Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovich has vetoed last-minute attempts by the European Union to rescue a trade deal that could have been signed at a summit on Friday and would have signaled a historic shift away from Russia.

• November 29, 2013

Insights into Turkish Domestic and International Politics during November 1-15th 2013
By John VanPool, EGF Turkey and Black Sea Regional Analyst

Key Points:

• The Prime Minister’s list of concerns grows as he rounds on cohabitation between male and female students in both state-run dormitories and private residences.
• It is a bizarre, if understandable issue to focus on, with the conservative Erdogan likely playing to social issues to stir up his base ahead of election season.
• A second theory behind Erdogan’s sudden concern for students’ lifestyles may be due to an ongoing split with the Gulen movement given its ownership of private schools and dormitories.
• Turkey and the Kurdish Regional Government of Iraq agree to a pipeline deal, but all may not be lost for Baghdad as practical concerns necessitate cooperation for all parties.

• November 29, 2013

The European Union told Ukraine on Thursday its rejection of a free-trade deal in favor of closer ties with Russia would risk its economic future, as EU leaders prepared for what is likely to be a fraught meeting with President Viktor Yanukovich.

• November 28, 2013

Japanese and South Korean military aircraft flew through disputed air space over the East China Sea without informing China, officials said on Thursday, challenging a new Chinese air defense zone that has increased regional tensions and sparked concerns of an unintended clash.

• November 28, 2013

Iran has invited U.N. inspectors to visit its Arak heavy-water production plant on December 8, the first concrete step under a cooperation agreement to clarify concerns about Tehran's disputed nuclear program.

• November 28, 2013

Almost two weeks ago, President Barack Obama, looking down, walked into the White House briefing room and apologized for the flawed rollout of his healthcare reform law.

• November 27, 2013

The Philippines said on Wednesday the imminent arrival of China's sole aircraft carrier in the disputed South China Sea for the first time for a training mission would raise tension.

• November 27, 2013

Five years after it fought a war with Russia, Georgia is preparing to defy its former Soviet masters again by initialing an accord on strengthening ties with Europe.

• November 27, 2013