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Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
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Other Conflicts
News Reports

Current Operations

• First C-17 Withdrawal Flight Departs from Niger AFRICOM 13 Jun 2024 -- The withdrawal of U.S. forces and assets from Niger progressed from initial preparations to redeployment with the departure of a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III aircraft from Air Base 101 in Niamey on June 7, 2024.
• June 13 U.S. Central Command Update CENTCOM 13 Jun 2024 -- In the past 24 hours, U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) forces successfully destroyed one air defense sensor in a Houthi controlled area of Yemen.
• Houthis Strike M/V Verbena in Gulf of Aden, USS Philippine Sea Medically Evacuates Injured Mariner CENTCOM 13 Jun 2024 -- Today the Iranian-backed Houthis launched two anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCM) into the Gulf of Aden. Both missiles struck M/V Verbena, a Palauan-flagged, Ukrainian-owned, Polish-operated bulk cargo carrier. M/V Verbena most recently docked in Malaysia and was enroute to Italy carrying wood construction material.
• Houthi attacks take steady toll on international shipping VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Unrelenting attacks on international shipping by Iran-backed Houthi militants in Yemen are taking a toll on commerce and aid efforts despite attempts by the United States and its partners to dampen the effects.
• US, UK launch fresh strikes on Yemen's Hudaydah Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- The United States and Britain have carried out three aerial assaults on Yemen's western city of Hudaydah.
• Fresh American, British aggression against Yemen IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The US and the UK have conducted multiple airstrikes overnight Wednesday on western Yemen in yet another act of aggression against the Arab country over its support for the oppressed Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
• Russia Condemns US, UK 'Pointless Strikes' in Red Sea Sputnik 13 Jun 2024 -- Russia condemns the United States' and United Kingdom's strikes in the Red Sea and considers them "pointless," Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Vassily Nebenzia said on Thursday.
• DIA Report Details Effects of Houthi Attacks on Commercial Shipping DIA 13 Jun 2024 -- The Defense Intelligence Agency has released a new report detailing how Houthi maritime attacks have affected international trade supported by an expansion of military capabilities with help from Iran.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Charles "CQ" Brown Jr Hold a Press Conference DoD 13 Jun 2024
• U.S. and Botswana to Co-Host African Chiefs of Defense Conference AFRICOM 13 Jun 2024 -- The United States and Botswana will co-host the 2024 African Chiefs of Defense Conference in Gaborone the last week of June, bringing together top military leaders from across Africa to exchange knowledge, encourage partnerships, and foster collaboration toward addressing shared security and stability challenges.
• AFCENT's Task Force-99 focuses efforts on partner nation integration CENTCOM 13 Jun 2024 -- What does the future warfighter look like? What uniform will they wear? Will they integrate with artificial intelligence? There are a lot of unknowns about the future fight, but there is one certainty: to continue generating combat airpower, the U.S. Air Force and their mission partners need to innovate here and now.
• The end of an era; the 350th EARS flies their last scheduled KC-135 deployment CENTCOM 13 Jun 2024 -- In a world with an ever-changing battlefield, one need stays the same. Rapid global mobility is the key to every weapon in the U.S. Air Force's arsenal. From refueling the fighters that maintain peace and stability throughout the globe to delivering humanitarian aid where it's needed most- air mobility assets make it happen.
• Skagen Welcomes USS Wasp US Navy 13 Jun 2024 -- Skagen, Denmark, is a small town of less than 15,000 people and is the most northern town in the country. It's a quiet summer town built around fishing and tourism; a city not used to hosting U.S. Navy warships.
• First Royal Australian Navy Enlisted Sailors Begin Training at U.S. Submarine School US Navy 13 Jun 2024 -- The U.S. Naval Submarine School in Groton welcomed its first cadre of nine enlisted sailors and the second cadre of three officers from the Royal Australian Navy on June 3rd and 10th respectively. These 12 Australians will train alongside their American counterparts to operate conventionally armed, nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs).
• SECNAV Travels to Chile; Meets with Key Military Leaders US Navy Press Release 13 Jun 2024 -- Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro underscored the Navy's commitment to the strong and enduring partnership between Chile and the United States during a visit June 11-13.
• NATO: 300,000 troops 'on high readiness' for war with Russia Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- NATO leaders have agreed to keep 300,000 troops ready in the event of a potential major war with Russia.
• Deputy Defence Minister of the Russian Federation Aleksandr Fomin meets with Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India in the Russian Federation Vinay Kumar Russia MoD 13 Jun 2024 -- During the talks, the sides discussed relevant issues of bilateral cooperation in military and military-technical spheres, reaffirmed the commitment to further strengthen cooperation in the spirit of privileged strategic partnership.
• Statement by Сhief of the 12th Main Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation Lieutenant General Igor Kolesnikov Russia MoD 13 Jun 2024 -- The presidents of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus have decided to conduct the second stage of exercises of non-strategic nuclear forces.
• Conducting Drills in Different Regions of World is Normal Practice - Kremlin Sputnik 13 Jun 2024 -- Conducting military exercises in different regions of the world is a normal practice, especially for such a large maritime power as Russia, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday.
• Biden, Zelenskiy Sign Security Deal After G7 Agreement On $50 Billion Loan To Ukraine RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy on June 13 signed a 10-year security agreement, hailing it as a milestone in relations between their countries.
• Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Ukraine and the United States Signed the Strongest Agreement Since Ukraine's Independence President of Ukraine 13 Jun 2024
• Ukraine and the U.S. Signed a Bilateral Security Agreement President of Ukraine 13 Jun 2024
• Opening Remarks by Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III at the 23rd Ukraine Defense Contact Group (As Delivered) DoD 13 Jun 2024
• Biden, Zelenskyy Sign 10-Year Bilateral Security Agreement DoD News 13 Jun 2024 -- President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy today signed a 10-year bilateral security pact aimed at strengthening Ukraine's ability to defend itself in the present while also deterring aggression in the future.
• Remarks by President Biden and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine in Joint Press Conference | Fasano, Italy The White House 13 Jun 2024
• Bilateral Security Agreement Between the United States of America and Ukraine The White House 13 Jun 2024
• FACT SHEET: U.S.-Ukraine Bilateral Security Agreement The White House 13 Jun 2024
• No confirmation of another US Patriot system to Ukraine VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin would not confirm or deny reports that the U.S. is sending another Patriot surface-to-air missile defense system to Ukraine, after allies and partners from about 50 nations met to coordinate support for Kyiv in a meeting heavily focused on air defense.
• U.S.-Ukraine Bilateral Security Agreement US Dept. of State 13 Jun 2024 -- The U.S.-Ukraine Bilateral Security Agreement that Presidents Biden and Zelenskyy signed on the margins of the G7 Summit in Puglia, Italy today is a historic show of support for Ukraine's long-term security that furthers commitments made under the G7 Joint Declaration of Support to Ukraine in July 2023 and the President's approval of the Ukraine Supplemental Appropriations Act this spring.
• Austin Underscores Commitment to Ukraine Security at Brussels Meeting DoD News 13 Jun 2024 -- Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III underscored today the commitment by the U.S. and its allies to helping Ukraine meet its urgent defense needs and bolster its long-term security amid what he said is a critical moment in Russia's ongoing war of aggression.
• US Policy on Strikes Deep Into Russia Has Not Changed - Pentagon Chief Sputnik 13 Jun 2024 -- The United States has not changed its policy on not encouraging or enabling Ukraine to conduct strikes deep into Russian territory, Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin said on Thursday.
• Ukraine Signed a Bilateral Security Accord with Japan President of Ukraine 13 Jun 2024
• Accord on Support for Ukraine and Cooperation between Ukraine and the Government of Japan President of Ukraine 13 Jun 2024
• NATO Secretary General: "the longer we commit, the sooner Ukraine can have peace" NATO 13 Jun 2024 -- Defence Ministers met in Brussels on Thursday (13 June 2024) to finalise preparations for NATO's Washington Summit and discuss support for Ukraine.
• Minister Blair announces additional military assistance for Ukraine at the 23rd meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group Canada 13 Jun 2024 -- Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, participated in the 23rd Ukraine Defense Contact Group (UDCG) meeting in Brussels, Belgium, hosted by United States Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III.
• Norway donates bomber ammunition to Ukraine Government of Norway 13 Jun 2024 -- Ukraine's need for firepower is extensive and urgent. After dialogue with the Norwegian Armed Forces, we have assessed what we can do further donations from the Norwegian Armed Forces' stockpiles, which can quickly be transferred to Ukraine to help prevent a greater Russian advance. We have now donated 81mm bomb launcher ammunition for a value of approximately NOK 480 million, says Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram (Sp).
• Germany Cannot Supply More Patriot Systems to Ukraine, Urges Others - Defense Minister Sputnik 13 Jun 2024 -- Germany cannot supply additional Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, it has already supplied a quarter of what the country had, now it is up to partners, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on Thursday.
• Hungary Warns of Potential NATO Troop Deployment in Ukraine Without Quick Peace Sputnik 13 Jun 2024 -- If NATO launches a mission to coordinate assistance to Ukraine, sooner or later alliance troops will be deployed in the country, at least as peacekeepers, Gergely Gulyas, the Hungarian prime minister's chief of staff, said on Thursday.
• Group of three Type 055 large destroyers drill in South China Sea Global Times 13 Jun 2024 -- China recently deployed a group of warships including three Type 055 large destroyers to the South China Sea for a training exercise, a powerful task force experts said on Thursday will contribute to peace and stability amid regional tensions caused by continuous Filipino provocation.
• Army to update bayonet training with modern combat skills CNA 13 Jun 2024 -- Taiwan's Army is in the process of updating its traditional bayonet training that has been in place for decades with a program focusing on hand-to-hand combat, so Taiwanese soldiers will have more practical skills critical for survival on the battlefield, a senior military official said Thursday.
• Tehran, Baku hold joint military drill in northwestern Iran IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The first joint military exercises between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Azerbaijan have been held in Iran's northwestern city of Poldasht.
• The Netherlands - Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles-Extended Range DSCA 13 Jun 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the Netherlands of Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles-Extended Range and related equipment for an estimated cost of $678 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• European Peace Facility: Council adopts assistance measure to support the Republic of Moldova's air defence capabilities EC/CEU 13 Jun 2024 -- Today the Council adopted an assistance measure under the European Peace Facility (EPF) in support of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Moldova to modernise the country's air defence capabilities.
• Spain to send NASAMS to Estonia and join the IT Coalition Estonia MoD 13 Jun 2024 -- Today, on the sidelines of the NATO defense ministers meeting in Brussels, Minister of Defense Hanno Pevkur met with Spanish Defense Minister Margarita Robles to discuss cooperation as NATO allies and assistance to Ukraine.
• Biden, G7 leaders focus on Ukraine, Gaza, global infrastructure, Africa VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- U.S. President Joe Biden is in Apuglia, Italy, meeting with leaders of the Group of Seven wealthy democracies Thursday, aiming to address global economic security amid wars in Europe and the Middle East and U.S. rivalry with China.
• Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Savannah Guthrie of The Today Show on NBC US Dept. of State 13 Jun 2024
• Readout of Vice President Harris's Call with President-elect Sheinbaum of Mexico The White House 13 Jun 2024
• Background Press Call on the G7 The White House 13 Jun 2024
• On-the-Record Roundtable by APNSA Jake Sullivan Previewing the President's First Day at the G7 The White House 13 Jun 2024
• United States Welcomes Armenia's Signing of the Artemis Accords US Dept. of State 13 Jun 2024 -- Armenia became the 43rd signatory to the Artemis Accords yesterday at a ceremony at NASA Headquarters in Washington.

Defense Industry

• Contracts For June 13, 2024

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 13 June 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 13 Jun 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• PM Netanyahu to the Fighters of the Special Anti-Terrorism Unit: "You reflect the stature of the entire people, and you have shown that we are ready to do whatever is necessary to rescue our hostages." Israel - Prime Minister 13 Jun 2024
• June 12: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 13 Jun 2024
• Israel launches air, land, sea strikes against so-called safe zone in Gaza Strip Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- Israel has launched air, land, and sea strikes, hitting a so-called safe zone in southern Gaza, where thousands of internally displaced Palestinians have sought shelter.
• World witnessing 'unique level' of death, destruction in war-torn Gaza Strip: UN chief Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres says a "unique level" of death and destruction is unfolding before the eyes of the world in the besieged Gaza Strip, stressing that supporting the whole population of Palestinians in the territory is "extremely difficult" when it is continuously "under fire."
• Gaza: 8,000 children diagnosed with malnutrition amid ongoing shelling UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- Heavy shelling reported in the so-called safe zone of Al-Mawasi in southern Gaza on Thursday came despite the ongoing international push for a ceasefire and as the UN health agency reported 32 deaths from malnutrition "including 28 among children under five years old".
• UNRWA warns of catastrophic environmental, health risks in Gaza amid Israeli war Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- The UN Palestinian refugee agency has warned of catastrophic environmental and health risks in the Gaza Strip amid the Israeli regime's months-long war against the besieged territory.
• UNSC resolution on Gaza needs urgent implementation: WHO chief IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The head of the World Health Organization calls for the immediate implementation of a recent resolution of the UN Security Council to establish a ceasefire in Gaza and being an end to the suffering of the Palestinian people.
• Biden Uncertain of Reaching Gaza Ceasefire Deal Soon Sputnik 13 Jun 2024 -- President Joe Biden told reporters on Thursday that he is not confident that an agreement on a Gaza ceasefire deal will be reached soon, according to a White House press pool report.
• Negotiators working on 'path forward' for Gaza cease-fire VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- The United States is working to "generate a path forward" to secure a cease-fire in the war in Gaza after Hamas responded to the multistage proposal with a number of amendments.
• U.S. opposes some changes asked by Hamas concerning latest ceasefire proposal People's Daily 13 Jun 2024 -- U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Wednesday that Hamas' response to a U.S.-backed ceasefire-for-hostages proposal included "numerous changes" to what was originally presented, some of which were unacceptable.
• "Türkiye and Spain will continue to work together for the resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict" Presidency of The Republic of Turkey 13 Jun 2024 -- Speaking at a joint press conference with President Sánchez of the Government of Spain, President Erdoğan said: "We, as Türkiye and Spain, will continue to work together for the resolution of the Israel-Palestine conflict."
• Humanitarian conference sends clear message: suffering in Gaza must cease Government of Norway 13 Jun 2024 -- 'The message to everyone who participated in the humanitarian conference for Gaza is clear: we must find solutions that end the suffering, and in the longer term, we must focus on rebuilding Gaza,' said Minister of International Development Anne Beathe Tvinnereim.
• Blinken responsible for disrupting Gaza ceasefire: Hamas IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, in a statement, has accused US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for disrupting a potential ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
• Occupied land set ablaze by Hezbollah rockets: Zionist media IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- Zionist media reports say some 30,000 square meters of land has been consumed by fires a result of missile attacks by Lebanon's Hezbollah Resistance Movement on Israeli positions in the northern occupied Palestinian territories.
• Hezbollah launches massive strikes on Israeli military positions in solidarity with Gaza Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- The Lebanese Hezbollah resistance forces conducted a series of strikes against Israeli military positions in the northern side of the 1948 occupied territories in response to the ongoing Israeli onslaught against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.
• Yemen conducts new joint operation with Iraq's Islamic resistance IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The Yemeni armed forces have confirmed yet another joint operation with the Islamic Resistance in Iraq against the positions of the Zionist regime, including in the occupied Palestinian territories.
• Yemen conducts fresh ops in support of Gaza, retaliation for US, UK aggression Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- Yemen's Armed Forces announce conducting three new operations in support of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, who are enduring a genocidal Israeli war, and in retaliation for the US and the UK's aggression against the Arab Peninsula nation.

Other Conflicts

• UNHCR warns against apathy and inaction amid spike in forced displacement UNHCR 13 Jun 2024 -- Forced displacement surged to historic new levels across the globe last year and this, according to the 2024 flagship Global Trends Report from UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency.
• 1,000 days of education - equivalent to three billion learning hours - lost for Afghan girls UNICEF 13 Jun 2024 -- "Today marks a sad and sobering milestone: 1,000 days since the announcement banning girls in Afghanistan from attending secondary schools.
• UN reports 'shocking' rise in violations against children in conflict in 2023 UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- Violence against children caught in armed conflict reached "extreme levels" last year, with a "shocking" 21 per cent increase in extreme violations, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said in a report published on Thursday.
• Conflict, persecution, climate crisis drive surge in global forced displacement VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- The United Nations refugee agency says forced displacement around the globe surged to historic new heights last year, driven by conflict, persecution, human rights violations, climate crises and other disturbing events.
• ASEAN chief: Bloc won't pick sides in US-China rivalry Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- Southeast Asia won't pick sides in the strategic rivalry between the United States and China and believes both powers have a role to play in Asia, a top regional official said in Washington on Wednesday.
• Philippines 'monitoring' Vietnam's South China Sea island building Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- The Philippine navy is "monitoring" Vietnam's island building activities in the West Philippine Sea -- part of the South China Sea within Manila's exclusive economic zone, a naval official said.
• Taliban's Education Ban On Afghan Girls Fuels Spike In Child Marriages RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Amina was in the seventh grade when the Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021.
• Taliban assault on women's rights continues in Afghanistan UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- It has been almost three years since the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan and women's rights continue to be under attack.
• Stringent Banking Directives, Detention of United Nations Personnel Expected to Only Worsen Humanitarian Crisis in Yemen, Speakers Warn Security Council UN Security Council 13 Jun 2024 -- There is an urgent need to address recent concerning developments in Yemen, which compound existing obstacles to lasting peace in the country, senior United Nations officials told the Security Council today, pointing to the detention of UN colleagues and a slew of stringent banking directives expected to worsen the already dire humanitarian emergency gripping the country.
• UN envoy warns Yemenis not to return to the battlefield UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- After months of relative stability in Yemen between Government and Houthi forces, a return to all-out war is looking inevitable unless the current escalation in violence is halted, the top UN envoy for the country said on Thursday.
• The UK supports the UN's efforts to secure an inclusive and sustainable peace in Yemen UK FCDO 13 Jun 2024 -- Statement by UK Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Barbara Woodward at the UN Security Council meeting on Yemen
• Detention of United Nations and non-governmental organization personnel in Yemen WHO 13 Jun 2024
• Dozens of officials carrying out Myanmar's draft have been killed Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- More than 80 junta-appointed administrators across Myanmar have been assassinated for aiding or participating in the military conscription of civilians since the draft was announced in February, according to an RFA tally.
• Myanmar junta imposes random searches for VPNs Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- Junta soldiers in some Myanmar cities have begun randomly inspecting the mobile phones of pedestrians, threatening those who use Virtual Private Networks, or VPNs, with steep fines and even arrest, according to residents who spoke to RFA Burmese on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.
• Arakan Army takes key military junta border post in western Myanmar Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- The rebel Arakan Army has seized a key military junta post near the Bangladesh border in western Myanmar's Rakhine state, a nearby resident told Radio Free Asia.
• Myanmar rebel group bombs gold shop chain, alleges its link with junta Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- An insurgent militia in central Myanmar planted a bomb at a gold shop chain, alleging it was linked to the junta. The explosion injured six civilians, residents told Radio Free Asia on Thursday.
• Myanmar border militia emerges as nexus in regional scam network Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- An ethnic minority militia force based on Myanmar's border with Thailand is suspected of enabling extensive internet fraud, human trafficking, forced labor and other crimes, and is being enriched by a business network that extends across Asia, a rights group said in a report.
• UN Security Council demands halt to fighting in Darfur's El Fasher VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- The U.N. Security Council demanded Thursday that the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) halt their siege on the North Darfur capital, El Fasher, as they are poised to take the last remaining city in Sudan's Darfur region from the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF).
• Adopting Resolution 2736 (2024) with 14 Votes in Favour, Russian Federation Abstaining, Security Council Demands Rapid Support Forces Halt Siege of El Fasher, Sudan UN Security Council 13 Jun 2024 -- Amid the alarming humanitarian situation in Sudan, the Security Council today adopted by 14 votes in favour — with the Russian Federation abstaining — a resolution demanding that the Rapid Support Forces halt the siege of El Fasher and calling for an immediate halt to the fighting and de-escalation in and around the capital city of North Darfur State.
• The Council demands that the Rapid Support Forces immediately stop the siege of El Fasher: UK explanation of vote at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 13 Jun 2024 -- UK explanation of vote delivered by Ambassador Barbara Woodward, UK Permanent Representative to the UN, following the Security Council adoption of resolution 2736 on El Fasher.
• Security Council demands end to siege of El Fasher in Sudan UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- The UN Security Council adopted a resolution on Thursday that calls for the paramilitary Rapid Security Forces (RSF) in Sudan to halt their siege on El Fasher, capital of North Darfur state.
• Haiti: UN chief welcomes new government amid ongoing challenges UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday welcomed the swearing in of Haiti's new Government, urging stakeholders to continue making progress towards restoring democratic institutions through elections.
• Security Council Sanctions Committee concerning Democratic Republic of Congo Discusses Group of Experts' Final Report UN Security Council 13 Jun 2024 -- On 24 May 2024, the Group of Experts on the Democratic Republic of the Congo briefed members of the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1533 (2004) in connection with the Group's final report.
• Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans The White House 13 Jun 2024
• Message to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to the Western Balkans The White House 13 Jun 2024

News Reports

• Resident of China Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Send Leading Electric Vehicle Company's Trade Secrets to Undercover U.S. Agent US Dept. of Justice 13 Jun 2024 -- Klaus Pflugbeil, 58, a Canadian national and resident of the People's Republic of China (PRC), pleaded guilty today to conspiring to send trade secrets that belonged to a leading U.S.-based electric vehicle company (Victim Company). Pflugbeil and his co-defendant, Yilong Shao, who remains at large, are owners of a PRC-based business (Business-1) that sold technology used to make batteries, including batteries used in electric vehicles. Pflugbeil, a former employee of a company later purchased by Victim Company-1, stole trade secrets from his then employer and later used the trade secrets to build Business-1, marketing his business as a replacement for Victim Company-1's products.
• Two secret-related personnel dealt with for selling confidential military documents as scrap Global Times 13 Jun 2024 -- A retired enthusiast of military reading materials happened to help uncover a case in which two personnel who handled secret documents sold confidential military documents as scrap for around a mere 20 yuan ($2.76), the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) disclosed on its official WeChat account on Thursday.
• Czech Official Says Letter To EU's Borrell Asks To Curb Moves Of Russian Diplomats RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Foreign ministers from eight EU countries have sent a letter to EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell asking him to curb Russian diplomats' movement in the Schengen area over their concern that the free movement of the diplomats facilitates "malign activities."
• Minnesota Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Providing Material Support to ISIS US Dept. of Justice 13 Jun 2024 -- A Minnesota man was sentenced to 120 months in prison followed by 15 years of supervised release for providing material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a designated foreign terrorist organization. Based on the defendant's cooperation, the government asked the court to give the defendant credit for providing substantial assistance.
• Anti-Muslim hate groups in US surge back into spotlight VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Once seemingly fading into obscurity, anti-Muslim hate groups in the United States have surged back into the spotlight in recent months, reinvigorated by the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
• Avian influenza vaccine to be offered to people at risk of infection Finnish Government 13 Jun 2024 -- Avian influenza vaccines will be offered to people who may be exposed to avian influenza. Vaccinations are scheduled to start as soon as possible.
• Cyberattack hits Israeli telecom firm IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The Israeli Telecommunications Company, Bezeq has come under cyberattack, causing chaos among its consumers on Tuesday, media sources said.
• FBI chief visits Kenya to bolster security collaboration VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- The top U.S. law enforcement officer has concluded a five-day visit to Kenya, pledging to continue working with the East African nation to ensure peace and stability in the region. FBI Director Christopher Wray said there was a need for continued cooperation and collaboration with Kenyan security agencies to deal with ongoing terror threats from groups such as al-Shabab.
• Briefing by Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, Moscow, June 13, 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Jun 2024
• New UK sanctions to crack down on Putin's war machine UK FCDO 13 Jun 2024 -- UK announces 50 new sanctions designations and specifications to degrade Putin's war machine, in co-ordinated action with G7 partners to support Ukraine [ 13 June 2024].
• Moscow Exchange Stops Dollar, Euro Trades Over New Sanctions RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Russia's main stock exchange on June 13 halted dollar and euro trades after the United States hit Moscow with a new package of sanctions over its military offensive in Ukraine.
• Russia halts dollar, euro trade on Moscow Exchange IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The Moscow Exchange (MOEX) has stopped trading in dollars and euros, a move prompted by a new round of US sanctions targeting Russia's financial institutions.
• As US expands sanctions, Russia halts trading in dollars, euros Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- Russia has halted trading in US dollars, Hong Kong dollars and euros on its main stock exchange in a retaliatory measure against a raft of new sanctions imposed by the United States on Moscow chiefly aimed at weakening the Russian military.
• U.S. Journalist Gershkovich Held In Russia Officially Charged With Espionage RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- The Russian Prosecutor-General's Office confirmed on June 13 a final charge of espionage against U.S. journalist Evan Gershkovich and sent his case to the Sverdlovsk regional court for trial.
• American journalist Gershkovich to stand trial in Russia VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Russian authorities on Thursday said American journalist Evan Gershkovich will stand trial in the city of Yekaterinburg, where he was detained over a year ago on charges his employer says are bogus.
• Putin signs into law joint building of lunar base with China as Beijing expands circle of friends in Moon exploration Global Times 13 Jun 2024 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday officially signed into law his country's cooperation with China on the construction of the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project, as Beijing proactively advocates global participation in the joint exploration of the vast universe, with the latest effort being the inclusion of Egypt and Bahrain in China's next Chang'e mission.
• China wants its 12 million delivery drivers to work for the party Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- Chinese takeout diners could soon be getting their food delivered with a side of political ideology.
• Is China Exporting Its Political Model To The World? A New Report Says Yes. RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Debate has raged for decades over whether Beijing is actively exporting its authoritarian system abroad, but a new report based on a trove of previously unexamined government documents shows how China is experimenting with spreading its model to other countries.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on June 13, 2024 PRC MofA 13 Jun 2024
• Premier Li visits New Zealand as two countries to expand trade, exchanges Global Times 13 Jun 2024 -- China-New Zealand cooperation has set a model of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation between countries with different social systems, historical cultures, and stages of development, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said during his visit to New Zealand on Thursday, adding that the respective development of China and New Zealand is an opportunity for each other rather than a challenge.
• Financial support for developing countries' climate actions a moral responsibility of developed country: FM spokesperson Global Times 13 Jun 2024 -- As the largest developing country, China has offered effective ways for relevant countries to actively respond to climate change, but it is also an unavoidable moral responsibility for developed countries to support developing countries financially in delivering climate actions, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Thursday.
• Hong Kong cancels passports of six self-exiled democracy activists VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Hong Kong authorities have canceled the passports of six pro-democracy activists living in self-exile in Britain.
• Annual EU report illustrates continuous deterioration of fundamental freedoms in Hong Kong European Commission 13 Jun 2024 -- The European Commission and the High Representative have today adopted the 26th annual report to the European Parliament and the Council on political and economic developments in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. This report covers developments in 2023.
• EU report shows growing focus on national security in Macao European Commission 13 Jun 2024 -- The European Commission and the High Representative have today adopted their 24th annual report to the European Parliament and the Council on political and economic developments in the Macao Special Administrative Region. This report covers developments in 2023.
• China's strong economy able to weather international volatilities: FM spokesperson Global Times 13 Jun 2024 -- China's economy has the strength to move forward and weather storms in the face of complex and volatile international conditions, and the country stands ready to share with the world the dividends and opportunities of high-quality development and join hands in promoting global modernization process, China's Foreign Ministry said on Thursday.
• Taiwan-EU relations 'at all-time high': President Lai CNA 13 Jun 2024 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Thursday Taiwan-European Union (EU) relations are "at an all-time high" and Taiwan is ready and willing to work with European nations to address global issues together, at a gala celebrating Europe Day.
• Lai says not first to say ROC, PRC not subordinate to each other CNA 13 Jun 2024 -- President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said he is not the first to suggest the two sides of the Taiwan Strait are not subordinate to each other, in his first media interview since taking office on May 20, featuring on the cover of the latest edition of Time Magazine published Thursday.
• China invite to commemorative event 'united front' tactic: Minister CNA 13 Jun 2024 -- China's Central Military Commission has approached retired generals in Taiwan and invited them to attend the centennial of the Whampoa Military Academy as part of its "united front" campaign, Veterans Affairs Council Minister Yen De-fa (嚴德發) said Thursday.
• 19 PLA aircraft cross Taiwan Strait median line or extension: Ministry CNA 13 Jun 2024 -- A total of 19 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait or its extension in the 24 hours starting at 6 a.m. Wednesday, one of which flew as close as 39 nautical miles from Taiwan's east coast, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) said.
• Chinese mainland warns Taiwan's DPP not to "play with fire" People's Daily 13 Jun 2024 -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday issued a stern warning to Taiwan's Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities, cautioning that they should not "play with fire" by citing the "right to self-defense," as any reckless move will only hasten their own undoing.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 13 Jun 2024
• UN Security Council discusses North Korean human rights Radio Free Asia 13 Jun 2024 -- North Korea's human rights took center stage at a U.N. Security Council (UNSC) meeting as diplomats, experts and activists strongly condemned a deteriorating rights situation, saying North Korea is increasing the suffering of its people while pursuing its nuclear program.
• Message to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to North Korea The White House 13 Jun 2024
• Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to North Korea The White House 13 Jun 2024
• US voices support for South Korean 'balloon war' efforts VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- The U.S. expressed its support for providing outside information to the people of North Korea even as attempts are made in South Korea to block leaflet campaigns aimed at sending information to the North.
• Telephone conversation with Iran's Interim President Mohammad Mokhber President of Russia 13 Jun 2024 -- Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with Interim President of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Mokhber at the initiative of the Iranian side.
• Iranian security forces kill two main members of terrorist group planning attacks Press TV 13 Jun 2024 -- Iranian security forces have killed two main members of a terrorist group who were planning attacks in the country's southeastern province of Sistan and Baluchestan recently.
• Iranian Dissident Sepehri Sentenced To Further 18 1/2 Years For Comments About Israel RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Fatemeh Sepehri, a prominent critic of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has been sentenced to an additional 18 1/2 years in prison for "supporting Israel," a thinly veiled reference to her condemnation of an October 7 attack by Hamas -- designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and EU -- on Israel that killed some 1,200 people, mainly civilians.
• Iran's Latest Reported Nuclear Escalations US Dept. of State 13 Jun 2024 -- The report issued today by the IAEA makes clear that Iran aims to continue expanding its nuclear program in ways that have no credible peaceful purpose.
• Iran's Space Industry Soars with Four New Satellites and a Transfer Block IRNA 13 Jun 2024 -- The Israeli Telecommunications Company, Bezeq has come under cyberattack, causing chaos among its consumers on Tuesday, media sources said.
• How The Belarus Regime Is Destroying The Books It Doesn't Like RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Ever since Belarusian strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka was returned to power in a disputed presidential election in August 2020, rights activists, democracy campaigners, and media reporters have all come under mounting pressure as the country's civil society bears the brunt of a vicious crackdown on potential dissent.
• Message to the Congress on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Belarus The White House 13 Jun 2024
• Notice on the Continuation of the National Emergency With Respect to Belarus The White House 13 Jun 2024
• Transcript of the Press Briefing by the Spokesperson on Thursday, 13 June 2024 Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Jun 2024
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of France Emmanuel Macron Prime Minister of Canada 13 Jun 2024
• Joint Statement Exposing Russia's Subversive Activity and Electoral Interference Targeting Moldova US Dept. of State 13 Jun 2024 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Canada, and the United Kingdom on Russia's subversive activity and electoral interference targeting Moldova.
• Exposing Russia's subversive activity and electoral interference targeting Moldova: joint statement by the US, Canada, and the UK UK FCDO 13 Jun 2024 -- The governments of the United States of America, Canada, and the United Kingdom gave a statement on Russian actions in the leadup to the Moldovan presidential election.
• Justice Department Repatriates $1.4B Misappropriated 1MDB Funds to Malaysia US Dept. of Justice 13 Jun 2024
• Media Groups Condemn Armenian Police For Injuries During Clashes RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Armenia's leading media associations have strongly condemned riot police for injuring at least a dozen journalists during clashes in Yerevan with protesters demanding Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian's resignation.
• Pressure On Pashinian Grows As Armenians Continue Protests RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- A day after clashes with police, anti-government protesters gathered on June 13, this time outside the Armenian government building, as pressure continues to mount grows on Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian to step down as his country nears a controversial peace deal with Azerbaijan.
• Nikol Pashinian: From Jailed Activist To Beleaguered Leader RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian built his political identity on peaceful protests and resistance to police violence. Now, six years after taking power, he has presided over his own violent crackdown on anti-government demonstrations.
• Rights Groups Demand Release Of Kyrgyz Protesters As Prosecutors Seek Lengthy Sentences RFE/RL 13 Jun 2024 -- Several international rights groups on June 12 demanded the immediate release of over two dozen Kyrgyz activists who could be facing 20 years in prison for protesting a border deal with Uzbekistan.
• Georgia's NGOs refuse to comply with 'Russian' foreign agent law VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Many foreign-funded non-governmental organizations in Georgia say they will not comply with a new foreign agent law that came took effect this month, setting up a showdown with the government ahead of October elections.
• Press release on the death of Vice-President of the Republic of Malawi Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 13 Jun 2024
• World News in Brief: Ukraine attacks continue, education in Africa, Albinism update UN News 13 Jun 2024 -- The UN humanitarian coordinator for Ukraine Denise Brown on Thursday said she was 'appalled' by the scale of Russia's overnight attack on Kryviy Rih City in the Dnipro Region.
• Experts: Thailand's bid to join BRICS is mostly symbolic VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Thailand wishes to become the first Southeast Asian member of BRICS, a geopolitical group of developing countries including Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
• Diplomat: US committed to work with Bangladesh on corruption VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- The United States is "committed to working with Bangladesh to fight corruption," Donald Lu, U.S. assistant secretary of state for South and Central Asian Affairs, told VOA's Bangla Service.
• Police and military seen gaining power amid Vietnamese political upheaval VOA 13 Jun 2024 -- Political turbulence in Vietnam has increased the power of the police and military factions of the country's Communist Party, as officials with these backgrounds gain seats in the top echelons of the government, experts have told VOA.