Letter From the Editors
From Eastern Europe to the Far East: The Sun Never Sets on American Influence

FEATURED NEWS STORIES

Turkey, Russia Mend Ties – Mostly

Russia Accuses Ukraine of Crimea Terror Plot

THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION

Politics

Putin Replaces Chief of Staff: What to Make of This
Putin Replaces His Longtime Administration Head Sergei Ivanov

Elections

Crimea Dearer Than Courchevel
United Russia Party Puts Out Training Manual for Upcoming Election Campaign

The Economy

Storm Clouds Ahead
Putin’s Judo Approach to Planning – Moment to Moment – Won’t Help Economy

Public Attitudes

Yes, We Can Fight: How Army Has Replaced Hope in Russia
Levada Center Poll Shows Putin’s Image Is Changing From Stabilizer to Warlord

OTHER POST-SOVIET STATES

Transcaucasus

War in Georgia Turns Eight: Moscow’s Strategic Mistake
Russia’s Political Missteps in Wake of Georgian War Have Haunted It Ever Since

Ukraine

Ukraine Ready for Big War
Attempt on Life of LPR Leader Plotnitsky Brings Ukraine Crisis to the Brink

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS

World Politics

Washington Strikes With Soft Power
Washington Using Indirect Means to Weaken Russia, China on International Stage

Syria

Russia to Expand Hmeimim Air Base
Russia to Extend Its Presence in Syria, Upgrade Its Hmeimim Air Base to Full-Fledged Military Base

What Is the Real Purpose of the U.S. Bombing Syria?
What Is the Real Objective of Western Air Strikes in Syria?