Monday, October 30 06 (2)

Security is the fundamental challenge facing the U.N. peace operation in Haiti (MINUSTAH). Low turnout demonstrates public uncertainty in Serbian constitutional referendum, but the referendum succeeds. The winter will be decisive in the Afghan intervention as Taliban forces dig in for the battle of Kabul. NATO confirms noncombatant deaths from military strikes. Sandinista leader Ortega never disappeared from Nicaraguan politics, but has returned as a prime mover in the initial round of Nicaragua's presidential elections. U.N. Secretary-General Annan shifts the terms of Darfur debate from human rights to regional instability.