San Francisco

North Macedonia’s election: a victory for Western diplomacy?

The newborn Republic of North Macedonia is unique in a part of the world where nationalist strongmen, religious extremists, and organized criminals are amassing ever greater influence. “We are the most successful story in the region,” says Bujar Osmani, deputy prime minister for European affairs. Less partisan observers point to flaws in North Macedonia’s democratic credentials, but there is no doubt that “everyone perceives Macedonia as a positive story,” agrees Uranija Pirovska, head of the local Helsinki Committee, a human rights watchdog.

Why frustrated Ukrainians may elect a comedian as president

Election billboards across Ukraine feature a stern-jawed incumbent President Petro Poroshenko facing off with his main opponent in second-round voting for the presidency this Sunday. Ukrainians seem ready to overwhelmingly elect a political novice, a comedian whose main claim to fame is that he played a president on TV, when they cast ballots this Sunday. According to the latest survey, carried out by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology (KIIS), 72% of decided voters plan to vote for Mr. Zelenskiy, with just 25% choosing Mr. Poroshenko.

After Mueller report, the pressure shifts to Congress

One day after the release of special counsel Robert Mueller’s much-anticipated report, the focus is shifting to Capitol Hill, with many observers suggesting it’s now Congress’s duty to pick up where the special counsel left off. “That’s their duty,” agrees John Yoo, a former Department of Justice deputy assistant attorney general under President George W. Bush.

When saying no to a president saves democracy

Few Americans will read the public portions of special counsel Robert Mueller’s report. Congress will now decide if the president did obstruct justice. Mr. Mueller praises some of those around Mr. Trump for standing up for rule of law.