Patrick Smyth

Euphemisms used by the Western powers are testimony to the complexity of the phenomenon

Former US president’s personal power-grab plan, assisted by a pliable judiciary, involves an all-out assault on the separation of powers

Putin’s implied threats to use fission bomb is a stark reminder of the madness of complacency

Worldview: As many as one in three of those who voted leave in 2016 accept the economic consensus that Britain’s economy is weaker as a result of Brexit

How familiar the Berlusconi model – embodying all the qualities of an Italian opera – now seems

Erdogan’s playbook is Trump’s playbook. The age of the strongman is not over yet

Worldview: Millions will swear allegiance to the new king this weekend. But allegiance to royalty is a fast-vanishing commodity

French president’s admiration for Irish leader - and a distaste for Britain - underpinned Ireland’s welcome to the club

Former president is gambling that criminal charges will galvanise his Republican base to rally to his flag

Contrary to British claims, there was no renegotiation of the Northern Ireland Protocol

A two-week expedition reveals breathtaking and once-in-a-lifetime sights to its passengers

Claims by journalist Seymour Hersch the US was involved have been dismissed and Moscow denies culpability

On the other side of the world, Chinese sabre rattling forcing Japan and South Korea to revaluate defence posture

Failure of mob actions linked to Trump and Bolsonaro prove totalitarian alternatives may not be viable as the tide is turning

Mensun Bound: Acidificationis the critical, mostly undiscussed, challenge facing the Antarctic region