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Defense Policy / Programs
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News Reports

Current Operations

• May 15 U.S. Central Command Update CENTCOM 15 May 2024 -- At approximately 9 p.m. (Sanaa time) on May 14, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed four uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) in an Iranian-backed Houthi controlled area of Yemen.
• Yemen targets American destroyer in Red Sea IRNA 15 May 2024 -- The spokesman of the Yemeni armed forces announced the targeting of a US destroyer and a ship related to the Zionist regime in the Red Sea.
• Yemen's army hits vessel, US warship in latest pro-Palestine operation Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Yemen's armed forces have targeted a US destroyer and a ship in the Red Sea in their latest operation in support of the Palestinian resistance and in retaliation for the US-British attacks on the Arab country.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Department of Defense Announces the Regional Sustainment Framework DoD 15 May 2024 -- The Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Dr. William A. LaPlante, and Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment, Chris Lowman, today released the Regional Sustainment Framework (RSF), which aims to optimize regional Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO).
• DOD and Department of the Interior Renew Partnership for Conserving Wildlife and Supporting Military Readiness DoD 15 May 2024 -- Leaders from the Department of Defense and the Department of the Interior met at the Pentagon on Monday to celebrate the renewal of the Recovery and Sustainment Partnership (RASP) following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding earlier this year designed to advance the recovery of threatened and endangered species while also supporting national security.
• U.S. Department of Defense Statement on the Signing of the Glide Phase Interceptor Cooperative Development DoD 15 May 2024 -- Today, the United States Department of Defense (DoD) and Japan Ministry of Defense (MOD) have finalized a formal agreement for a Glide Phase Interceptor (GPI) Cooperative Development (GCD) Project Arrangement under the U.S.-Japan bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Research, Development, Test and Evaluation Projects (RDT&E).
• DOD, Interagency Partners Designate 5 New Sentinel Landscapes DoD News 15 May 2024 -- The Defense Department is expanding its work with interagency partners to promote sustainable land-use practices at key sites near military installations with the designation of five new sentinel landscapes, the department announced today alongside interagency partners.
• Admiral: Success of Red Sea Operations Are a Tribute to Sailors, Systems DoD News 15 May 2024 -- Navy vessels have been plying the Red Sea since December as part of Operation Prosperity Guardian, a U.S.-led, multinational coalition established to counter attacks by Houthi terrorists on merchant and naval vessels.
• African Lion 2024 concludes in Tunisia, kicks-off in other host nations Army News 15 May 2024 -- Friendly forces identified several enemy four-by-four vehicles and an enemy air defense weapon, considered a high-value target, during the final event of African Lion 2024 in Tunisia. The decision was made swiftly to engage and neutralize these threats.
• USAF Units of Action: Air Task Forces defined, first locations announced US Air Force 15 May 2024 -- The Department of the Air Force identified six locations May 15, to host experimental Air Task Forces that will test new methods to generate more efficient, integrated deployable Units of Action.
• Swedish, USAF EOD forces strengthen NATO ties in combined exercise at Tyndall AFB US Air Force 15 May 2024 -- The commencement of Sweden joining NATO March 7, opened the door to new training opportunities between U.S. and Swedish armed forces. The Swedish army Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Demining Centre first company, sixth team, joined the 325th Civil Engineer Squadron EOD unit for a combined exercise at Tyndall Air Force Base's Silver Flag training site, April 29-May 3.
• MSRON 10 Strengthens Partner Relations During Exercise Bull Shark 24-2 US Navy 15 May 2024 -- Sailors from Maritime Expeditionary Squadron (MSRON) 10, assigned to Camp Lemonnier, Djibouti, provided maritime security during Exercise Bull Shark 24-2 on May 5, 2024. Bull Shark is a biannual joint training that combines the expertise of U.S., Djiboutian, Spanish and French maritime forces to increase crisis response and personnel recovery skills.
• Combined Maritime Forces Support Joint Maritime Information Center US Navy 15 May 2024 -- Combined Maritime Forces is supporting the Joint Maritime Information Center, a recently established organization that distributes timely information to members of the shipping industry with interests in the Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb and Gulf of Aden.
• VCNO Interview with Fed Gov Today at Sea Air Space 2024 US Navy 15 May 2024
• US, Niger delegation meet to discuss US forces withdrawal VOA 15 May 2024 -- After nearly a two-week delay, U.S. and Nigerien officials are holding high-level follow-on meetings to coordinate the withdrawal of American troops from the country.
• Niger cut military ties with US over Washington threats, Iran partnership: PM Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Niger's prime minister says the termination of military cooperation and bilateral relations between his country and the United States was due to American threats and Washington's opposition to the African nation's partnership with Iran and Russia.
• Niger cuts military ties with US citing threats over Iran, Russia ties IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Niger's prime minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine has said that the military relationship between the African country and the US was severed after an American official threatened Niamey over its cooperation with Iran and Russia.
• Latvia hosts NATO DIANA Board of Directors meeting Latvia MOD 15 May 2024 -- Latvia will host the meeting of the Board of Directors of NATO Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) for the first time ever from Tuesday, 14 May until Thursday, 16 May. Meeting will be attended by more than 80 delegates from all NATO member states and several NATO agencies.
• Meeting on the defence industry complex President of Russia 15 May 2024 -- The President held a meeting at the Kremlin to discuss the defence industry complex development.
• Meeting with military district commanders President of Russia 15 May 2024 -- Vladimir Putin held a meeting with military district commanders.
• Inside Russia's Improvised System For Mobilizing Men For The Ukraine War: An RFE/RL Investigation RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- The job recruitment ad, sent via WhatsApp, was short and sweet, aimed at a potential recruit: apply for a position with the national railway company - and end up fighting in the "special military operation," the Kremlin's euphemism for the war in Ukraine.
• Blinken Announces Upcoming $2 Billion Tranche Of Military Aid For Ukraine RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- The United States is fast-tracking $2 billion in military aid for embattled Ukrainian forces, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, as they struggle to stave off a Russian advance in the northeastern Kharkiv region.
• Blinken announces $2 billion in new US military assistance for Ukraine VOA 15 May 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced on Wednesday $2 billion in funding to finance Ukraine's military efforts as he concluded his two-day visit to Kyiv.
• Sweden Has No Plans to Send Troops to Ukraine, But May Consider Such Option Sputnik 15 May 2024 -- Stockholm has no plans to send personnel to Ukraine, but may consider such an option if it is proposed by NATO allies, Swedish Defense Minister Paul Jonson said.
• China urges US, UK and Australia to stop AUKUS nuclear submarine deal: FM spokesperson Global Times 15 May 2024 -- China will continue to utilize platforms such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), review process to thoroughly discuss the political, legal, and technical issues related to the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal, a spokesperson from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday. Until the international community reaches a clear conclusion, the US, UK, and Australia should halt the advancement of the initiative, the spokesperson noted.
• Iran self-sufficient in drone, missile production: Defense official IRNA 15 May 2024 -- A senior Iranian defense official says the Islamic Republic has designed and produced highly advanced drones and missiles without reliance on any country and despite draconian sanctions imposed by the West.
• HMAS Sirius takes a final bow Australia DOD 15 May 2024 -- One of the largest vessels in Australian history, HMAS Sirius, has been recycled. After 15 years' service as a Royal Australian Navy fuel tanker - and two years since her decommissioning at HMAS Stirling, Perth, in December 2021 - the ship has now become scrap metal.
• Amendments proposed to Conscription Act to ensure border security Finnish MoD 15 May 2024 -- The Ministry of Defence requests comments on amendments to the Conscription Act concerning continued support to the maintenance of border security.
• Astral Knight 24 - Command and Control in the Air Domain Poland - Ministry of National Defence 15 May 2024 -- On May 15th 2024 Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz has met with the commanders and soldiers of the Air Force taking part in the Astral Knight 2024 excercise.
• A look at the Defence news 6 - 12 May Netherlands Ministry of Defence 15 May 2024
• United States Welcomes Lithuania's Signing of the Artemis Accords US Dept. of State 15 May 2024 -- Lithuania became the 40th signatory to the Artemis Accords on May 15 at a ceremony held in Vilnius. The Artemis Accords were established in 2020 by the United States and seven other countries to set out a practical set of principles to guide space exploration.
• Secretary Blinken's Call with Turkish Foreign Minister Fidan US Dept. of State 15 May 2024
• Readout of National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's Call with Brazilian Presidential Advisor Celso Amorim The White House 15 May 2024
• Deputy Secretary Campbell's Meeting with Nigerian Foreign Minister Tuggar US Dept. of State 15 May 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For May 15, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 15 May 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 15 May 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Statement by PM Netanyahu Israel - Prime Minister 15 May 2024
• PM Netanyahu on Rejection of UNGA Israel - Prime Minister 15 May 2024 -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Rejection of UNGA 10 May Decision: " We will not reward the terrible massacre of October 7. We will not allow them to establish a terrorist state from which they will be able to vigorously attack us."
• Israeli defense chief, Netanyahu spar over Gaza governance when war with Hamas ends VOA 15 May 2024 -- Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant assailed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday for failing to devise a plan to govern Gaza after the end of Israel's war with Hamas. But the Israeli leader said it was pointless to do so until the militants are defeated.
• Prime Minister's Office Statement Israel - Prime Minister 15 May 2024 -- In order to bridge the disagreements and bring about a broad consensus, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decided to advance the conscription law that passed its first reading in the previous Knesset.
• Ex-Israeli war minister: Netanyahu destroyed int'l support for Israel IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Avigdor Lieberman, the former war minister of the Zionist regime, says prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has destroyed international support for the regime due to his confusion and failures.
• May 14: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 15 May 2024
• More than half a million displaced in Gaza as Israel escalates Gaza attacks Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The United Nations says more than half a million Palestinians have been displaced in war-torn Gaza in recent days, as Israel intensifies its attacks across the besieged territory.
• Palestinian resistance targets 18 vehicles and inflicts casualties on Israeli forces Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The Palestinian resistance says it has managed to destroy 18 Israeli military vehicles in an operation in Gaza, inflicting casualties on the occupation army.
• 24 Israeli soldiers killed in Hezbollah attacks IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Some 24 Israelis have been reportedly killed in Hezbollah attacks since the beginning of the Gaza war, a quarter of whom were killed in April 2024.
• Israeli drone strike kills, injures dozens of internet seekers in Gaza Press TV 15 May 2024 -- An Israeli drone strike has hit a gathering of civilians trying to connect to the internet on the Jalaa street in Gaza City, killing and injuring dozens of people.
• Gaza: 600,000 displaced from Rafah UN News 15 May 2024 -- Amid some of the fiercest reported fighting in Gaza yet, UN humanitarians on Wednesday repeated warnings that famine is still an imminent threat because of aid restrictions and a lack of safe access.
• Israel 'creates illusion' of civilian protection in Gaza: UN rapporteur Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories says sanitized jargon used by the Israeli military during assaults against civilians in Gaza is designed to "camouflage" killing.
• Biden poised to send more arms to Israel as Rafah situation worsens Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The While House is reportedly moving forward with a new plan to transfer $1 billion in weapons to Israel.
• Biden advancing 1 bln USD arms transfer to Israel: media reports People's Daily 15 May 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden is pushing through arms transfer to Israel worth more than 1 billion U.S. dollars in the Congress, multiple U.S. media reported.
• Iran condemns U.S. senator's remarks of letting Israel "nuke" Gaza People's Daily 15 May 2024 -- Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Nasser Kanaani on Tuesday condemned the recent remarks by a U.S. senator who said Israel should be allowed to "use nuclear bombs" to end the conflict in Gaza.
• EU calls on Israel to halt Rafah operation VOA 15 May 2024 -- The European Union called on Israel to immediately end its military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, saying Wednesday that the operation is disrupting humanitarian aid operations and bringing more displacement, famine and human suffering.
• Gaza: Statement by the High Representative on Israel's operation in Rafah European External Action Service (EEAS) 15 May 2024 -- The European Union urges Israel to end its military operation in Rafah immediately. This operation is further disrupting the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza and is leading to more internal displacement, exposure to famine and human suffering.
• EU Urges Israel to End Its Military Operation in Rafah - High Representative Sputnik 15 May 2024 -- The European Union is urging Israel to end its operation in Rafah in the Gaza Strip, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Wednesday.
• "The world cannot find peace without holding perpetrators of the Gaza genocide accountable" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 15 May 2024 -- Addressing AK Party's parliamentary group meeting, President Erdoğan said: "We will be chasing perpetrators of the genocide to make sure they are brought to justice. All should accept that the world cannot find peace, nor can it remain clean, without holding perpetrators of the Gaza genocide accountable. No one should expect us to remain silent or soften our words."
• Erdogan: 'Terrorist' Israel will 'set sights' on Turkey if Hamas is defeated Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says the "terrorist" Israeli regime will "set sights" on Turkey and will eventually target Anatolia if it manages to defeat the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
• Ireland to recognize Palestinian statehood by end of May Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Ireland says it will certainly recognize Palestinian statehood by the end of this month; a move that according to Palestinian human rights activists will not stop Israel's genocide in the Gaza Strip if no "real action" is taken.
• UK aid en route to temporary pier off Gaza UK FCDO 15 May 2024 -- More than 100 tonnes of aid is on its way to maritime pier off the coast of Gaza.
• Hamas delegation members meet Nasrallah IRNA 15 May 2024 -- A delegation from the Palestinian Islamic resistance movement Hamas headed by Khalil al-Hayya have met with Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of the Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah, to discuss the latest developments in Gaza and occupied Palestine.
• Al-Qassam documents targeting IOF, vehicles east of Rafah ISNA 15 May 2024 -- The Martyr Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades release footage documenting their fighters targeting Israeli soldiers and vehicles on the frontlines east of Rafah.
• Israel removal from our land inevitable: Haniyeh on Nakba anniv. Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Ismail Haniyeh, head of the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas' Political Bureau, has expressed certainty regarding the Israeli regime's eventual removal from the entirety of the Palestinian territories.
• Hamas marks Nakba Day, says Israel failed to achieve goals in Gaza Press TV 15 May 2024 -- In marking the Nakba Day, the Palestinian resistance movement Hamas has hailed 222 days of "epic" resistance by the Palestinians against the Israeli war machine in the besieged Gaza Strip.
• Hamas: Any agreement stopping short of Gaza ceasefire 'meaningless' Press TV 15 May 2024 -- A high-ranking member of the Palestinian Hamas resistance movement says it would be "meaningless" to conclude any agreement with the occupying Israeli regime unless Tel Aviv commits itself to a complete ceasefire in the besieged Gaza Strip.
• Israel's Amendments to Gaza Ceasefire Proposal Led Talks to Deadlock - Hamas Sputnik 15 May 2024 -- Israel's amendments to a ceasefire proposal made by mediators have led talks on the truce in the Gaza Strip to a deadlock, the chairman of the political office of Palestinian movement Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, said on Wednesday.
• Hezbollah retaliates heavily against Israel after cmdr. assassination Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Hezbollah has launched a raft of strikes against several Israeli targets after the regime's assassination of a senior field commander with the Lebanese resistance movement.
• Hezbollah leader underlines unity among resistance groups until al-Aqsa Storm goals achieved Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The secretary general of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement has underscored the significance of unity among resistance groups until achieving final victory in Operation al-Aqsa Storm, the largest anti-Israel operation by Palestinians in decades.
• High-ranking Hezbollah field commander killed in Israeli attack on southern Lebanon Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance movement has confirmed that a high-profile field commander of the group has been killed after the Israeli military carried out an airstrike targeting his vehicle in southern Lebanon close to the border with the 1948 occupied territories.
• Islamic Jihad says Palestinians steadfast after 76 years of occupation IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Palestinian Resistance Movement Islamic Jihad has issued a statement on the 76th anniversary of Nakba Day, emphasizing that the Palestinian people have remained steadfast after more than seven decades of Israeli occupation.
• Iraqi resistance's drone attack on Israeli air base in occupied Palestine IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Iraq's Islamic resistance group says it has launched an attack with drones and hit the Israeli regime's important air base in the south of the occupied Palestine.
• Iraq's resistance hits 'vital targets' in Israeli-occupied territories Press TV 15 May 2024 -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq says it has fired advanced cruise missiles at vital targets in the Israeli-occupied territories in retaliation for the massacres committed by the Zionist regime against civilians in Gaza.
• Yemen warns of 'decisive options' if Gaza war continues IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Yemen says it has "decisive options" on the table if the Israeli regime continues its genocidal war on Gaza.

Other Conflicts

• Philippines, US boost space tech cooperation for maritime awareness, security Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- The United States and the Philippines agreed to boost cooperation on space technology to track ships within Manila's territorial waters and exclusive economic zone, or EEZ, officials from both nations said in a statement released Tuesday.
• Philippine activists sail towards reef at heart of maritime dispute with China VOA 15 May 2024 -- A makeshift fleet of hundreds of fishing boats sailed from the Philippines towards a small island at the heart of a bitter territorial dispute between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea.
• Filipino civilian convoy departs for Scarborough Shoal, demands 'China leave' Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- A convoy of Filipino civilian boats set sail on Wednesday in a show of defiance to assert Manila's claim over a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, amid reports that Beijing had deployed dozens of ships to the area.
• Taliban's Drug Ban, Heavy-Handed Tactics Fuel Deadly Protests In Northern Afghanistan RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- Afghanistan's northern province of Badakhshan has been the scene of violent protests against the Taliban in recent weeks.
• UK ramps up aid funding to help feed more than 850,000 people in Yemen UK FCDO 15 May 2024 -- The Foreign Secretary has announced a significant uplift in aid funding for Yemen, to address one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world.
• Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue: Statement by the Spokesperson on efforts to find temporary arrangements on cash operations in Kosovo European External Action Service (EEAS) 15 May 2024 -- In order to find a sustainable temporary solution for the people most affected by the regulation of the Kosovo Central Bank on cash operations, the European Union, as the Facilitator of the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue, hosted seven rounds of meetings with the delegations of Kosovo and Serbia between 28 February and 15 May in Brussels.
• Bundeswehr to continue to ensure security in Bosnia and Herzegovina Germany - Federal Government 15 May 2024 -- The Bundeswehr are to continue to participate in EUFOR ALTHEA in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Federal Cabinet has extended the mandate to the end of June 2025. The Bundestag still has to agree to the resolution.
• Security Council: Bosnia and Herzegovina UN Security Council 15 May 2024 -- The Security Council met this morning for a debate on the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Briefing the Council was Christian Schmidt, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• The UK believes that it is for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina to choose their own future: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 15 May 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Myanmar junta forces kill 15 villagers after clashes with Rakhine State insurgents Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- Myanmar junta forces battling ethnic minority insurgents in three townships in the west have killed 15 people in strikes on villages, residents told Radio Free Asia Wednesday.
• Amid Pressure From Baku, U.S. Diplomat Tours Nagorno-Karabakh RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- "If the U.S. diplomats are against visiting Susa, then [to] hell with them," announced Caliber.az on May 5. The media outlet is widely seen as a mouthpiece for Azerbaijan's authoritarian government.
• Small window remains to avert disaster in Sudan's war-torn regions, warns WFP Deputy Executive Director WFP 15 May 2024 -- The UN World Food Programme warns that the window to save lives is closing as famine looms in Sudan's war-torn regions with civilians trapped by intensified fighting in northern Darfur; the rainy season set to start in the coming month making critical transport routes inaccessible; and as the lean season - when food stocks run out and hunger peaks - hits.
• 'Time is running out' to address crisis in Sudan UN News 15 May 2024 -- The international community must give greater attention and resources to war-ravaged Sudan, where millions are "trapped in an inferno of brutal violence", the top UN aid official in the country said on Wednesday.
• Sanctioning Sudanese Rapid Support Forces Commanders US Dept. of State 15 May 2024 -- The United States is today imposing sanctions on two Rapid Support Forces (RSF) commanders, Ali Yagoub Gibril and Osman Mohamed Hamid Mohamed for their role leading RSF operations in Darfur.
• Treasury Sanctions Sudanese Rapid Support Forces Commanders Expanding War US Treasury 15 May 2024 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) sanctioned Ali Yagoub Gibril and Osman Mohamed Hamid Mohamed,pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 14098,for leading the Rapid Support Forces' (RSF) war campaign. The RSF's attacks in North Darfur, which started last month, have caused dozens of civilian casualties, including children. The RSF encirclement of North Darfur's capital of El Fasher and recent fighting between the RSF and the Sudanese Armed Forces have endangered nearly one million Sudanese civilians in the last major safe haven in Darfur, impeded humanitarian access, increased the risk of mass atrocities, and could undermine vital peace efforts.

News Reports

• Slovak PM's Condition Reportedly Remains Critical After Shooting, But No Longer Life-Threatening RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico remains in critical condition after being shot several times from close range as he walked among a small crowd following a government meeting outside Bratislava, but his injuries are no longer considered life threatening, according to a senior government official.
• Slovakia's prime minister expected to survive shooting, deputy says VOA 15 May 2024 -- Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico was shot Wednesday afternoon following a Cabinet meeting in the central town of Handlova.
• Statement from President Joe Biden on Attempted Assassination of Slovakia Prime Minister Robert Fico The White House 15 May 2024
• New protests erupt in Georgia after parliament passes 'foreign agent' law VOA 15 May 2024 -- Hundreds of protesters donning gas masks and protective goggles shut down streets in Tbilisi on Tuesday after Georgia's parliament passed a so-called "foreign influence" law that critics call a copy of Russia's foreign agent law, heavily relied upon by the Kremlin to suppress dissent.
• Georgian president says 'foreign influence' law threatens path to EU VOA 15 May 2024 -- Georgia's parliament this week passed a so-called "foreign influence" bill. The government says the bill is needed to prevent foreign interference in its politics, but critics call it a Russian-style threat to stifle free speech.
• UN rights chief, independent experts denounce Georgia's new 'foreign agents' law UN News 15 May 2024 -- The adoption of the controversial "foreign agents" law in Georgia seriously undermines the freedoms of expression and association, the UN's top human rights official said on Wednesday.
• Situation in Georgia Council of Europe 15 May 2024 -- Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić today made the following statement:
• Georgia: Statement by High Representative Josep Borrell with the European Commission on the adoption of the "transparency of foreign influence" law European External Action Service (EEAS) 15 May 2024 -- The EU stands with the Georgian people and their choice in favour of democracy and of Georgia's European future. The intimidation, threats and physical assaults on civil society representatives, political leaders and journalists, as well as their families is unacceptable. We call on the Georgian authorities to investigate these documented acts.
• Foreign Minister Tsahkna in Georgia: Georgia's government has a choice between the European Union and Russia Estonia MFA 15 May 2024 -- Today 15 May, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna was on a visit to Tbilisi with his Latvian, Lithuanian and Icelandic counterparts. The focus of the visit was on the foreign influence law adopted yesterday.
• Statement by High Representative Josep Borrell with the European Commission on the adoption of the "transparency of foreign influence" law in Georgia* European Commission 15 May 2024 -- The EU stands with the Georgian people and their choice in favour of democracy and of Georgia's European future. The intimidation, threats and physical assaults on civil society representatives, political leaders and journalists, as well as their families is unacceptable. We call on the Georgian authorities to investigate these documented acts.
• Landsbergis tells Georgian opposition parties: "We cannot just sit down and wait for Georgia to finally move away from the path of EU integration and democracy" Lithuania MFA 15 May 2024 -- The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis, who met with opposition parties in the Georgian Parliament, said that as Georgia's friends, we could not simply sit down and wait for Georgia to fall off the track of EU integration and democracy finally.
• Landsbergis tells the Speaker of the Parliament of Georgia: "'Foreign influence' law is incompatible with EU democratic standards" Lithuania MFA 15 May 2024 -- During his visit to Tbilisi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis, met with the Speaker of Parliament, Shalva Papuashvili. The Foreign Minister stressed at the meeting that the law on "foreign influence" was incompatible with the democratic standards of the European Union.
• Landsbergis met with the President of Georgia: "Georgia's European future belongs to the people, and no one has the right to take it away" Lithuania MFA 15 May 2024 -- On 15 May, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis, and the Ministers of the Baltic states and Iceland are visiting Georgia, where he met with the Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili.
• President Says Georgia's Survival 'At Stake' After Controversial Law Approved RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- President Salome Zurabishvili warned that Georgia's survival as a state is in danger after parliament approved a contentious "foreign agent" law despite weeks of popular protests and warnings from the West that the move endangers Georgia's Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
• Interview: Georgian Dream Is 'Isolated' And The 'Foreign Agent' Law Is Just 'A Way To Maintain Power' RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- A leading expert on Georgia, Professor Stephen Jones is the director of the Program on Georgian Studies at Harvard University's Davis Center. His books include Georgia: A Political History Since Independence and The Birth of Modern Georgia: The First Georgian Republic And Its Successors, 1918-2010."
• Putin Heads To China With Military Ties Front And Center RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit China for a two-day state visit where he's set to press Chinese leader Xi Jinping for more support to sustain his country's sanctions-hit economy and war machine in Ukraine.
• Interview to Xinhua News Agency President of Russia 15 May 2024 -- Ahead of his state visit to the People's Republic of China, Vladimir Putin gave a written interview to the Chinese news agency Xinhua.
• Excerpts from the briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, May 15, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 May 2024
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's video message to the participants in the 8th Young Diplomats Forum of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Countries, May 15, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 15 May 2024
• Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on the Riigikogu adopting the law on using frozen assets Estonia MFA 15 May 2024 -- Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on the Riigikogu adopting the law on using frozen assets:
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on May 15, 2024 PRC MofA 15 May 2024
• China's support for Russia is 'tragic,' says Mike Pompeo Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- Amid ongoing repression of political freedoms in Hong Kong, the upcoming Taiwanese presidential inauguration and a planned meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo sat down with Radio Free Asia's Cantonese service for an interview.
• Beijing vows retaliation against Biden's hikes of tariffs on Chinese imports VOA 15 May 2024 -- Chinese officials angrily promised retaliation after the announcement by the White House on Tuesday that the Biden administration would be increasing tariffs on certain imports from China, including a quadrupling of the surcharge on electric cars to 100%.
• Statement from NSC Spokesperson Adrienne Watson on the U.S.-PRC Talks on AI Risk and Safety The White House 15 May 2024
• HK lawmakers, experts call on YouTube to remove controversial 'Glory to Hong Kong' globally Global Times 15 May 2024 -- Alphabet's YouTube said it will comply with Hong Kong's latest court decision and block access to video links related to the controversial song "Glory to Hong Kong." When conducting business, compliance to local laws and regulations is a mandatory practice, and it is not enough to just block the content in Hong Kong but the song should be removed globally, some lawmakers and experts said.
• China, US engage in in-depth, professional and constructive exchanges on AI Global Times 15 May 2024 -- China and the US held their first meeting of intergovernmental dialogue on artificial intelligence (AI) in Geneva on Tuesday local time. Both sides engaged in in-depth, professional, and constructive exchanges of views on AI technology risks, global governance, and other issues of mutual concern, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
• Chinese ambassador warns UK not to further jeopardize ties People's Daily 15 May 2024 -- China's Ambassador to the United Kingdom (UK) Zheng Zeguang met with relevant UK Foreign Office official on Tuesday, and told the UK side not to go further down the dangerous path of jeopardizing China-UK relations.
• First civilian defense chief in a decade, Wellington Koo faces reform challenge CNA 15 May 2024 -- As Taiwan faces considerable geopolitical challenges from an increasingly aggressive China, the national security team appointed by incoming President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) to handle defense and foreign affairs has received much attention.
• US to send delegation to Taiwan's presidential inauguration Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden will send an unofficial delegation of former government officials to Monday's inauguration of incoming Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, the White House announced Wednesday.
• Big shoes to fill as Foreign Minister Joseph Wu to shift posts CNA 15 May 2024 -- In an increasingly complicated geopolitical landscape, Taiwan's newly elected president, Lai Ching-te (賴清德), has selected mostly familiar faces from the outgoing administration to help him navigate security and diplomatic challenges after he takes office on May 20.
• Lai promises to continue cybersecurity development CNA 15 May 2024 -- President-elect Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said his presence at an annual cybersecurity exposition Wednesday illustrated his interest in continuing the government's support for the development of the cybersecurity sector after he takes office on May 20.
• President-elect Lai reiterates openness to dialogue with Beijing CNA 15 May 2024 -- Just days away from taking office, President-elect Lai Ching-te (賴清德) told a democracy forum in Copenhagen on Tuesday that Taiwan was open to dialogue with China.
• Taiping Island trip aimed at pressing Lai on sovereignty: Analysts CNA 15 May 2024 -- A trip by about 20 opposition lawmakers to Taiping Island just two days before President-elect Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) inauguration on May 20 is aimed at challenging Lai to reiterate Taiwan's territorial claims and sovereignty, analysts believe.
• 26 PLA aircraft cross Taiwan Strait median line or extension: Ministry CNA 15 May 2024 -- A total of 26 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait or its extension in the 24-hour period starting at 6 a.m. Tuesday, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense said Wednesday.
• Taiwan regional leader-elect must give clear answer to whether to pursue path of peaceful development or deviate from public opinion: spokesperson Global Times 15 May 2024 -- It is peace, not war; development, not regression; interactions, not separation; and cooperation, not confrontation that represent the prevailing public sentiment in Taiwan society and Taiwan regional leader-elect must give a clear answer to whether to heed the people's aspirations and pursue the path of peaceful development or deviate from public opinion, Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, on Wednesday responded regarding the scheduled inauguration speech of Taiwan regional leader-elect Lai Ching-te, on May 20.
• Chinese FM refutes US officials' claims on UNGA Resolution 2758 not equate to an international consensus on the one-China principle Global Times 15 May 2024 -- In response to repeated ill-intentioned comments from some US officials to challenge the authority of the UN General Assembly Resolution 2758, calling Taiwan's status "undetermined" and trumpeting for Taiwan's "meaningful participation" in the UN system, Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that those comments tread on international law and the basic norms of international relations.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan May 15, 2024 ROC MND 15 May 2024
• Grand Monument to Youth Representing Future of Civilized Thriving Country Inauguration Ceremony of Jonwi Street Takes Place with Splendor Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Cuts Inauguration Tape KCNA 15 May 2024 -- Jonwi(Vanguard) Street, a new modern street which has been majestically built at the north gateway of Pyongyang, the capital city of the DPRK, to record another proud history of heroism in the course of development of the Korean youth movement shining with great succession and feats, came to be significantly inaugurated.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Learns about Production of Major Weapons and Equipment KCNA 15 May 2024 -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), acquainted himself with the tactical missile weapon system to be newly equipped by the combined missile units of the Korean People's Army (KPA) in charge of an important firing assignment on May 14.
• US has no choice but to 'double down' on North Korea deterrence: official Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- The United States has been left with no option but to "double down" on the enforcement of sanctions against North Korea due to its rejection of dialogue, a senior U.S. diplomat said.
• European Union ramps up and expands sanctions against Iran Estonia MFA 15 May 2024 -- Today 14 May, the European Union broadened the scope of sanctions imposed against Iran. According to the new criteria individuals and entities that produce drones and missiles and supply drones to Russia and to non-state armed groups in the Middle East can be added to the sanctions list.
• Iran denounces Australia's sanctions on individuals, entities IRNA 15 May 2024 -- Iran's Foreign Ministry, in a statement on Tuesday night, strongly condemned the Australian regime for targeting the country's officials and institutions with sanctions in a fresh round of hostile behavior toward the Islamic Republic.
• Iran, IAEA to continue joint work to solve differences: Atomic chief IRNA 15 May 2024 -- The head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), Mohammad Eslami, says the Islamic Republic and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) will continue joint works to solve the differences.
• Grossi: Ties with Iran can enter new phase IRNA 15 May 2024 -- The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency while referring to his recent trip to Iran and talks with the senior Iranian officials stated that Tehran has shown a desire for serious negotiations with the IAEA and the relations between the two sides can enter a new phase.
• Iran, IAEA to cooperate on unresolved issues: Atomic chief Press TV 15 May 2024 -- Iran's top nuclear energy official says the Islamic Republic will continue to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to resolve disputed issues surrounding its nuclear program.
• Ex-President Issues Sharp Rebuke Of Iran's Leadership After Election Disqualification RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- Former Iranian President Hassan Rohani has issued a stern rebuke of the country's Guardians Council following his disqualification from elections to the Assembly of Experts earlier this year, accusing the body of undermining the role and freedom of future presidents.
• India downplays US sanctions threat over Iran deal ISNA 15 May 2024 -- India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has downplayed US threat of sanctions after New Delhi signed a landmark contract with Tehran to operate the Chabahar Port in Iran, saying the project will "benefit the entire region."
• Chabahar is for 'everyone's benefit': India downplays US sanctions threat over Iran deal Press TV 15 May 2024 -- India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has downplayed US threat of sanctions after New Delhi signed a landmark contract with Tehran to operate the Chabahar Port in Iran, saying the project will "benefit the entire region."
• India gets new ambassador from China, but mistrust lingers VOA 15 May 2024 -- China's appointment late last week of a new ambassador to India fills a seat that Beijing left vacant for 18 months. It's a small step for two big Asian rivals but one that is unlikely to resolve mistrust between the two countries, analysts say.
• China presses Pakistan to address security concerns of workers, projects VOA 15 May 2024 -- China on Wednesday hailed its "ironclad" relationship with Pakistan and vowed to further enhance economic and anti-terrorism security cooperation between the neighboring countries at a bilaterial strategic dialogue in Beijing.
• France declares state of emergency in New Caledonia as protests rage VOA 15 May 2024 -- France has declared a state of emergency in its overseas Pacific territory of New Caledonia after deadly protests by native-born, pro-independence activists who oppose efforts to expand the voting rights of French residents on the archipelago.
• Violence in French Pacific territory of New Caledonia turns deadly VOA 15 May 2024 -- At least three people are dead in the South Pacific islands of New Caledonia after three consecutive days of rioting in the French territory.
• Pacific gets 'record' share of Australia's static foreign aid budget Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- Pacific island countries are getting an increased share of Australian foreign aid, budget documents show, as it shifts into funding infrastructure such as undersea cables and ports in response to China's inroads in the region.
• Fugitive Opposition Politician's 'Accomplice' Returns To Kazakhstan RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- Kazakhstan's Anti-Corruption Agency said an "associate" of fugitive former banker and outspoken Kazakh government critic Mukhtar Ablyazov returned on his own to the Central Asian country, where he faces embezzlement charges.
• Turkish Interior Chief Vows to Identify Plotters Against Erdogan Government Sputnik 15 May 2024 -- Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on Wednesday intentions to identify structures working against the authorities and people of the country so that they would appear in court.
• Lawrence Wong sworn in as Singapore's new PM, expected to 'continue balanced foreign policy approach' Global Times 15 May 2024 -- Lawrence Wong was sworn in on Wednesday as Singapore's fourth prime minister, succeeding Lee Hsien Loong who has stepped down after leading the Asian financial hub for two decades.
• Landsbergis addresses OSCE ODIHR Director Mecacci: "We must not create a visibility of legitimacy for aggressive dictatorial regimes and their representatives" Lithuania MFA 15 May 2024 -- Minister of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, Gabrielius Landsbergis, sent a letter to Matteo Mecacci, Director of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), in which he addressed the decision of the ODIHR not to accept Lithuania's invitation to observe this weekend's presidential election in Lithuania.
• Thailand assists neighbors in repressing dissidents: rights group Radio Free Asia 15 May 2024 -- Thailand has been helping neighboring countries repress refugees and dissidents, making a country that was long a haven for exiles unsafe for those fleeing persecution, a human rights group said on Thursday.
• Speech by Carl-Oskar Bohlin in Washington on 9 May Government Offices of Sweden 15 May 2024 -- Speech by Minister for Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin at a seminar on 9 May 2024, arranged by the Embassy of Sweden in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with a meeting arranged by the United States for senior NATO officials responsible for resilience.
• Yerevan Police Cordon Off Area Around Venue Where Pashinian Expected To Speak RFE/RL 15 May 2024 -- Police barriers have been set up in areas of Yerevan leading to Freedom Square on May 15 as activists calling for Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian's resignation over a land deal with arch foe Azerbaijan pledged to form groups to march to the square, where Pashinian was expected to address an annual meeting of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
• Statement from NSC Spokesperson Adrienne Watson on Actions Against the Ortega-Murillo Regime Repressing People and Preying on Migrants in Nicaragua The White House 15 May 2024
• Background Press Call on Actions Against the Ortega-Murillo Regime Repressing People and Preying on Migrants in Nicaragua The White House 15 May 2024
• Promoting Accountability for Nicaraguan Officials US Dept. of State 15 May 2024 -- The Department of State today took steps to impose visa restrictions on over 250 members of the Nicaraguan government, including police and paramilitary personnel, penitentiary officials, prosecutors, judges, and public higher education officials, as well as select non-government actors for their roles in supporting the Ortega-Murillo regime in its attacks on human rights and fundamental freedoms, repression of civil society organizations and profiting off of vulnerable migrants.
• Treasury Sanctions Nicaragua-Based Russian Institution and Gold Companies US Treasury 15 May 2024 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) is targeting the Ortega-Murillo regime's repression of the Nicaraguan people and its ability to manipulate the gold sector and profit from corrupt operations. Treasury is imposing sanctions on three Nicaragua-based entities, the Training Center of the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs in Managua (RTC); Compania Minera Internacional, Sociedad Anónima (COMINTSA); and Capital Mining Investment Nicaragua, Sociedad Anónima (Capital Mining),pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13851, as amended.