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Defense Policy / Programs
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News Reports

Current Operations

• US forces at Iraq's Ain Al-Asad base targeted by fresh drone attack Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq says its drone has hit the US-run Ain Al-Asad airbase in western Iraq in a fresh attack in retaliation for Washington's complicity in the Israeli genocide in Gaza.
• U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Seizes Illegal Narcotics in Gulf of Oman US Navy 15 Dec 2023 -- A U.S. Coast Guard ship seized illegal drugs worth over $6 million from a fishing vessel in the Gulf of Oman, Dec. 12.
• Arizona Deploys National Guard to US-Mexico Border Over Spike in Illegal Border Crossings Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs is deploying National Guard troops to the state's border with Mexico as it struggles to deal with a heavy flow of illegal migrants, the governor's office said in a press release.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Point-of-Need Manufacturing Challenge Demonstrates Technologies for Cold Weather Combat Effectiveness DoD 15 Dec 2023 -- The Office of the Secretary of Defense Manufacturing Technology Program showcased technologies that will keep servicemembers combat effective in extreme temperatures during a technology demonstration Dec. 4 -8 at the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory in Hanover, New Hampshire.
• Austin Embarks on Multiday Trip to Middle East DoD News 15 Dec 2023 -- This weekend, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III embarks on a multiday trip to the Middle East with stops in Israel, Qatar and Bahrain. The trip also includes a visit to the USS Gerald R. Ford, which is underway now in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
• US Air Force bombers integrate with UK 5th Gen fighters in pre-planned mission EUCOM 15 Dec 2023 -- U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirits assigned to Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, conducted a flight from their home station to a training area over the North Sea, linking with United Kingdom F-35 Lightning II's during a long-planned Bomber Task Force mission Dec. 13.
• SIFEX 24 | MALS-36 Expeditionary Sustainment Operations USMC News 15 Dec 2023 -- From Dec. 1-8, 2023, Marine Aviation Logistics Squadron 36 deployed 160 Marines to Camp Hansen to rehearse and refine Aviation Logistics Stand-In-Force standard operating procedures in support of Expeditionary Advance Base Operations one of the key tenets of Force Design. The remaining 300 Marines, who made up the rear battle element, cycled through Camp Hansen to gain exposure to expeditionary operations without disrupting flight operations at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma.
• U.S. Navy Announces Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement for Hawaii-California Training and Testing; Invites Public Comment on Upcoming Environmental Analysis US Navy 15 Dec 2023 -- The Department of the Navy (Navy) (including both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marine Corps), in cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Army, and U.S. Air Force, is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement/Overseas Environmental Impact Statement (EIS/OEIS) to assess the potential environmental effects associated with the Proposed Action to conduct at-sea military readiness activities within the Hawaii-California Training and Testing (HCTT) Study Area (referred to as the "Study Area").
• Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin's Call With U.K. Secretary of State for Defence Grant Shapps DoD 15 Dec 2023
• Army announces upcoming unit deployment US Army 15 Dec 2023 -- The Department of the Army announced today the winter deployment of the 3rd Cavalry Regiment to Korea to replace the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, as part of a regular rotation of forces to support the United States' commitment to the Republic of Korea.
• NATO Deputy Secretary General concludes two-day visit to Paris to meet senior government and industry representatives NATO 15 Dec 2023 -- NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană concluded his two day visit to Paris on Friday (15 December 2023). In Paris, Mr Geoană engaged with French government officials and representatives from the private sector.
• Symposium in Finland brings industry and experts together to strengthen NATO's responses to hybrid threats NATO 15 Dec 2023 -- Allied experts and representatives met with industry at the NATO Hybrid Symposium in Helsinki, Finland to address the challenges posed by adversarial use of hybrid tools (12-13 December 2023).
• Russia Develops Strategic Deterrence Forces - Putin Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- Russia is developing its strategic deterrence forces, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Friday.
• Russia Builds Test Facilities for Next-Gen PAK-DA Bomber: What's Next? Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- Russia's Tupolev Design Bureau has been working on its prospective next generation long-range stealth bomber since the late 2000s. When fielded, the new aircraft are expected to gradually begin replacing the workhorse Tu-95 Bear, Tu-160 White Swan and Tu-22M maritime strike bombers currently in service with the Russian Aerospace Forces.
• Rustem Umerov invited Turkey to join the Maritime Coalition to strengthen security in the Black Sea Ukraine MOD 15 Dec 2023
• Ukrainian Defense Ministry Sets Increasing Domestic Weapons Production As Goal For 2024 RFE/RL 15 Dec 2023 -- The Ukrainian Defense Ministry's main goal next year is boosting domestic weapons production, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov said on December 15, highlighting Ukraine's efforts to produce more of its own weapons in the face of uncertainty over deliveries from Western allies.
• Ukraine to Boost Domestic Defense Industry in Cooperation With Western Partners VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- Ukraine has signed contracts for joint cooperation on technology weapons production with Western partners in its effort to boost its defense industry at home and to reduce its dependence on military supplies from the West.
• Rising Tides: China's Naval Prowess Soars With Fourth Type 075 Assault Ship Launch Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- China's fourth Type 075 universal amphibious assault ship was launched at the Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai on December 14, 2023.
• China firmly opposes arms race in outer space: defense spokeperson People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- A Chinese defense spokesperson reiterated China's firm opposition to the arms race in outer space at a Thursday press conference.
• Chinese, Russian militaries hold 7th joint aerial strategic patrol Global Times 15 Dec 2023 -- The Chinese and Russian militaries on Thursday held their second joint aerial strategic patrol of the year, the seventh in total since 2019, reportedly adding electronic warfare and reconnaissance aircraft to a group of bombers and fighters, in a move experts said was aimed at safeguarding peace and stability in the region.
• U.S. House passes bill with provisions bolstering Taiwan's defense CNA 15 Dec 2023 -- The United States House of Representatives has passed the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes provisions for setting up "a comprehensive training, advising, and institutional capacity building program" for Taiwan's military.
• Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (TECRO) - Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4) Life Cycle Support DSCA 15 Dec 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States of Command, Control, Communications, and Computers (C4) Life Cycle Support and related equipment for an estimated cost of $300 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• ADF says 'arigatou' after Japan exercise Australia DOD 15 Dec 2023 -- Exercise Yama Sakura 85 (YS85) may be over but the relationships, friendships and memories shared by the ADF members and their 6000-plus Japanese and US counterparts will probably last a lifetime.
• Navy task group returns from a successful regional security deployment Australia DOD 15 Dec 2023 -- Defence has welcomed home Royal Australian Navy HMA Ships Toowoomba, Stalwart, Brisbaneand Choulesafter a three-month regional presence deployment in Northeast and Southeast Asia.
• Finland set to sign defense deal with U.S. People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- The government of Finland has decided to sign the so-called Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with the United States, which would allow the U.S. armed forces to use 15 of its military areas.
• Minister Blair meets with Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs and Defence Minister Andris Sprūds Canada 15 Dec 2023
• Minister Blair announces measures to strengthen Canada's military presence in Latvia Canada 15 Dec 2023 -- Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, accompanied by General Wayne Eyre, Chief of the Defence Staff, are visiting Latvia - home to Canada's largest foreign military deployment. Minister Blair and General Eyre are meeting with Canadian Armed Forces members deployed as part of the Canadian-led NATO enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) Battle Group in Latvia, to thank them for their ongoing contributions to the security of Canada and its NATO Allies.
• Canada to Base Tactical Aviation Assets in Latvia, First Such Deployment to Europe Since 90s Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- Canada plans to deploy four Griffon helicopters to a Latvia-based NATO battlegroup, marking the first time in over 20 years that the country has based its tactical aviation capabilities in Europe, the Ministry of National Defense said on Friday.
• DRDO carries out successful flight trial of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator, an indigenous high-speed flying-wing UAV India PIB 15 Dec 2023 -- Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully carried out a flight trial of Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator, an indigenous high-speed flying-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) from the Aeronautical Test Range, Chitradurga in Karnataka
• RESCUE OPERATIONS BY ARMED FORCES India PIB 15 Dec 2023 -- Rescue operations carried out by various wings of the Indian Armed Forces both domestic and abroad this year are given below:
• Aatmanirbharta in Ammunition Manufacturing: MoD inks Rs 5,336.25 crore contract with BEL for procurement of Electronic Fuzes for Indian Army for 10 years India PIB 15 Dec 2023 -- The Ministry of Defence, on December 15, 2023, signed a landmark contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Pune for procurement of Electronic Fuzes for the Indian Army for a period of 10 years, at a total cost of Rs 5,336
• Japan - AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Missiles DSCA 15 Dec 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Japan of AIM-9X Block II Sidewinder Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $59.03 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Japan - AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) DSCA 15 Dec 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Japan of AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $224 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Greece - UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters DSCA 15 Dec 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Greece of UH-60M Black Hawk Helicopters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $1.95 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Italy - M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) DSCA 15 Dec 2023 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Italy of M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $400 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Pakistan is not part of CTF-153 formation in the Red Sea: Sources IRNA 15 Dec 2023 -- Reliable sources have confirmed that Pakistan is not participating in the Combined Task Force 153 in the Red Sea or Gulf of Aden and said that the rumors about joining this US led multinational naval force is baseless.
• Philippines Calls for Indo-Pacific Voices to Address Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems Risks Philippines DFA 15 Dec 2023 -- The Philippines successfully hosted the first-ever regional meet on lethal autonomous weapons, which was held from 13 to 14 December 2023 in Makati City.
• Over 700 a day dying from small arms fire; main 'weapons of choice' for criminals and terrorists UN News 15 Dec 2023 -- Amidst a multitude of global crises and escalating of armed conflicts, small arms and light weapons remain a silent killer, having claimed over 260,000 lives during 2021, amounting to 45 per cent of all violent deaths.
• The effective control of small arms should unite us all: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 15 Dec 2023 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on small arms.
• On-the-Record Press Gaggle by NSC Coordinator for Strategic Communications John Kirby The White House 15 Dec 2023
• Secretary Blinken's Call with German Foreign Minister Baerbock US Dept. of State 15 Dec 2023

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Dec. 15, 2023

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 15 December 2023 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 15 Dec 2023

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Press Briefing by IDF Spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari December 15th, 20:15 Israel Defense Forces 15 Dec 2023
• 24h Recap: December 15th, 2023, 09:15 Israel Defense Forces 15 Dec 2023
• During Combat in Shejaiya, the IDF Mistakenly Identified 3 Israeli Hostages as a Threat and Fired Toward Them. As a Result, They Were Killed Israel Defense Forces 15 Dec 2023
• IDF Troops Expose Hamas Ambush Where Dolls Connected to Speakers Playing Crying Sounds Were Used as Lure Israel Defense Forces 15 Dec 2023
• IDF Completes Series of Strikes on Terrorist Infrastructure Used by Hamas Along the Gaza-Egypt Border Israel Defense Forces 15 Dec 2023
• Israeli Military Admits Mistakenly Killing 3 Israeli Hostages in Gaza VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- Israel's military said Friday that it had mistakenly killed three Israeli hostages during its ground operation in the Gaza Strip.
• Prime Minister's Office: Mossad Statement Israel - Prime Minister 15 Dec 2023 -- Mossad Director David Barnea, last night, at Mossad headquarters, met with US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan.
• IDF Reveals Forces 'Mistakenly' Killed Three Israeli Hostages in Gaza Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted on Friday that the service had mistakenly identified three hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip as a threat and opened fire, killing all three.
• Israel says to continue Gaza offensive despite int'l calls for ceasefire People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- Israeli leaders told U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Thursday that Israel will continue its military offensive in the Palestinian enclave of Gaza Strip, despite the international calls for a ceasefire.
• Israeli forces withdraw from Jenin after 3-day operation People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- The Israeli forces pulled out on Thursday from the northern West Bank city of Jenin and its refugee camp, ending three days of a large-scale military operation, Palestinian security sources said.
• UNRWA Situation Report #52 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem (All information is valid as of 13 December 2023 at 22:30) UNRWA 15 Dec 2023
• Gaza: UN welcomes Kerem Shalom border crossing announcement UN News 15 Dec 2023 -- The UN Spokesperson has welcomed the announcement on Friday by the Israeli cabinet that the Kerem Shalom border crossing into the Gaza Strip will be reopened.
• UNRWA chief: Situation in Gaza 'teetering on edge' Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees has warned that social order in the Gaza Strip is "teetering on the edge of a possible implosion" as a result of Israel's war against Palestinians in the besieged Gaza Strip.
• Washington Urges Israel to Scale Down Its Gaza Offensive VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- Washington is urging Israel to use more precise targeting of Hamas leaders in Gaza, rather than widespread bombing and ground operations, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan said Friday.
• US promises to support Israel in prolonged Gaza war Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has affirmed Washington's continued support for Israel's brutal war on the Gaza Strip after he was told by Tel Aviv that the regime's onslaught on the besieged Palestinian territory "will last more than several months."
• Statement from NSC Spokesperson Adrienne Watson Welcoming the Two-Week Ceasefire Extension in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo The White House 15 Dec 2023
• Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Meetings with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas The White House 15 Dec 2023
• Statement from National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on Government of Israel Decision to Open Kerem Shalom for Direct Delivery of Humanitarian Assistance The White House 15 Dec 2023
• Statement after international ministerial meeting on the war in Gaza Government of Norway 15 Dec 2023
• International ministerial meeting in Oslo on the war in Gaza Government of Norway 15 Dec 2023
• Iran, China stress immediate halt to Zionists' attacks in Gaza IRNA 15 Dec 2023 -- Deputy Foreign Ministers of Iran and China exchanged views on the latest developments of negotiations to lift sanctions on Iran and emphasized the need to immediately stop the attacks in Gaza.
• Iran, China, Saudi Arabia urge swift action to stop Israel's war machine in Gaza Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- Iran, China and Saudi Arabia have jointly demanded urgent action to end Israel's atrocities in the besieged Gaza Strip, and provide sustainable relief to the Palestinians.
• "Israel is now heading towards isolation" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 15 Dec 2023 -- Speaking to reporters on his way out of Hz. Ali Mosque in Istanbul, where he performed the Friday prayer, President Erdoğan said: "Israel is now heading towards isolation. This isolation will only further grow in the days ahead."
• The UK supports calls for a sustainable ceasefire: UK statement at the UN General Assembly UK FCDO 15 Dec 2023 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN General Assembly tenth emergency special session on Gaza.
• West Bank settler violence: joint statement, December 2023 UK FCDO 15 Dec 2023 -- The UK and international partners call on Israel to take immediate and concrete steps to tackle record high settler violence in the occupied West Bank.
• Reports of sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas: Lord Ahmad's statement UK FCDO 15 Dec 2023 -- Lord Ahmad gave a statement on reports of sexual violence by Hamas, calling for them to be fully investigated to ensure justice for survivors and victims.
• Hamas denounces back-to-back Israeli attacks on UN refugee center, press crews Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- The Gaza-based Palestinian resistance movement of Hamas has denounced back-to-back Israeli attacks targeting a UN refugee center and the journalists and media personnel, who arrived subsequently to cover the first atrocity.
• Hamas announces killing '36 Israeli forces in 72 hours' Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- The Palestinian resistance movement of Hamas' military wing has announced killing at least 36 Israeli forces in the course of the past 72 hours.
• Lebanon's Hezbollah fires missiles at Israeli military positions in retaliation for Gaza onslaught Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- Lebanon's resistance movement Hezbollah has staged seven more anti-Israel operations in retaliation for the Israeli genocide of Gaza.
• Shipping giants suspend journeys through Red Sea as Saudis voice concern Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- Two major international shipping lines have suspended the transit of goods through the Red Sea as Saudis voice concern over the escalation of conflict in the Middle East.
• Yemeni Army says attacked two Israel-bound ships defying its warnings Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- The Yemeni Army says it has targeted two Israeli-bound container ships in waters off the country's coast, the latest of their operations to support Palestinians who are under brutal attacks by Israel.
• Yemen Houthis Attack Two More Red Sea Cargo Ships VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- A U.S. defense official said Friday that Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen launched missile attacks that struck two cargo ships in the Red Sea's Bab el-Mandab Strait, the second consecutive day in which missile attacks by the rebels were reported.
• Cargo Ship in Red Sea hit, set ablaze; Media IRNA 15 Dec 2023 -- Media have announced that a cargo ship caught fire in the Red Sea on Friday after being hit .
• Al Jazeera Journalist Killed in Gaza Strike VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- One Al Jazeera journalist was killed and another was injured Friday by a missile fired in Khan Younis in southern Gaza, according to media reports.
• Thai Scholar in Iran Plays Role in Hostage Release VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- As Thai diplomats negotiated for the release of Thai workers taken hostage in Hamas' deadly attack on Israel, prominent Thai Muslims, including a member of a university alumni association, operated on a parallel, more personal track.

Other Conflicts

• 2024 looms as 'increasingly bleak' for children affected by armed conflicts and disasters - UNICEF UNICEF 15 Dec 2023 -- "In the entirety of my more than 25-year career with UNICEF, it is hard to recall a year in which the situation facing children affected by conflict and disaster has been as dire as the one we are currently witnessing. For humanitarian organizations, our work has rarely been as important, and may never have been more complex. The horrendous situation in Gaza, which shakes us to the core of our humanity, exemplifies this. Earlier this week, UNICEF launched a US$9.3 billion emergency funding appeal to reach at least 93.7 million children in 155 countries.
• Global Refugee Forum ends with bold pledges, solutions for displaced UN News 15 Dec 2023 -- While some of the world's poorest countries are welcoming refugees "with great hospitality", the international community must match that generosity with far greater solidarity, UN chief António Guterres said on Friday.
• Global Refugee Forum 2023 Closing Statement by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi UNHCR 15 Dec 2023
• Global Refugee Forum delivers unity and action amid global crises UNHCR 15 Dec 2023 -- The Global Refugee Forum 2023 closed on Friday with UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi praising the "determined unity" shown by participants who - in the face of global division and crises - pledged transformative action on behalf of refugees and the countries hosting them.
• Global forum closes with over $2.2bn in pledges to improve lives of refugees and hosts UNHCR 15 Dec 2023 -- The second Global Refugee Forum (GRF), which brought the international community together in solidarity, closed after three days with a range of pledges to improve the lives of the world's refugees and the countries and communities that host them.
• The Azadi Briefing: Deadly Attack Further Inflames Tensions Between Pakistan And Afghan Taliban RFE/RL 15 Dec 2023
• Chinese defense ministry reiterates stance amid Philippines' hype on South China Sea Global Times 15 Dec 2023 -- In response to Philippine vessels' provocation in the South China Sea and the continuous hype and smear campaign against China, the Chinese Ministry of National Defense on Friday reiterated its stance and urged related parties to stop provocations and avoid escalating the situation.
• Junta shelling forces residents to flee Myanmar township Radio Free Asia 15 Dec 2023 -- Almost all the residents of a Kachin Independence Army-controlled town were forced to flee when Myanmar's junta fired heavy artillery at residential areas, according to army officials and locals.
• Myanmar-China trade halted amid fierce fighting in Shan state Radio Free Asia 15 Dec 2023 -- Trade across Myanmar's shared border with China has ground to a halt amid a six-week offensive by ethnic rebels fighting junta troops in the country's Shan state, according to merchants, causing an estimated loss of more than US$500 million in commerce.
• Conflict-Ridden Sudan Facing Looming Hunger Catastrophe VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- As Sudan marks eight months of a horrific war that has killed more than 12,000 people and displaced 6.6 million, United Nations food agencies are warning of a looming hunger catastrophe by next year's lean season, when food stocks will be at their lowest.

News Reports

• More and more countries acceding to Budapest Convention Council of Europe 15 Dec 2023 -- The 14th edition of the Octopus Conference 2023 has concluded in Bucharest (Romania). An increasing number of countries are acceding to the Budapest Convention of the Council of Europe.
• Remarks by Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence Brian Nelson at Bank Roundtable in Mumbai, India US Treasury 15 Dec 2023
• Joint Statement of the Quad Senior Cyber Group The White House 15 Dec 2023
• Meeting with State Duma party leaders President of Russia 15 Dec 2023 -- Vladimir Putin held a meeting at the Kremlin with leaders of the political parties represented in the State Duma.
• Putin to Work With Any US President Who Takes Russia's Concerns Seriously - Kremlin Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to work with any US president who understands that they have to take into account Moscow's concerns, Kremlin spokesman Dimitry Peskov told NBC News.
• Russia to Further Increase Energy Supplies to China, Attract Investments to Russia - Novak Sputnik 15 Dec 2023 -- Russia plans to further increase energy supplies to China and attract Chinese investments and technological innovations to the Russian energy complex, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said on Friday.
• Sergey Lavrov's statement and answers to media questions at a joint news conference with Foreign Minister of the Republic of Belarus Sergey Aleinik following a meeting of the Foreign Ministry Boards of Russia and Belarus, Moscow, December 15, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Dec 2023
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's opening remarks at a meeting of the Collegiums of the Foreign Ministries of Russia and Belarus, Moscow, December 15, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Dec 2023
• Statement by Konstantin Vorontsov, Head of the Delegation of the Russian Federation, Deputy Director of the Department for Non-Proliferation and Arms Control of the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, at the Meeting of the States Parties to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, Geneva, 13 December 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Dec 2023
• Joint Statement In Support of the Efforts to Strengthen the United Nations Secretary-General's Mechanism for Investigation of the Alleged Use of Chemical and Biological Weapons, Geneva, 13 December, 2023 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 Dec 2023
• 'A Spectacle, A Farce, A Rigged Clown Show': Russia Watches As Putin Cruises Toward A Fifth Term RFE/RL 15 Dec 2023 -- Many Kremlin-watchers expected President Vladimir Putin's December 14 question-and-answer marathon to be the launching point for a drive to secure a fifth term in office in a poll set for March 15-17. Instead, he made the announcement in a seemingly offhanded way on December 8.
• The Week In Russia: 'An Enforced Disappearance' RFE/RL 15 Dec 2023 -- As a confident President Vladimir Putin spoke at a four-hour event that marked a step toward a new six-year Kremlin term, there was no mention of his most prominent foe, imprisoned Russian opposition leader Aleksei Navalny, whose whereabouts have been unknown for 10 days.
• Navalny's Allies Say Authorities Continue To Refuse To Reveal Where He Is RFE/RL 15 Dec 2023 -- A lawyer for imprisoned Russian opposition politician Aleksei Navalny, who was last in contact with his associates 10 days ago, says prison officials told a court in Vladimir, some 200 kilometers east of Moscow, on December 15 that the outspoken Kremlin critic had been transferred on December 11 from the IK-6 facility located in Vladimir region to a correctional facility located outside the region.
• Putin says Moscow can 'move forward' despite West sanctions, isolation Global Times 15 Dec 2023 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin's year-end press conference and Q&A session were held in Moscow, Russia on Thursday, in which Putin said that the goal of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine has not changed, and that Moscow can "move forward" despite Western sanctions, isolation and ruining of relations.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on December 15, 2023 PRC MofA 15 Dec 2023
• Chinese economy shows some life amid 'difficulties and challenges' Radio Free Asia 15 Dec 2023 -- China's economy showed stronger factory output and retail sales, but is still struggling with "difficulties and challenges," the government said on Friday.
• On Hong Kong Authorities' Transnational Repression US Dept. of State 15 Dec 2023 -- By announcing National Security Law charges and a list of cash awards that unjustly target overseas democracy advocates, including a U.S. citizen and other individuals based in the United States, Hong Kong authorities display their disregard for international norms and human rights in Hong Kong and the deterioration of that city's once proud tradition of respecting the rule of law.
• US, UK's support for anti-China rioters exposes ill intention to destabilize HKSAR: Chinese FM Global Times 15 Dec 2023 -- The US and the UK's support for anti-China rioters exposed their ill intention to destabilize the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at Friday's regular press briefing, in response to the latest remarks by US and UK politicians regarding the issuing of arrest warrants for five fugitives that have fled the HKSAR to overseas.
• Xi says China ready to make concerted efforts with U.S. to promote healthy, stable, sustainable development of bilateral ties People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday that China is ready to work with the U.S. side to promote the healthy, stable and sustainable development of bilateral relations.
• Key takeaways from Xi's state visit to Vietnam People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chinese president, paid a state visit to Vietnam from Tuesday to Wednesday.
• Macao SAR Legislative Assembly approves chief executive election law amendments People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- The Legislative Assembly of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) on Thursday approved amendments to the Chief Executive Election Law with details at a plenary session.
• Campaign for Taiwan's Jan. 13 elections to officially start Saturday CNA 15 Dec 2023 -- The campaign for Taiwan's presidential and legislative elections will officially start Saturday and run for a period of 28 days until Jan. 12, the Central Election Commission (CEC) said Friday.
• Young Politicians Push for Change by Running in Taiwan Election VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- With less than a month until voters head to the polls across Taiwan, presidential and legislative candidates are gearing up for the final weeks of campaigning. They are engaging with voters at local markets, waving at busy commuters at major intersections in the morning, and going live on social media platforms to interact with supporters.
• Taiwan's trade restrictive measures on mainland constitute trade barriers: MOFCOM Global Times 15 Dec 2023 -- The trade restrictive measures the island of Taiwan imposed on the Chinese mainland constitute trade barriers, China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said on Friday after a months-long trade barrier investigation based on relevant trade provisions.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan Dec. 15, 2023 ROC MND 15 Dec 2023
• Phyonggang Army-People Power Station Inaugurated in DPRK KCNA 15 Dec 2023 -- Kangwon Province of the DPRK successfully completed the Phyonggang Army-People Power Station by dint of the great army-people unity.
• Iran says reserves right to respond in kind to US, UK claims against IRGC Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- Iran says it reserves the right to take an action to respond in kind to the "unacceptable" approach taken by the United States and Britain after they announced a raft of new sanctions targeting the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) and representatives of the Palestinian resistance groups in Tehran.
• 11 police officers martyred in terror attack in southeastern Iran IRNA 15 Dec 2023 -- 11 Iranian police officers were martyred in Sistan and Baluchestan province in a terrorist attack on Thursday night in Rusk County.
• Southeastern Iran terrorist assault claims 11 police lives Press TV 15 Dec 2023 -- A terrorist attack on a police post in southeastern Iran has killed 11 police forces and injured at least six others.
• Japanese PM ousts LDP's largest faction from cabinet amid political funds scandal People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Thursday ousted all four cabinet ministers of the ruling party's largest faction, as he seeks to control the damage following a political fundraising scandal, local media reported.
• Argentina's new gov't launches financial measures to tackle exchange rate volatility, fiscal deficit People's Daily 15 Dec 2023 -- Argentina's new government is moving fast to turn around the country's economy.
• Guinea-Bissau: Statement by the High Representative on the latest developments European External Action Service (EEAS) 15 Dec 2023 -- The EU is closely following the situation in Guinea-Bissau, and is concerned by the events that have occurred since the night of 30 November.
• Chairwoman and 85 accomplices indicted in high-profile corruption case Radio Free Asia 15 Dec 2023 -- Vietnam on Friday issued an indictment against the principal suspect and 85 alleged accomplices in the high-profile Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank embezzlement case, state media reported.
• Chairwoman and 85 accomplices indicted in high-profile corruption case Radio Free Asia 15 Dec 2023 -- Vietnam on Friday issued an indictment against the principal suspect and 85 alleged accomplices in the high-profile Saigon Joint Stock Commercial Bank embezzlement case, state media reported.
• 6 opposition leaders freed from jail after they pledge CPP support Radio Free Asia 15 Dec 2023 -- Six officials from the opposition Candlelight Party have been released from jail after writing a letter of apology and agreeing to join the ruling Cambodian People's Party, an opposition activist told Radio Free Asia.
• Georgia, Moldova Celebrate EU Decisions To Advance Their Membership Bids RFE/RL 15 Dec 2023 -- Thousands of people filled a main square in Tbilisi on December 15 for a celebration of a decision by EU leaders to grant Georgia candidate status for membership in the 27-nation bloc.
• World News in Brief: Abused Afghan women face prison, UNICEF global alert, deadly mpox resurfaces in DRC UN News 15 Dec 2023 -- Under Taliban rule in Afghanistan, women reporting gender-based violence to the authorities may end up in prison - allegedly for the victims' own protection.
• Hanoi Embraces Future With China to Reassure Beijing, Experts Say VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- Foreign policy experts are casting a skeptical eye on this week's highly publicized upgrade of relations between China and Vietnam, saying Hanoi is unlikely to shift from a carefully balanced foreign policy that includes recently strengthened ties with the U.S. and Japan.
• EU Releases $5.5 Billion in Aid to Poland's Tusk Government VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- The European Union on Friday announced the release of about $5.5 billion in aid to Poland, part of a total of about $65 billion in EU aid withheld from the nation during the previous Polish government amid concerns over its respect for the rule of law.
• Chad Leaders Urge Civilians to Participate in Sunday's Constitutional Referendum VOA 15 Dec 2023 -- Chad's military government says a majority of about 8 million voters are not ready to vote in the December 17 constitutional referendum that would pave the way for a return to civilian rule. A campaign for voter participation is taking place amid opposition and civil society calls for a total boycott of what they call Sunday's sham referendum.