Who ate all the Minsk pies?

Ukraine agreed to plans for a 30-day ceasefire. Vladimir Putin demurred. How can we understand Putin's position?

Will Trump's personal ambitions clash with the architects of US strategy? Is that strategy founded on good premises?

Trump and Putin spoke on the phone. The US president may be carrying on different negotiations from the ones reported. A contrarian's view.

In the past Donald Trump's praise for Putin was often interpreted as fealty. His current rhetoric suggests a different interpretation.

The fall of Assad has ramifications for Russia's power projection in the Middle East.

Many think a betrayal is coming. Ever the contrarian, I offer three reasons why the US and its allies might not abandon Ukraine under Trump.

Anne Applebaum's latest book offers a breezy tour of Dictatorland. And it's a chilling read.

From Putin's phoney peace offer to his meeting with Kim Jong-Un, there is little cause for optimism. But you can often see what you want.

Is Russia still advancing in Ukraine? Vladimir Putin has been busy but don't believe everything you hear.

A few remarks on last month's terrorist attack in Moscow. The treatment of the four suspects is part of the brutalisation of Russia.

Russia's election had added significance against the backdrop of war. But why does Russia bother with such an obviously undemocratic vote?

Vladimir Putin, warning NATO against deploying troops to Ukraine, says Russia is prepared for nuclear war. Is NATO ready?

Thomas Graham's new book on the United States' Russia policy will rile many readers, but it's a well-informed appraisal. Here's my review.

Vladimir Putin appears confident the war in Ukraine is turning in his favour: he could yet be hoisted with his own petard, however.