Stratfor explains how Ireland's rugged topography, lack of natural resources and proximity to the United Kingdom have helped shape the state's struggle to distance itself from British influence.

Analyst Marko Papic examines the EU-IMF bailout of Ireland and the opportunities it may present for Germany.

Editor's Note: Transcripts are generated using speech-recognition technology. Therefore, STRATFOR cannot guarantee their complete accuracy.

Analyst Ben West examines the increasing number of attacks by the most recent incarnation of the Irish Republican Army, the reasons for its growth and its limitations.