• Military Menu                       

• Introduction
• Systems
• Facilities
• Agencies
• Industry
• Operations
• Countries
• Hot Documents
• News
• Reports
• Policy
• Budget
• Congress
• Links

• WMD
• Intelligence
• Homeland Security
• Space

Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
Defense Industry
Other Conflicts
News Reports

Current Operations

Defense Policy / Programs

• 10th AAMDC Staff visit Port of Aarhus, Air Defense is critical to force flow Army News 13 Sep 2023 -- Aarhus Port is a pivotal maritime hub nestled along Denmark's eastern coastline within the Bay of Aarhus. This port proudly hosts the nation's largest container terminal, responsible for managing 65% of Denmark's annual container traffic. Moreover, it boasts the distinction of Denmark's premier public bulk port, underscoring its undeniable strategic importance.
• DOD Exercises Option on Second Micro Nuclear Reactor Design DoD 13 Sep 2023 -- As part of the Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO) initiative Project Pele, the Department of Defense (DOD) has awarded a contract option to X-energy, LLC of Rockville, Maryland in order to develop an enhanced engineering design for a transportable micro nuclear reactor.
• CMSAF shares vision for 'Airmen of the Future' and spectrum of superiority at AFA US Air Force 13 Sep 2023 -- Culture, goals and vision were the resonating themes covered by Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass during her 'Airmen of the Future' keynote at the 2023 Air and Space Forces Association's Air, Space, and Cyber Conference Sept. 13.
• US Navy and Royal Brunei Armed Forces Commence CARAT Brunei 2023 US Navy 13 Sep 2023 -- The United States Navy and Royal Brunei Armed Forces began the annual Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Brunei exercise Sep. 12, which will focus on advancing interoperability to address shared maritime security challenges and maintain peace and stability in the region.
• USS Benfold Returns to Yokosuka US Navy 13 Sep 2023 -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold (DDG 65) returned to Yokosuka, Japan, from patrol on Aug. 31.
• USNS Burlington Arrives in St. George's Grenada US Navy 13 Sep 2023 -- The Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport ship USNS Burlington (T-EPF 10) arrived in St. George's, Grenada on Sept. 12, 2023, marking the fourth and final stop of the Continuing Promise 2023 mission. The Burlington was previously in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago in support of Continuing Promise 2023.
• Pacific Partnership 2023 Arrives in Samoa US Navy 13 Sep 2023 -- USS Jackson (LCS 6) has arrived in Apia, Samoa in support of Pacific Partnership, the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Pacific, Sept. 13.
• Naval Postgraduate School Expands Educational Reach with New Hawaii Campus US Navy 13 Sep 2023 -- The Naval Postgraduate School (NPS) and U.S. Pacific Fleet (PACFLT) celebrated a significant milestone on Sept. 8 with the establishment of an NPS branch campus at Pearl Harbor.
• VP-16 Concludes 22nd Iteration of Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training with the Philippines US Navy 13 Sep 2023 -- The "War Eagles" of Patrol Squadron (VP) 16 completed exercise Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training 2023 (SEACAT 23) in Mactan, Philippines, Aug. 27, 2023.
• Ukraine Renews Calls for More Military Supplies to Battle Russians VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- Ukrainian officials this week renewed calls to allies for more military equipment and supplies to battle invading Russian forces.
• Next year, we will add significant budget funds for the defense industry - address by the President of Ukraine President of Ukraine 13 Sep 2023
• White House confirms over $100b spent on Ukraine war despite Russia warnings Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- The White House has confirmed that the administration of US President Joe Biden has spent more than $100 billion on the war in Ukraine despite repeated warnings from Russia that such moves would only prolong the conflict in the former Soviet republic.
• War in Ukraine - Military support for Ukraine Germany - Federal Government 13 Sep 2023 -- Germany provides support for Ukraine by supplying equipment and weapons, these come from supplies of the Federal Arms Forces and from deliveries from industry financed from the Federal Government's funds for security capacity building. An overview.
• Press release on the UN Security Council meeting concerning arms supplies to the Kiev regime Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Sep 2023
• New Aussie home for US materiel Australia DOD 13 Sep 2023 -- A splash of camouflage will come to Bandiana, Victoria over the coming months, as ADF trucks transport United States Army vehicles and equipment to their new home at Gaza Ridge North Barracks.
• Operation NANOOK 2023 successfully concluded in Canada's Arctic Canada 13 Sep 2023 -- Operation NANOOK 2023's two summer serials demonstrating the Canadian Armed Forces' (CAF) abilities to deploy forces and conduct exercises with our Allies and international and Whole of Government partners in the Arctic, concluded on Saturday, September 9.
• Korea - F-35 Aircraft DSCA 13 Sep 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Republic of Korea of F-35 Aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $5.06 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• North Korea Reportedly Fires Off Two Ballistic Missiles Toward Sea of Japan Sputnik 13 Sep 2023 -- The reported Wednesday launches took place after the North Korea leadership traveled to Russia's Far East to participate in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
• North Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles as Kim visits Russia Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- North Korea has reportedly fired two short-range ballistic missiles as the country's leader Kim Jong-un visits Russia to have a meeting with his Russian counterpart.
• North Korea Fires Missiles as Kim is Abroad for a Rare Summit with Putin VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- North Korea fired two ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast, South Korea said on Wednesday.
• Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton DSEI Keynote 2023 UK MOD 13 Sep 2023 -- Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton delivered his keynote speech at Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023.
• Vice Admiral Keith Blount NATO DSACEUR DSEI 2023 Keynote UK MOD 13 Sep 2023 -- Vice Admiral Keith Blount, NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe delivered his keynote speech at Defence and Security Equipment International 2023.
• First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key DSEI 2023 Keynote UK MOD 13 Sep 2023 -- First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, delivered his keynote speech at Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023.
• Poland - F-16 Sustainment DSCA 13 Sep 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Poland of F-16 Sustainment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $389 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• KONŠTRUKTA - Defence's 155mm BIA 6x6 self-propelled howitzer (SPH) makes its international debut at DSEI 2023 London Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 13 Sep 2023 -- A Slovak MOD Delegation, led by Deputy Defence Minister Marian Majer, is visiting DSEI London 2023 these days. Stated-owned KONŠTRUKTA - Defence's 155mm BIA 6x6 self-propelled howitzer (SPH) is making its international debut at the DSEI exhibition in London.
• After meeting UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces James Heappey in London, Deputy Defence Minister Majer said: The United Kingdom is an important partner for us Ministry of Defence of The Slovak Republic 13 Sep 2023 -- Deputy Defence Minister Marian Majer met UK Minister of State for the Armed Forces James Heappey for bilateral talks during the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) 2023, the premier UK defence event, at the ExCel Exhibition and Conference Centre in London on Tuesday 12 September 2023.
• The President at Krynica Forum: Lithuania and Poland are reliable allies in strengthening regional security President of the Republic of Lithuania 13 Sep 2023 -- On Wednesday, President Gitanas Nausėda took part in the Krynica Forum opening event and participated in a debate together with President Andrzej Duda of Poland.
• A look at Defence news 4 - 10 September Netherlands Ministry of Defence 13 Sep 2023
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken And Bahraini Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa At a Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement Signing Ceremony US Dept. of State 13 Sep 2023
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken Remarks to the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) "The Power and Purpose of American Diplomacy in a New Era" US Dept. of State 13 Sep 2023
• Background Press Call by a Senior Administration Official to Preview the Bahraini Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa's Visit to the White House The White House 13 Sep 2023
• Memorandum on the Continuation of the Exercise of Certain Authorities Under the Trading With the Enemy Act The White House 13 Sep 2023
• Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers Jared Bernstein, and NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby The White House 13 Sep 2023

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Sept. 13, 2023

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• UN's work and mission 'more vital than ever': Guterres UN News 13 Sep 2023 -- In a world grappling with increasingly complex crises ranging from poverty and inequality to the climate emergency, the United Nations remains at the forefront of the global response, determined to set humanity on a path to peace and prosperity, Secretary-General António Guterres has said.
• Peace our 'most fundamental job', says Guterres UN News 13 Sep 2023 -- Today "peace is under assault" across communities, countries and regions, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Wednesday, underscoring the need for global solidarity and mutual trust.
• Secretary-General's remarks at the Peace Bell Ceremony UN Secretary-General 13 Sep 2023
• Secretary-General's opening remarks at press conference prior to the 78th session of the UN General Assembly UN Secretary-General 13 Sep 2023
• Secretary-General's remarks to the General Assembly Session on the International Day to Protect Education from Attack UN Secretary-General 13 Sep 2023
• US Envoy: Taliban Kill 8 Key Islamic State Leaders in Afghanistan VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- The Taliban's "successful" offensive against the Islamic State branch in Afghanistan, IS-Khorasan, has "significantly degraded" its capability and steadily decreased large-scale attacks against civilians, according to a senior US envoy.
• China Appoints First Ambassador to Afghanistan Since Taliban Return VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- China has sent a new ambassador to Afghanistan, marking the first time a foreign envoy has been appointed at the ambassadorial level since the Taliban regained power in Kabul two years ago.
• Taliban Press for Extraction of Copper Despite Worries About Mes Aynak Historical Site VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- The Taliban government has been pressing for the extraction of copper from Afghanistan's Mes Aynak mine as an additional revenue source, but the mine is located at an ancient historical site, which worries some archaeologists.
• Yemen giving aggressor regimes 'one last chance' to end war: PM Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- The prime minister of Yemen's National Salvation Government says there is only "one last chance" for the member states of the Saudi-led aggressor coalition to end their war on the impoverished country.
• UN's Sudan Envoy Steps Down After Difficulties With Government VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- The United Nations' top envoy in Sudan is stepping down, four months after being told by the government to leave. In parting remarks, he criticized Sudan's military and the rebel Rapid Support Forces, or RSF.
• UN's FAO Unveils Emergency Plan to Assist 10 Million Sudanese Amid War VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization, FAO, has launched a plan to assist at least 10 million Sudanese farmers, herders and fishermen across 17 states. The 12-month program aims to address the threat of food insecurity in the country, which has been exacerbated by a five-month-old armed conflict.
• On Civilian Casualties in Sudan US Dept. of State 13 Sep 2023 -- The United States is alarmed by the recent increase of indiscriminate air and artillery strikes in Sudan, including in Khartoum, South Darfur, and South Kordofan states, which have resulted in high numbers of civilian casualties.
• The UK calls for collective international action to end the bloodshed in Sudan: UK Statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 13 Sep 2023 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Sudan.
• UN HRC54: UK Statement on Sudan UK FCDO 13 Sep 2023 -- Statement for Interactive Dialogue on the Oral Update of the High Commissioner on the Sudan, as delivered by UK Human Rights Ambassador, Rita French.
• Sudan: UN 'will never stay neutral' amid war and human rights abuses UN News 13 Sep 2023 -- Both Sudanese Government forces (SAF) and their rival Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are responsible for abhorrent rights violations as they battle for supremacy, the UN envoy to the country said on Wednesday.
• Myanmar junta steps up use of banned cluster bombs Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- Myanmar's junta is using internationally-banned cluster bombs to attack rebel forces in ethnic areas of the country, said residents, officials from armed ethnic groups and an international campaign working to eradicate the weapons.
• Rohingya Say No Return to Myanmar Without Guaranteed Citizenship VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- Members of Myanmar's Muslim Rohingya community living as refugees in Bangladesh are again voicing opposition to efforts to repatriate many of them. They say that the Myanmar government has not met their demands over citizenship rights and that it is not safe for them to go back to Myanmar's Rakhine state.
• Armenia Says Baku Has Sent New Peace Proposals Amid Lingering Disputes Over Karabakh Aid RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- Armenia's foreign minister on September 13 said his country has received "new proposals" on a potential peace deal from bitter rival Baku, hours after his Azerbaijani counterpart said Baku was prepared to allow the Red Cross to transport humanitarian aid into Nagorno-Karabakh on a regular basis.
• Statement by the spokesperson of Charles Michel, President of the European Council, regarding Armenia and Azerbaijan - 12 September 2023 EC/CEU 13 Sep 2023 -- In line with elements and proposals outlined publicly in our statement on September 1st, 2023, President Michel continued to be closely engaged in advancing those and other approaches, with a primary focus on de-escalation of tensions and the humanitarian situation facing the Karabakh Armenians.
• No war will break out in region: Iran defense minister on Azerbaijan-Armenia row Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Ashtiani has ruled out the possibility of a new round of fighting between Azerbaijan and Armenia over the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh.
• Palestinian PM urges UK to recognize State of Palestine, back its UN membership Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Palestinian Prime Minister has urged the United Kingdom to recognize an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East al-Quds as its capital and demanded London support its full membership in the United Nations.
• Foreign Secretary announces new support for almost 6 million Palestinian refugees UK FCDO 13 Sep 2023 -- During a visit to Jalazone Refugee Camp in the West Bank, the Foreign Secretary announced a £10 million package of funding for the UN Relief and Works Agency.
• Foreign Secretary meets Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh, September 2023 UK FCDO 13 Sep 2023 -- During his visit to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories this week, the Foreign Secretary met Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Shtayyeh.

News Reports

• Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, Vladivostok, September 13, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Sep 2023
• Meeting with Amur Region Governor Vasily Orlov President of Russia 13 Sep 2023 -- Vladimir Putin had a working meeting with Governor of the Amur Region Vasily Orlov. He reported on the socioeconomic development of the region to the President.
• U.S. Ambassador To Russia Visits Whelan In Notorious Penal Colony, Demands His Release RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- The U.S. ambassador to Russia, Lynne Tracy, visited Paul Whelan, a former U.S. Marine jailed in Russia over what the United States calls bogus espionage charges, for the first time in four months, as Washington again demanded his immediate release.
• Russia's Jailing of American Reporter 'Beyond Cruel,' US Says VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- The U.S. ambassador to the United Nations on Wednesday called on Moscow to immediately release American journalist Evan Gershkovich.
• Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on Estonia's decision to deny Russian vehicles entry to Estonia Estonia MFA 13 Sep 2023 -- Please find below the comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on Estonia's decision to deny Russian vehicles entry to Estonia:
• Visit to Amur Gas Processing Plant President of Russia 13 Sep 2023 -- The President visited the Amur Gas Processing Plant near the town of Svobodny.
• Miami-Based Businessman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Violate Russia-Ukraine Sanctions and to Commit International Money Laundering US Dept. of Justice 13 Sep 2023 -- Sergey Karpushkin, 46, of Miami, a resident of the United States and a citizen of Belarus, pleaded guilty today to engaging in a scheme to violate U.S. sanctions and commit money laundering by conducting transactions for the purchase and acquisition of metal products valued at over $139 million from companies owned by Sergey Kurchenko, a sanctioned oligarch.
• 'Merchant Of Death' Viktor Bout Wins Seat In Local Russian Legislature RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- Viktor Bout, the convicted gun runner who spent nearly a decade in a U.S. prison before being sent back to Russia in a prisoner swap, has won a seat in a regional legislature, officials said.
• Putin meets Kim, says Russia will help North Korea build satellites Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has met with North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un as the two countries expand bilateral cooperation in various fields.
• Kim Tells Putin That Russia Has North Korea's 'Full And Unconditional Support' RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks on September 13 with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, who offered his country's "full and unconditional support" to defend what he said was Russia's security interests, in an apparent reference to Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
• Formal dinner in honour of Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un President of Russia 13 Sep 2023
• Russia-North Korea talks President of Russia 13 Sep 2023 -- Vladimir Putin and Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un held talks at the Vostochny Space Launch Centre.
• Russia-North Korea Military Cooperation Concerns US VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- White House National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters Wednesday the United States has concerns about any kind of potential defense cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
• Kim, Putin to fortify 'anti-imperialist' united front, vow tech cooperation Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin met at the symbol of Russia's space prowess on Wednesday, where both sides vowed to boost their comprehensive cooperation, spanning from the economy to military.
• N Korean leader hails Russia for standing up against Western 'hegemonic forces' Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has praised Moscow for having "stood up against the hegemonic forces" to defend its sovereignty and security, a veiled reference to the US and the West.
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answer to a question from the Moscow. Kremlin. Putin programme, September 13, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Sep 2023
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's answers to questions from the Moscow.Kremlin.Putin television programme, September 13, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Sep 2023
• Kim Jong Un says relations with Russia top priority: Kremlin People's Daily 13 Sep 2023 -- Developing relations with Moscow is the top priority for Pyongyang, Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, said Wednesday, according to the Kremlin.
• Russia-N.Korea military cooperation likely to reach new breakthrough; US, allies push Moscow, Pyongyang closer: experts Global Times 13 Sep 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un met at Vostochny space launch facility in Russia's Far Eastern Amur Region on Wednesday, and experts said the two countries, which both suffer from heavy sanctions and threats from the US-led West, are likely to upgrade their cooperation over technologies related to rockets or ballistic missiles.
• North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un Arrives at Railway Station of Russia's Vostochny Cosmodrome Sputnik 13 Sep 2023 -- Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters earlier that the two leaders would discuss bilateral cooperation in various areas, as well as regional and international cooperation.
• DPRK top leader arrives at Russian border town Khasan People's Daily 13 Sep 2023 -- Kim Jong Un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), arrived at the Russian border town of Khasan early Tuesday, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported Wednesday.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Arrives at Khasan of Russian Federation KCNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, arrived at Khasan, border town of the Russian Federation, on early morning of September 12.
• Visit to Vostochny Cosmodrome President of Russia 13 Sep 2023 -- Vladimir Putin met with Chairman of State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea Kim Jong-un at the Vostochny Cosmodrome.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on September 13, 2023 PRC MofA 13 Sep 2023
• China issues proposal on reform, devt of global governance Global Times 13 Sep 2023 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Wednesday issued the Proposal of the People's Republic of China on the Reform and Development of Global Governance, with Chinese analysts saying this comprehensive and far-sighted document reflects China's ideas and stances over almost all hotspot issues worldwide, and that it is crucial for the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.
• China, Venezuela elevate bilateral ties during Maduro's visit Global Times 13 Sep 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro Moros jointly announced on Wednesday the elevation of the two countries' relations to an all-weather strategic partnership. China will continue to firmly support Venezuela's efforts to safeguard national sovereignty, dignity and social stability, as well as its just cause against external interference, Xi told visiting Maduro on Wednesday afternoon.
• China's Xi, Venezuela's Maduro announce promotion of ties to all-weather strategic partnership Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and his visiting Venezuelan counterpart, Nicolas Maduro, announce the elevation of bilateral ties to all-weather strategic partnership.
• Hong Kong police charge man over 'seditious' children's books Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- Authorities in Hong Kong have charged a man with "possession of seditious publications" after he bought copies of the banned "Sheep Village" series of children's picture books from the United Kingdom.
• China Enforces Ban on Mongolian Language in Schools, Books VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- Advocates of Mongolian culture and language say a recent decision by authorities in China to ban a collection of books on Mongolia's history nearly two decades after its first publication is just one example of the tight controls Chinese authorities are imposing in Inner Mongolia.
• Property market glut? Weak Chinese economy? Sell homes to Taiwanese! Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- Faced with a weak property market, a lackluster economy and growing local government debt, authorities in the southeastern Chinese province of Fujian have come up with a solution -- sell off empty homes to people across the channel in Taiwan.
• China sets AI sights on democracies - reports Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- Two reports released this month warn that China is using artificial intelligence, or AI, to influence public opinion in the democratic world, with elections in Taiwan and the United States next year most likely at stake.
• Presidential aspirant Terry Gou announces running mate CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. founder and aspiring presidential candidate Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Thursday announced veteran singer-actress Tammy Lai (賴佩霞) as his prospective running mate for Taiwan's 2024 election.
• KMT's Hou to visit U.S. for eight days CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜), presidential candidate of the opposition Kuomintang (KMT), will set out on an eight-day trip to the United States on Sep. 14, according to Hou's campaign office on Wednesday.
• 1st Austrian parliamentarian delegation since COVID arrives in Taiwan CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- A five-member parliamentarian delegation from Austria's lower house, or National Council, arrived in Taiwan on Wednesday for a five-day visit, making them the first group of lawmakers from Austria to visit the country since the COVID-19 outbreak, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
• Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer visits Taiwan CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Governor of the State of Michigan Gretchen Whitmer concluded a brief two-day visit to Taiwan earlier this week, making her the first sitting governor of the American state to visit the country during their tenure, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said Wednesday.
• Terry Gou stresses need for cross-strait dialogue to promote peace CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Aspiring independent presidential candidate Terry Gou (郭台銘) on Wednesday emphasized the importance of Taiwan establishing communication channels to engage in dialogue with China as a way of promoting peace.
• Tokyo names 'pro-Taiwan' defense minister, reportedly appoints serving official to Taipei, facing backlash from Beijing Global Times 13 Sep 2023 -- Tokyo made two dangerous moves on Wednesday on the Taiwan question - one was naming a "pro-Taiwan" politician as the country's new defense minister in Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's cabinet reshuffle, the other is reportedly appointing a serving government official to act as its de facto defense attaché to the island of Taiwan, which Chinese observers warned would further erode the foundation of China-Japan ties and will face a backlash from China.
• Cross-Strait integration set to deepen People's Daily 13 Sep 2023 -- China will make Fujian province, which faces the island of Taiwan across the sea, a demonstration zone for the integrated development across the Taiwan Strait, according to a circular released on Tuesday.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Sep. 13, 2023 ROC MND 13 Sep 2023
• Taiwan grants EUA for updated Moderna COVID vaccine CNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Taiwan's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted emergency use authorization (EUA) for Moderna's Spikevax XBB.1.5 COVID-19 vaccine and is planning to roll out the new jab by the end of this month.
• Iran censures IAEA Board of Governors statement, says West trying to distort facts IRNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani has dismissed a statement by the UN nuclear watchdog's Board of Governors, saying that the West is trying to distort facts regarding his country's "sincere cooperation" with the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA.
• West issues anti-Iran statement at IAEA Board of Governors IRNA 13 Sep 2023 -- In a joint statement issued during a meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors, Western countries accused Iran of non-compliance with its safeguards commitments and urged the country to maintain cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog to resolve the remaining issues.
• Tehran slams West-sponsored statement critical of Iran-IAEA cooperation Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Tehran has rejected a Western-sponsored anti-Iran statement issued during the IAEA's Board of Governors meeting on Wednesday, saying it is politically motivated.
• E3 statement at IAEA Board of Governors on the JCPoA - September 2023 UK FCDO 13 Sep 2023 -- Germany, France and the UK (E3) gave a joint statement to the IAEA Board of Governors on Iran's implementation of its nuclear commitments under the JCPoA.
• No anti-Iran resolution expected at IAEA meeting: Nuclear chief IRNA 13 Sep 2023 -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) says the meeting of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'s Board of Governors is unlikely to conclude with an anti-Iran resolution.
• IAEA governors unlikely to issue anti-Iran resolution: Iran nuclear chief Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Iran's nuclear chief has said that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Board of Governors is unlikely to issue another resolution against the Islamic Republic.
• Iran regains position as third-largest OPEC producer IRNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Iran has produced as much as 3 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil in August to regain its position as the third-largest crude oil producer among OPEC member countries, according to the latest OPEC data.
• Iran's oil output up 5% to 3 mln bpd in August: OPEC data Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Iran continued to increase its oil production in August to reach a milestone figure of 3 million barrels per day (bpd), according to figures by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
• Iranian top general denies military build-up at Iran-Azerbaijan border regions Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Iran's top general has denied media speculation that the country is building up troops at the country's border with Azerbaijan amid persisting tensions in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
• UN Fact-Finding Mission On Deadly Iran Protest Crackdown Met With Silence By Tehran RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- When the United Nations established a fact-finding mission on Iran in November, the intention was to investigate alleged human rights violations related to the country's deadly crackdown against ongoing nationwide protests.
• How Mahsa Amini's Death Became A Rallying Call For Thousands Of Iranians RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- Sharmin Habibi recalls the circumstances of her husband's killing at the hands of Iran's security forces. But she could be talking about any number of the protesters who died across the country during a brutal state crackdown on dissent over the past year.
• President Raisi: Iran won't tolerate presence of terrorists in Iraq IRNA 13 Sep 2023 -- President Ebrahim Raisi has told the Iraqi foreign minister that the Islamic Republic of Iran will not tolerate the presence of terrorist groups at its joint border with the Arab country or on Iraqi soil.
• Iraq to fully enforce security pact with Iran: Amirabdollahian IRNA 13 Sep 2023 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian has said Iraq will fully execute a security agreement with Iran in the coming days to ensure terrorist groups in the border areas pose no threat to the Islamic Republic.
• Anti-Iran terrorists will be disarmed, transferred to UN camps: Iraqi FM Press TV 13 Sep 2023 -- Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein says his country is committed to a security pact with Iran to disarm anti-Iran terrorist groups based in the Kurdistan region.
• Israel's top court begins to hear appeals against divisive judicial overhaul People's Daily 13 Sep 2023 -- Israel's Supreme Court opened hearings on Tuesday against a law passed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government, part of the judicial overhaul that sparked nine months of nationwide demonstrations and divided the nation.
• Japanese PM reshuffles cabinet amid slipping support rates People's Daily 13 Sep 2023 -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Wednesday revamped his cabinet and the executive lineup of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) as public support for the government is waning.
• Official: US pushing Laos to press Myanmar junta Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- The United States is working to ensure the Association of Southeast Asian Nations does not end a pressure campaign against Myanmar's military junta when Laos takes over as chair of the regional bloc from Indonesia next year, a top U.S. diplomat said on Wednesday.
• Thai border hospitals feel strain as Myanmar's war drives patients over border Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- When That Thu Lin's father began to feel unwell, he knew the small clinics around their village in southeastern Myanmar's Hpa-an district would not be able to provide adequate care.
• Junta requires workers abroad to send money home via approved banks Radio Free Asia 13 Sep 2023 -- Myanmar's ruling junta has ordered all overseas workers to transmit 25% of their earnings back home via regime-approved local banks according to a mandated exchange rate.
• Former Australian Adviser to Aung San Suu Kyi Calls for Sanctions on Myanmar's Banks VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- A former Australian economic adviser to Myanmar's deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi is calling on Canberra to impose sanctions on the Southeast Asian country's state-owned banks. Sean Turnell was imprisoned by Myanmar's military authorities for 650 days before being released last year. Australia has also announced new sanctions against Iranians "who oppress women and girls."
• Pakistani Ex-PM Khan's Detention Extended Over Alleged Leaking of Diplomatic Cable From US VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- A special court in Pakistan extended former prime minister Imran Khan's jail custody for two weeks Wednesday in connection with a lawsuit accusing him of leaking a classified diplomatic communication with the United States to the public.
• Libya floods: UN providing aid as disaster response team deploys UN News 13 Sep 2023 -- The UN system is providing aid to areas in eastern Libya impacted by the weekend floods and a disaster assessment team has been deployed to support government response and relief operations, the UN said on Wednesday.
• More Than 6,000 Believed Dead in Libya Floods, 10,000 Missing VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- The raging floods in Libya have killed more than 6,000 people, with another 10,000 reported missing, swept out to the Mediterranean Sea or buried under rubble, authorities said Wednesday.
• No: 224, 13 September 2023, Press Release regarding the European Parliament's 2022 Report on Türkiye Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Sep 2023
• Foreign Secretary to underline importance of UK-Turkey cooperation on trade and security during visit to Ankara UK FCDO 13 Sep 2023 -- The Foreign Secretary will meet Turkey's Foreign and Defence Ministers and visit Turkey's crisis response centre to hear how UK aid is supporting Turkey to recover from February's devastating earthquakes.
• 2023 State of the Union Address by President von der Leyen European Commission 13 Sep 2023
• Council of Europe: High Representative/Vice-President Borrell meets Secretary-General Marija Pejčinović Burić European External Action Service (EEAS) 13 Sep 2023 -- Today, the EU High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell met with Marija Pejčinović Burić, Secretary-General of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg.
• Is Armenia Turning To The West? RFE/RL 13 Sep 2023 -- For centuries, Armenians have had a tight relationship with Russia. But those ties have come under strain over the past year and a half as Russia, bogged down in Ukraine, has largely stood aside as its Armenian ally faces ever increasing pressure from Azerbaijan.
• Analysts: Cambodia's New Government to Maintain Close Ties With China VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet will seek to strengthen ties with China when he visits Beijing later this week, analysts said.
• Experts: Thailand's New Government Aims for Balance Amid US-China Rivalry VOA 13 Sep 2023 -- Thailand's new civilian coalition government may seek greater engagement with Western democracies even as it continues to maintain ties with China forged by the previous military-led regime, analysts said.
• Experts make case for tackling climate and sustainable development together UN News 13 Sep 2023 -- A new UN report delivers a strong message to world leaders heading to New York for the General Assembly's annual high-level week: tackling the climate and sustainable development crises together will help accelerate overall progress on the 2030 Agenda.