Welcome to the online edition of The New York Times Upfront, where you'll find a selection of articles from our print edition. (For information on subscribing to the print edition, with all its additional articles, graphics, and teacher's edition, please click here.)

FEATURES

COVER STORY

Russia's Power Plays
If Vladimir Putin gives up the presidency but holds on to power, is Russia really a democracy?

INTERNATIONAL

Middle East Outlook
Can a push from Washington help Israel and the Palestinians agree on peace this year?

NATIONAL
16 Candles, and a Ballot?
Some nations allow 16-year-olds to vote, and now the idea is being floated in the U.S.
PLUS: the 26th Amendment

The Right to 'Bear Arms'
The Supreme Court tackles the meaning of the 2nd Amendment.

The U.S. Citizenship Test
The new test is a lot harder than before: Could you pass?

EDUCATION

Cash for Grades
Should students—and adults—get paid just to do the right thing?

DEPARTMENTS

NEWS & TRENDS
Marauding monkeys, redheaded Neanderthals, boys vs. bulls, and more

DEBATE
Should the U.S. bring back the draft?

VOICES
Logan Pals, 18, a Romney campaign volunteer

OPINION
Excerpts from New York Times columnists:
Thomas L. Friedman on keeping the U.S. competitive.

CARTOONS
Some lighter looks at what's in the news