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Murray Feshbach, Woodrow Wilson Center | October 7, 2008

We are too easily impressed by the Russian bear. ++ “Moscow remains bent on ignoring the devastating truth: The nation is not just sick but dying.” ++ The population is declining, the economy is totally dependent on oil revenues, and the public health crisis “verges on the catastrophic.” ++ AIDS, tuberculosis, alcoholism, heart disease, and smoking are killing Russians at an alarming rate. ++ Life expectancy for men is 59, ranking 166th world-wide. ++ The Kremlin’s misplaced priorities must change.

"Israel and Iran Have Much in Common"

Anthony Zeitouni, Middle East Times | October 7, 2008

On Israel’s 60th anniversary and the Islamic revolution’s 30th, both countries are actually more similar than one may think. ++ Israel fears a loss of power from shifting demographics, and similarly Iranian conservatives fear losing power to supporters of former president Mohammad Khatami. ++ Both countries also feel isolated: Israel, a Jewish state in an Arab region, and Iran, a Shiite state surrounded by Sunnis. ++ Politicians must cease their divisive rhetoric and focus on social exchanges to develop links between the two countries.

Avoiding the Worst-Case Scenario

Editorial, Washington Post | October 6, 2008

Efforts to address carbon emissions must be undertaken with exigency. ++ Developing countries like China, India and Brazil are responsible for half of all carbon emissions worldwide; their output has doubled over the past two decades. ++ 8.47 gigatons of emissions were released in 2007, up 2.9 percent over 2006. ++ Polluters will not change their energy policy until the US takes action. ++ The US has to set an example by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, pushing to put a price on carbon, and by introducing alternative energy resources.

McCain Strong, Obama Weak

D. Rivkin Jr. & L. Casey, Advisors to McCain | October 6, 2008

Osama Bin Laden called Iraq the “central front” in his fight against the US - he was right. ++ Obama/Biden only focus on the past; they still think invading Iraq was a mistake, a distraction from Afghanistan. ++ Their obsession misses the point: “The essence of being a good commander in chief is appreciating the connections among these theaters.” ++ FDR fought the Nazi’s before assailing Japan, despite Japan attacking first; this wasn’t a distraction, nor was Iraq. ++ If Obama negotiates with Iran he will fail; but McCain, he will succeed.

Potential EU Monetary Crisis - Recapitalize Now

Wolfgang Münchau, Financial TImes | October 6, 2008

Despite the success of some initial bank bailouts granted by the EU, such as Fortis, Europe is still short of an overall financial strategy. ++ Three things are needed: first, money to recapitalize the banking sector; second, a semi-permanent EU crisis committee to make financial decisions; and third, clear rules indicating when to recapitalize. ++ Sarkozy was right to support a EUR 300 billion rescue package - this would be a good start. ++ The crisis in Europe is not just a banking crisis, it could develop into a monetary regime crisis.