"The patient has won a decisive battle that will conduct him and Venezuela to a great victory, " Mr. Castro said.

WSJ: Ch��vez Returns to Venezuela

But every time rebels appear to be inching closer to a decisive battle for the capital, President Bashar al-Assad's stronghold, the regime steps up its offensive using fighter jets and missiles to shell the suburb, opposition groups say.

CNN: Group: Blast in Damascus neighborhood kills 8

There is a great and perhaps decisive battle to be fought against ignorance, intolerance and indifference.

FORBES: Up for Debate: How Storytelling Can Effect Change

Alternatively, al-Assad could hang on to power for months yet, if regime forces and the Free Syrian Army continue to battle without a decisive victory on either side and the international community declines to step in.

CNN: Syria: As al-Assad's grip loosens, what could come next?

The guidelines Pirelli received from the sport's brass called for more days like the 2010 Canadian Grand Prix, a race where tire strategy became decisive for Lewis Hamilton in winning a five-way battle.

WSJ: Tire Trauma as Formula One Stars Feel Heat