From the Baltic states to the Black Sea, Central and Eastern European (CEE) governments remain anxious about their security in the face of Russian aggression. Despite NATO’s enduring pledge to Article 5, many officials in countries such as Poland, Lithuania, Estonia and Romania continue to express concern over a potential US shift in focus towards Asia‑Pacific and the Middle East. Read more...

A sense of foreboding is enveloping Slovakia as it prepares for an early general election on September 30. And in the wake of the resignation of prime minister Eduard Heger after a tumultuous term, the favourite to replace him is Robert Fico, who, if elected, would take the position for the fourth time. Read more...