Snapshots

The move will further inflame tensions amid the recent military escalation in eastern Ukraine and deteriorating health of jailed Russian opposition leader, Alexei Navalny.

The White House is expected to approve some weapons deals, but only if Abu Dhabi and Riyadh’s behavior stays aligned with U.S. regional goals.

Variations in infection rates, vaccine rollouts and public skepticism will impede the bloc from reaching its goal of inoculating 70% of adults by July.

The arrest of a former crown prince could harm Jordan’s reputation for stability if the monarchy fails to deter further high-profile displays of dissent.

The IMF will warn of risks of recovery divergences and financial problems from stimulus programs. Meanwhile, some countries may struggle to repay their debt.

While the Kremlin would likely face near-term unrest and additional sanctions, the outcome of September's parliamentary elections and Putin's grip on power would remain unchanged.

Both Kyiv and Moscow will use the escalating tensions in eastern Ukraine for their own political purposes, risking a calculated or unintended return to full confrontation.

Infighting in the governing CDU could undermine efforts to handle the COVID-19 crisis and delay the country’s economic recovery, and cause political paralysis.

The reforms will ensure Beijing faces no meaningful opposition to its power in Hong Kong, further fracturing the opposition movement.

As its tit-for-tat dynamic with Israel escalates, Iran may be forced to expand both the geographic scope and focus of its attacks.

Beijing’s co-opting of a nationalist social media campaign could force some foreign firms to sacrifice access to China’s massive and fast-growing market.

The costly and disruptive shutdown of a vital global trade route could expedite the use of new shipping technologies, vessels and waterways.