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News Reports

Current Operations

• Defense Department Conducts Recover, Repair Mission for Temporary Pier After Heavy Sea States DoD News 28 May 2024 -- The Defense Department is working to recover three of four vessels associated with its temporary humanitarian aid pier in Gaza after rough seas caused the motorized sections to run aground May 25, the Pentagon announced today.
• Pentagon halts aid deliveries from US pier off Gaza's coast VOA 28 May 2024 -- A U.S.-built floating platform off the Gaza coast, made for delivering humanitarian aid to Palestinians, is being temporarily removed after it broke apart in heavy seas, the Pentagon said Tuesday.
• US to suspend Gaza aid deliveries by sea after pier suffers damage: Report Press TV 28 May 2024 -- The US military has suspended aid deliveries by sea to Gaza after bad weather damaged the temporary pier it had set up on the besieged territory's coast, US media reports say.
• A ship attacked in Red Sea off Yemen coast IRNA 28 May 2024 -- A missile attack has damaged a ship in the Red Sea off the coast of Yemen, the private security firm Ambrey reported.
• Our forces target US destroyers: Yemeni Army ISNA 28 May 2024 -- In support of the Palestinian people and response to the American-British aggression against Yemen, the naval forces and the missile forces of the Yemeni Armed Forces carried out three joint operations, according to a statement read by the military spokesman General Yahya Saree.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh Holds a Press Briefing DoD 28 May 2024
• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III Remarks Welcoming Angolan Minister of National Defense Joao Ernesto dos Santos to the Pentagon DoD 28 May 2024
• U.S., Angolan Defense Leaders Discuss Deepening Cooperation DoD News 28 May 2024 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III welcomed Angolan Defense Minister Joao Ernesto dos Santos to the Pentagon today to continue talks begun when Austin visited the African nation in September.
• There and back again: Maryland National Guard Soldier, Senegal native returns home during African Lion 2024 Army News 28 May 2024 -- After more than six years, Maryland National Guardsman Spc. Djibril Diop, a 92Y Supply Specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 175th Infantry Regiment, returned to his native country to provide critical support and help bridge cultural gaps with partner-led training activities in support of exercise African Lion 2024 (AL24).
• 1-62 Air Defense Artillery Battalion to transfer authority of the US Patriot mission to 5-7 Air Defense Artillery Battalion. Army News 28 May 2024 -- The 1st Battalion, 62nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment will transfer authority of the U.S. Patriot mission in Eastern Europe to the 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment on June 17, 2024. The 5-7 ADA rotation signals the U.S. and NATO's ongoing commitment to strengthening the security and defense posture in Eastern Europe.
• National Guard Prepared to Support Local Communities as Hurricane, Wildfire Seasons Approach DoD News 28 May 2024 -- The National Guard remains at the ready to support local communities as states prepare for natural disasters and extreme weather events, officials said today.
• NATO's Logistics Committee discusses how to further strengthen the Alliance's deterrence and defense posture EUCOM 28 May 2024 -- NATO's top logistics body convened at NATO Headquarters in Brussels from May 21-22, 2024, to discuss the efficient movement of forces and equipment for effective deterrence and defense.
• NATO Secretary General: Ukraine's most urgent need is more air defence NATO 28 May 2024 -- NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg participated in a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council of the European Union with EU Defence Ministers on Tuesday (28 May 2024) to discuss continued support to Ukraine and the need to increase defence production.
• Deputy Secretary General: Ukraine can count on NATO for the long haul NATO 28 May 2024 -- NATO Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoană chaired a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council on Tuesday (28 May 2024), urging Allies to dig deeper into their stocks and deliver more military aid to Ukraine.
• Memorandum on Delegation of Authority Under Section 506(a)(1) and Section 614(a)(1) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 The White House 28 May 2024
• NATO Members Divided on Ukraine's Plans to Hit Russia With Western Weapons Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Western powers, who initially supplied Kiev with weapons for defense, now suggest using them to strike deep into Russia.
• On the bandwagon: EU's Borrell joins NATO chief to back Ukraine right to strike Russia Press TV 28 May 2024 -- European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has backed Ukraine's use of Western arms to strike targets in Russian, a day after a similar suggestion by the NATO secretary general.
• Borrell Admits 'Escalation Risk' If Ukraine Strikes Targets in Russia With Western Weapons Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- EU defense ministers will discuss on Tuesday Kiev's strikes on the Russian territory with the use of Western weapons, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Tuesday, saying that there is "risk of escalation."
• 5 European Allies Meet In Prague To Discuss Czech Munitions Drive, Air Defense For Ukraine RFE/RL 28 May 2024 -- The leaders of five European NATO states reaffirmed their support for Ukraine on May 28 at a meeting in Prague where the main focus was a Czech plan to procure up to 800,000 artillery shells from countries outside the European Union and provide them to Ukraine.
• Estonian Minister of Defence: Europe must be ready to increase training for Ukrainians to 100,000 fighters Estonia MoD 28 May 2024 -- At the meeting of European Union defense ministers held in Brussels today, discussions focused on military support for Ukraine and Europe's defense readiness. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg also participated in the discussion.
• The Netherlands spearheads initiative to jointly deliver Patriot system for Ukraine, calls on other European nations to contribute Netherlands Ministry of Defence 28 May 2024 -- The Dutch government proposes to quickly assemble a Patriot air defense system in close cooperation with several partners and deliver it to Ukraine. The Netherlands will contribute core components and parts from its stock and invites European countries to add components from theirs.
• Poland Not Excluding Sending Troops to Ukraine in Future - Foreign Ministry Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Poland did not send troops to Ukraine, but does not rule out such an option in the future, Polish Foreign Ministry spokesman Pawel Wronski said on Tuesday.
• Belgium Pledges $1 Billion In Military Aid, 30 F-16s For Ukraine RFE/RL 28 May 2024 -- Belgium will deliver 977 million euros ($1 billion) in military aid and 30 F-16 fighter jets for Ukraine under a 10-year bilateral security agreement signed by President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo on May 28 in Brussels.
• Ukraine will acquire F-16 fighter jets 'very soon': Defense minister Press TV 28 May 2024 -- Ukraine will receive US-made F-16 fighter jets "very soon"' but half of the assistance package is being delivered late, the defense minister says.
• Belgium to Supply Ukraine With 30 F-16 Jets by 2028 - Foreign Minister Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Belgium will supply Ukraine with 30 F-16 fighter jets by 2028, with the first aircraft expected to arrive before the end of this year, Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib said on Tuesday.
• Macron: Ukraine Should Be Allowed to Hit Only Russian Facilities Used to Shell It Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- The French president's comments on Tuesday come after NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg urged member nations to allow Ukraine to use their weapons to target Russian territory.
• Concept design partners announced for South Australia's new nuclear-powered submarine construction yard Australia DOD 28 May 2024 -- The Albanese Government continues to progress Australia's conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarine program, today announcing the concept design partners for South Australia's new Nuclear-Powered Submarine Construction Yard (NPSCY).
• North Korea blames 'new-type engine' for satellite launch failure Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- North Korea's latest attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite was unsuccessful because of a problem with the reliability of a new rocket, which led to a mid-air explosion during the first-stage flight, state media reported on Tuesday.
• North Korea failed satellite launch on 27 May 2024: FCDO statement UK FCDO 28 May 2024 -- Following North Korea's failed satellite launch on 27 May, a Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson gave a statement.
• DPRK: Statement by the Spokesperson on the attempted satellite launch European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024 -- The EU strongly condemns the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) launch using ballistic military technology that occurred on 27 May. This launch constituted a clear and flagrant violation of relevant UN Security Council Resolutions.
• EU Defence Ministers approve reinforced mandate for EDA European Defence Agency 28 May 2024-- Today, at the Steering Board of the European Defence Agency (EDA), the 27 EU Ministers of Defence approved the Agency's 2024 Long-Term Review (LTR).As strategic guidance given to EDA, the 2024 LTR outlines five core tasks for the Agency with a stronger focus on supporting Member States through the full development cycle of military capabilities.
• Security and Defence: EU and Norway sign new partnership European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024 -- On 28 May, the EU and Norway signed a Security and Defence Partnership. The declaration was signed by the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, on behalf of the European Union and by the Norwegian Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defence.
• Borrell in Favor of Poland's Proposal of Common EU Air Defense Shield Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said on Tuesday that he supports the proposal put forward by Poland to create a common European air defense system.
• It is in everyone's shared interest to strengthen the European defence industry, says Minister of National Defence L. Kasčiūnas Lithuania MND 28 May 2024 -- Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasčiūnas attended the European Foreign Affairs Council (Defence), Brussels, which focused on strengthening European defense capabilities, defence cooperation and EU assistance to Ukraine.
• U.S. deploys 10th rotational battalion to Pabradė Lithuania MND 28 May 2024
• Minister Sikorski meets International Special Envoy for the Implementation of EU Sanctions David O'Sullivan Poland - Ministry of Foreign Affairs 28 May 2024 -- Today's talks focused on domestic initiatives to combat the circumvention of sanctions imposed on Russia in response to its aggression against Ukraine as well as on exchanging information on the latest ways in which third countries are circumventing sanctions. Also discussed were possible ways of strengthening the EU response to these actions.
• Cambodia, China 'rescue hostages' at the end of joint naval drills Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- The Cambodian and Chinese navies have wrapped up their largest joint drills to date in the Gulf of Thailand which included a mock hostage rescue, Cambodia's defense ministry said.
• Secretary Blinken's Call with Sudanese Armed Forces General Burhan US Dept. of State 28 May 2024
• Press Briefing by Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre and National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby The White House 28 May 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For May 28, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 28 May 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 28 May 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Press Briefing About Recent Events in Rafah by IDF Spokesperson RAdm. Daniel Hagari-May 28, 2024 Israel Defense Forces 28 May 2024
• PM Netanyahu visited IDF Northern District Intelligence Branch base Israel - Prime Minister 28 May 2024 -- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited IDF Northern District Intelligence Branch base, together with Intelligence Branch Commander Maj.-Gen. Aharon Haliva and Unit 8200 Commander Brig.-Gen. Y.
• Israel Tells US That Precision Munition Was Used in Strike on Gaza's Rafah - Reports Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Israel informed US President Joe Biden's administration that it had used a precision munition to hit a target in Rafah in the strike that caused deaths in a camp for displaced Palestinians, but the explosion from the strike ignited a fuel tank and caused fire in the camp, CNN reported, citing a US official.
• Zionist war cabinet agrees to stop Rafah invasion: Media IRNA 28 May 2024 -- Reports by several Israeli media outlets claim that the members of the Zionist regime's war cabinet have reached a consensus to stop the military incursion into the southern Gaza city of Rafah and rather focus on the prisoner exchange negotiations.
• Ex-Mossad Chief Threatened Ex-ICC Prosecutor Over Probe Against Israel - Reports Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Yossi Cohen, during his capacity as the director of Israel's Mossad, has allegedly tried to pressure the International Criminal Court's prosecutor at the time, Fatou Bensouda, into dropping a war crimes investigation in occupied Palestinian territories, The Guardian reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter.
• Israeli spy chief allegedly threatened ICC prosecutor over war crimes inquiry IRNA 28 May 2024 -- The former Director of Mossad, the national intelligence agency of Israel, reportedly threatened the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in a series of secret meetings aimed at pressuring her to abandon a war crimes investigation.
• Israel's ex-Mossad chief 'threatened' ICC prosecutor over war crimes case Press TV 28 May 2024 -- Former chief of the Israeli Mossad spy agency Yossi Cohen has "threatened" Fatou Bensouda, a chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), over a 2021 war crimes probe, pressuring her to drop the case, a report says.
• Israel confirms "shooting incident" at Egyptian border People's Daily 28 May 2024 -- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed a "shooting incident" occurred "on the Egyptian border," after Israeli media reported an exchange of fire erupted between Israeli and Egyptian soldiers at the Rafah crossing on Monday.
• May 27: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 28 May 2024
• At least 20 killed in new Israeli strike on Rafah tent camp IRNA 28 May 2024 -- A fresh Israeli strike on a tent camp in a designated humanitarian area in Gaza's southern city of Rafah have killed at least 20 displaced Palestinians.
• Israel attacks another tent camp as its tanks intrude into Rafah Press TV 28 May 2024 -- The Israeli regime has carried out another attack on a tented camp in Rafah, killing at least 21 displaced Palestinians.
• Health care under attack as conflict escalates in Gaza VOA 28 May 2024 -- U.N. officials warn medicine and fuel supplies in Gaza are drying up as humanitarian workers struggle to provide life-saving care to an ever-expanding population of sick and wounded.
• Guterres 'heartbroken' by images of deadly strikes on Rafah camp UN News 28 May 2024 -- As fighting continues in Gaza, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said on Tuesday that he was "heartbroken" by images of people killed and injured in airstrikes on Sunday that hit tents sheltering displaced Palestinians in Rafah.
• Gaza: Rafah camp attack heightens focus on dwindling health resources UN News 28 May 2024 -- UN agencies on Tuesday reiterated their call for an urgent ceasefire and humanitarian access in Gaza following Israeli air strikes on Sunday that hit a camp for displaced Palestinians in Rafah, killing 45 people, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.
• Briefing Notes- Press Briefing- Office of the UN Secretary General- Juliette TOUMA, UNRWA Director of Communications/ Amman, Jordan UNRWA 28 May 2024
• 1,000s will die in Gaza if they don't receive treatment, WHO warns Press TV 28 May 2024 -- More people will die waiting for treatment in the besieged Gaza Strip if Israel continues its campaign of death and destruction in the border city of Rafah, the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned.
• 1 million Palestinians have fled Rafah in 3 weeks: UNRWA Press TV 28 May 2024 -- The United Nations Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA) says virtually one million people have fled the southern city of Rafah in the past three weeks.
• 'Most cruel abomination': UN blasts Rafah carnage as EU weighs sanctions on Israel Press TV 28 May 2024 -- The United Nations humanitarian chief has hit out at Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu for claiming that the recent deadly aerial assault in the southern Gaza Strip was a "mistake," saying the carnage was possibly the "most cruel abomination."
• US urges Israel to fully investigate deadly strike in Rafah camp VOA 28 May 2024 -- The United States expressed "deep concern" Tuesday over an apparent Israeli airstrike Sunday that killed at least 45 Palestinians sheltering in a refugee camp in Rafah and wounded 200 others. The U.S. said it has urged Israel to conduct a full investigation.
• Iran's acting FM urges Muslim elite's pressure on Israel to end Gaza brutalities Press TV 28 May 2024 -- Iran's acting Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani has called upon scholars in the Muslim world to explore all available avenues and exert more pressure on the Israeli regime in order to stop its onslaught against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
• Norway recognises Palestine today Government of Norway 28 May 2024 -- 'For over 30 years, Norway has been one of the strongest advocates of a Palestinian state. Norway's recognition of Palestine as a state today represents a milestone in Norwegian-Palestinian relations,' said Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide.
• Opening statement by Minister Eide at meeting on implementing the Two-State solution Government of Norway 28 May 2024 -- Opening statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Espen Barth Eide at meeting on 'Efforts to Implement the Two-State solution, including the question of recognition', Brussels, 26 May 2024.
• Spain's prime minister says recognizing Palestinian state only path to peace VOA 28 May 2024 -- Spain, Norway and Ireland recognized a Palestinian state Tuesday, joining more than 140 other nations in a step sharply criticized by Israel.
• Spain, Ireland, Norway formally recognize State of Palestine Press TV 28 May 2024 -- Spain, Ireland and Norway have recognized a Palestinian state, deepening the Israeli regime's isolation.
• Spain, Norway, Ireland Formally Recognize Palestinian Statehood Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Spain, Norway and Ireland officially recognized Palestinian statehood on Tuesday, formalizing the decision they announced last week in a bid to pressure Israel into ending its Gaza onslaught.
• Israel urged to end attack amid intl outcry over Rafah strike Global Times 28 May 2024 -- China is seriously concerned about Israel's attack on Rafah and strongly urges Israel to listen to the international community's calls and stop the attacks, a spokesperson from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said after an Israeli attack on a Rafah tent camp stirred another wave of international condemnation and rage. Chinese experts said Palestine's plight is laid bare by the latest attack from Israel, and such exposure may lead to more international support in the near future.
• Zionist regime faces int'l condemnations over Rafah massacre IRNA 28 May 2024 -- International reactions and condemnations keep pouring in over Sunday's massacre of displaced Palestinians by the Zionist regime in a refugee camp in the city of Rafah, the southern Gaza Strip.
• Arab League's chief slams Israeli bombing on camp in Gaza's Rafah People's Daily 28 May 2024 -- Secretary-General of the League of Arab States (AL) Ahmed Aboul-Gheit on Monday criticized Israel for bombing tents for the displaced Palestinians in the southern Gazan city of Rafah.
• Mideast countries, Islamic body condemn Israel's strikes on Rafah camp People's Daily 28 May 2024 -- Countries in the Middle East on Monday strongly condemned Israel's airstrike on tents housing displaced civilians in northwestern Rafah of the Gaza Strip, which resulted in the deaths of at least 45 Palestinians and injuries to numerous others.
• Palestinian presidency says ready to work on reopening Rafah crossing People's Daily 28 May 2024 -- The Palestinian presidency expressed on Monday its readiness to immediately work on reopening the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt.
• Rafah massacres will speed up Israel's collapse: Nasrallah IRNA 28 May 2024 -- The secretary general of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement has strongly condemned the Israeli regime's new massacres in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, saying the crimes will speed up the fall of the occupying entity.
• Hezbollah launches missile strike against Israeli military base IRNA 28 May 2024 -- Lebanese resistance movement Hezbollah has carried out a missile attack against an Israeli base in the northern parts of occupied Palestine.
• Resistance drones target Israeli positions in occupied territories IRNA 28 May 2024 -- Iraq's Islamic Resistance and Lebanon's Hezbollah Movement have launched fresh drones toward Israeli military and other targets in the occupied Palestinian territories.
• Iraqi Resistance drones target Eilat once again ISNA 28 May 2024 -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq announced on Tuesday the carrying out of an attack targeting a vital Israeli target in occupied Umm al-Rashash [Eilat] in southern occupied Palestine.
• Iraqi resistance strikes vital Israeli target, military sites in Eilat Press TV 28 May 2024 -- The Islamic Resistance in Iraq has launched two separate drone strikes against a strategic target and military installations in the southernmost part of the 1948 Israeli-occupied territories, in support of Palestinians amid the Tel Aviv regime's onslaught against Gaza.

Other Conflicts

• With Rising Conflicts Worldwide, Human Rights Rollbacks, Women, Youth Must Have Greater Participation in Peacebuilding Efforts, Speakers Tell Security Council UN Security Council 28 May 2024 -- From Gaza and Ukraine to Sudan and Afghanistan, women, youth and children are bearing the brunt of conflicts, war and an ever-increasing global rollback of human rights, the Security Council heard today, as speakers outlined best practices to improve the participation of women and young people in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
• Philippines urged to stop hyping China's moves on upgrading ecological conservation and law enforcement Global Times 28 May 2024 -- The Philippines' recent hype and sensationalization of China's implementation of the annual fishing ban in the South China Sea and the new China Coast Guard (CCG) regulations are fueling tensions between the two countries amid already strained ties.
• Taliban push for normalizing male-only higher education VOA 28 May 2024 -- In coming weeks, tens of thousands of students in Afghanistan are set to sit for university entrance examinations.
• Houthis Attack 3 US, Israeli Ships in Red Sea, Indian Ocean - Spokesperson Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Yemen's rebel Ansar Allah movement, also known as the Houthis, attacked three US and Israeli merchant ships, as well as two US destroyers, in the Indian Ocean and Red Sea, Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said.
• Brussels VIII Conference renews international support for Syria and the region raising more than €7.5 billion European Commission 28 May 2024 -- On 27 May, during the eighth edition of the Brussels Conference on 'Supporting the future of Syria and the region' hosted by the European Union, the donor community pledged a total amount of €7.5 billion.
• UN launches probe into burning alive of 2 rebel fighters in Myanmar Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- The United Nations' investigative unit has called on Myanmar's ruling junta to provide information about two young men in Magway region who were burned alive by junta forces, to build a criminal case against the perpetrators.
• Myanmar's junta kills 4 villagers following mass arrest Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- Junta troops and members of an affiliated militia killed four civilians in central Myanmar shortly after they and 19 other people were rounded up in a sweep as troops hunted for insurgents battling to end military rule, residents told Radio Free Asia on Tuesday.
• EU allocates €201 million in humanitarian aid for Sahel and Africa's Lake Chad countries European Commission 28 May 2024 -- The Commission is providing €201 million in EU humanitarian funding to address the needs of the most vulnerable people affected by the humanitarian crisis in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, Mali, Mauritania, Niger and Nigeria. The announcement comes on the occasion of the Senior Officials Meeting on Sahel and Lake Chad, attended today by Commissioner Janez Lenarčič in Brussels.
• China-Vietnam government delegations convene for border negotiations in Kunming Global Times 28 May 2024 -- Chinese and Vietnamese government delegations convened for border negotiations in Kunming, Southwest China's Yunnan Province, on Tuesday.
• China cracks down on Tibetans during holy month Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- Chinese authorities have instructed Tibetan students, government workers and retirees to refrain from engaging in religious activities in Tibet's capital Lhasa during the Buddhist holy month of Saga Dawa, four sources said.
• Spain Says Its Decision Not To Recognize Kosovo Unchanged After Deciding To Recognize Palestinian State RFE/RL 28 May 2024 -- Spain's position on recognizing Kosovo's independence from Serbia remains unchanged, the Spanish Foreign Ministry said May 28 after announcing Madrid's decision to recognize a Palestinian state.
• Russian Forces Rescue Chadian Soldiers From Militant Captivity in Joint Operation Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- The Chadian Defense Minister thanked Russia for its role, emphasizing its reliability as an African partner unlike France, the UK, and the US, which he claimed solely sought to exploit African nations.
• Ruto declares ironclad support for Haiti in exclusive interview VOA 28 May 2024 -- Kenyan President William Ruto says Nairobi has met all legal and constitutional requirements to deploy troops to Haiti to help the Caribbean nation out of political and socioeconomic turmoil.
• Bosnian Serbs Withdraw 'Foreign Agent' Law From Assembly Agenda RFE/RL 28 May 2024 -- The government of Republika Srpska has withdrawn a controversial proposed "foreign agent" law from the agenda of the National Assembly.
• Rights groups hold national mourning for victims of mass atrocities VOA 28 May 2024 -- Representatives from more than 80 civil society and rights organizations in Nigeria held a moment of silence May 28 to remember some 9,000 people who have died in the last year due to various forms of violence.

News Reports

• Information manipulation in Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine: EU lists two individuals and one entity European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024 -- Today the Council decided to impose restrictive measures against two individuals and one entity responsible for conducting propaganda actions targeted at civil society in the EU and its neighbouring countries, gravely distorting and manipulating facts in order to justify and support Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
• China's state security authority refutes hypes of phone checks at border Global Times 28 May 2024 -- China's Ministry of State Security issued a bilingual article on Tuesday, refuting claims hyped by certain overseas anti-China forces that travelers will be subject to phone checks at the Chinese border as absolutely preposterous. The ministry also emphasized that checks upon entry will only be conducted under specific circumstances, with specific targets and procedures in accordance with laws.
• Designating Cybercrime Network Associated with 911 S5 Malicious Botnet US Dept. of State 28 May 2024 -- The United States is designating three People's Republic of China nationals for activities associated with a malicious botnet known as 911 S5 as well as three entities located in Thailand for being owned or controlled by one of these individuals.
• Treasury Sanctions a Cybercrime Network Associated with the 911 S5 Botnet US Treasury 28 May 2024 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated three individuals, Yunhe Wang, Jingping Liu, and Yanni Zheng, for their activities associated with the malicious botnet tied to the residential proxy service known as 911 S5. OFAC also sanctioned three entities—Spicy Code Company Limited, Tulip Biz Pattaya Group Company Limited, and Lily Suites Company Limited—for being owned or controlled by Yunhe Wang.
• Alleged Sinaloa Cartel Leader and Lead Assassin Extradited from Mexico to the United States on Drug Importation, Murder, Kidnapping, Firearms, and Money Laundering Charges US Dept. of Justice 28 May 2024 -- Alleged Sinaloa Cartel leader and lead sicario, or assassin, Néstor Isidro Pérez Salas, also known as El Nini, 32, of Mexico, was extradited on May 25 from Mexico to the United States to face charges contained in two indictments.
• WHO Member States agree way forward to conclude Pandemic Agreement WHO 28 May 2024 -- The World Health Assembly (WHA) today recognized the progress made over the past two years by Member States to develop a pandemic agreement and strengthen the International Health Regulations (IHR, 2005).
• MONEYVAL publishes follow-up reports on Bulgaria, the Holy See and San Marino Council of Europe 28 May 2024 -- The Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism (MONEYVAL) has published three follow-up reports evaluating progress by Bulgaria, the Holy See (including the Vatican City State) and San Marino in implementing the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations.
• Bulgaria strengthened its preventive framework to combat money laundering and financing of terrorism, says Council of Europe body Council of Europe 28 May 2024 -- Bulgaria has improved its measures for tackling money laundering and combating financing of terrorism, concludes MONEYVAL in a follow-up report released today.
• The Holy See (including Vatican City State) improved Anti-Money Laundering and combating the financing of terrorism measures with respect to banking and legal persons Council of Europe 28 May 2024 -- The Holy See (including Vatican City State) has improved its measures for tackling money laundering and combating financing of terrorism, concludes MONEYVAL in a follow-up report released today.
• San Marino strengthened its sanctions for breaches of application of some of the Anti-Money Laundering and Combating the Financing of terrorism measures Council of Europe 28 May 2024 -- San Marino has improved its measures for tackling money laundering and terrorist financing, concludes MONEYVAL in a follow-up report released today.
• Answers to media questions following the visit to Uzbekistan President of Russia 28 May 2024 -- Vladimir Putin answered questions from the Russian media following his state visit to the Republic of Uzbekistan. The press availability took place at Tashkent Airport.
• Excerpts from Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's remarks at the meeting with participants of the Time of Heroes programme, Solnechnogorsk, May 28, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 28 May 2024
• G7 Lacks Consensus on Frozen Russian Assets - US Official Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- The members of G7 do not have a consensus on how to deal with frozen Russian assets, US Deputy National Security Advisor for International Economics Daleep Singh said on Tuesday.
• EU adopts new sanctions regime against repression in Russia Government Offices of Sweden 28 May 2024 -- The EU has adopted a new sanctions regime in response to increasing political repression in Russia. In light of the decision, 19 natural persons and one entity have been added to the sanctions list.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on May 28, 2024 PRC MofA 28 May 2024
• 2nd round of China-US maritime affairs consultations held Global Times 28 May 2024 -- China and the US held the second round of China-US maritime affairs consultations via video link on Friday, according to a readout issued by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday.
• China, Equatorial Guinea elevate partnership, to inspire more in West Africa Global Times 28 May 2024 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, president of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, in Beijing on Tuesday, and the two heads of state announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination.
• HK police arrests six people on suspicion of violating Safeguarding National Security Ordinance Global Times 28 May 2024 -- Hong Kong police arrested six people on Tuesday on suspicion of violating the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, which took effect on March 23. This is also the first arrest operation enforced since the law came into effect.
• Hong Kong police arrest six people for 'seditious' Facebook posts Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- Police in Hong Kong on Tuesday arrested jailed human rights lawyer Chow Hang-tung and five other people — the first arrests to be made under the recently passed Article 23 security law — for making social media posts with "seditious intent" ahead of the anniversary of the June 4, 1989, Tiananmen Square massacre.
• Hong Kong police arrest six on seditious intent charges VOA 28 May 2024 -- The Hong Kong national security police on Tuesday arrested six people for alleged seditious intent under a new security law. The group includes five women and one man.
• China dismisses activists' calls for US Congress to close Hong Kong offices VOA 28 May 2024 -- China's Embassy in Washington has dismissed calls by Hong Kong activists for the city's economic and trade offices to be closed in the United States.
• Don't talk to media, Tiananmen massacre families warned ahead of June 4 anniversary Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- Chinese authorities have ordered relatives of those who died in the 1989 Tiananmen massacre not to give media interviews, while veteran activists who took part in the pro-democracy movement that year are slapped with restrictions as part of a nationwide "stability maintenance" operation ahead of the 35th anniversary of the bloodshed, Radio Free Asia has learned.
• Shanghai announces major policy measures to boost housing market Global Times 28 May 2024 -- Shanghai announced on Monday that it will take a series of measures to optimize the local real estate market and promote stable and sound development, including relaxing certain restrictions on home purchases and reducing financial requirements. Experts said it will offer a significant boost for the housing market.
• US refutes China's characterization of UN Resolution 2758 VOA 28 May 2024 -- The United States said on Tuesday that United Nations Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, does not endorse the People's Republic of China's sovereignty claim over Taiwan, following Taiwan's exclusion from this week's World Health Assembly sessions.
• Taiwan's parliament passes controversial bills seen as limiting government's mandate VOA 28 May 2024 -- Taiwan's opposition-controlled parliament has passed a set of legal amendments granting lawmakers greater investigative power to scrutinize the government under President Lai Ching-te, who took office on May 20.
• Third reading of major part of 'legislative reform' bills passed CNA 28 May 2024 -- The Legislature on Tuesday passed the third reading of amendments to the Law Governing the Legislature's Power, including imposing fines for contempt of the Legislature and a provision whereby the president will be "invited" to give an annual report to the Legislature.
• European countries, allies express support for Taiwan as WHA opens CNA 28 May 2024 -- Taiwan's diplomatic allies and a number of European countries spoke up in support of its inclusion in the World Health Assembly (WHA) on its opening day Monday.
• Legislative reforms will strengthen Taiwan's democracy: Ko Wen-je CNA 28 May 2024 -- A package of opposition-backed bills to expand the powers of Taiwan's Legislature will strengthen the country's democracy, Taiwan People's Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) said Tuesday.
• WHA rejects Taiwan-related proposal again, proving 'Taiwan independence' is a dead end Global Times 28 May 2024 -- The fact that World Health Assembly (WHA) has rejected Taiwan-related proposal for eight consecutive years has repeatedly proved that "Taiwan independence" is a dead end, Chen Xu, permanent representative of China to the United Nations (UN) Office in Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland, said on Monday.
• World Health Assembly once again rejects Taiwan-related proposal People's Daily 28 May 2024 -- The World Health Assembly (WHA), the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO), decided on Monday not to include in its agenda a proposal on Taiwan's participation in the annual assembly as an observer.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan May 28, 2024 ROC MND 28 May 2024
• China Urges US to Respect Sovereignty of Neighboring Nations Amid Tensions Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Beijing has urged the United States to avoid interfering in maritime disputes between China and its neighboring countries and creating regional blocks aimed at deterring China at sea, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday.
• US, South Korea defend joint drills against Russia's criticism supporting North Korea VOA 28 May 2024 -- Washington and Seoul defended their joint military drills as crucial for maintaining security in East Asia, pushing back against Russia's criticism of the exercises in support of North Korea.
• North Korea sends poop-filled balloons into South, media report VOA 28 May 2024 -- North Korea appears to have made good on its threat to float feces-carrying balloons into South Korea, according to local media reports.
• US concerned over Iran's enriched uranium stockpile VOA 28 May 2024 -- The U.S. State Department is concerned about Iran's nuclear program following a confidential report Monday from the International Atomic Energy Agency that said Iran has amassed more highly enriched uranium.
• Qalibaf reinstated as speaker of Iran parliament IRNA 28 May 2024 -- The legislators of the new Iranian parliament have reinstated Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf as the parliament speaker.
• Ghalibaf re-elected as Iran's parliament speaker ISNA 28 May 2024 -- Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf elected as the speaker of the 12th parliament of the Islamic Republic of Iran for a one-year period.
• Qalibaf re-elected as Iran's parliament speaker Press TV 28 May 2024 -- Iran's parliament has re-elected Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf as its speaker for a one-year period.
• Iran to continue policy of deepening ties with neighbors: Acting FM IRNA 28 May 2024 -- Referring to the meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Oman, Iran's Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs Ali Bagheri Kani stated that the policy of strengthening and deepening relations with neighbors will continue.
• Iran: Strong bonds among neighbors will lead to expulsion of outsiders from region ISNA 28 May 2024 -- Iran's Interim Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani says stronger bonds and ties among the neighboring states are the only way to expel foreigners from the West Asia region.
• Georgian parliament overrides veto of controversial foreign agent law VOA 28 May 2024 -- Georgia's parliament on Tuesday overrode the president's veto of a controversial foreign agent law, despite protests at home and criticism in Western capitals, including a U.S. threat to impose sanctions.
• Georgian Parliament Votes To Override Presidential Veto Of 'Foreign Agent' Law RFE/RL 28 May 2024 -- Georgian lawmakers approved an override of President Salome Zurabishvili's veto of the so-called "foreign agent" law, angering protesters gathered outside parliament and jeopardizing the country's drive toward the European Union.
• Situation in Georgia: Statement by the Secretary General Council of Europe 28 May 2024
• Georgia: Statement by the High Representative with the European Commission on the final adoption of the law on transparency of foreign influence European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024 -- The European Union deeply regrets that the Georgian Parliament decided to override the President's veto on the law on transparency of foreign influence, and to disregard the Venice Commission's detailed legal arguments leading to a clear recommendation to repeal this law.
• Statement by the High Representative with the European Commission on the final adoption of the law on transparency of foreign influence in Georgia European Commission 28 May 2024 -- "The European Union deeply regrets that the Georgian Parliament decided to override the President's veto on the law on transparency of foreign influence, and to disregard the Venice Commission's detailed legal arguments leading to a clear recommendation to repeal this law."
• Statement by Minister for Foreign Affairs Tobias Billström Government Offices of Sweden 28 May 2024 -- "In Georgia, the ruling majority has decided to override the President's veto and adopt the law on foreign influence despite large protests, unequivocal calls by the international community and the Venice Commission's recommendation to repeal it."
• Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia concerning the final adoption of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence in Georgia Latvia MFA 28 May 2024 -- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia deeply regrets the final adoption of the Law on Transparency of Foreign Influence by the Georgian Parliament despite strong internal and international calls to repeal the law, including the veto of the President of Georgia and the Venice Commission Opinion.
• Foreign Affairs Council (Defence): Press remarks by High Representative Josep Borrell after the meeting European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024
• Foreign Affairs Council: Press remarks by High Representative Josep Borrell upon arrival European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024
• Foreign Affairs Council (Defence): Press remarks by High Representative Josep Borrell upon arrival European External Action Service (EEAS) 28 May 2024
• Franco-German Ministerial Council - For a strong and sovereign Europe Germany - Federal Government 28 May 2024 -- France and Germany are allies who both share European values. Federal Chancellor Scholz emphasised this fact at the Franco-German Ministerial Council in Schloss Meseberg. He thanked French President Macron for his historic state visit to Germany and said that together, they would continue to support Ukraine and strengthen Europe's security.
• Black voters in South Africa's Western Cape keep quiet about support for opposition VOA 28 May 2024 -- The run-up to South Africa's general elections Wednesday has been mostly peaceful but not without incident. In Western Cape province, the opposition Democratic Alliance, or DA, accused rival parties of trying to intimidate voters in February by chanting violent slogans and brandishing weapons at voter registration locations. For years, some black voters in the province have been scared of being attacked if they admit to supporting the white-led DA.
• Analysts say South Africa's election won't be business as usual for the African National Congress VOA 28 May 2024 -- While some voters know who they'll be casting their ballots for on Wednesday's elections in South Africa, others are still undecided.
• Pakistan arrests 11 involved in attack on Chinese nationals People's Daily 28 May 2024 -- Pakistan's National Counter-Terrorism Authority Coordinator Muhammad Tahir Rai said Sunday that security forces have arrested 11 suspects accused involved in an attack on Chinese nationals in March this year.
• US announces measures to help over 11,000 Cuban small businesses VOA 28 May 2024 -- The United States announced regulatory changes on Tuesday to increase support for the Cuban people and independent private sector entrepreneurs. The changes will enable more U.S. financial support for small private businesses in Cuba, enhance internet-based services on the island and broaden access to financial services.
• Senior Administration Officials on the Cuba OFAC Rollout US Dept. of State 28 May 2024
• Treasury Amends Regulations to Increase Support for the Cuban People and Independent Private Sector Entrepreneurs US Treasury 28 May 2024 -- Today, the Department of the Treasury's (Treasury) Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) amended the Cuban Assets Control Regulations, 31 CFR part 515, (CACR) to further implement the policy announced by the Biden-Harris Administration on May 16, 2022 to increase support for the Cuban people. These regulatory amendments update and clarify authorizations in support of internet-based services to promote internet freedom in Cuba, support independent Cuban private sector entrepreneurs, and expand access to certain financial services for the Cuban people. These regulatory amendments will become effective upon publication in the Federal Register on May 28, 2024.
• Amid US flirtation, Cambodia stresses 'steel' ties to China Radio Free Asia 28 May 2024 -- Just days before a visit by U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen said Tuesday his son's new government will maintain Phnom Penh's "steel" ties to Beijing.
• Argentine President Appoints New Prime Minister Sputnik 28 May 2024 -- Argentine President Javier Milei has accepted the resignation of Nicolas Posse from the post of prime minister and appointed Interior Minister Guillermo Francos as the new head of the country's government, the presidential press service said on Tuesday.
• World News in Brief: Menstrual hygiene day, Guterres condemns DPRK missile launch, conflict in Sudan UN News 28 May 2024 -- Today marks World Menstrual Hygiene Day and a joint report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) highlights the lack of access millions of schoolgirls have to products, services and appropriate facilities.
• Former head of Dutch intelligence set to become new prime minister VOA 28 May 2024 -- The former head of Dutch intelligence and immigration services is perched to be the right-wing coalition candidate for the Netherlands' new prime minister, replacing outgoing Prime Minister Mark Rutte.
• Former Malta prime minister pleads not guilty in corruption case VOA 28 May 2024 -- A former prime minister of Malta pleaded not guilty on Tuesday alongside two of his aides to bribery and other charges involving a hospital corruption case.
• Indonesia's proposals to update broadcast law raise alarms VOA 28 May 2024 -- Planned revisions to Indonesia's broadcasting bill that include restrictions on investigative journalism are raising concerns among journalists and free expression analysts.