Here is your R&D for March 25th:
Yemeni Military Leader Tied to Terrorism Pledges to Protect Protesters from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy
The situation in Yemen could go very badly for the United States, with the defection of General Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar being seen as a significant blow to the Yemeni government. General al-Ahmar has ties to militant organizations and if he were to take power it could threaten U.S. interests in the region.
Romney Hits Road to Target Big Contributors from the Wall Street Journal
Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney has launched a 15-city push to secure big financial commitments for his 2012 presidential run. Romney’s rumored strategy is to secure sizeable funds to knockout his primary opponents early.
Allies Are Split on Goal and Exit Strategy in Libya from the New York Times
Although coalition forces have prevented Moammar Gaddafi from routing rebel forces, they are not sure whether the ultimate goal should be the protection of civilians or the removal of the Gaddafi regime.
Dangerous breach suspected at Japanese nuke plant from the Associated Press
A breach at the Fukushima Dai-ichi power plant may mean higher levels of radioactive contaimination for the surrounding area and dozens of workers have been told to stop working near the complex.
Gates calls for Syrian forces to move aside from the Financial Times
As unrest continues in southern Syria, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates urged the Syrian army to empower the revolution that is breaking out there. It’s not clear if Gates statement was a reflection of White House policy or shows his own personal feelings.