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News Reports

Current Operations

• Challenges Abound, But Aid Moves Into Gaza DoD News 21 May 2024 -- While 569 metric tons of aid have landed off the Defense Department's Joint Logistics, Over-the-Shore pier in Gaza, getting the aid to the Palestinian people has been a problem, officials said today.
• Yemeni air defenses intercept, shoot down US MQ-9 Reaper drone over Bayda province Press TV 21 May 2024 -- The spokesperson for the Yemeni Armed Forces (YAF) says the country's air defense units have successfully shot down an American MQ-9 Reaper drone while it was conducting hostile activities in the airspace over the central province of Bayda.
• Yemeni armed forces down US MQ-9 Reaper IRNA 21 May 2024 -- Brigadier General Yahya Saree, spokesman of the Yemeni armed forces, announced that Yemeni forces have shot down the fifth American MQ-9 Reaper.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder Holds a Press Briefing DoD 21 May 2024
• Challenges Abound, But Aid Moves Into Gaza DoD News 21 May 2024 -- While 569 metric tons of aid have landed off the Defense Department's Joint Logistics, Over-the-Shore pier in Gaza, getting the aid to the Palestinian people has been a problem, officials said today.
• USS Carney Returns Home from Historic Deployment US Navy 21 May 2024 -- The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Carney (DDG 64) returned to Naval Station Mayport, Florida, May 19, after being deployed for more than seven months to the U.S. Naval Forces Europe - Africa and U.S. Naval Forces Central Command areas of operation.
• Navy Announces Commissioning Date for the Future USS Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29) US Navy 21 May 2024 -- The U.S. Navy has approved the commissioning date for the future USS Richard M. McCool Jr. (LPD 29).
• Space Officials Outline Key Investments Needed to Ensure U.S. Maintains Edge DoD News 21 May 2024 -- The Defense Department remains focused on maintaining its edge in space as competitors attempt to shift the balance in the domain, a top space official from the Pentagon said today.
• US, NATO forces showcase tactics, integration during Astral Knight 2024 US Air Force 21 May 2024 -- NATO's exercise Astral Knight 2024 concluded May 18 in Gdynia, demonstrating joint force interoperability and strategic readiness between U.S. forces and NATO allies. The exercise allowed the incorporation of the Special Warfare Teaming Concept, involving the 2nd Air Support Operations Squadron from Vilseck, Germany; the 57th Rescue Squadron from Aviano, Italy; and members of Polish special forces.
• Pennsylvania Guard Military Police Deploying to Guantanamo Bay Army News 21 May 2024 -- More than 100 Pennsylvania Army National Guard Soldiers assigned to the 28th Military Police (MP) Company, 165th MP Battalion, 55th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade, 28th Infantry Division, departed from Harrisburg International Airport May 19 to mobilize to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Remarks Welcoming Finland's Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen to the Pentagon DoD 21 May 2024
• Defense Minister: Finland Supports Global Security DoD News 21 May 2024 -- Finland, which became a NATO member a year ago, will make the alliance stronger, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen said.
• Finland and United States signed Statement of Intent on Cooperation among Special Forces Finnish MoD 21 May 2024 -- In Washington on 21 May 2024, Finland and the United States signed a Statement of Intent.
• Russia Begins Drills on Preparation and Use of Non-Strategic Nuclear Weapons Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- Earlier this month, the Ministry of Defense announced that the Russian General Staff, on behalf of President Vladimir Putin, had begun preparations to hold exercises with missile formations of the Southern Military District and Navy forces.
• Ex-Russian Army Commander Who Once Criticized Top Brass Arrested On Fraud Charges RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- The former commander of Russia's 58th army - who had once complained about his forces' lack of support from Moscow - has been arrested on fraud charges, state-run TASS news agency reported.
• Russian Military Ex-Commander Popov Arrested on Large-Scale Fraud Charges - Court Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- The former commander of the 58th army of the Russian armed forces, Major General Ivan Popov, was arrested on large-scale fraud charges, the 235th garrison military court told Sputnik on Tuesday.
• Ukraine and Sweden Launch Negotiations on a Bilateral Security Agreement President of Ukraine 21 May 2024
• Record number of Chinese warships operating in Cambodia Radio Free Asia 21 May 2024 -- Two large Chinese warships have arrived in Cambodia's Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand on a goodwill visit, joining three vessels already operating in Cambodia.
• Armed Z-20 helicopter revealed in official report Global Times 21 May 2024 -- An armed variant of China's independently developed Z-20 helicopter recently made its first appearance in an official report, with experts saying on Tuesday that even more Z-20 variants are expected to be developed.
• Training the future of mounted combat Australia DOD 21 May 2024 -- Australian Army's School of Armour is not just where the school holds its history, but where the future of mounted combat is being formed.
• Friendships flourish in South Korea Australia DOD 21 May 2024 -- Royal Australian Navy guided missile destroyer HMAS Hobart has deepened ties with the Republic of Korea Navy, receiving a warm welcome in Busan, South Korea.
• Canada - Joint Direct Attack Munition Tail Kits DSCA 21 May 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Canada of Joint Direct Attack Munition Tail Kits and related elements of logistics and program support for an estimated cost of $96.4 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre En Route Merrimack, NH The White House 21 May 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For May 21, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 21 May 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 21 May 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• ICC Warrant Request Is Attempt To Deny Israel The Right To Defend Itself, Says Defense Minister RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has accused the the International Criminal Court (ICC) of trying to deny Israel the right to self defense after the court's chief prosecutor announced he is seeking arrest warrants for Israeli leaders, including Gallant and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as senior figures in Hamas, which has been designated a terrorist organization by the United States and the European Union.
• Netanyahu Says More People Die of Malnutrition in US Than in Gaza Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that there are allegedly more people dying of malnutrition in the United States than in the Gaza Strip amid the dire humanitarian situation in the Palestinian enclave.
• Itamar Ben-Gvir promotes future Israeli settlements in Gaza Press TV 21 May 2024 -- An Israeli minister has once again called for the expulsion of the Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and an expansion of settlements in the besieged Palestinian territory.
• Israeli minister orders return of seized AP equipment following outcry VOA 21 May 2024 -- Israel's communications minister ordered the return of seized camera equipment to The Associated Press after blocking the news outlet's live video feed of Gaza earlier on Tuesday.
• Israeli Military Leaking Information About Gaza Aid Trucks to Radicals - Reports Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- The Israeli military is providing far-right activists and settlers with information on the location of aid trucks heading to the Gaza Strip, which they use to vandalize and block the vehicles, The Guardian reported on Tuesday, citing multiple sources.
• May 20: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 21 May 2024
• Israel publishes new civilian death toll in Gaza VOA 21 May 2024 -- Since Hamas launched a terror attack Oct. 7 on Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking roughly 250 hostages, Israel has embarked on an offensive to eliminate Hamas from Gaza.
• Israel continues to target Palestinians in Gaza ISNA 21 May 2024 -- On the 228th day since October 7, the Israeli occupation forces continued their aggression against Gaza, killing dozens of Palestinians and injuring others, with many going missing as "Israel" bombs residential buildings, facilities, and infrastructure, leaving widespread destruction.
• ICC prosecutor asks for arrest warrants for Israeli, Hamas leaders People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- The prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) said Monday he is applying for arrest warrants for two Israeli government officials, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and three Hamas leaders.
• Gaza: WHO chief calls for end to latest hospital siege UN News 21 May 2024 -- As bombardments by the Israeli military reportedly continued overnight across Gaza, along with ground incursions and heavy fighting, the head of the UN World Health Organization (WHO) issued an alert on Tuesday for staff and patients at besieged Al-Awda Hospital in the north of the enclave.
• UNRWA Situation Report #108 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem - All information from 13 - 19 May 2024 is valid as of 19 May 2024 at 22:30 (local time) UNRWA 21 May 2024
• United Nations suspends food distribution in Rafah VOA 21 May 2024 -- The United Nations has suspended food distribution in Rafah, on the Gaza Strip's southern border, due to depleted supplies and insecurity.
• UNRWA suspends food distribution in Rafah amid Israeli invasion Press TV 21 May 2024 -- The UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) says it has suspended the distribution of food in the southern city of Rafah, citing Israeli attacks and a lack of supplies.
• Blinken: Gaza cease-fire still possible, but ICC's move complicates efforts VOA 21 May 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said Tuesday that a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas militants in return for the release of hostages remains possible, but the International Criminal Court's arrest warrants for Israeli leaders hindered ongoing efforts.
• Biden vows 'ironclad' support for Israel as genocide rages on Press TV 21 May 2024 -- US President Joe Biden has vowed to continue providing "ironclad" support for the Israeli regime as the latter presses on with its Washington-backed genocidal war against the Gaza Strip.
• Iran says ending occupation of Palestine only way to regional security IRNA 21 May 2024 -- Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Diplomacy Mehdi Safari has said that sustainable peace and security in the region will only be possible through ending the occupation in Palestine, Syria, and Lebanon.
• China hopes ICC to uphold objective view on Palestine-Israel conflict Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Seeking Israel and Hamas warrants 'a symbolic pressure' but will increase moral pressure on Israel: experts
• Russia scoffs at US reaction to likely ICC arrest warrants for Israeli officials Press TV 21 May 2024 -- Russia has scoffed at the United States' reaction to potential issuance of arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court (ICC) against Israeli officials over Tel Aviv's Washington-backed war of genocide against the Gaza Strip.
• Israeli forces kill 7 Palestinians in Jenin Press TV 21 May 2024 -- Israeli forces have killed seven Palestinians, including a doctor, during a raid into the occupied West Bank city of Jenin.
• Hezbollah pounds military headquarters of Israeli regime IRNA 21 May 2024 -- The Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah targeted two military centers belonging to the Israeli regime in northern occupied Palestine on Monday evening.
• Hezbollah targets Israeli outposts in response to brutal aggression against Lebanon Press TV 21 May 2024 -- The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance forces have conducted a string of strikes against Israeli military positions in the northern side of the 1948 occupied territories in retaliation for the brutal aggression against southern Lebanon.
• Iraqi resistance launches drone attack on Eilat Port IRNA 21 May 2024 -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq says it has conducted a drone strike against a sensitive position in the Port of Eilat in the occupied Palestinian territories.

Other Conflicts

• We Must Go Above, Beyond Compliance, Fully Protect Civilians against 'Harms They Are Suffering on Our Watch', Senior Humanitarian Official Tells Security Council UN Security Council 21 May 2024 -- Amid ongoing armed conflicts across the globe that killed at least 33,000 civilians in 2023, the international community must not only ensure compliance with international law but "full" protection for civilians, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today during its annual open debate on the matter.
• 'Alarming lack of compliance' with international law ramps up danger for civilians UN News 21 May 2024 -- The plight of civilians affected by war in 2023 was "resoundingly dire", as the world witnessed horrors not only in Gaza and southern Israel but also the intense suffering of populations in other crisis hotspots around the globe, senior UN officials said on Tuesday.
• Warring parties must fully comply with international humanitarian law and protect civilians: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 21 May 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki at the UN Security Council meeting on the protection of civilians in armed conflict.
• Philippines demands China 'open' Scarborough Shoal for global, environmental audit Radio Free Asia 21 May 2024 -- The Philippines on Tuesday demanded an independent and international audit of China's alleged environmental destruction of Scarborough Shoal, including illegal fishing for giant clams, sea turtles and other species from those disputed waters.
• On the Situation in Burma's Rakhine State US Dept. of State 21 May 2024 -- The United States is deeply troubled by the reports of increased violence and intercommunal tension in Rakhine State, including reports of towns being burned and residents, including Rohingya, being displaced.
• Airstrike kills woman on Myanmar-Bangladesh border Radio Free Asia 21 May 2024 -- A Myanmar junta airstrike near the border with Bangladesh on Tuesday killed one civilian and injured 11, residents told Radio Free Asia, the latest casualties in a region that has seen some of the country's most intense fighting in recent weeks.
• More than 700,000 Tibetans forced to relocate, report says Radio Free Asia 21 May 2024 -- For the past seven years, Tashi and his once-nomadic family have been living in the outskirts of Tibet's capital Lhasa after they were forcibly moved from their ancestral home in the grasslands of Tibet.
• UN official: 'Real and growing' risk of genocide in Sudan VOA 21 May 2024 -- The U.N. special adviser on the prevention of genocide warned Tuesday that Sudan exhibits all the risk signs of genocide, and it may already have been committed.
• EU condemns Kosovo's closure of Serbian banks VOA 21 May 2024 -- The European Union on Tuesday slammed Kosovo after police closed six branches of a Serbian-licensed bank on Monday, following the country's ban on the Serbian dinar currency.
• U.S., EU Criticize Kosovo's 'Uncoordinated' Moves In Serb Areas RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- EU and U.S. officials have expressed mounting concern at uncoordinated actions by Kosovar Prime Minister Albin Kurti's government that threaten to further raise tensions with ethnic minority Serbs in the north of that Balkan country.
• Kosovo: Statement by the Spokesperson on police operations against the Postal Savings Bank offices European External Action Service (EEAS) 21 May 2024 -- The European Union noted with concern Monday's police operation at the offices of the Serbian Postal Savings Bank in the north of Kosovo.
• Blinken Says Haiti on Brink of Becoming 'Failed State' Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Tuesday that Haiti is on the verge of becoming a failed state.

News Reports

• How Kremlin uses false fact checks to spread disinformation VOA 21 May 2024 -- Just a few weeks after Russia's full invasion of Ukraine, Moscow started to promote a website that claims to tell the truth about the war.
• Briton charged in Hong Kong foreign intelligence case found dead VOA 21 May 2024 -- Matthew Trickett, 37, was pronounced dead Sunday in a park in Maidenhead, an area of southern England west of London, according to a statement by Thames Valley Police. The police said they discovered Trickett's body after receiving a call from a member of the public.
• Security Council Al-Shabaab Sanctions Committee Adds Three Entries to Its Sanctions List UN Security Council 21 May 2024 -- On 21 May 2024, the Security Council Committee pursuant to resolution 2713 (2023) concerning Al-Shabaab approved the addition of the entries specified below to its Sanctions List of individuals and entities subject to the measures imposed by the Security Council and adopted under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations.
• Statement by the Ministers for European Affairs of France, Germany, Poland, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czechia, Denmark, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain Germany Federal Foreign Office 21 May 2024 -- With the envisaged adoption of the Council conclusions on "Democratic resilience: safeguarding electoral processes from foreign interference", we are taking an important step to defend our European democratic values, fundamentals and political culture and should continue this integrated approach to address current challenges we face from outside the EU. We welcome the ongoing debate on how to protect our European Democracy and want to contribute with concrete ideas, which should also be considered by the future Commission and High Representative.
• Julian Assange wins High Court victory in case against extradition to U.S. People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on Monday won a victory in his ongoing battle against extradition from the United Kingdom (UK) to the United States, after the High Court in London granted him permission to appeal.
• Indian police arrest 4 for suspected Islamic State links People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- Indin police Monday said it has arrested four Sri Lankan nationals for their alleged links with the extremist group Islamic State in the western Indian state of Gujarat.
• Press release on the SCO Foreign Ministers Council Meeting Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 May 2024
• Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks and answers to media questions following the SCO Foreign Ministers Council meeting, Astana, May 21, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 21 May 2024
• Telephone conversation with President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev President of Russia 21 May 2024 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev.
• Behind Putin and Xi's embrace, Russia is junior partner, analysts say VOA 21 May 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping is not known for public displays of affection.
• Imprisoned Kremlin Critic Kara-Murza Loses Another Appeal In Court RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- The Moscow City Court on May 21 rejected an appeal filed by imprisoned Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza against a lower court's refusal to consider his lawsuit against Russia's Investigative Committee for failing to fully investigate his suspected poisoning.
• EU Approves Use Of Frozen Russian Assets For Ukraine As Zelenskiy Claims 'Tangible' Results RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- The European Union has given official approval for the use of proceeds from frozen assets of the Russian central bank to beef up the defense of Ukraine, the European Council announced on May 21, a move that could see as much as 3 billion euros ($3.23 billion) diverted to Kyiv's military this year.
• EU Approves Use of Income From Frozen Russian Assets for Ukraine - Czech Foreign Minister Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- The European Union has approved the use of revenues from frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine, Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky said on Tuesday, adding that 90% of the sum would go to the Ukrainian armed forces.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on May 21, 2024 PRC MofA 21 May 2024
• China's top diplomat urges SCO members to maintain strategic autonomy; do not allow external forces to turn region into geopolitical arena Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday called for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation members to maintain their strategic autonomy, solidarity and cooperation and never allow external forces to turn the region into a geopolitical arena.
• China sanctions former US lawmaker Global Times 21 May 2024 -- China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on Tuesday that it will take countermeasures in accordance with the law against Mike Gallagher, a former US Representative from Wisconsin and former US congressman, for his frequent words and actions over the past years that have interfered in China's internal affairs, undermined China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and infringed on China's interests.
• US expects South Korea and Japan to manage ties with China at summit amid growing differences VOA 21 May 2024 -- Ahead of a trilateral summit involving South Korea, Japan, and China this weekend in Seoul, Washington said it expects the event to be an opportunity for its two allies to manage their relations with Beijing.
• US looks to work with EU to address Chinese industrial policy VOA 21 May 2024 -- U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said on Tuesday that U.S. and European leaders must address China's industrial policies that pose a threat to clean energy industries worldwide.
• Hong Kong trade offices 'keep an eye' on 'anti-China' activities Radio Free Asia 21 May 2024 -- The role of Hong Kong's overseas Economic and Trade Offices has changed, and should include "keeping an eye" on 'anti-China' activities, a top government adviser has said, appearing to confirm claims that the offices have been targeting pro-democracy activists on foreign soil.
• Time to build China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan Railway: Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Kulubaev Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev said that the planned China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan (CKU) Railway is of strategic importance, and he hoped the governments of the three countries could reach an agreement quickly and start its construction soon.
• U.S. urges China to act with restraint after Lai's inauguration CNA 21 May 2024 -- The United States has called on Beijing to act with restraint and not use Taiwan's transition as a pretext for provocative or coercive actions following the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te (賴清德).
• Taiwanese reporters again excluded from WHA due to Chinese pressure CNA 21 May 2024 -- Two Taiwanese journalists from the Taipei-based Central News Agency (CNA) were again denied press access to next week's World Health Assembly (WHA) apparently due to Chinese opposition after they were asked to provide a "Chinese passport" in order to apply for media credentials to cover the event.
• Beijing to continue pressure on Taiwan after Lai's inauguration: Scholars CNA 21 May 2024 -- China is likely to further pressure Taiwan after President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) inaugural address on Monday, which Beijing criticized as promoting Taiwan independence, scholars said Tuesday.
• Supply chain shift, pandemic trigger fall in Taiwanese workers in China CNA 21 May 2024 -- The number of Taiwanese working in China has been dealt a blow in recent years largely because of a slowdown in Taiwan's investment in China, rising operational costs in China, and the COVID-19 pandemic, experts said recently.
• Lai's address consistent with Taiwan's stance on China: Cheng CNA 21 May 2024 -- Former Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan (鄭文燦) has defended President Lai Ching-te's (賴清德) inauguration address after it was criticized by an opposition party and the People's Republic of China (PRC) as an attempt to promote Taiwanese independence.
• Chinese embassies in several countries lodge stern representations to oppose politicians' interactions with 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Chinese embassies in several countries, including the UK, Japan, and South Korea, have lodged solemn representations with these nations, opposing the attendance of certain politicians at the "inauguration ceremony" of the Taiwan regional leader. The Chinese embassies emphasized that Taiwan is an integral part of China and reiterated the one-China principle, urging these politicians to cease sending wrong signals to "Taiwan independence" separatist forces.
• Global leaders reiterate support for one-China principle, highlighting general consensus of intl community Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Many leaders of countries and heads of international organizations in recent days have promptly voiced their adherence to the one-China principle, fully demonstrating that upholding the one-China principle is the righteous path and the general consensus of the international community. Such a declaration of support to the one-China principle comes in response to the new Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te's plan to push "Taiwan independence." This push, along with the attempts of certain countries, especially the US and Japan, to play the "Taiwan card" to contain China, are doomed to fail, analysts said.
• Mainland says Lai takes more radical "Taiwan independence" stance Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Lai Ching-te has taken a more radical stance seeking "Taiwan independence" in his speech upon assuming the role of Taiwan region's new leader, a Chinese mainland spokesperson said Tuesday.
• Exclusive: Lai likely to continue cooperating with US in latter's Indo-Pacific Strategy, rising risk of cross-Straits confrontation: pro-reunification group leader Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Taiwan's new regional leader and head of the separatist Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Lai Ching-te, officially assumed office on Monday. Lai is likely to continue Tsai Ing-wen's approach of cooperating with the US in its Indo-Pacific Strategy to contain the mainland and maintain a status of cross-Straits confrontation, which concerns residents in Taiwan, Wu Jung-yuan, chairman of the Labor Party and also a convener of the Cross-Straits Peace Forum, told the Global Times in an exclusive interview.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan May 21, 2024 ROC MND 21 May 2024
• China opposes 'Taiwan independence' secessionist acts, foreign interference: spokesperson Global Times 21 May 2024 -- The current situation in the Taiwan Straits is complicated and severe because the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) stubbornly adheres to the separatist stance of "Taiwan independence" and refuses to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus, which embodies the one-China principle. It also colludes with external forces in provocations over "Taiwan independence," Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said on Monday.
• One-China principle anchor of peace across Taiwan Strait: Chinese FM People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Monday that the one-China principle is what underpins peace across the Taiwan Strait.
• SCO upholds one-China principle, opposes "Taiwan independence" People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- Zhang Ming, secretary-general of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), highlighted the one-China principle when commenting on the new leader of the Taiwan region taking office on Monday.
• Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Sends Message of Condolence to First Vice-President of Iran KCNA 21 May 2024 -- Kim Jong Un , president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, sent a message of condolence to Mohammad Mokhber, first vice-president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, on May 20.
• Iran mourns President Raisi after tragic helicopter crash People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was confirmed dead on Monday after his helicopter crashed in the country's mountainous northwestern region on Sunday.
• Mideast countries offer condolences over deaths of Iranian president, FM People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- Leaders across Middle Eastern countries on Monday offered their condolences to Iran over the deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and members of the accompanying team in a helicopter crash a day earlier.
• Official reveals more details of president Raisi's copter crash IRNA 21 May 2024 -- Iran's presidential chief of staff has revealed more details about a helicopter crash in northwest of the country over the weekend which led to the martyrdom of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and two top local officials in the province of East Azerbaijan.
• Iranian President's Casket Arrives In Tehran As New Crash Details Emerge RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- The caskets of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and others killed in a May 19 helicopter crash arrived in a procession with an honor guard in Tehran on May 21 ahead of a planned journey to the holy city of Qom, where additional services were scheduled for later in the day as part of a five-day mourning period declared by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
• Iran to hold Presidential election on June 28 ISNA 21 May 2024 -- The heads of the three powers in Iran have agreed to hold presidential elections in the country on June 28, following the initial agreement that took place today between Iran's Guardian Council and the Elections Commission.
• Iran prepares for presidential election and Raisi's funeral People's Daily 21 May 2024 -- The Iranian authorities will hold a funeral for the late president Ebrahim Raisi on May 23 and the next presidential election on June 28.
• Wang meets Iranian deputy FM, vowing support Global Times 21 May 2024 -- Following the tragic helicopter crash that killed Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and several other officials on Sunday, Chinese and Iranian officials have reiterated their resolution to continue to strengthen the strategic cooperation between the two countries, as experts noted that the passing of Raisi will not affect the overall direction and development of China-Iran relations, nor will it bring about fundamental changes in Iran's domestic politics.
• Russian FM blames US sanctions for Iran president's copter crash IRNA 21 May 2024 -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has blamed sanctions imposed by the united states on Iran for a deadly helicopter crash over the weakened that involved late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and other senior officials of the country.
• Nasrallah offers condolences to Supreme Leader over martyrdom of President Raisi ISNA 21 May 2024 -- Hezbollah Secretary General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah on Monday offered condolences to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, and people for martyrdom of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his comrades.
• Iran's caretaker FM condoles martyrdom of President Raisi, FM Amirabdollahian IRNA 21 May 2024 -- Ali Bagheri Kani, the caretaker of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, has conveyed messages of condolence for the martyrdom of President Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage, who lost‌ their lives while serving the people and fostering peace and friendship among regional nations, to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, their esteemed families, and the noble people of Iran.
• Iranians mourn late president VOA 21 May 2024 -- Iranians gathered Tuesday in the northwestern city of Tabriz to mourn the late President Ebrahim Raisi, who died Sunday in a helicopter crash in the region.
• 'A Symbol Of Murder Gone': Families Of Victims Of Mass Executions Express Relief After Iranian President's Death RFE/RL 21 May 2024 Esmat Vatanparast lost 11 members of her extended family during the mass executions of political prisoners and regime opponents in Iran in the 1980s.
• Iran's rulers crack down on expressions of joy at Raisi's death VOA 21 May 2024 -- Iran's Islamist rulers have begun cracking down on expressions of happiness by their opponents over President Ebrahim Raisi's death Sunday in a helicopter crash.
• Spokeswoman: French President Macron to visit violence-wracked New Caledonia VOA 21 May 2024 -- A French government spokeswoman says President Emmanuel Macron will travel to the violence-wracked Pacific territory of New Caledonia later Tuesday.
• Macron to Visit New Caledonia Amid Ongoing Protests Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- French President Emmanuel Macron will pay a visit to the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia amid ongoing protests on the island over planned electoral reforms, French Cabinet spokesperson Prisca Thevenot said on Tuesday.
• Australia, New Zealand evacuating nationals from New Caledonia amid protests Press TV 21 May 2024 -- Australia and New Zealand are sending planes to New Caledonia to evacuate nationals stranded in the French-ruled territory which has experienced deadly protests calling for independence.
• Australia, New Zealand Arrange Flights to Evacuate Citizens From New Caledonia Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- Australia and New Zealand said on Tuesday that they had arranged flights to evacuate their citizens and other tourists stranded in France's Pacific territory of New Caledonia.
• France to Deploy Troops Around Public Buildings in New Caledonia Due to Protests - Reports Sputnik 21 May 2024 -- France will deploy military personnel around public buildings in France's overseas territory of New Caledonia due to the continuing unrest organized by supporters of the island's independence, French broadcaster BFMTV reported, citing the Elysee Palace.
• Indian Kashmir voting reaches 59% VOA 21 May 2024 -- A voter turnout of 59% was reported Monday in Indian-administered Kashmir during the fifth phase of the Indian general elections. The May 20 polling marks significant progress for the area since the eruption of armed conflict in the region against Indian forces in 1989.
• US watchdog documents hundreds of India election rallies targeting Muslims VOA 21 May 2024 -- Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stirred controversy with his anti-Muslim remarks since Indians began casting ballots in the country's parliamentary elections last month.
• Chinese Foreign Minister Reiterates Beijing's Support For Kazakh Independence RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reiterated Beijing's readiness to "firmly support Kazakhstan's efforts to defend its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity."
• Council Of Europe Commission Denounces Georgia's 'Foreign Agent' Law RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- The Venice Commission of the Council of Europe said it "strongly recommends" that authorities in Georgia abandon efforts to introduce planned "foreign agent" legislation that has been condemned in the West and led to massive street protests in the South Caucasus nation.
• Moldova: Press remarks by High Representative Josep Borrell after the EU-Moldova Association Council European External Action Service (EEAS) 21 May 2024
• Pakistani Student Exodus Damages Kyrgyzstan's Reputation, Causes Economic Fallout RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- Hundreds of Pakistani students have left Kyrgyzstan amid safety fears after mob attacks on South Asians last week left dozens injured in the capital, Bishkek.
• Explainer: Why Mass Labor Exporter Kyrgyzstan Faces Migrant Worker Fear At Home RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- Order a pizza in Moscow and the chances that a Kyrgyz delivery worker will bring it to your door are fairly high. Do the same in Bishkek and it might be a young Pakistani trying to pay his way through medical school.
• Pakistani Students Continue To Leave Kyrgyzstan Following Mob Attacks RFE/RL 21 May 2024 -- Pakistani students are continuing to leave Kyrgyzstan following last weekend's violent mob attacks targeting university students from the South Asian nation who were studying in Bishkek.
• Secretary-General's remarks to the AI Seoul Summit: "Building on the AI Safety Summit: Towards an Innovative and Inclusive Future" UN Secretary-General 21 May 2024
• Habari! White House to welcome Kenyan president VOA 21 May 2024 -- The White House gave three reasons for inviting Kenyan President William Ruto on Thursday to break the 16-year drought during which no African leader has been honored with a pomp-filled state visit.
• Spain recalls ambassador to Argentina after diplomatic dispute VOA 21 May 2024 -- Spain has removed its ambassador to Buenos Aires, saying the action is permanent. The decision Tuesday followed a reported derogatory remark made by Argentine President Javier Milei about Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's wife.
• Fearing rising tides, small island nations gain key win at UN ocean court VOA 21 May 2024 -- The U.N. maritime court has ruled in favor of greater protection of the oceans in the face of climate change in a case brought by small island countries.
• Southern Africa seeks $5.5B in aid to fight El Nino effects VOA 21 May 2024 -- Southern African leaders have launched a $5.5 billion humanitarian aid appeal as the region faces acute grain shortages due to El Nino-induced droughts.
• Severe flooding in Afghanistan hunger hotspots is set to worsen, warns WFP WFP 21 May 2024 -- The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warns that the devastating floods that struck the Northeastern and Northwestern regions of Afghanistan in the past two weeks, impacting more than 80,000 people, are likely to intensify in the coming months, with a significant impact on food security.