Roundup: February 2024

Edition I

WORLD & GEOPOLITICS

Universalis cosmographia secundum Ptholomaei traditionem et Americi Vespucii aliorumque lustrationes ("The Universal Cosmography according to the Tradition of Ptolemy and the Discoveries of Amerigo Vespucci and others"), Martin Waldseemüller

I wanted to start with an article I found particularly important considering the tragic death of Alexei Navalny on the 16th of February. I strongly suggest watching his 2021 documentary, Navalny, which has become ever more pertinent. For those seeking a reflective piece on his legacy of courage, Anne Applebaum’s short article, Why Russia killed Navalny, is recommended. 

Conversely, the following article offers critical views on Applebaum’s and similar narratives, arguing that attributing Navalny’s death solely to his threat to Putin oversimplifies the broader context of political opposition in Russia.

• The Nation: Russian Opposition Leader Navalny Was Brave, Authentic, Funny, Larger Than Life. Will His Movement Survive Him?

Kaye & Vakil’s piece below discusses the diminishing role of the U.S. in fostering Middle Eastern cooperation, highlighting the shift towards regional self-management for security and diplomacy. They argue that the declining impact of U.S. influence is evident from the Israel-Hamas conflict and recent diplomatic efforts between Arab countries, such as the notable Saudi-Iran (2023) agreement brokered by China.