Winter Stalemate in Ukraine, Argentina’s Presidential Runoff, Turkey’s President visits Berlin, and More
Nov 16, 2023
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Lucy Fisher, Anna Gross, and Jim Pickard discuss Ukraine's counteroffensive, Argentina's presidential election, Turkey's President visiting Berlin, and David Cameron returning to the UK government as foreign secretary. They highlight the uncertain future of US aid to Ukraine, the economic challenges in Argentina, and Turkey's role in negotiating peace. The experts also mention the Israel-Hamas conflict, Sweden's NATO bid, and the divisions among countries on foreign policy.
The counteroffensive against Russia in Ukraine has stalled, increasing concerns about a frozen conflict and uncertainty about US aid.
Argentina's upcoming presidential runoff will determine the country's economic and foreign relations future, with concerns about voter fraud and high inflation rates.
Deep dives
Ukraine's Stalemate and Uncertain US Aid
The conflict in Ukraine has reached a stalemate, with the counter-offensive against Russia stalling in the last five months. There is growing concern about a possible escalation in Russian bombing campaigns during the coldest months of winter. The Ukrainian military acknowledges the need for new technological weapons and approaches to break the stalemate. Despite some progress in the Black Sea, the counter-offensive has not achieved its goals. The fear of a frozen conflict remains, compounded by uncertainty about US aid and the possibility of running low on manpower.
Argentina's Presidential Runoff
Argentina's upcoming presidential runoff is set between central left-economy minister Sergio Massa and libertarian populist Javier Milei. The country is grappling with annual inflation of 143%, causing frustration and dissatisfaction among the voters. The polls indicate a close race, with Milei securing the support of the third-place candidate from the first round. The outcome of the election will have consequences for the country's economy and foreign relations, and there are concerns about potential voter fraud. Both candidates offer different visions for Argentina's future, and the result will shape the country's political landscape.
Turkey's President Erdogan Meets German Chancellor Olaf Schulz
The meeting between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and German Chancellor Olaf Schulz in Berlin is expected to address issues such as refugee flows, Turkey's resistance to Sweden's NATO bid, and the conflict in Israel and Gaza. Erdogan's recent inflammatory remarks about Israel have caused tensions, as Germany strongly supports Israel's right to defend itself. The meeting also provides an opportunity for Turkey and Germany to discuss migration and crisis mediation, as well as the German-Turkish population's impact on their bilateral relationship.
David Cameron's Return to UK Government
Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron has returned to UK government, taking the position of foreign secretary. His appointment comes at a time of political challenges, including damage control within the cabinet. Cameron brings experience and international relationships to the role, but also carries the baggage of the Brexit referendum. His return is seen as an attempt to provide stability and expertise amidst a turbulent political environment. While his centrist views may differ from the current government's, his appointment aims to bring calm and a level of diplomatic skill during a critical period.
Ukraine’s counteroffensive against Russian forces stalls as the future of U.S. aid remains uncertain; Argentina gears up for its presidential election runoff while inflation rates soar; Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan arrives in Berlin to address refugee flows and the Israel–Hamas war with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz; and David Cameron returns to the United Kingdom government as foreign secretary.