Foreign policy is typically the executive branch’s domain because that is the branch that decides who the US negotiates with and what gets offered in those negotiations. However, Tuesday’s Republican victory, particularly the GOP takeover of the House and leadership of some key committees, has the ability to affect the US's dialogue, and in some cases policy, on a few key US relationships with other countries.

Indian Army personnel are holding an annual joint military exercise with their American counterparts involving airborne specialist operations in sub-zero temperatures in Alaska.

"I really like it, and I take it very seriously," [Salma Hayek] tells reporters straining over the barrier for a comment about her role as a judge at this film festival. "It looks like they have built a great home for arts, culture and film." Who would believe she was talking about Qatar, a desert country of 1.7 million people...

In France and some other countries, Tuesday's voting had been seen as a test for Obama, cheered around the world before taking office. As former Danish Foreign Minister Mogens Lykketoft said, "American politics will be locked." But foreign policy isn't likely the top casualty, many opinion makers said.

In a country famed for its distance runners and sweltering sun, few would expect Kenya to be enthusiastic about winter sports. But at an ice rink in the capital, some young Kenyans are playing a new and exciting western game.

For his India visit, President Barack Obama will likely receive stacks of India briefings from the State Department, the CIA, the National Security Council and countless officials. Aides will give him binders full of articles so he can better understand the wonder that is India. However, seeing is believing and nothing will better prepare Mr. Obama for his trip than watching Bollywood. On his 15-hour flight, the President can whip through five Bollywood movies that vividly bring new and old India to life.

Foreign leaders and publics may take the outcome of the election as a signal about what to expect from Obama in the next two years and craft their strategies accordingly. A GOP victory might embolden Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to continue stonewalling Obama and to stoke partisan opposition to his policies, for instance.