Unrest and accusations of police brutality in Brazil’s slums have threatened Rio’s security—and the country’s image—as it comes under a global spotlight with the World Cup, says expert Janice Perlman.

Germany and the United States look to present a united front against Russia for its actions in Ukraine, despite recent strains in the long-standing relationship, says expert William M. Drozdiak.

Growing splits between Islamists and secularists in Egypt augur a sustained period of confrontation and unrest, says expert Jon B. Alterman.

Al Jazeera America arrives on the U.S. cable TV scene in a bid to win goodwill and market share through an increasingly rare news-heavy format, says expert William Youmans.

A clear sign of a new Iranian nuclear posture will be if incoming president Hassan Rowhani pursues bilateral talks with the United States, says former top U.S. arms official Gary Samore.