Some revelations come as little surprise. It’s not really news that some politicians love money and like to spend time with those who have lots of it. Or that they sometimes behave like a caste that is above the law. Or that the tax system favours the affluent, and that the free circulation of capital enables them to stash their cash in tax havens.

US complacency about China’s nuclear and space capabilities and intentions has been severely challenged. China has more and better missiles than thought, and plans well under way for a strong presence in space.

In our April issue, Régis Debray reproached former foreign minister Hubert Védrine for recommending to President François Hollande that France remain in Nato’s integrated command. This is Védrine’s reply.