Analysis Brief

Analytical briefs written by CFR.org's staff on issues of the day with links to the news, analysis, commentary, and primary source materials that put the facts in context.

Will Assad Bow to Allied Pressure?

Author: Deborah Jerome

The stern multilateral call for Syria's President Assad to step down further isolates his regime and could boost opposition morale, but experts say tougher sanctions are needed and warn about limited U.S. influence in the restive Middle East.

Author: Jayshree Bajoria

As Vice President Joseph Biden begins a visit to China, analysts say both the United States and China will have to restructure their economies to lessen global imbalances and strengthen recovery.

See more in China, Economics

Author: Christopher Alessi

Whatever the outcome of the debt ceiling debate, many analysts expect a downgrade in the U.S. debt rating because of doubts about deficit-reduction plans. The fallout could include higher borrowing costs, a weaker dollar, and market turbulence.

See more in United States, Financial Crises

Terrorism Concerns on U.S.-India Agenda

Author: Jayshree Bajoria

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton pledged to press Pakistan on terrorism and tried to ease New Delhi's worries over Afghanistan on her visit to India this week. But a deteriorating U.S.-Pakistan relationship decreases Washington's ability to influence Islamabad on terrorism issues, say experts.

See more in India, Terrorism, U.S. Strategy and Politics