FOREIGN POLICY

JANUARY 19. 2026

What Spheres of Influence Are—and Aren’t

One of the most misunderstood concepts of international politics is back with a force.

JANUARY 16. 2026

Widespread Repression, Intimidation Mar Uganda’s Presidential Election

Rights groups denounce internet blackouts, violent clashes, and arbitrary arrests by security forces.

Iran’s Crown Prince Has Become Indispensable

How Reza Pahlavi went from teenaged exile to symbol of his country’s future.

How Troubled Is the Iranian Economy?

A plunge in exchange rates triggered the huge protests.

A Long History of Betrayal

Why Washington keeps encouraging foreign uprisings—and then walking away.

What in the World?

Test yourself on the week of Jan. 10: Trump threatens the U. S. Fed’s independence, Russia strikes Ukraine, and Uganda cuts internet access.

Venezuela on Screen

From a contemplative documentary to a swashbuckling biopic, these films lend a sense of humanity to the present crisis.

What One Film’s Success Reveals About Today’s Russia

An adaptation of “The Master and Margarita” has become a smash hit—despite Moscow’s attempts to sink it.

The Thought Experiment That Started a Revolution

How a hypothetical scenario started a global movement—and exposed the limits of moral theory.

The Pillaging of the American Arctic

How Alaskans are navigating the Trump administration’s critical mineral drive.

What Next After Iran’s Massacre?

After killing thousands of protesters, Tehran has no reason to back down.

How to Navigate the New World Jungle Law

Geopolitical analyst Ian Bremmer on Trump’s foreign-policy ideology—and how the world is adapting to it.

Venezuela Is Regime Change Under Another Name

Maduro’s removal is a familiar story, and one that doesn’t end well.

The Biggest Challenges Trump Faces in His Second Year

From Russia-Ukraine to the U. S. midterms, Trump faces a bumpier year at home and abroad.