Topic: Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies

Iran nuclear stand-off: Why the war drumbeat has died down

Western countries are on alert for any decisive moves from Tehran that hint at an 'all-out bid' for an Iranian nuclear weapon. But in the meantime they are sticking to diplomatic measures.

Good Reads: Dissecting Iran assassination plot, a broken America, and Qatar's rise (video)

Newspapers are picking holes in an alleged Iranian assassination plot against a Saudi diplomat, while George Packer offers up a sharp analysis of a US that can upgrade its iPhones but can't fix its bridges. And what's up with Qatar?

Aircraft carriers gain naval clout

Aircraft carriers: The floating fortresses became the backbone of U.S. sea power after WWII, projecting military might around the world in crises and in conflicts such as Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, Kosovo and Afghanistan.

Libya protests spread to capital city of Tripoli

Libya protests reached the capital city of Tripoli Monday in the strongest challenge yet to leader Col. Muammar Qaddafi, who derives much of his support from the western part of the country.

What Britain's cuts mean for its place in the world

Britain made deep cuts to social services, government jobs, welfare benefits, and defense spending in order to reduce a mounting deficit. The cuts could dramatically reshape British society.

Britain says it's still US 'wingman' despite defense budget cuts

Britain's sharp defense budget cuts target 8 percent of the military's $59 billion budget. Prime Minister David Cameron called President Obama to reassure him that the UK would remain a 'first rate' military power.

Budget cuts are cracking the West's defenses

Facing budget shortfalls, Britain and France must make difficult choices that could reshape how Western allies meet common security challenges.

US and UN aid for Pakistan floods: It helps fight Taliban, effects of global warming

The lives of 14 million Pakistanis are disrupted by massive flooding. The US must prepare for more security crises triggered by erratic weather, perhaps caused by global warming.

US, Russia spy swap: Why London is a hotbed of spies

The US-Russia spy swap today in Vienna was aimed at bringing a quick close to spy tales that have transfixed the media. But London – a magnet for Russians – is likely to remain a hotbed of spies.

To rein in Al Qaeda in Yemen, Britain taps its colonial past

Analysts in the UK says Britain's colonial history in Yemen may give it useful insights and expertise in dealing with the presence of Al Qaeda supporters there.

Obama's speech on Afghanistan war: Will Europe send more troops?

President Obama's speech on Afghanistan at West Point Tuesday is expected to appeal to Europe to match his troop surge. Will Europeans provide 10,000 soldiers?

UK Iraq war inquiry: Will Tony Blair come under fire?

A UK Iraq war inquiry began Tuesday, amid allegations that British soldiers abused detainees during the war. The panel is to focus on how and why Britain went to war.

Airline bomber convictions lead to pride and praise for British security

Monday's conviction of three young British Muslims has boosted the service after recent setbacks. But concerns remain about the ongoing radicalization of young Muslims.

Troop deaths in Afghanistan rattle Britain

Despite a new poll showing firm public support, the deaths of eight troops in 24 hours last week is raising fresh questions about the end goals of the war.

Once an empire, Britain faces big military cuts

Afghanistan operations in the future could be affected.

Afghanistan strains NATO ties

Secretary of State Rice arrives in London Wednesday to address tensions among key allies.

As fighting rages in Chad, France's new role revealed

France did not repel this weekend's coup attempt on its former colony as it has in the past, but the UN Monday approved unilateral French action to support Chad's government.

Musharraf argues case in Europe

The president cast himself as Pakistan's best bet for stability in a nine-day visit.

Reporters on the Job