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The article contributes insights into the rise of the Russian empire based on Mongolian and Byzantine imperial traditions in contrasts to empires based on Roman imperial traditions. The history and traditions of the Mongolian and Byzantine empires are briefly discussed, and it is argued that the Russian empire was primarily based on Byzantine traditions where religion was a central principle for territorial expansion and the imposition of laws by a central power was the primary political practice. A history of the rise and fall of the Russian empire is included. It is argued that although the Napoleon wars were a military triumph for Russia, but also marked the beginning of the fall of the Russian tsarist empire due to a lack of central control of military operations and alliances. The author also gives attention to that the Russian empire has only been analyzed according to imperial theories upon being dissolved, but also that the concept is relevant as it has returned in present-day Russian political debate. This article is one in a series of articles on the topic of empires. References. E. Sundby

The brutal terrorist attack on defenseless children in Beslan has sent shockwaves throughout the whole civilized world. After the Beslan drama turned into a tragedy, many questions have been raised by both Russian & Western observers. This author seeks to give some answers to these questions. This brief article is based on a comprehensive analysis of the fragmented information provided by various Russian & Western media in the wake of the tragedy. The article attempts to answer the following set of questions: What was the motivation of the attackers? Who were those who decided to commit this cruel act of political violence? What were their agenda & their goals? To what extent was everything possible done in order to avoid the bloodshed? What lessons can be learned from this experience & what conclusions should be drawn by both Russian & Western policymakers who are forced to address the issue of terror & political violence in this vulnerable region? Adapted from the source document.

Six current and former Norwegian foreign ministers gathered for the fourth 50 year celebratory seminar conducted by the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI). The theme of discussion was past, present and future Norwegian foreign policy challenges. The contrast of the discussion was strong as Thorvald Stoltenberg, who held the position from 1987 to 1989, discussed the end of the cold war, while Jonas Gahr Store talked about climate change as a newly established part of foreign policy. In general a wide agreement and foreign policy continuity existed among the ministers. For example, all ministers supported a membership in the EU, but were conflicted in whether or not the country will actually move towards that direction. They also agreed on that the world is moving towards a multipolar foreign policy environment and that Norway's main foreign policy goals consist in strengthening the country's relationship with Scandinavia and Russia. Adapted from the source document.