CFR Staff

Aaron Pezzullo

Research Associate, International Economics

Public Health Threats and Pandemics

Fentanyl and the U.S. Opioid Epidemic
Opioid addiction has become one of the United States’ biggest killers, endangering public health, the economy, and national security. But closing the floodgates on fentanyl poses a significant foreign policy challenge.

Backgrounder by Mariel Ferragamo and Claire Klobucista March 20, 2025

Yemen

Iran’s Support of the Houthis: What to Know
Iranian support has boosted the military prowess of Yemen’s Houthi rebels, helping them project force into the Red Sea. Ramped up U.S.-led attacks on the group raise the prospect of military escalation with Iran.

In Brief by Kali Robinson March 20, 2025

Taiwan

Why China-Taiwan Relations Are So Tense
Differences over Taiwan’s status have fueled rising tensions between the island and mainland. Taiwan is the likeliest potential flash point in U.S.-China relations.

Backgrounder by Lindsay Maizland and Clara Fong March 19, 2025

Top Stories on CFR

Democratic Republic of Congo

What’s Next for the Democratic Republic of Congo?
Start-and-stop diplomacy continues against a backdrop of humanitarian disaster.

Post by Michelle Gavin March 19, 2025 Africa in Transition

 

President Trump’s Address to Congress: Global Reactions Link

via Council of Councils March 14, 2025

Philippines

Duterte Arrested and Appears at the ICC—His Aura is Broken
Given his previously untouchable status, the arrest and potential prosecution of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court (ICC) is a surprising development.

Post by Joshua Kurlantzick March 17, 2025 Asia Unbound