All The Monitor's View
The US-Russia 'great game' over UkraineThe US-Russia talks over Ukraine's future left out the Ukrainian people, treating them like pawns on a chessboard. In the age of democracy and the Internet, big powers cannot go over the heads of individuals and their aspirations.
Afghanistan election: a feat to beholdDespite Taliban threats against voters, Afghans are eager to cast ballots in Saturday's pivotal presidential election. The world must support their desire to consolidate their triumphs since 2001.
Obama's taxing proposal on givingEven as he enlists private charity to help young men of color, President Obama again proposes a new cap on the charitable tax deduction. There need be no clash between private giving and paying taxes.
What Obama should ask of Saudi ArabiaPresident Obama's trip to Saudi Arabia comes as a Middle East struggle over 'political Islam' reaches a boiling point. The president can ask his royal hosts what is the best form of government for the world's Muslims.
The Obama challenge to Putin's lawlessnessFrom Crimea to China to Egypt, authoritarian regimes are defying international norms. In a speech in Europe, President Obama wisely stands up for rule of law derived through democratic procedures, citing Putin's Crimea grab as Exhibit A for what not to do.
All bets are off in NCAA Tournament 2014Betting on the brackets during March Madness has turned an amateur college sport based on talent and teamwork into an idol of luck. Gambling on the NCAA Tournament may also turn out to be a fun-killer and an illusion of self-control.
A rush to restore global order after CrimeaRussia's taking of Crimea has spurred a drive to save international norms, reflected in its expulsion from the G-8. This shows the deep desire to maintain a world order, not only to avoid conflicts but for further progress.
To safeguard Asia, Obama must first deal with a test of penitenceObama wisely brings together the leaders of South Korea and Japan, a necessary step to reconcile them over their history and allow them to cooperate in defending Asia's security.
Can Russia still act responsibly? In Libya vote, yes.Despite its Crimea crime, Russia votes at the UN to honor Libya's sovereignty against rebel attempts to steal the country's oil. The world order still needs that kind of Russia.
Saving Ukraine from another Russian heistEven as the EU and US weigh more sanctions against Moscow, they must unite behind a plan to lift Ukraine into a stable democracy with a West-oriented economy. That would be the best deterrent to further Russian designs.
Tie GM apology to actionAfter news that it delayed a recall of cars with potentially lethal defect, GM apologies and puts remorse into action with reforms. Words of contrition these days must come with deeds.
The real West-Russia contest over UkrainePutin uses force for the Crimea secession and the West retaliates with sanctions. As power plays escalate over Ukraine's future, everyone should remember that聽 power and influence are not really at stake.
What else was missing about Malaysia flight MH370Malaysian officials learned quickly that openness during a crisis can help resolve it. Even China criticized the slow or misleading reports about the missing plane. Transparency should be any government's first instinct.
Why Germany demands so much of Russia on UkraineIn an emotional speech Wednesday, Germany's Angela Merkel rebuked Russia's Vladimir Putin for his violation of Ukraine's sovereignty. Her country's incredible progress since World War II gives her credibility to demand the same of Russia.
Why Turkey's protests persistTurkey's growing middle class took to the streets again on news of the death of a boy injured by police during last year's mass protests. The demonstrations represent a spontaneous uprising for individual freedoms and honest government.
The health antidote to a heroin surgeAttorney General Eric Holder calls a rise in heroin use a 'health crisis.' He's right to focus on the health aspect 鈥� intervention, prevention, treatment. Addiction itself is not a crime but a cause for cure.
An energy lesson from Crimea crisisPlaying the petroleum card in world politics has a long history. But Russia's latest threat of gas cuts against Ukraine may finally push nations to embrace energy security and abundance as a peacemaking strategy.
Ukraine crisis needs a balm of gratitudeInstead of ramping up threats over Ukraine and its Crimean Peninsula, all sides need to appreciate past achievements that drew them closer as peaceful nations.
Each new SAT: a window on ideas of intelligenceThe College Board unveiled a new SAT Wednesday aimed at better assessing critical thinking in college applicants. Its changes reflect evolving notions among higher ed, computer labs, and brain-research institutes about human intelligence.
Rescuing Nigeria from Islamic violenceRecent horrific killings by the radical group Boko Haram call for Nigerian leaders to learn lessons on how to curb armed conflict.
