Essays

Long-form writing from leading scholars and commentators on history, statecraft, warfare, philosophy and culture.

Ukrainian servicemen of the aerial reconnaissance unit in Zaporizhzhia, southeastern Ukraine. Credit: Ukrinform

Ukraine is mastering 21st-century warfare

With Ukraine adapting faster than its invader, several early indicators suggest that the war's trajectory is shifting in Kyiv's favour.

Mick Ryan May 6, 2026

The Burning of the House of Lords and Commons, by JMW Turner.

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Elegy for the hereditary peers

Expelling hereditary peers comes at a cost to Britain's constitutional and cultural fabric.

Gerald Warner May 1, 2026

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From America First to America Alone

Trump's erratic use of tariffs may ultimately undermine the alliances that have allowed the United States to project its power around the globe.

Samuel Gregg May 1, 2026

George Washington crossing the Delaware.

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The unintended consequences of the American Revolution

Despite the United States' resplendent origin myths, the motivations for the complex and confused events of 1775-83 now appear as diverse as their participants.

J.C.D. Clark April 29, 2026

Flags of various European countries members of a NATO force integration unit in Vilnius, Lithuania, 29 March 2022.

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Europe’s geopolitical awakening has begun

Longstanding scepticism towards US foreign policy has forced Europe to prepare for a new world order without America at its centre.

Marina E. Henke April 27, 2026

Emmanuel Macron visits a French nuclear submarine navy base.

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The problem with a French-led European deterrent

London must establish its own vision for the nuclear defence of Europe, one shorn of fashionable shibboleths about the British and French arsenals, and rooted in long-term strategi..

Franklin C. Miller and Daniel Skeffington April 24, 2026

US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger and Egyptian President Anwar al-Sadat at a meeting in August 1975.

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How to make peace in the Middle East

Those attempting to secure a diplomatic bargain between the United States and Iran should draw lessons from the historic peace deal struck by Israel and Egypt after the Yom Kippur ..

Shiraz Maher April 22, 2026