East Asia

Some analysts suggest China’s vast network of underground tunnels is evidence it is undertaking a massive build-up of its nuclear arsenal. Actually, China has reason to worry about the US.

News last month that an alleged North Korean spy tried to kill an anti-Pyongyang activist is a reminder that Kim Jong-il’s spies are active. But some say the attacks aren’t what they used to be.

The poisonous atmosphere in Washington will put pressure on Barack Obama to cut short his Asia trip. He should ignore it.

Slashing the US defence budget could undermine stability in Asia and US interests there, says J. Randy Forbes. And it could get worse this autumn.

China is thirsty for it and Russia has plenty. So why can’t the two countries finally close a natural gas deal?

Beijing’s submarine fleet is not as big or powerful as US military planners once feared. Have its blue-water ambitions been overstated?

A new poll shows Taiwan President Ma Ying-jou trailing his DPP opponent. Inequality, unemployment and close ties to China are complicating his bid for re-election next year.

China’s mix of historical and legal claims in the South China Sea are inconsistent, says Frank Ching. Beijing can’t have its cake and eat it.

Hillary Clinton’s new essay on the US role in Asia makes clear the United States is there to stay. There’s little China can do about it.

Vladimir Putin looks certain to become Russian president again. China and Iran may welcome him, but will the neighbours want his Eurasian Union?

In marking a key anniversary this weekend, Chinese have had the chance to reflect on how far they have come, and where they are going.

Seoul’s plan to develop a naval base on Ulleung Island is aimed at boosting its claim over the disputed Dokdo islets. It will also inflame tensions with Japan.