For all his bookish tendencies, Mr Isarescu is no pushover.

ECONOMIST: Romania

Meanwhile, humility about some of America's past mistakes should not leave Russia's leaders with the impression that Mr Obama will be a pushover.

ECONOMIST: America and Russia

Mr Zelezny, however, is no pushover.

ECONOMIST: East European television

Mr Delanoe, with a united party behind him, will be no pushover.

ECONOMIST: France