Pro-Russia Politicians in Ukraine, Inspired by Trump and Putin, See an Opening

Three years ago, support for members of a Ukrainian political party that advocated closer ties with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia plunged to near zero after Russian forces invaded Ukraine, flattening whole cities and killing tens of thousands of Ukrainians. The party, called the Opposition Platform for Life, was banned, some members went to … Read more

Gene Hackman: 5 Memorable Performances to Stream

Although Gene Hackman, who died at age 95, was one of Hollywood’s most enduring and recognizable stars, it was nearly impossible to put the actor in a box. In a five-decade career, he portrayed cops, villains and men of the cloth, in thrillers, comedies and superhero blockbusters. His accolades included two Academy Awards and four … Read more

Al-Assad Becomes a Punchline in Syria’s Comedy Scene

Sharief al-Homsi shivered, clutched his arms and pretended to go through Syrian regime withdrawal. Standing before an audience in Damascus, he was telling a joke that would have been unthinkable until just a few weeks before, when President Bashar al-Assad was suddenly ousted after more than five decades of his family’s oppressive rule. “We need … Read more

Ontario Voters Head to the Polls. Here’s What to Know.

International relations seldom figure into local politics in Canada. And Thursday’s provincial election in Ontario, where many voters are worried about issues closer to home, like access to health care and the soaring cost of housing, should have been no exception. But President Trump has upended the electoral dynamic. His threats against Canada — including … Read more

Trump Officials Split Over How Hard to Go on Mexican Cartels

Inside the White House, Trump officials are embroiled in a debate over whether to carry out military strikes against Mexican drug cartels or instead to collaborate with Mexican authorities to jointly dismantle criminal organizations. On one side, several people familiar with the matter say, some U.S. officials are advocating for unilateral military action against cartel … Read more