Here Are Three Developing Challenges That Could Make Or Break 2014

U.S. Marines depart a checkpoint and patrol back to Forward Operating Base Geronimo, Afghanistan, May 30, 2010. The Marines are assigned to Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment. U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Mark Fayloga

Emerging Flash Points Promise Tough 2014 On World Stage -- CBS

For all the frustrations, crises, and hard-won silver linings that have have attended American foreign policy over the last year, it’s probable that those steering the ship of state are hoping for a brief respite in 2014.

It’s even more probable that they won’t get it.

Some longtime thorns in America’s side (see: Iran, North Korea) have driven the global news cycle throughout 2013, and all signs point to that continuing in 2014. But apart from those old chestnuts, some emerging problems and fresh policy challenges will confront President Obama in 2014, promising anything but more of the same.

Between a scheduled troop withdrawal from America’s longest-ever war in Afghanistan, rising tensions in East Asia driven by the dawn of a more muscular, assertive China, and problems ranging from instability to terrorism in parts of Africa, these burgeoning flash points could determine whether 2014 becomes a triumph or a setback for American interests abroad.

With that in mind, what follows is a preview of three developing challenges that could make or break 2014 as they move to the fore.

Read more ....

My Comment: I would also add economics to this mix of emerging flash points. From the U.S. inability (and unwillingness) to address it's debt crisis, southern Europe's continuing economic depression, and China's potential internal debt implosion.