NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg is proposing that Ukraine should skip a thing called the Membership Action Program. This had been the anti-chamber of membership for many countries joining after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Abolishing it then would give Ukraine the sense that it is making progress towards membership without actually having to promise that it will happen soon.
Members of the alliance are conflicted over the prospect of Ukraine’s membership. In particular, America has changed its mind, and this could affect the future of the war. Because of rapidly rising sea levels, China’s coastal cities are on sinking sand. Will another great wall slow the tide? And, say hello to our new Style Guide.
Please take a moment to fill out our listener survey: www.economist.com/podcastsurvey
For full access to print, digital and audio editions of The Economist, try a free 30-day digital subscription by going to www.economist.com/intelligenceoffer