Recurrent deadly encounters between soldiers and civilians across West Africa offer an instructive glimpse into the state of civil-military relations in the region.

Each Friday, I look at what the presidential contenders are saying about foreign policy. This Week: President Joe Biden spoke with Time magazine about the importance of alliances to U.S. security.

Looking for something to read or watch? Here is a list of all the books and films recommended on The Water’s Edge.

Hou Yu-ih has vowed to invest in Taiwan’s defenses while pursing dialogue with China. It is unclear whether Beijing would condition the latter on Hou not pursuing the former.

Ko Wen-je claims that he can chart a third way, simultaneously boosting Taiwan’s defenses while restarting communication with China. It is unclear, however, whether China would accept his overtures.

Neither the United States nor China is prepared for a serious crisis.

William Lai’s priorities are bolstering Taiwan’s defenses and consolidating ties with democracies. China is unlikely to pursue dialogue with Lai and would instead increase pressure on Taiwan.