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Operations
Defense Policy / Programs
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News Reports

Current Operations

• US expands reach against Islamic State in Syria VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- The United States is moving to fill the power vacuum in central Syria, worried the Islamic State terror group is looking to exploit the victory of Syrian rebels over forces loyal to former President Bashar al-Assad.
• U.S. Central Command Conducts Airstrikes Against ISIS Operatives CENTCOM 16 Dec 2024 -- U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted precision airstrikes targeting known ISIS camps and operatives in Syria, Dec. 16, killing 12 ISIS terrorists.
• Centcom Strikes ISIS, New Carrier Group Enters Region DoD News 16 Dec 2024 -- U.S. Central Command forces conducted precision air strikes today targeting ISIS camps and operatives in Syria, the Defense Department has announced.
• CENTCOM Conducts Precision Airstrike Against Iran-Backed Houthi Facility in Yemen CENTCOM 16 Dec 2024 -- On Dec. 16 Yemen time, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) forces conducted a precision airstrike against a key command and control facility operated by Iran-backed Houthis within Houthi-controlled territory in Sana'a, Yemen.
• US, UK conduct new airstrikes on Yemen IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- American and British warplanes have once again bombed Yemen, this time the areas of northwestern province of Hajjah.
• Iran: US-UK aggression on Yemen blatant breach of international law, UN Charter Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- The spokesman for Iran's Foreign Ministry has condemned in the strongest terms a new act of aggression by the United States and Britain against several areas in northwestern Yemen.
• Top Ansarullah official: US escalations against Yemen to open up 'gates of hell' Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- A high-ranking member of Yemen's Ansarullah resistance movement has warned the United States against escalation of tensions in the Arab nation, stating that Washington will open up the gates of hell on itself by an upsurge in its acts of aggression.

Defense Policy / Programs

• Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder holds an Off-Camera, On-the-Record Press Briefing DoD 16 Dec 2024
• Readout of Assistant Secretary of Defense Christopher P. Maier's Visit to AFRICOM DoD 16 Dec 2024
• Readout of Assistant Secretary of Defense Christopher P. Maier's Meeting of the Defeat ISIS Coalition Political-Military Consultations DoD 16 Dec 2024
• DOD's 2023 Demographics Report Indicates More Women, Fewer Separations DoD News 16 Dec 2024 -- The Department of Defense today released its newest demographics report, the "2023 Demographics Profile of the Military Community," which provides a wide range of information about the active duty, National Guard and Reserve enlisted and officer service members and families who make up the United States military.
• US navy ship on first visit to Cambodia in 8 years Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- A U.S. navy vessel arrived in Cambodia on Monday on the first visit of an American warship since 2016 as the United States seeks to improve defense ties with the Southeast Asian country amid concern that China is setting up a de-facto naval base there.
• Missile test, first Marine redeployment give US new milestones in Guam Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- The U.S. is advancing the fortification of its territory closest to China with the arrival of the first Marines from Okinawa and its first interceptor missile test in Guam last week.
• Aeromedical Branch makes 'Safe to Fly' recommendation for SPYDR device US Air Force 16 Dec 2024 -- After an extensive test and evaluation process, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's Aeromedical Systems Branch has officially certified that SPYDR is safe for use on select aircraft.
• Harry S. Truman Strike Group Enters U.S. Central Command Area of Responsibility US Navy 16 Dec 2024 -- The Harry S. Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) entered the U.S. Central command area of responsibility, Dec 14.
• USS Savannah Arrives in Sihanoukville, Cambodia After Eight Years US Navy 16 Dec 2024 -- The Independence-variant littoral combat ship USS Savannah (LCS 28) arrived in Sihanoukville, Cambodia for a port visit, Dec. 16.
• MSRON 1B Strengthens Alliances through Exercise Bull Shark US Navy 16 Dec 2024 -- Sailors from MSRON-1B provide maritime security during Exercise Bull Shark, a biannual joint training with U.S., Djiboutian, Spanish and French maritime forces.
• VAQ-133 "Wizards" complete historic first Next Generation Jammer Deployment to 5th and 7th Fleet in Time for the Holidays US Navy 16 Dec 2024 -- VAQ-133 returns from a five-month deployment as the first Navy squadron to tactically employ the ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer.
• DHS, FBI, FAA & DoD Joint Statement on Ongoing Response to Reported Drone Sightings DHS 16 Dec 2024 -- There are more than one million drones lawfully registered with the FAA in the United States and there are thousands of commercial, hobbyist and law enforcement drones lawfully in the sky on any given day.
• DoD Releases Version 4.3 Update to Online Cyber Resilient Weapon Systems Body of Knowledge for Engineering Workforce DoD 16 Dec 2024 -- The Department of Defense (DoD) announced the release of Version 4.3 of the Online Cyber Resilient Weapon Systems Body of Knowledge (CRWS-BoK) today, a free resource designed to support the public and private sector workforces in designing, engineering, and safeguarding secure cyber resilient systems.
• Space component commands highlight warfighting efforts at Spacepower Conference United States Space Force 16 Dec 2024 -- Space component field command leadership came together to discuss successes and challenges and provide insights into their missions during a panel at the Spacepower Conference in Orlando.
• SECNAV Del Toro Delivers Remarks at the 11th Annual Women, Peace, and Security Symposium US Navy 16 Dec 2024
• Readout of Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Lisa Franchetti's Meeting with NATO Supreme Allied Commander Transformation French Adm. Pierre Vandier US Navy Press Release 16 Dec 2024
• SECNAV Del Toro Names Future Guided Missile Frigate USS Joy Bright Hancock (FFG 69) US Navy Press Release 16 Dec 2024 -- Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro announced that a future Constellation-class Guided Missile Frigate, FFG 69, will be named USS Joy Bright Hancock, Dec. 16.
• NATO Secretary General meets Montenegro Prime Minister Milojko Spajić NATO 16 Dec 2024 -- On Monday (16 December 2024) NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed Montenegro's Prime Minister Milojko Spajić to NATO Headquarters.
• Data on interceptions of aircraft completed near the Baltic States' borders on December 9-15, 2024 Lithuania MND 16 Dec 2024
• Supreme Commander-in-Chief of Armed Forces of Russian Federation Vladimir hold extended session of Russian Defence Ministry Board Russia MoD 16 Dec 2024 -- Today, the National Defence Control Centre of the Russian Federation hosted an extended meeting of the Russian Ministry of Defence Board, at which the results of the work of the Russian Armed Forces in 2024 were summarised and the tasks for the next period were defined.
• Expanded meeting of the Defence Ministry Board President of Russia 16 Dec 2024 -- The President took part in an expanded meeting of the Defence Ministry Board at the National Defence Control Centre of the Russian Federation.
• Strengthening the Ukrainian Navy Government of Norway 16 Dec 2024 -- Norway will provide NOK 2.7 billion to strengthen the Ukrainian Navy. The funding will, among other things, be used to protect people in Ukraine from attacks as well as for mine clearance operations and training of Ukrainian soldiers.
• China's independently developed Y-9E transport aircraft delivered to first overseas customer Global Times 16 Dec 2024 -- China's domestically developed Y-9E transport aircraft has been officially delivered to its first overseas client, the Global Times learned from the aircraft's maker, Shaanxi Aircraft Industry (Group) Corp (SAIC) under the state-owned Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) on Monday.
• Statement on Australia-UK Ministerial Consultations (AUKMIN) UK FCDO 16 Dec 2024 -- Statement follows 16 December 2024 AUKMIN meeting between the UK Foreign Secretary and Defence Secretary and the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence.
• ICG's Offshore Patrol Vessel and Fast Patrol Vessel make port of call in Maldives India PIB 16 Dec 2024 -- Indian Coast Guard's (ICG) Offshore Patrol Vessel ICGS Vaibhav and Fast Patrol Vessel ICGS Abhiraj made a port of call at Male, Maldives on December 16, 2024, as part of their overseas deployment to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR)
• SRI LANKA-INDIA EXERCISE - 24 (SLINEX-24) India PIB 16 Dec 2024 -- The bilateral naval exercise SLINEX 2024 (Sri Lanka-India Exercise) will be conducted from 17 to 20 Dec 24 at Visakhapatnam under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command
• STEEL CUTTING OF FIRST NEXT GENERATION MISSILE VESSEL (NGMV) FOR INDIAN NAVY AT COCHIN SHIPYARD LIMITED, KOCHI India PIB 16 Dec 2024 -- 'Steel Cutting' ceremony of the first ship of Next Generation Missile Vessel (NGMV), was held at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) on 16 Dec 24, Kochi in the presence of Cmde S Parthiban, Warship Production Superintendent, Kochi
• Iran, Belarus kick off joint parachuting drills in Bushehr IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The joint free fall parachuting camp of selected teams of the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Belarus Army started in Bushehr on Monday.
• Republic of Korea - KDX-II Class Destroyers Product Improvement Program DSCA 16 Dec 2024 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Republic of Korea of KDX-II Class Destroyers Product Improvement Program and related elements of logistics and program support for an estimated cost of $300 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
• First batch of U.S.-made M1A2T tanks arrives in Taiwan CNA 16 Dec 2024 -- Taiwan's first batch of M1A2T tanks purchased from the United States has arrived and been transported to an army armor training center in Hsinchu County early Monday morning.
• Chinese FM responds to claim of Taiwan island of receiving 38 advanced Abrams battle tanks from the US Global Times 16 Dec 2024 -- In response to an inquiry regarding claim by the Taiwan island's "defense ministry" that it had received 38 advanced Abrams battle tanks from the US, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that there is no such a thing as the so-called "defense ministry" in Taiwan. Lin added that China firmly opposes military ties between the US and the Taiwan island, opposes US arms sales to the island, stressing that China's position on this remains consistent and clear.
• Abrams tanks to strengthen Taiwan's defense against PLA landings: Experts CNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The addition of U.S.-made Abrams M1A2T tanks will enhance Taiwan's military capabilities in anti-landing operations, a group of Taiwanese defense experts said following the arrival of the first batch of advanced armored vehicles in the country on Sunday.
• Operation Resolution New Zealand Defence Force 16 Dec 2024
• Horn of Africa and Somalia: Operation ATALANTA, EUTM and EUCAP Somalia's mandates extended for two years EC/CEU 16 Dec 2024 -- The Council today decided to prolong the mandate of the EU Naval Force Operation ATALANTA and ofthe EU's military training mission in Somalia (EUTM Somalia) until 28 February 2027, adding to its decision of 5 December to prolong the mandate of the EU's civilian capacity-building mission (EUCAP Somalia) until the same date.
• Philippines ratifies defense pact with Japan, amid China tensions Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- Under a defense treaty newly ratified by the Philippine Senate, Japan and the Philippines can deploy troops on each other's soil for military exercises, as the two allied nations contend with territorial challenges from China.
• PBBM: No 'loyalty check' in AFP, PNP; PH stable despite noises Philippine News Agency 16 Dec 2024 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. denied on Monday he has been conducting a "loyalty check" among members of the military and police.
• Senate ratifies PH-Japan RAA, 16 other bills Philippine News Agency 16 Dec 2024 -- Senators on Monday unanimously approved Senate Resolution No. 1248 which concurs to the ratification of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) between the Philippines and Japan.
• Deputy Secretary Graves Spotlights Commerce Department's Growing National Security Role During CNAS Fireside Discussion US Dept. of Commerce 16 Dec 2024 -- During the event, Graves highlighted Commerce's first-ever strategy on national security
• On-the-Record Press Gaggle by White House National Security Communications Advisor John Kirby The White House 16 Dec 2024

Defense Industry

• Contracts For Dec. 16, 2024
• Defence tech start up opens UK headquarters in boost for industry Gov.UK 16 Dec 2024 -- An Estonian tech start up manufacturing low-cost air defence missiles is expected to open a new UK headquarters, delivering on the Prime Minister's Plan for Change.

Other Conflicts

Ukraine Conflict News
• 16 December 2024 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 16 Dec 2024

Operation Iron Swords / Operation Al-Aqsa Flood

• Dec. 15: 'Axis of Resistance' operations against Israeli occupation Press TV 16 Dec 2024
• Death toll in Gaza surpasses 45,000 amid continued Israeli airstrikes IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported that over 45,000 people have been killed in Gaza since the Israeli regime's offensive began on October 7, 2023.
• Fresh Israeli strikes hit Gaza on 437th day of war IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The Israeli regime has launched fresh attacks on the Gaza Strip on the 437th day of its genocidal war on the besieged Palestinian territory.
• Several Zionist soldiers injured in Rafah IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The media of the Zionist regime reported that a number of soldiers of this regime were injured in Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip.
• Gaza death toll passes 45,000 as UN school suffers new deadly strike UN News 16 Dec 2024 -- Authorities in Gaza reported on Monday that more than 45,000 people have been killed in the enclave in the last 14 months, as humanitarians condemned new deadly airstrikes across the war-torn Strip, including on a UN school-turned-shelter.
• UN: Gaza facing 'unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe' Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- The United Nations has once again warned that Palestinian people in Gaza, particularly women and girls, are living in dire conditions as the Israeli regime continues its genocidal war on the strip.
• Iran urges immediate global action to halt Israeli genocide in Gaza IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- Iran has called for urgent action by the international community to halt Israel's genocide in Gaza and punish the occupying regime's authorities for committing heinous crimes against Palestinians.
• Full accountability for Gaza war, respect for international law not a 'hostile act': Irish FM Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- Irish Foreign Minister Micheal Martin says demanding accountability for the ongoing Israeli campaign of genocide in Gaza and respect for international law cannot be seen as "hostile acts towards Israel."
• Several Israeli settlers injured after missile launch from Yemen Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- Several Israeli settlers were injured after a ballistic missile launched from Yemen targeted strategic installations in central Israeli-occupied territories, triggering sirens.
• Sirens sound in Tel Aviv after Yemeni missile strike IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- Sirens went off in Tel Aviv and other areas in the Israeli occupied territories during a missile attack launched from Yemen.
• Israel reports drone fire from Yemen IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The Israeli regime's army has announced a drone attack launched from Yemen on occupied territories of Palestine.

Other Conflicts

• Assad Breaks Silence, Says He Left Syria As Russian Base Came Under Attack RFE/RL 16 Dec 2024 -- Ousted Syrian President Bashar al-Assad said he only left the country in the late hours of December 8 after a Russian air base allegedly came under attack by rebel forces and officials in Moscow ordered "an immediate evacuation."
• New Syrian gov't will disband all armed groups: Al-Julani IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- Commander of Hay'at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), one of the Syrian militant outfits that recently overthrew the government of President Basher al-Assad, says the new administration will disband all armed opposition groups in the country.
• UN says plans to offer 'all kinds of help' to Syria as envoy meets with HTS chief in Damascus Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- The leader of the Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) militant group, which took control of Syria following the fall of former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad's government, has met visiting UN envoy Geir Pedersen.
• Statement attributed to Assad says departure from Syria not pre-planned IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- Former Syrian president Bashar al-Assad has reportedly said his departure from Damascus earlier this month was not a pre-planned decision.
• Syria's former leader Assad denies his departure from Damascus pre-planned Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- Syria's former President Bashar al-Assad has denied claims that his departure from Damascus was planned in advance, saying Russian authorities requested his evacuation from the Hemeimim air base in the western coastal province of Latakia after it came under intense drone strikes.
• Foreign Ministry Statement on the development of the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Dec 2024
• UN Syria Commission calls for protection of civilians, humane treatment of ex-combatants and the safeguarding of evidence of crimes OHCHR 16 Dec 2024 -- All parties to the conflict in Syria must protect civilians, treat those who have laid down their arms humanely, and safeguard evidence of crimes to help ensure future accountability, the UN Commission of Inquiry on Syria said today. As the caretaker Government solidifies its control and conflict rages in northern Syria, the Commission stressed that all parties must fully comply with their obligations under international human rights and humanitarian law.
• In Damascus, top UN envoy stresses need for credible, inclusive, 'Syrian owned' transition UN News 16 Dec 2024 -- The UN's top Syria envoy has held talks in Damascus with the head of the new administration as well as the prime minister of the caretaker Government, stressing the imperative for a "credible and inclusive Syrian owned and led political transition."
• Secretary-General's statement - on Syria UN Secretary-General 16 Dec 2024
• A difficult new beginning - Syria amid hope and challenges Germany Federal Foreign Office 16 Dec 2024 -- After almost fourteen years of civil war, Syria stands at a crossroads. The German Government's eight-point plan aims to create stability in the country, support reconstruction and enable the safe return of refugees.
• Israel approves plan to expand settlements in occupied Golan People's Daily 16 Dec 2024 -- The Israeli government approved a plan on Sunday to expand settlements in the Golan Heights, a Syrian territory currently occupied by Israel, according to a statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.
• More states warn Israel against settlement expansion in occupied Golan Heights Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- Turkey, Egypt and Germany have warned Israel against settlement expansion in the occupied Golan Heights at the southwestern edge of Syria following the fall of President Assad.
• Israel launches new strikes on Syria IRNA 16 Dec 2024 -- The Israeli regime has launched fresh airstrikes on Syria, targeting military sites in various parts of the country.
• Israel launches large-scale aerial, naval attacks on Syria, deploys new missile Press TV 16 Dec 2024 -- The Israeli regime sustains its heavy attacks against various areas across Syria as Western-backed militants, who ousted the country's government earlier this month, strengthen their foothold.
• No: 254, 16 December 2024, Regarding Israel's Decision to Expand Illegal Settlements in the Occupied Golan Heights Republic of Turkey Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Dec 2024
• Attacks on Pakistan polio teams kill vaccinator, 2 police officers VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- Authorities in Pakistan reported Monday that gunmen targeted vaccination teams in northwestern districts during a nationwide campaign against the paralytic poliovirus, resulting in the deaths of at least one health worker and two police officers.
• UN announces plan to address political impasse, overdue elections in Libya UN News 16 Dec 2024 -- A new UN plan for Libya aims to overcome political deadlock, put the country back on the path to long-awaited presidential elections and renew the legitimacy of its institutions, the Security Council heard on Monday.
• United Nations Libya Mission Unveils Plan to End Political Deadlock, Pave Way for National Elections UN Security Council 16 Dec 2024 -- The people of Libya are yearning to choose their leaders, a senior United Nations official told the Security Council today, as she outlined a detailed plan to help the country to hold overdue national elections, following the recent municipal polls held after a decade-long hiatus.
• Libya: Statement by the Spokesperson on the UNSMIL briefing in the UN Security Council European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Dec 2024 -- The European Union welcomes the proposal presented by UNSMIL Officer-in-Charge Stephanie Koury during today's briefing on Libya in the UN Security Council. The launch of a new UN initiative to revive the political process in Libya is a timely and positive development, which we fully support.
• The UK welcomes the new, inclusive, Libyan-led plan for a sustainable and prosperous future: UK statement at the UN Security Council UK FCDO 16 Dec 2024 -- Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.
• Rebels in Myanmar's Rakhine state seize another stronghold, shun talks Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- Ethnic minority guerrillas in Myanmar's Rakhine state have seized a major stronghold from the military, a spokesperson for the group said on Monday, another step towards their goal of controlling the entire state, while rejecting a junta call for talks.
• Sources: Junta representatives, leaders of rebel group in talks in China Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- Representatives of the military junta and leaders of an insurgent army have been holding talks in China's Yunnan province as Beijing leans on both sides to find a resolution to Myanmar's civil war, sources close to the junta and the ethnic armed group told Radio Free Asia.
• Seize momentum for justice created by application for ICC arrest warrant against Myanmar junta leader: UN expert UNOHCHR 16 Dec 2024 -- The International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan's decision to request an arrest warrant for Myanmar military commander-in-chief, Min Aung Hlaing can build momentum for justice and hope if it is seized and built upon now, a UN expert said today, following meetings in The Hague with Khan and his team.
• Sudan: Council adds four individuals to EU sanctions list for threatening the peace, stability and security of the country EC/CEU 16 Dec 2024 -- The Council today approved additional restrictive measures against four individuals, in view of the gravity of the situation in Sudan, where continuous fighting is ongoing between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
• Human Rights Watch accuses Sudan's RSF of rape, sexual slavery VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- Human Rights Watch has accused Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces and allied militias of rape and other acts of sexual violence against women and girls in South Kordofan state. The rights group says the sexual violence constitutes war crimes, and that it underscores the urgent need for international action to protect Sudanese civilians and deliver justice to the victims.
• Sudan conflict ups pressure on South Sudan to aid amputees, others with disabilities VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- South Sudan is grappling with an influx of people living with disabilities as victims of ongoing conflicts in neighboring countries, such as Sudan, come in search of devices like artificial limbs. This surge puts immense pressure on South Sudan, a nation with just three specialized orthopedic centers.
• South Sudan: humanitarians appeal for $1.7 billion to assist 5.4 million people in need UNOCHA 16 Dec 2024 -- The humanitarian community in South Sudan launched the 2025 Humanitarian Needs and Response Plan (HNRP), reflecting an appeal for US$1.7 billion to provide lifesaving assistance to 5.4 million people experiencing the most acute needs across the country.
• The 23rd Special Representatives' Meeting on China-India Boundary Question to Be Held in Beijing PRC MofA 16 Dec 2024

News Reports

• Russian hybrid threats: EU agrees first listings in response to destabilising activities against the EU, its member states and partners EC/CEU 16 Dec 2024 -- For the first time ever, the Council today decided to impose restrictive measures against 16 individuals and three entities responsible for Russia's destabilising actions abroad. These measures are in response to Russia's malicious actions and its lack of respect for a rules-based international order and international law.
• BREAKING: UK court names alleged Chinese spy 'H6' as Yang Tengbo Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- Yang Tengbo was officially named as the alleged Chinese spy in Prince Andrew's entourage after a United Kingdom court lifted an anonymity order today.
• Resident of China Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Conspiring to Send Leading Electric Vehicle Company's Trade Secrets US Dept. of Justice 16 Dec 2024 -- Klaus Pflugbeil, 59, of Ningbo, China, was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for conspiring to send trade secrets that belong to a leading U.S.-based electric vehicle company (Victim Company-1). Pflugbeil, a resident of the People's Republic of China (the PRC or China) and a Canadian and German national, 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.
• Serbian Government Using Top Tech To Spy On Journalists, Amnesty Says RFE/RL 16 Dec 2024 -- Serbian authorities have been using sophisticated digital surveillance technology to access mobile phones used by journalists and activists, Amnesty International said on December 16.
• Poland improves its understanding of money laundering and terrorist financing risks and statistics Council of Europe 16 Dec 2024 -- Poland has improved its measures for tackling money laundering and terrorist financing (AML/CFT), the Committee of Experts on the Evaluation of Anti-Money Laundering Measures and the Financing of Terrorism (MONEYVAL) has concluded in a new follow-up report
• Virginia Man Convicted for Crypto Financing Scheme to ISIS US Dept. of Justice 16 Dec 2024 -- A jury convicted Mohammed Azharuddin Chhipa, 35, of Springfield, Virginia, on Dec. 13 for charges relating to his efforts to provide material support to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), a foreign terrorist organization.
• United States Welcomes Thailand's Signing of the Artemis Accords US Dept. of State 16 Dec 2024 -- Thailand became the 51st signatory of the Artemis Accords at a ceremony in Bangkok today.
• Statement by Konstantin Vorontsov, Head of the Delegation of the Russian Federation, Deputy Director of the Department for Non-Proliferation and Arms Control of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, at the Meeting of States Parties to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention, Geneva, 16 December 2024 Russia Ministry of Foreign Affairs 16 Dec 2024
• EU Ministers Approve New Sanctions Targeting Russian 'Shadow Fleet' RFE/RL 16 Dec 2024 -- European Union foreign ministers have adopted a 15th package of sanctions against Russia targeting tankers transporting Russian oil as the bloc looks to curb the circumvention of previous measures aimed at hindering Moscow's ability to wage war against Ukraine.
• Comment by Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on the decision by 12 European states on further measures to counter Russia's shadow fleet Estonia MFA 16 Dec 2024
• European Union ramps up sanctions against Russia Estonia MFA 16 Dec 2024 -- On Monday 16 December, the European Union adopted a new package of sanctions to make restrictive measures against Russia stricter and stronger, adding 84 individuals and entities to the list. 51 ships, mainly shadow fleet tankers, were added to the list of sanctions on ships.
• Fifteenth package of sanctions against Russia adopted Government Offices of Sweden 16 Dec 2024 -- The EU has adopted a fifteenth sanctions package in response to Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine.
• Group of Coastal states around Baltic Sea and North Sea to take targeted measures against Russian shadow fleet Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Finland 16 Dec 2024 -- In connection with the JEF Leaders' Summit in Tallinn on 16 December, a group of coastal states around the Baltic Sea and the North Sea announced that they will begin regularly inspecting the insurance certificates of oil tankers used by Russia.
• China's Ministry of State Security reveals cases of individuals voluntarily serving foreign espionage agencies for profit Global Times 16 Dec 2024 -- China's Ministry of State Security (MSS) revealed on Monday three cases involving individuals voluntarily pledging allegiance to foreign spy agencies for profit and endangering state security. The ministry uncovered the cases and mitigated risks of information leakage, providing a strong deterrent to similar activities.
• Chinese FM spokesperson responds to reports of Japanese foreign minister's upcoming visit to China Global Times 16 Dec 2024 -- In response to a question regarding the reported upcoming visit of the Japanese Foreign Minister to China and planned talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Chinese FM spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Monday that China values maintaining dialogue and communication with Japan at all levels and in various fields, and is willing to work together with Japan to promote China-Japan relations.
• Xi reaffirms full support for Hong Kong SAR govt People's Daily 16 Dec 2024 -- President Xi Jinping reaffirmed on Friday Beijing's full backing to Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government in forging ahead with reform, aligning with national strategies and shaping the city's new strengths and momentum for growth.
• Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian's Regular Press Conference on December 16, 2024 PRC MofA 16 Dec 2024
• READOUT: Seventh Meeting of the Financial Working Group Between the United States and the People's Republic of China US Treasury 16 Dec 2024 -- The United States and the People's Republic of China held the seventh meeting of the Financial Working Group (FWG) in Nanjing on December 15-16.
• PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan ROC MND 16 Dec 2024
• Joint Statement from Foreign Ministers Condemning DPRK-Russia Cooperation European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Dec 2024 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Foreign Ministers of Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the High Representative of the European Union.
• US hits North Korea with new sanctions Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- The United States on Monday announced new sanctions tied to both North Korea's missile-building program and its deployment of troops to Ukraine, coming amid reports of casualties of North Korean troops along Russia's border with Ukraine.
• U.S. Sanctions Entities and Individuals Providing Financial, Military, and Procurement Support to the DPRK US Dept. of State 16 Dec 2024 -- The United States is today designating eleven individuals and eight entities for their actions enabling the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and its support to Russia.
• U.S. Sanctions on Entity and Individuals Providing Procurement Support to the DPRK's Unlawful Ballistic Missile Program US Dept. of State 16 Dec 2024 -- Fact Sheet
• Treasury Sanctions Key Facilitators Behind North Korea's Illicit Financial Activities and Military Support to Russia US Treasury 16 Dec 2024 -- The U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) today sanctioned nine individuals and seven entities that have provided financial and military support to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Also, today, the U.S. Department of State sanctioned three targets related to the DPRK's ballistic missile program. These actions reflect the DPRK's escalating provocation and hostile military posturing that exacerbate global tensions and destabilize regional peace and security.
• Chinese FM stresses importance of stable bilateral ties in face of S.Korea's internal political strife Global Times 16 Dec 2024 -- "We have taken note of the most recent political developments in the ROK. These are the ROK's internal affairs, on which I will not comment," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday in response to South Korea's National Assembly passing the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol on Saturday.
• China's policy towards ROK consistent, says Chinese FM on impeachment motion against Yoon Global Times 16 Dec 2024 -- China has taken note of the most recent political developments in the ROK. They are the ROK's internal affairs, and we will not comment on it, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday, in response to the South Korean National Assembly passing the impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol on Saturday.
• S. Korea's constitutional court to prioritize Yoon's impeachment case People's Daily 16 Dec 2024 -- South Korea's constitutional court said Monday that it will prioritize the case on whether to uphold or reject an impeachment motion against President Yoon Suk-yeol that was passed by the National Assembly last Saturday.
• S. Korean prosecutors summon President Yoon for questioning for 2nd time People's Daily 16 Dec 2024 -- South Korean prosecutors summoned President Yoon Suk-yeol for questioning for the second time on Monday after their botched attempt to subpoena the impeached president last week, according to multiple media outlets.
• Parliament strips Yoon of powers; court to make final call People's Daily 16 Dec 2024 -- The parliament of the Republic of Korea impeached President Yoon Suk-yeol on Saturday over his short-lived martial law decree, sparking jubilation among supporters of the action, but the decision requires endorsement from the country's Constitutional Court, which analysts said indicates that political uncertainty in the ROK is far from over.
• North Korea says 'lies' by South's Yoon about a 'threat' led to impeachment Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- North Korea's state media said on Monday South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol told lies about a threat to his country to justify his "foolish" declaration of martial law, which it said had backfired and resulted in his impeachment.
• Founder of Iranian Company Arrested for Providing Material Support to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), and for Scheme to Procure Sensitive U.S. Technology for Use in IRGC Military Drones, One of Which Killed Three U.S. Servicemembers US Dept. of Justice 16 Dec 2024 -- Mahdi Mohammad Sadeghi, 42, a dual U.S.-Iranian national of Natick, Massachusetts, and Mohammad Abedininajafabadi, also known as Mohammad Abedini (Abedini), 38, of Tehran, Iran, have been charged with conspiring to export sophisticated electronic components from the United States to Iran in violation of U.S. export control and sanctions laws.
• Belarus: EU lists 26 individuals and 2 entities in view of the situation in the country EC/CEU 16 Dec 2024 -- The Council today decided to impose restrictive measures on additional 26 individuals and 2 entities from Belarus, in view of the situation in the country.
• PM meeting with Prime Minister Støre of Norway: 16 December 2024 Gov.UK 16 Dec 2024
• France's new prime minister begins work amid a mountain of challenges VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- France's latest prime minister, Francois Bayrou, gets to work this week to form a new cabinet, push a stopgap budget bill and — more precariously — scout for support for longer-term budget legislation to tackle the country's fiscal woes — a move that led to his predecessor's downfall.
• Foreign Affairs Council: Press remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas at the press conference European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Dec 2024
• Foreign Affairs Council: Press remarks by High Representative Kaja Kallas ahead of the meeting European External Action Service (EEAS) 16 Dec 2024
• Foreign Minister Tsahkna in Brussels: We must force Russia to change course Estonia MFA 16 Dec 2024 -- Today 16 December, Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna attended the meeting of European Union foreign ministers in Brussels, where the agenda covered Russia's aggression against Ukraine, and the situation in Georgia, Middle East and Belarus.
• New decree keeps associations under control of Vietnam's Communist Party: Project 88 Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2024 -- A recently decree that increases restrictions on associations in Vietnam is aimed at ensuring they stay under the control and do not threaten the absolute power of the ruling Communist Party, a new report said Monday.
• Kyrgyz Prime Minister Resigns Amid Tax Authority Scandal RFE/RL 16 Dec 2024 -- Kyrgyz Prime Minister Akylbek Japarov submitted his resignation on December 16 amid an unfolding scandal surrounding the detention of senior officials from the State Tax Service.
• Hungary, Slovakia Block EU Sanctions Against Georgian Leaders RFE/RL 16 Dec 2024 -- Hungary and Slovakia - both with populist, pro-Russian leaders -- on December 16 blocked a proposed package of European Union sanctions against leading Georgian officials for that government's violent crackdown on pro-West protesters over recent weeks.
• World News in Brief: Death toll rises in Darfur, Cyclone Chido latest, São Tomé and Príncipe takes development step UN News 16 Dec 2024 -- UN humanitarians expressed alarm on Monday at the rising numbers of civilian casualties in and around the besieged Sudanese city of El Fasher, in northern Darfur.
• Sri Lanka, India shore up ties in Sri Lankan president's first overseas visit VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- India and Sri Lanka vowed to bolster ties during a visit to New Delhi by Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, whose left-leaning coalition won a landslide majority in parliamentary elections last month.
• Ghana's president-elect John Mahama outlines plans for new term VOA 16 Dec 2024 -- In an exclusive interview with VOA, Ghana's President-elect John Mahama has outlined his vision for improving life for the average Ghanaian following his victory in last week's general elections. Mahama, who campaigned on reviving Ghana's struggling economy and tackling unemployment, discussed his plans for job creation, school reform and preserving the environment while allowing small scale miners to make a living. VOA English to Africa's Paul Ndiho sat down with Mahama on December 13 in Ghana's capital, Accra.
• Bangladesh plans national election by late 2025 or mid 2026 People's Daily 16 Dec 2024 -- Bangladeshi interim government's Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus Monday said it may be possible to hold the next national elections at the end of 2025 or the first half of 2026.