Washington’s Green Branches in Europe
by Diana Johnstone,* Paris
The German Green Party has a chance to join a ruling coalition in September’s election, after turning its back on its roots, to root for Washington.
International
China blocks US bases in Central Asia
by M. K. Bhadrakumar*
(18 June 2021) Ten months after the first meeting of the foreign ministers of China and the five Central Asian states, Beijing has followed through with a second session on May 11 at a gathering in Xi’an, China, hosted by Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
Political change of scene: summit moves from Vienna to Geneva
by Willy Wimmer*
(4 June 2021) It sounds like the simple announcement of a change of location. The physical distance between Vienna and Geneva is not great. Yet there must be a reason for choosing Geneva. Perhaps it will be better for everyone if, on June 16, 2021, two presidents take a stroll and drink coffee together on the shores of Lake Geneva?
On the escalation of violence in Israel and Palestine
Declaration by the Association for the Twinning of Cologne and Bethlehem
(4 June 2021) It is, unfortunately, the bitter reality: 25 years after the twinning of Cologne and Bethlehem and the founding of the association to promote this relationship – under the then mayor of Cologne, Norbert Burger – instead of anniversary celebrations we are seeing renewed violence, distress, death and misery, in our two twin cities of Bethlehem and Tel Aviv-Yafo.
“War preparations”
F-35s Bombing Gaza
by Manlio Dinucci*
(4 June 2021) The US, which has four ammunition storage bases in Israel, also provides an extensive arsenal there. Israel, which already has one of the most powerful air forces in the world, is currently testing F-35 fighter-bombers in combat operations against the Palestinians.
Questionable EU sanctions against China
by Rolf D. Cremer and Horst Löchel*
(29 May 2021) The EU hopes to improve the situation of the Uyghurs by imposing sanctions on China. This is the wrong way to go about it. The EU should view China’s rise as an economic and cultural asset and promote constructive agreements with the country.