Some democracies seem caught in a trap: Spend more and risk market panic, or cut benefits and empower the far right.

© Stephanie Lecocq/Reuters

Mr. Hubbard, a 74-year-old teacher, was held for more than four years on what the State Department called fabricated charges.

© Moscow City Court Press Service

The move buys good will with President Trump while costing the President Vladimir V. Putin — who is wanted for war crimes — little.

© Moscow City Court, via Associated Press