Spain: Catalan Crisis Approaches a Decisive Moment

The game of chicken between the Spanish and Catalan governments continued Oct. 26, as both administrations made tactical moves without taking any decisive actions. In a speech in Barcelona, Catalan President Carles Puigdemont said he had considered dissolving the Catalan government and holding early regional elections, but had decided against it. Instead, he said the Catalan parliament should make a decision about the future of the region. In the meantime, the Spanish Senate held a session to debate whether to authorize punitive measures designed by Madrid to deal with the Catalan crisis. The measures include dismissing the Catalan government and taking direct control of several Catalan institutions and resources, including the police. The Senate will vote on the measures on Oct. 27. Even after the measures are authorized, Madrid has the option to wait before enforcing them....