In the military establishments of more than 30 countries, including U.S. allies such as Israel, Canada and the United Kingdom, gays and lesbians are allowed to openly serve in their country’s military. It’s just not a big issue out there in much of the Western world. Read more»

Gen. David Petraeus is unlikely to succeed if Afghan policy stays the same and persists in ignoring the ramifications of a long list of injustices that continue to pile up in Afghanistan. Read more»

A day after Gen. Stanley McChrystal's resignation, the profound challenges the U.S. and its allies face remain and some are brought more sharply into relief by the surprising turn of events, particularly the deep divisions within the administration of President Obama. Read more»

Thousands of American troops have arrived as part of a build up to secure Kandahar, Afghanistan’s second largest city. Fifty-three NATO troops have died so far this month — if the pace continues, it will be the deadliest month since the Afghan war began. Read more»

Europe's fear of being pushed to the margin of world affairs has been fueled by a series of American decisions that feed a European gloom about coming decades and has contributed to a particularly choppy period in relations. With the rise of China and Russia, that transatlantic relationship gains strategic importance. Read more»

PRAGUE, Czech Republic — As NATO reviews its mission and purpose, some newer members worry that the alliance's most valued safeguard, the commitment that an attack on one is an attack on all, is not inviolable. Read more»