COVID-19 - Daily News

14 September 2020 Military News

Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
Defense Industry
Other Conflicts
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Current Operations

Two more US convoys targeted by roadside bombs in Iraq Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Two more military and logistics convoys of the US-led coalition have been targeted by roadside bombs in Iraq, the Iraqi military says.

US Hails Pakistan's Role in Advancing Afghan Peace Process VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- America's peace envoy for Afghanistan, Zalmay Khalilzad, visited Pakistan on Monday and conveyed Washington's gratitude for the "important role" Islamabad has played in easing the start of reconciliation talks between warring Afghan parties, officials said.
Majority of Americans Support Trump's Deal With Taliban to End Afghan War VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- A new U.S. public survey has found that two-thirds of supporters of President Donald Trump "strongly" or "somewhat" support his deal with the Islamist Taliban to extricate the United States from the 19-year war in Afghanistan.
U.S. Envoy In Pakistan As Afghan-Taliban Talks Begin With Calls For Truce RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- The Afghan government intensified calls for a cease-fire with the Taliban on September 14 as Kabul and the militants began the second day of historic peace talks.
Contact Groups at Doha Talks Make Progress at First Meeting - Afghan Government Negotiators Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- Participants in the peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban that are currently underway in Qatar have reached some progress during the Sunday contact group session, Ahmad Nader Naderi, a member of the government's negotiating team, said.

Wyoming National Guard to help fight California wildfires Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- The Wyoming Army National Guard's G Company, 2nd Battalion, 211th Aviation Regiment, was activated by Gov. Mark Gordon to support firefighting efforts in California.
Wisconsin National Guard helps battle California wildfires Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- Two Wisconsin National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters and 15 Soldiers flew to California to assist the California National Guard as it battles wildfires raging across the state.
Louisiana National Guard responds to hurricane, COVID-19 Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- The past two weeks, the nation has remembered both the 15-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina and the 19-year anniversary of the horrific 9/11 attacks, all while the state of Louisiana responds to two emergencies. The men and women of the Louisiana National Guard, many of whom were influenced by both tragic events, have worked tirelessly since March in COVID-19 operations and then response and recovery missions following Hurricane Laura.
Over 1,000 National Guardsmen to be Deployed to Oregon to Help Battle Wildfires Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- More than 1,000 National Guard troops will be deployed to Oregon to help the state fight ongoing wildfires, National Guard Adj. Gen. Mike Stencel said during a press conference.
40th CAB rescues nearly 400 stranded by Creek Fire Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- On Labor Day weekend, several hundred people found themselves trapped in the Sierra Nevada mountains in Fresno and Madera counties as flames from the enormous Creek Fire surrounded them.

Defense Policy / Programs

SECAF unveils new "eSeries" classification in nod to Department's digital future US Air Force 14 Sep 2020 -- Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett told Air Force Association conference attendees that the future of Air and Space technology will include aircraft, weapons and satellites which will be digitally engineered and virtually tested before ever taking physical form.
New directive to prepare Army installations against extreme weather, climate change Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- The Army faces a growing menace - one that has no military forces but threatens Army installations.
Michigan National Guard unveils joint innovation center Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist joined ranking members of the Michigan National Guard for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening of the Kelly Johnson Joint All-Domain Innovation Center at Selfridge Research Park.
40th Infantry Division conducts joint operations in the Pacific from Camp San Luis Obispo Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- California Army National Guard's 40th Infantry Division soldiers invaded Camp San Luis Obispo in the late days of August. Computer systems were setup and secured network lines snaked throughout the footprint, connecting the newly constructed command post to support U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) joint operations across the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Theater.
DOD Awards Contracts for COVID-19 Disposable Isolation Gowns DoD 14 Sep 2020 -- Today, the Department of Defense, on behalf of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), signed contracts with nine American businesses for the delivery of 73 million COVID-19 disposable isolation gowns at a cost of $335M. The contracts will support the replenishment of the HHS-managed Strategic National Stockpile and deliver by January 2021, ensuring HHS is poised to meet the Nation's critical medical needs.
Barracks renovations at USAG Wiesbaden improve Soldier quality-of-life, readiness Army News 14 Sep 2020 -- U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden has been working to renovate areas of the barracks and give Soldiers more space.
USAF, RSAF conduct Exercise Desert Eagle in CENTCOM AOR CENTCOM 14 Sep 2020 -- Members of the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing performed a hot pit refuel of F-15E Strike Eagles from the 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing, following a large formation flight in support of Exercise Desert Eagle at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Sept. 10, 2020.
Guardsmen Serve Throughout Nation, World DoD News 14 Sep 2020 -- Americans regard the National Guard as a United States-based force, but, in truth, it's hard to go anywhere in the world and not see a soldier wearing an Army National Guard patch.
Marine Corps assistant commandant identifies opportunity for testing force design, readiness in SOUTHCOM region USMC News 14 Sep 2020 -- One of the Marine Corps' top generals said the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility presents the opportunity to "optimize the force."
Specialized Navy Sailors Deployed with Marine Squadron ahead of V-22 Transition USMC News 14 Sep 2020 -- In February, the U.S. Navy took delivery of the first CMV-22B Osprey aircraft as the primary aircraft to conduct Airborne Re-supply/Logistics to the Sea Base. The CMV-22B platform will eventually replace the C-2 Greyhound across the Navy.
US to Deploy 150 Fifth Generation F-35, F-22 Combat Aircraft in Arctic, Senator Dan Sullivan Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The US Air Force will soon be deploying its greatest concentration of fifth-generation, supersonic and stealth combat fighters in the world in the Arctic based in Alaska, US Senator Dan Sullivan, who represents the state, told a Woodrow Wilson Centre Polar Institute podcast.
Adm. Richard Discusses USSTRATCOM Operations With Reporters DoD 14 Sep 2020 -- Adm. Charles A. "Chas" Richard, commander, U.S. Strategic Command
Stratcom Commander: DOD on Track to Face 2 Peer Nuclear-Capable Competitors DoD News 14 Sep 2020 -- Russian and Chinese military capabilities are growing, said the commander of U.S. Strategic Command, who outlined steps the department is taking to meet those challenges.

Russian Navy Keeping Track of Actions of US Destroyer in Baltic Sea Waters, Control Centre Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The Russian Navy's Baltic Fleet is studying movements of a destroyer of the US Navy that entered Baltic Sea waters on Sunday, the Russian Defence Ministry's National Defence Management Centre said.
Russian Fighters Scrambled to Intercept 3 US Bombers Over Black Sea, Defence Ministry Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- Russian fighters Su-27 and Su-30 were scrambled to intercept three US Air Force bombers over the Black Sea, no violation of the Russian border was allowed, the Russian Defence Ministry's National Defense Control Centre (NDCC) said on Monday.
Russia's Tu-160 Missile Carriers Flew Over Northern Seas, Atlantic, Defence Ministry Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- Two Russian missile carriers Tu-160 flew over the Barents and the Norwegian Seas, as well as the Atlantic Ocean, escorted by Royal Norwegian Air Force planes, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Monday.

Chinese Nuke Arsenal Next on Beijing's 'To-Do' List, US Commander Warns VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The commander in charge of the U.S. military's nuclear arsenal has warned that increasing China's nuclear stockpile is "next" on Beijing's "to-do list."
PLA launches more than 30 sea drills amid US, Taiwan exercises Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) announced new maritime exercises in the Yellow Sea on Monday, the dayas the US launched the Valiant Shield exercises around Guam, and the island of Taiwan started the computer-aided war games phase of the Han Kuang drills, with media saying both the US and Taiwan drills are aimed at the PLA.
Chinese navy escorts Indian oil tanker in dangerous waters amid strained ties Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- The Chinese navy on Saturday successfully escorted an Indian oil tanker carrying 31 Indian crew members to a designated sea area in the Gulf of Aden and received a thank-you note from the tanker's captain, the Global Times learned on Monday. The escort came amid the recently strained diplomatic ties between China and India on the border dispute.
Chinese military launches campaign on cybersecurity PLA Daily 14 Sep 2020 -- The Chinese military on Monday kicked off its maiden campaign aimed at raising awareness on cybersecurity.

Taiwan Aims to Help Foreign Air Forces Fix F-16 Fighter Jets, a Stab at China VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- A new Taiwanese maintenance center for F-16 fighter jets hopes to service the American-made aircraft belonging to multiple countries, a goal that would outrage China and shake up Asian military diplomacy if realized, experts say.
Computer-aided war games section of Han Kuang drill begins CNA 14 Sep 2020 -- The computer-aided war games section of this year's Han Kuang military exercises officially kicked off Monday after being postponed for five months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

MEASURE TO HELP DOMESTIC DEFENCE MANUFACTURING India PIB 14 Sep 2020 -- The Government has taken the following policy initiatives to promote 'Make in India' in defence sector: -
FDI IN DEFENCE SECTOR India PIB 14 Sep 2020 -- In May, 2001, the Defence Industry sector, which was hitherto reserved for the public sector, was opened up to 100% for Indian private sector participation, with Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) up to 26% both subject to licensing.
FUNDS FOR DEFENCE MODERNISATION India PIB 14 Sep 2020 -- An amount of Rs. 90,048 crore has been allocated for Capital Acquisition (Modernization) in BE 2020-21 under Defence Service Estimates which is an increase of Rs. 9,088.92 crore over BE 2019-20 allocations. The total amount allocated for Capital Acquisition (Modernization) is 27.87% of Defence Services Estimates.
Russia, India to Launch New Brahmos Missile Capable of Downing Aircraft With AWACS System by 2024 Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The new missile will be used for destroying major aerial targets, while the previous versions were only capable of destroying targets on the ground or at sea.

Iran to increase capability of homegrown missiles: Defense Minister ISNA 14 Sep 2020 -- Iran's Defense Minister, Brigadier General Amir Hatami announced that the country seeks to increase its missile capability.

RAF in latest interception of Russian aircraft off Scotland coast Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Britain's Royal Air Force (RAF) reportedly intercepted two Russian aircraft off the north-east Scottish coast on Saturday (September 12).

Remarks by President Trump After Air Force One Arrival | McClellan Park, CA The White House 14 Sep 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo At the U.S.-Qatar Strategic Dialogue US Dept. of State 14 Sep 2020

Defense Industry

Contracts For Sept. 14, 2020

Other Conflicts

14 September 2020 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 14 Sep 2020
UN peacekeeping chief outlines reforms needed to keep operations fit-for-purpose UN News 14 Sep 2020 -- Over the next 10 years, the world could well be transformed by potentially lethal new technologies, climate disruptions and disruption caused by expanding cities, the UN peacekeeping chief told the Security Council on Monday, outlining the adaptations required to keep the Organization's flagship enterprise fit-for-purpose as it confronts daunting new security threats.

Indonesia Protests Presence of Chinese Ship in Its Waters Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Indonesia said on Monday that it had protested to Beijing about the intrusion of a Chinese coast guard ship in its exclusive economic zone off the Natuna Islands, as ship tracking data seen by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service, revealed a Chinese fishing fleet entered the area around the same time.
China to work with ASEAN members to stabilize S.China Sea Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- Chinese State Councilor and Defense Minister Wei Fenghe has concluded his visit to Malaysia, Indonesia, Brunei and the Philippines, as Chinese analysts said Sunday that paying visits to these Southeast Asian countries amid the COVID-19 pandemic proves the importance and solidity of China's ties with these nations.

Yemeni Military Officers Killed in Clashes With Houthi Rebels in Marib, Source Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- At least eight people, including Yemeni army officers and members of tribes loyal to it, were killed during clashes with the Houthi rebel Shia movement, also known as Ansar Allah, in the province of Marib, a local military source told Sputnik, adding that the movement had launched a massive attack on the military's positions.

Alleged Israeli Airstrike Near Aleppo Reportedly Damaged Syrian Missile Production Facility Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The attack was blamed on Israel by Syrian state media, but the IDF has refused to comment on the accusation. Tel Aviv is suspected of having carried out hundreds of airstrikes in Syria over the last decade, but it has officially confirmed conducting only a handful of them.

Iraqi, Peshmerga Forces to Step Up Anti-IS Joint Effort VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- Iraqi military and Kurdish Peshmerga forces will increase their cooperation in the fight against Islamic State, an Iraqi military official said.
Top Terrorist Who Bankrolled Daesh Killed During Operation in Western Iraq Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The Iraqi military, in cooperation with the US-led international coalition, has eliminated a senior leader of the Daesh* terror group, who was responsible for financing camps, in the western Al Anbar province, Iraq's Security Media Cell, an official outlet providing information on the country's security, said on Monday.

Eastern Libyan Interim Prime Minister Resigns Following Protests VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The prime minister of eastern Libya's interim government has resigned following protests in several eastern Libyan towns and cities, including an attack on the headquarters of military commander Gen. Khalifa Haftar over the weekend.

UN Human Rights Chief Sees Possible War Crimes in Myanmar Army Actions in Rakhine Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- The U.N.'s human rights chief on Monday said the Myanmar military's brutal tactics in its 21-month-long war in Rakhine state were producing possible war crimes and that Naypyidaw had made no progress in resolving an earlier crisis sparked by the army's expulsion of Rohingya Muslims.
Bangladesh Protests Movement of Myanmar Troops Near its Border Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Bangladesh's Foreign Ministry has summoned Myanmar's ambassador to protest unusual troop movements near its southeastern borders, where refugee camps house close to 1 million Rohingya refugees who fled Myanmar, authorities said Monday.
UN rights chief warns of 'further war crimes' against Rohingya Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet has warned that Myanmar's ongoing targeting of the persecuted Rohingya civilians in their homeland of Rakhine 'may constitute further war crimes or even crimes against humanity.'
UN Condemns Atrocities Against Myanmar's Rohingya, Other Minorities VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The UN Human Rights office reports the Myanmar military continues to attack, persecute and commit gross violations against the Rohingya Muslims three years after similar actions triggered a mass exodus of more than 750,000 Rohingya to Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. The report has been submitted to the UN Human Rights Council.

Military Says 'Terrorist Commander' Killed In Northwestern Pakistan RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- The Pakistani military says it has killed a "terrorist" commander and three other militants in the country's northwest.

CEASEFIRE VIOLATIONS BY PAKISTAN IN J&K India PIB 14 Sep 2020 -- There have been 3186 incidents of Ceasefire Violations along Line of Control in Jammu region in this year (from 01 January to 07 September, 2020). In addition, 242 incidents of cross-border firing have occurred along Indo-Pak International Border in Jammu region in this year (01 January to 31 August, 2020).

Greece ready for talks with Turkey, return of Oruc Reis to Antalya "a positive step": PM People's Daily 14 Sep 2020 -- Greece is willing to enter dialogue with Ankara once "provocations" stop to de-escalate recent tension in the Eastern Mediterranean over maritime borders, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Sunday, welcoming the return to Antalya of Oruc Reis, the Turkish seismic survey vessel which had been conducting research in a disputed area.
Turkey: US disturbing balance in Eastern Mediterranean with Greek Cyprus deal Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Turkey's Foreign Ministry has expressed its objection to a recent agreement between the United States and the Greek Cyprus for the construction of a new training center, warning that the move could further undermine peace and stability in the region.
Turkey Condemns US-Cyprus Agreement on Building New Training Facility, Foreign Ministry Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The US-Cyprus agreement to construct a new regional border security training center on the island will not contribute to peace and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean, Spokesperson of the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs Hami Aksoy said.

Israel approves construction of nearly 1,000 new settler units in West Bank Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Israeli officials have approved plans for the construction of nearly one thousand new settler units in the West Bank in blatant defiance of international condemnation of the Tel Aviv regime's land grab and settlement expansion policies in the occupied Palestinian territories.

News Reports

German, Swedish Labs Confirm Navalny Poisoned by Russian Nerve Agent VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The German government said Monday two more laboratories in France and Sweden have independently confirmed that Kremlin critic and opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned with the Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok.
Russia accuses West of using Navalny poisoning allegations as sanctions pretext Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has accused the West of using the alleged poisoning of opposition figure Alexei Navalny as a pretext to promote new sanctions against Russia.
Navalny's Condition Improving As Germany Says Two Independent Labs Confirm Novichok Poisoning RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- The Berlin hospital treating Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny says his condition is improving as Germany announced two independent laboratories confirmed evidence that he was poisoned with a nerve agent from the Novichok group.
Navalny Allies Win Seats In Siberian City As Ruling Party Claims Sweeping Victory In Local Polls RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- Two allies of stricken Kremlin critic Aleksei Navalny are expected to have won local parliamentary seats in the Siberian city of Tomsk when results are released on September 14 for a variety of regional and local elections across the country that the ruling United Russia party likely dominated.
What Do The Regional Election Results Tell Us About Putin's Russia? RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- No surprise: Russia's dominant party is claiming sweeping victories in regional and local elections.
Kremlin Candidates Maintain Majority in Regional Elections VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The Kremlin's ruling United Russia party maintained its majority with victories in nationwide local elections that wrapped up Sunday -- even as several candidates affiliated with stricken opposition leader Alexey Navalny scored important victories in closely watched races in Siberia.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on September 14, 2020 PRC MofA 14 Sep 2020
Pompeo Says Chinese Companies Follow Predatory Practices in Mekong Region Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday said China's state-owned companies engage in predatory business practices in the Mekong River region and the Chinese Communist Party is responsible for much of the boom in trafficking of persons, drugs and wildlife there.
EU Calls For Xinjiang Observer Mission, as US Targets More China Firms Over Forced Labor Concerns Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- The European Union on Monday called on China to allow independent observers to visit the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR) to investigate treatment of the Uyghurs, amid growing concerns about the fate of the 1.8 million or more believed have been sent to internment camps.
Nine Die, Thousands Arrested Amid Crackdown on Protesting Mongolians: Group Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Nine people have died and thousands have been detained as the authorities launched a region-wide crackdown on ethnic Mongolians protesting an end to Mongolian-medium education with class boycotts and street protests, a New York-based rights group reported on Monday.
Changsha Rights Defenders Tried in Secret For 'Subversion' Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Authorities in the central Chinese province of Hunan have secretly tried three non-governmental organization (NGO) workers, family members and rights groups said.
Xi urges sound ties with Europe Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- Chinese, German and EU leaders reaffirmed that they will further strengthen cooperation from trade to epidemic control during a virtual summit on Monday, sending what experts call a resounding signal that the parties remain committed to pursuing pragmatic engagement rather than differences, as some ill-advised officials and pundits in the US are actively pushing for.
China, EU should pursue healthy partnership growth, Xi says PLA Daily 14 Sep 2020 -- China and the European Union should unwaveringly pursue the healthy and steady growth of their comprehensive strategic partnership and uphold openness, cooperation and multilateralism, President Xi Jinping said on Monday.
NGOs Urge EU To Tackle Legal Breaches By Chinese Firms In Southeastern Europe RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- Civil society groups working in Southeastern Europe are calling on the European Union to step up its actions on legal violations of EU law by Chinese state-owned enterprises in Europe.
Xi clarifies stance on HK, Xinjiang during summit with EU leaders Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping clarified China's stance on Hong Kong and Xinjiang affairs, saying they involve China's right to defend its sovereignty, security and unity and that China firmly opposes anyone and any force that attempts to sow instability, secession and unrest in China.
China Says 12 Fleeing Hongkongers Held in Shenzhen Are 'Separatists' Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Twelve activists detained in the southern Chinese city of Shenzhen after they tried to flee Hong Kong in a speedboat have been accused of "separatism" by a foreign ministry spokeswoman in Beijing.
Hong Kong: Dealing with 12 detained separatists China's business Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Hong Kong says it will stay away from China's detention of a dozen individuals it calls "separatists" who sought to flee to Taiwan, arguing that handling the case is within the jurisdiction of mainland China.
HK informs families of violations of 12 residents, guarantees legal aid Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- Hong Kong's Secretary for Security John Lee Ka-chiu stated that Hong Kong police and immigration authorities have contacted the families of 12 Hong Kong residents suspected of entering the Chinese mainland illegally and explained to them the related laws and regulations. He added that one of those arrested is suspected of violating the national security law for Hong Kong.
DHS Cracks Down on Goods Produced by China's State-Sponsored Forced Labor DHS 14 Sep 2020 -- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued five Withhold Release Orders (WRO) today on products from the People's Republic of China (PRC). The products subject to the WROs are produced with state-sponsored forced labor in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, where the Chinese government is engaged in systemic human rights abuses against the Uyghur people and other ethnic and religious minorities.
US Blocks Goods Made in China's Xinjiang to Combat Forced Labor Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The United States has moved to block the import of goods made in China's Xinjiang to combat alleged forced labor practices, the Department of Homeland Security said on Monday.
US to Block Imports of Goods Made in China's Xinjiang to Combat Forced Labour, DHS Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- The United States has moved to block the import of goods made in China's Xinjiang to combat alleged forced labour practices, the Department of Homeland Security said on Monday.
CBP's Continued Enforcement Actions To Combat Forced Labor in China US Dept. of State 14 Sep 2020 -- The Trump Administration has led the world in calling attention to the Chinese Communist Party's egregious human rights abuses in Xinjiang, and we've taken action to back up our rhetoric.
Ambassador Branstad to leave Beijing, fails to soothe strained China-US ties Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- The US Embassy to China on Monday confirmed to the Global Times that Ambassador Terry Branstad will retire and leave Beijing in October after three years as the US envoy to China, when China-US relations underwent unprecedented tensions and confrontations. Chinese analysts said Branstad's departure shows that despite his personal intention to soothe tensions, he failed to repair the increasingly rocky ties.
US ambassador to China leaving post amid heightened tensions Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- United States Ambassador to China Terry Branstad will step down amid an escalation of tensions between Washington and Beijing over a whole host of issues.
Huawei's Survival at Stake as US Sanctions Loom VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- Starting Sept. 15, China's telecom giant Huawei – once a symbol of Chinese technology prowess – will be cut off from essential supplies of semiconductors. Without those chips, Huawei cannot make the smartphones or 5G equipment on which its business depends, business analysts say.

KMT pulls out of cross-strait forum over Chinese TV comment CNA 14 Sep 2020 -- The Kuomintang (KMT), Taiwan's main opposition party, announced on Monday that it will not send an official delegation to an annual cross-Taiwan Strait forum this year due to inappropriate comments by a Chinese state-owned broadcaster.
KMT cancels delegation to Straits Forum Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- The Kuomintang (KMT), an opposition party in the island of Taiwan, announced on Monday that it will not send a delegation to attend the Straits Forum that is scheduled to be held in Xiamen, Fujian Province, because it felt "insulted" after a mainland TV news program said the KMT is asking the mainland for peace amid the intense cross-Straits situation.
Legislature decides to set up constitutional amendment committee CNA 14 Sep 2020 -- Taiwan's Legislature decided Monday to set up an ad hoc committee tasked with revising the Constitution of the Republic of China (Taiwan), based on a consensus reached by ruling and opposition parties.

High Precipitation Observed in DPRK KCNA 14 Sep 2020 -- This summer, the DPRK was hit by disastrous meteorological phenomena like downpour due to the seasonal heavy rainy front and typhoons.
People in North Hamgyong Province Vow to Be Active in Campaign for Recovery from Typhoon Damage KCNA 14 Sep 2020 -- Various units in North Hamgyong Province held meetings to vow to turn out in the campaign for recovery from typhoon damage in response to the appeal made by Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un.
People in South Hamgyong Province Vow to Turn out in Campaign for Recovery from Typhoon Damage KCNA 14 Sep 2020 -- Different units of South Hamgyong Province held meetings to vow to turn out in the campaign for recovery from typhoon damage in hearty response to the call of Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un.

1,044 centrifuges enriching at Fordow: AEOI chief ISNA 14 Sep 2020 -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Ali-Akbar Slahehi referred to Iran's commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and implementation of policies of reduction of JCPOA commitments, saying based on the fourth step of reduction JCPOA commitments a sum of 1,044 centrifuges are engaging in enrichment process in Fordow nuclear site.
IAEA inspectors to visit second Iran site later this month: Grossi Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi says the agency's inspectors will visit the second of two sites in Iran later in September for verification purposes based on an agreement reached between the two sides late last month.
Iran masters technology to enrich stable isotopes: AEOI chief Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Iran has mastered the technology to enrich stable isotopes of elements other than uranium and Iranian experts have developed the necessary software to do this, says the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI).
Iran's Oil Revenue Dropped to Less than $20 Billion, Rouhani Says Radio Farda 14 Sep 2020 -- Referring to the pressure placed on Iran by United States sanctions, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani claimed that Iran's oil revenues dropped "from $120 billion in 2011" to "just over $ 20 billion" in 2019.
Foreign Ministry refutes anti-Iran allegation raised in US media report ISNA 14 Sep 2020 -- Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran Saeed Khatibzadeh has dismissed the anti-Tehran accusation raised in a custom-ordered report by a US media outlet.
IRGC Threatens Bahrain with Tough Revenge Radio Farda 14 Sep 2020 -- In a statement on Saturday, September 12, the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps condemned the establishment of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel and warned the Persian Gulf kingdom to await "appropriate responses."
Iran's ICJ Case Has Nothing to Do With 1955 Treaty, Seeks Sanctions Relief, US Attorney Says Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- Iran's case against the United States in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is an attempt to reinstate sanctions relief under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and has nothing to do with the Amity Treaty's interpretation, a US representative told the court on Monday.
Iranian Tanker Carrying Gas Condensate Arrives in Venezuela - Video Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- An Iranian supertanker, identified as Honey, has docked at the northeastern Venezuelan port of Jose Terminal with a cargo of 2 million barrels of natural gas liquid (NGL), the Tanker Trackers company said on Monday.
Iran completes most advanced domestically-made satellite IRNA 14 Sep 2020 -- Iranian ICT Minister Mohammad Javad Azari Jahromi said on Monday that the final tests of the country's most advanced domestically-made satellite have been carried out.

Putin Grants Belarus $1.5 Billion Loan VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday granted a $1.5 billion loan to Belarus as a show of support for its embattled leader, Alexander Lukashenko, after weeks of street demonstrations that have accused him of rigging last month's election to retain power in Minsk.
Putin Agrees To Support Belarus With $1.5 Billion Loan, Warns Of 'Foreign Interference' RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- President Vladimir Putin has agreed with his embattled Belarusian counterpart Alyaksandr Lukashenka to a $1.5-billion loan for Minsk, though the Russian leader said the Belarusian people should resolve the crisis without foreign interference.
UN Council to Hold Urgent Debate on Human Rights Situation in Belarus VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- At its opening session, the U.N. Human Rights Council approved a proposal by the European Union to hold an urgent debate on the human rights situation in Belarus by a vote of 25 in favor, two against and 20 abstentions.
UN Rights Body To Hold Urgent Debate On Belarus This Week RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- The United Nations Human Rights Council has agreed to hold an urgent debate on the human rights situation in Belarus on September 18, amid a crackdown on protesters calling for President Alyaksandr Lukashenka to resign.
Tsikhanouskaya Says 'Illegitimate' Leader Lukashenka's Intimidation Tactics Losing Effect RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya, the self-exiled former presidential candidate who has become an unlikely leader of the Belarusian opposition, says the intimidation tactics of authoritarian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka are only hardening the resolve of the tens of thousands protesting against the contentious results from last month's election that the West has called falsified.
Kremlin: Russia Sees Lukashenko as Legitimate President, Belarusians as Brotherly People Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- Alexander Lukashenko is the legitimate president of Belarus, and all Belarusians are seen as brotherly people in Russia, regardless of whether they agree with the latest election results or not, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday.
Lukashenko Travels to Russia Amid Continuing Unrest in Belarus VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko traveled to the Black Sea resort of Sochi Monday for talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin. Lukashenko was expected to seek critical support for his government from the Russian leader in what would be their first meeting since Lukashenko won re-election in disputed balloting last month.
Belarus scene of fresh protests on eve of Lukashenko's Russia visit Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- The situation remains tense in Belarus, which has been the scene of protest rallies by supporters of opposition, who refuse to accept the official results of last month's presidential election in the East European country.

Netanyahu heads to US amid outrage in Israel over general coronavirus lockdown Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has headed to the United States amid protests in the occupied territories against his mishandling of the coronavirus pandemic that prompted a second general lockdown.

Yoshihide Suga wins LDP leadership election to succeed Abe Global Times 14 Sep 2020 -- Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga won the election on Monday afternoon to become the new president of Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), with Suga set to become the East Asian country's next prime minister. Chinese experts said Japan's relations with China would remain in steady hands as Suga will mostly retain Shinzo Abe's foreign policies.
Suga elected president of Japan's ruling LDP to succeed Abe People's Daily 14 Sep 2020 -- Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga was elected as the new president of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) on Monday at a joint plenary meeting of party members from both houses of the Diet and delegates from local chapters.
Suga wins Japan ruling party leadership vote, to replace PM Abe Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) has elected Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga as its new leader , setting the stage for him to become the Asian powerhouse's next prime minister.
Japan's Suga Wins Ruling Party Leadership Race, Paving Way for Him to Become Next Prime Minister Sputnik 14 Sep 2020 -- In late August, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe told the country's ruling coalition that he was set to resign, amid speculation about his health issues.
Japan's Next PM: The Self-Made Son of a Farmer VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The man who will become Japan's next prime minister is the son of strawberry farmers, with an unpretentious personality and a penchant for exceeding others' expectations of him.

Defiant Kazakh Activist Fined For Calling Police 'Nazarbaev's Puppies' RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- A well-known Kazakh civil rights activist, Erbol Eskhozhin, has been fined for publicly calling police officers "Nazarbaev's puppies."

PM Johnson defends Internal Market Bill in Parliament Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Addressing the House of Commons today (September 14), Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, has put up a spirited defense of his controversial Internal Market Bill (IMB).

US Renews Call for Gulf Countries to Resolve Rift VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- The United States is renewing its call for Gulf countries to resolve a three-year-long rift, citing the need to solidify a united front against Iran.

Lebanon's new premier says needs more time to form cabinet Press TV 14 Sep 2020 -- Lebanon's Prime Minister-designate Mustapha Adib has met with President Michel Aoun for more consultations over the formation of his cabinet.

Thailand Eyes 'Land Bridge' to Link its Coasts Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Thailand's Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha this week publicly endorsed a proposed land bridge between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, apparently shelving a long-discussed project to build a canal across the Malay Peninsula.

Tajik President Rahmon, Four Other Men Registered As Presidential Candidates RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- Tajikistan's long-serving President Emomali Rahmon and four other men have been registered as candidates for a presidential election scheduled for October 11.

Uzbekistan, Switzerland Reach Agreement On Returning Funds Seized From Karimova RFE/RL 14 Sep 2020 -- Switzerland and Uzbekistan have reached an agreement on returning more than $130 million to Tashkent that was seized in connection with criminal proceedings against Gulnara Karimova, the oldest daughter of late President Islam Karimov.

Imposing Visa Restrictions on Nigerians Responsible for Undermining the Democratic Process US Dept. of State 14 Sep 2020 -- The United States is a steadfast supporter of Nigerian democracy. We commend all those Nigerians who participated in elections throughout 2019 and have worked to strengthen Nigerian democratic institutions and processes.

Main Opposition Party Wants Myanmar Election Postponed, Citing Coronavirus Concerns Radio Free Asia 14 Sep 2020 -- Myanmar's main opposition party and other small parties have called for a postponement of nationwide elections in November, arguing that quarantine measures to combat a resurgence of COVID-19 have hobbled campaigning amid growing fear of the pandemic in a country that largely avoided the early 2020 wave.

Colombia Reels From Violent Protests VOA 14 Sep 2020 -- Protests against police violence in Colombia have left at least 13 dead and hundreds wounded after police and protesters clashed in major cities across the country.

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