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Overturning the arcane Senate procedure removes a democratic safeguard
Ashton Carter would head a Pentagon beset with problems
Ashton Carter is a stellar choice but he is likely to be undermined by White House micromanagement
Obama’s likely nominee to replace Hagel seen as safe choice
Replacing Hagel will not solve America’s foreign policy issues
Cautious realist ended up at odds with White House inner circle
Rumours were already circulating of clashes between the Pentagon and the White House
Obama under pressure to change team amid multiple foreign crises
Russian military build-up in separatist areas intensifies US demands for arms shipments to Kiev
Obama administration seeks to deflect criticism that it has done too little to contain the virus
Turkish president confronted with global pressure on Isis and fatal protests at home
Tension rises over support for Asia nations
Defence secretary draws parallels between Russia and China
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