RUSI Newsbrief Vol. 38, No. 5

This issue of Newsbrief includes articles on UK defence spending, state capability to deploy a credible chemical weapons threat, the Nord Stream II gas pipeline, and public opinion in Central Europe on cooperation, identiy, and defence.

Defence and Electoral Credibility: Challenges for the Cabinet and Shadow Cabinet

Josh Arnold-Forster

The potential political acceptance of tax rises to fund the NHS is beginning to influence the debate on defence spending. Will this provide the impetus to defeat those political leaders who want to abet the decline in British military power?

The Other Europe? How Central Europe Views the Continent’s Security Concerns and Aspirations

Jonathan Eyal

The results of public opinion surveys in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary indicate that perceptions among these Central European countries towards European cooperation and collective identity are complex. Countries in the region cannot all be painted with the same brush.

The Rise of the Chemical Weapon State: From Salisbury to Syria

Ryan Henrici

The recent execution of chemical attacks by Moscow, Damascus and Pyongyang for diverse purposes may not only suggest that the prohibitive power of international conventions is now fading away, but also signals the emergence of a new class of states who can deploy a credible chemical threat.

Nord Stream II: The Battle Lines Have Been Drawn

Alex Maciag

Increasing tension over Nord Stream II puts the spotlight on a West that still lacks unity or a clear policy towards Russia. The divisions over the project are adding to bitterness within the EU and the transatlantic relationship, and benefiting Moscow.