John Simpson: 2014 was the year of self-doubt
  • 23 December 2014
  • From the section World
Ukraine protests Image copyright EPA
Image caption One year on, protests continue in Ukraine

Years are like city crowds: for the most part they push their way past you in the street without leaving any real impression.

A few, though, imprint themselves heavily on your consciousness, and on history.

Read full article John Simpson: 2014 was the year of self-doubt

US needs to show it's still top dog
President Obama Image copyright EPA
Image caption President Obama: Let down by lieutenants?

Once upon a time the job of president of the United States seemed clear-cut: you knew who the enemy was, and you knew you had the economic and military measure of them.

You were seen as the most powerful man in the world.

Read full article US needs to show it's still top dog