FOREIGN POLICY

JANUARY 16. 2026

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.

Baltic Cable-Cutting Is Back

Renewed attacks pose a continuing challenge for Europe at a difficult moment.

Trump’s Cuba Calculus

The U. S. president has his sights on the island. But it’s a very different case from Venezuela.

JANUARY 15. 2026

Europe United, Europe Alone

As Trump doubles down on Greenland, Europe doubles down on Europe.