Michael Crowley
Posts
Secretary of State Blinken Plays the Guitar to Launch “Music Diplomacy” Initiative
A viral video of Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken introduced Americans to the guitar geek hidden within.
Biden Taps Penny Pritzker to Drive Ukraine’s Economic Revival
The appointment of the former commerce secretary and Democratic Party fund-raiser reflects a growing focus on Ukraine’s postwar economic survival.
The US Imposes Sanctions on a Russian Oligarch and Other Officials
The sanctions block financial transactions in dollars with Vladimir Potanin, the largest shareholder in Nornickel, the world’s biggest producer of palladium and refined nickel.
U.S. Penalizes Chinese Companies for Aiding Iran’s Oil Exports
The move suggests a more aggressive approach by the Biden administration after talks to revive a 2015 nuclear deal faltered.
Brittney Griner’s Sentence Renews Pressure on President Biden
The basketball star’s supporters are pressing for action. But critics of any possible deal are already fuming.
Blinken Speaks to Russia’s Foreign Minister, Seeking Deal for Griner and Whelan
Antony Blinken, the secretary of state, declined to say how his Russian counterpart responded as he continued to seek the release of the W.N.B.A. star...
Deal With Ted Cruz Sets Stage for Russia Pipeline Fight in Early 2022
The Texas Republican leveraged his obstruction of diplomatic nominees into a Senate vote that could complicate President Biden’s efforts to defend Ukraine.