Blog
Flashpoints
Will China’s military rival the United States’ in the Pacific? Will Japan abandon the constitutional fetters on its own military? How will India respond to the String of Pearls strategy? The Diplomat has put together a team of leading analysts to offer must-read, regular commentary on the big defense and security issues in the Asia-Pacific.
Planned New York Talks Between North Korean and Former US Officials Won't Go Ahead
By Ankit Panda
Track 1.5 talks with North Korea officials won't be returning to New York City after all.
Russia and Pakistan's Reluctant Romance
By Saddam Hussein
Over the past decade, Pakistan and Russia have been repairing a relationship badly damaged during the Cold War.
The Truth About Australia-Indonesia South China Sea Patrols
By Prashanth Parameswaran
A deeper look behind President Jokowi’s suggestion that he may discuss the proposal during his state visit to Australia.
Kim Jong-nam's Assassins in Malaysia Used VX Nerve Agent. That's a Big Deal.
By Ankit Panda
Malaysian authorities confirm Kim Jong-nam was killed by the VX nerve agent.
Why Trump Can't Break Russia Away From China
By John S. Van Oudenaren
The conditions just aren't right for Kissinger-style triangular diplomacy.
A Deadly February Should Motivate Afghanistan-Pakistan Security Cooperation
By Mushtaq Rahim
A fresh wave of terror in the AfPak region is another reminder about the need for an honest partnership..
North Korean Representatives May Meet Former US Officials in New York City
By Ankit Panda
Former U.S. officials may meet North Korean representatives in New York, suggesting Kim Jong-un is open to talks.
How Will Trump Handle Intellectual Property Disputes With China?
By Robert Farley
The Trump administration will face unique challenges in reining in intellectual property abuses by China.
US Carrier Strike Group Arrives in the South China Sea
By Ankit Panda
The U.S. Navy now has two supercarriers deployed to the Asia-Pacific region.
Would China Use Nuclear Weapons in a War With Taiwan?
By Ben Lowsen
China insists on "No First Use" of nukes, but the threat remains.
How the Comfort Women Settlement Can Boost Japan-ROK Ties
By Ki Suh Jung
Getting past the issue would pave the way for greater collaboration against urgent security threats.
Hybrid Warriors: China’s Unmanned, Guerrilla-Style Warfare in Asia’s Littorals
By Tobias Burgers & Scott N. Romaniuk
Expect China to add drones – little grey (un)men – to its arsenal of hybrid warfare tactics in the South China Sea.