Will Russia’s “Energy Diplomacy” Help Vietnam and China Make a Deal?

Will Russia’s “Energy Diplomacy” Help Vietnam and China Make a Deal?

Rosneft is drilling for oil off the South China Sea coast of Vietnam in an area claimed by China. The Russian energy giant is involved in the Lan Do oilfield that narrowly sits within the southwestern border of China’s nine-dash-line but is apparently regarded by the company as being under Vietnam’s de-facto sovereignty. China officially…

Iran “Blackmailing” Europe Plays Right Into Trump’s Hands

Iran “Blackmailing” Europe Plays Right Into Trump’s Hands

The Ayatollah’s listing of five counter-demands to the Europeans following Pompeo’s 12-point ultimatum to Iran plays right into Trump’s hands by making it seem like Tehran is “blackmailing” the US’ allies because it’s so desperate for Western investment, whereas the country should actually do away with those discredited “partners” and more openly embrace China, Pakistan,…

Fate of Gaza Dim: Enclaves Surrounded by Hostile Powers Never Fare Well

Fate of Gaza Dim: Enclaves Surrounded by Hostile Powers Never Fare Well

The fate of the Gaza Strip enclave, along with its besieged 1.9 million residents, is dismal. The history of enclaves surrounded by hostile nations like Israel has not been a kind one. The apartheid-like Palestinian enclaves in the West Bank, carved out by Israeli expansionists, also face a bleak future. The U.S. ambassador to Israel,…