David Blair's Blog, page 51

Ukraine's 'anti-terrorism' operation risks creating pretext for Russian invasion

From the moment that pro-Russian gunmen began occupying police stations and public buildings across eastern Ukraine , the country's new leaders were compelled to wrestle with an agonising dilemma.

What does Vladimir Putin want in Ukraine?

Subversion from within - not attack from without - has emerged the Russian president's favoured technique for controlling events in Ukraine, says David Blair

Sri Lankan army quash Tamil revival in first battle since end of civil war

Military say armed forces kill three Tamil fighters who were attempting to resurrect the group that defended their homeland for 26 years

Ukraine: Vladimir Putin threatens to turn off the gas

In threat to switch off Ukraine's gas, Russian president acknowledges gas deliveries to the European Union would also be jeopardised

Israel offers deal to rescue peace talks

Israeli minister tells The Telegraph that 26 prisoners could be freed if the Palestinians 'cancel' a bid to join international conventions. Yuval Steinitz says that Arab Israelis could be released from jail - but only if America frees an Israeli spy

Nato chief tells Britain: spend more on defence to deter Russian advances

Secretary general says allies need to modernise armed forces as Russia 'carves up' Europe

Nato chief tells allies: spend more on defence to deter Russia

Anders Fogh Rasmussen, Nato's Secretary General, says allies need to modernise armed forces

To prevent another Rwanda, all it takes is a few well-trained troops

The West must heed the lessons of history, says David Blair

Ukraine crisis: How Vladimir Putin is winning the psychological war

As it emerges that the promised partial withdrawal of Russian troops from the Ukrainian border has not taken place, Western powers are reduced to awaiting Moscow's next move, David Blair writes

UN launches investigation into war crimes in Sri Lanka

The UN Human Rights Council voted in favour of an inquiry into 'alleged violations on both sides during the war'