Israeli strike on Lebanese territory, marking a shift in regional dynamics. The article notes that this demonstrates Iran's willingness to use hard power in response to Israeli actions against third parties. It references comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed concern over potential escalation and mentioned efforts toward a final nuclear deal with Iran.
Pew poll: Negative vibes for Israel in 36 countries
A Pew Research Center poll indicates that Israel's reputation is declining globally, with majorities in many countries expressing unfavorable views toward the country and low confidence in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The survey covered 36 countries and included over 44,000 respondents. Negative perceptions were particularly strong in Muslim-majority nations, among younger people in North America and Europe, and individuals identifying with leftist political ideologies.
How a shake-up in Senegal could strengthen Trump's hand in the Sahel
Senegal is experiencing a significant political crisis after President Bassirou Diomaye Faye dismissed his longtime ally and prime minister, Ousmane Sonko. The resulting power struggle increases the risk of instability in the West African nation, which plays a key role in regional stability in the Sahel. The article suggests that a post-Sonko administration might align more closely with the Trump administration's goals of strengthening U.S. influence in the region, including rebuilding relations with pro-Russia states and improving counter-terrorism efforts.
Pro-Israel voices win out, kill bill to stop US-Israel military integration
A House committee rejected an amendment aimed at removing Section 224 from the annual defense policy bill, which would increase U.S.-Israel military-industrial integration. Pro-Israel lawmakers defended the section, claiming it enhances oversight and accountability by centralizing responsibility under a single official. Critics, including analyst Ben Freeman from the Quincy Institute, argue that supporters misrepresented the provision, spreading inaccuracies about its scope and implications.
Oman walks a tightrope amid Trump's threats to 'blow them up'
The article discusses Oman's potential involvement in controlling shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which has drawn threats from President Donald Trump and U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Oman, historically a key U.S. ally and mediator, faces pressure over its possible alignment with Iran's proposals for tolls on maritime traffic. Iran initially suggested tolls following U.S.-Israeli strikes in late February, later rephrasing the idea as fees for navigation, security, and environmental services.
Trump's art of the deal meets Iran's long memory of foreign exploitation
The article draws parallels between historical events in Iran and current geopolitical dynamics, highlighting Iran's historical resistance to foreign influence. It references the 1891 Persian Tobacco Protest and the Sasanian Empire's victory over the Romans as examples of Iran's historical stance against foreign exploitation. The piece notes that Iranian officials are using social media to reference these historical moments in response to contemporary diplomatic discussions.
Finally: House votes to end Trump's war with Iran
The House of Representatives passed a resolution directing President Donald Trump to withdraw U.S. armed forces from hostilities with Iran unless Congress approves such actions. The vote was 215-208, with all Democrats supporting the measure and four Republicans joining them. The resolution was introduced by Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-N.Y.) and follows a similar procedural vote in the Senate.
US-Israel integration is far from 'America First'
The article discusses concerns over the growing unpopularity of U.S. support for Israel among American citizens, particularly regarding the $3.8 billion in annual military aid and additional costs related to the war with Iran. It highlights efforts by Israeli and American allies, such as U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, to reframe this support as being 'based on trade' rather than direct aid. The article notes potential challenges with this approach, referencing Section 224.
Dems: $1.5 trillion Pentagon budget a ‘blank check’ for war
Democrats are criticizing the proposed $1.15 trillion Pentagon budget for FY 2027, calling it a 'blank check' for potential military actions. Representative Seth Moulton plans to introduce an amendment to reduce the budget by $150 billion. Other Democratic representatives, including Rep. Sara Jacobs, support the amendment and argue that even this reduction does not go far enough in curbing military spending.
How not to prevent a war over Taiwan
The article discusses concerns among skeptics of U.S.-China détente regarding the potential impact on Taiwan's independence. It introduces Eyck Freymann's book 'Defending Taiwan: A Strategy to Prevent War with China,' which provides an extensive analysis of strategies to prevent Chinese aggression against Taiwan, covering political, military, strategic, and economic aspects. The book also explores potential policy responses if deterrence fails. While the book is praised for its detailed research and scope, it is noted to have significant flaws, particularly concerning its direct targeting of U
Touting battlefield successes, Ukraine leans into peace talks
Ukraine is seeking to initiate peace talks with Russia by winter, according to a top aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky. The push for diplomacy comes amid reports of recent Ukrainian battlefield successes, including territorial gains. This development follows a period of limited U.S. involvement in mediation efforts, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio stating no active talks are currently underway. Analysts suggest that Ukraine's renewed interest in diplomacy may be influenced by perceptions that Russia is losing momentum on the battlefield.
Ukraine's military has a real Nazi problem
The article discusses how Western responses to Russia's 'denazification' narrative during the invasion of Ukraine have led to the suppression of information about far-right groups within the Ukrainian military. It highlights the transformation of the Azov battalion, originally linked to neo-Nazi ideologies, into a more sanitized entity after Russia's full-scale invasion.
Congress wants proof Trump-class battleship isn’t a dud
Congress has included a provision in the FY 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) requiring certification of the technological maturity of the Trump-class battleship before contracts can be awarded. This comes amid concerns over past failures in Navy acquisition programs. Analysts suggest the provision reflects bipartisan caution against rushing into costly projects without proper validation.
Anti-cartel candidate 'The Tiger' channels Trump and Bukele in Colombia election shocker
Colombia’s first-round presidential election was won by conservative candidate Abelardo de la Espriella, signaling a potential shift away from leftist governance in the region. Analysts suggest this outcome reflects a broader trend of anti-leftist sentiment across Latin America. The election has implications for U.S. interests, particularly regarding drug trafficking, migration, and regional stability. A June 21 runoff is expected between de la Espriella and leftist candidate Ivan Cepeda. Melissa Ford Maldonado of the America First Policy Institute emphasized the importance of Colombia reengag
DoD not allowed to fix most of its own stuff. Guess who's cashing in?
The article discusses how the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is restricted by contractual agreements from repairing its own military equipment, leading to increased costs and reduced readiness. Critics argue that this dependency on defense contractors allows these companies to charge excessive fees for repairs that could be performed more affordably. The article highlights how the reduction in the number of major defense contractors has limited the DoD's ability to control repair processes, with some experts describing the situation as financially exploitative for defense firms.
Sunday's election could put Colombia back on team Trump
Colombians will vote in the first round of their presidential election on Sunday, which could significantly impact the country's relationship with the United States. The race includes candidates from the ruling party, conservative factions, and centrist groups, with none currently holding more than 50% of the poll support. A runoff is expected in June 2026. The election occurs amid increased political violence, including assassinations, kidnappings, and threats against candidates. Economic dissatisfaction, the polarizing legacy of current president Gustavo Petro, and tensions with the U.S. on缉
Congress quietly moves to integrate US and Israeli militaries
Congress has included a provision in the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that would significantly increase U.S.-Israel military-industrial collaboration. Section 224, titled 'United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative,' would facilitate joint R&D, co-production of weapons, licensing agreements, and data sharing between the two militaries. This includes expanding cooperation into areas such as AI, quantum technology, autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities.
Why Trump dumped Europe from Iran talks
The article discusses President Donald Trump's decision to exclude European countries from discussions regarding a potential U.S.-Iran agreement. It notes that Trump contacted several Middle Eastern nations but omitted any European capitals. The article references Trita Parsi of the Quincy Institute, who comments on Europe's diminished role in Middle Eastern diplomacy. The piece explores reasons behind Europe's reduced influence, including Trump's personal disdain for European leaders and his desire to take sole credit for stabilizing the Middle East.