Must Reads

Carnegie: Russia’s role in Iran nuclear deal. Moscow benefits from Iran’s isolation through Western sanctions, as this strengthens bilateral relations. However, an end to the sanctions would strengthen Iran’s position and weaken Russia as a partner. Moscow fears competition from Iranian oil on the world market. However, a failure of the talks also brings with it the risk of a military conflict that could threaten Russia’s interests in the region. To the article.

Washington Post: Hamas commander Mohammed Sinwar killed. Mohammed Sinwar is the brother of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. According to Israel, Sinwar was the top commander of Hamas’ military arm. He grew up in the Chan Junis refugee camp in the south of the Gaza Strip. An Israeli airstrike on the European Hospital in Gaza on May 13 reportedly targeted Sinwar and killed at least 28 people. Hamas has not yet officially confirmed Sinwar’s death. Read the article.

Financial Times: Relations between the US and Europe at a low point. The US government is pursuing an increasingly confrontational course towards the EU and is questioning the decades-long partnership. Europe is confronted with ideological distance and a retreat by the US from its traditional role as guarantor of Western values. The EU is increasingly acting as an independent player and emphasizing its independence in areas such as the economy, law and international standards. Read the article.

DER SPIEGEL: German dependence on US information. After the change of government in the USA, there were abrupt restrictions in the transatlantic exchange of information. While cooperation at a working level still works in many areas, there is growing concern that the US may be less willing to share information in the future, particularly in the fight against right-wing terrorism and Russian activities. Staff changes and massive cutbacks in US authorities are exacerbating the uncertainty, as informal networks and contacts are being lost. Read the article.