Decoder: Why do diplomats matter?
Nations defend themselves with armed forces. But the military alone cannot solve today's crises. Diplomats and "soft power" are needed.
In Afghanistan, winning peace requires diplomacy
The war in Afghanistan is the longest military conflict in U.S. history. It has failed. The key to peace is…
Listen: China and the U.S. vie for influence in Asia
The South China Sea is the focal point of a geopolitical struggle between Beijing and Washington. We interview an expert…
Pragmatic France swallows hard, forges ties with U.S.
France is looking past gaping political differences with Donald Trump to carve out a special relationship based on solid military…
Cuba under Castro: Poverty, Neglect & Misery
I’m puzzled when I read of correspondents who enjoyed assignments in Cuba in the 1960s. I found Havana miserable and…
Learning diplomacy — to help the world
"The atmosphere blew me away. It was like being on another planet." Giuliana represented Denmark at the model United Nations…
Italy covers up but no hiding from brickbats
Diplomatic deference or crass kowtowing? Italy's decision to cover up nude statues during a visit by Iran's president provokes scorn,…