MILITARY SECRETARY
Vikram Misri takes charge as new foreign secretary
Vikram Misri, an expert on China and a 1989-batch Indian Foreign Service officer, became India's new foreign secretary on Monday, succeeding Vinay Kwatra. Misri previously served as deputy national security advisor and India's ambassador to China. He has also been private secretary to three prime ministers.
'Never wanted them': Russia on Indians being recruited in Army to fight against Ukraine
Russian Charge d'affaires Roman Babushkin's remarks came a day after Russia promised to ensure early release and return to home of the Indian nationals working in the Russian military as support staff after Prime Minister Narendra Modi "very strongly" raised the issue with President Vladimir Putin.
We never wanted them: Russia on Indians in Russian Army
Russian Charge d'affaires Roman Babushkin addressed India's concerns over Indian nationals recruited into the Russian Army, clarifying it's a commercial issue, not military. He assured alignment with India's stance and hopes for a quick resolution. Most Indians, he said, work illegally on tourist visas for financial gain. Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised the issue with President Vladimir Putin during his recent visit, leading to assurances for their early discharge and return. This highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts amid the Russia-Ukraine conflict to prevent further recruitment and ensure the safety of affected individuals.
F-16s' arrival not a silver bullet for Ukraine in war with Russia
The U.S.-built F-16 fighter jets destined for Ukraine from Denmark and the Netherlands are anticipated to enhance Ukraine's air defenses amid ongoing Russian attacks. Despite the delayed process, which has allowed Russia to fortify its defenses, these jets are seen as crucial for bolstering Ukraine's depleted air force. Analysts suggest the F-16s, though symbolically significant, may have a limited immediate battlefield impact. Challenges remain in training Ukrainian pilots, maintaining the aircraft, and securing vulnerable air bases from ongoing Russian assaults. Ukraine aims to deploy these jets strategically despite logistical and operational hurdles.
Russia agrees to release all Indians working as support staff to Russian military
Prime Minister Modi urged President Putin for the swift return of Indian nationals serving in the Russian Army as support staff. The MEA highlighted concerns after several casualties, including Mohammed Asfan and Hemal Mangu, in the Russia-Ukraine war. About 35-50 Indians serve, with some already back. India demanded a verified recruitment stop, respecting the Russia-India partnership.
Russia agrees to set up joint ventures in India to address delays in supply of spares of military platforms
Moscow will address spare parts supply issues through joint ventures under Make-in-India following Modi-Putin talks at the Russia-India summit. They discussed military-technical cooperation and co-production, targeting exports to third countries and establishing a Working Group on Technological Cooperation. This aligns with India’s self-sufficiency commitment in defense.
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What to know about the NATO military alliance and how it is helping Ukraine
The three-day summit, which begins Tuesday, will focus on ways to reassure Ukraine of NATO's enduring support and offer some hope to its war-weary citizens that their country might survive the biggest land conflict in Europe in decades.
How the NATO summit in Washington will affect Ukraine membership and military aid
Leaders of NATO's 32 member countries will gather in Washington this week for a summit of the transatlantic security alliance, focusing on further support for Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, invited to attend the summit, will be the key figure as NATO officials and diplomats discuss the pressing agenda.
Japan and the Philippines sign a defense pact in the face of shared alarm over China
Japan and the Philippines signed a landmark defense pact allowing Japanese forces to conduct joint military exercises, including live-fire drills, in the Philippines. The Reciprocal Access Agreement, signed by Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro and Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa, will enable Filipino forces to enter Japan for joint training. This pact, pending legislative ratification, aims to bolster defense cooperation amid China's growing assertiveness. The agreement aligns with Japan's increased defense spending and strategic alliances, and supports the Philippines' efforts to defend its interests in the South China Sea.
Can you 'Trump-proof' NATO? As Biden falters, Europeans look to safeguard the military alliance
Growing skepticism about President Joe Biden's reelection chances has European leaders anticipating the NATO summit in Washington. The prospect that former President Donald Trump, a known critic of the alliance, may return to power over its mightiest military is particularly concerning. The NATO summit, which begins Tuesday, will mark the military alliance's 75th anniversary. NATO consists of 32 European and North American allies committed to mutual defense against armed attacks.
What is the NATO military alliance and how is it helping Ukraine?
US President Joe Biden and his NATO counterparts are meeting in Washington to mark the 75th anniversary of NATO amidst Russia's actions in Ukraine, focusing on reassuring Ukraine of NATO's support and peacekeeping efforts. NATO, founded in 1949, aims to defend its 32 member countries and uphold collective security guarantees. NATO provides non-lethal support to Ukraine and is increasing troop presence on its borders to deter potential attacks.
Joe Biden's latest health concern: Reports of Parkinson's disease specialist visiting White House surfaces
Joe Biden is yet again amid a massive health scare scenario after top Parkinson's disease specialist in the country visited the White House to meet the US President's physician along with two other doctors, according to latest reports. How will this reflect with American voters ahead of the USA Presidential Elections 2024?
Jaishankar, Wang to intensify LAC disengagement efforts
Indian and Chinese foreign ministers meet to discuss achieving complete disengagement in Eastern Ladakh. Efforts to resolve remaining issues along the Line of Actual Control are underway through diplomatic and military discussions.
From flowers to guns: Women's struggle against military conscription in Myanmar
Thousands of people are fleeing Myanmar due to the military junta's announcement of conscription to bolster its forces against armed groups challenging its power. The exodus is driven by fear of forced recruitment, with reports of human rights abuses and violence against women. The situation worsened after the 2021 coup, leading to widespread displacement and unrest. Women, in particular, face increased risks of trafficking, exploitation, and discrimination.
An Israel offensive into Lebanon risks an Iranian military response, top US military leader says
Top U.S. military officer warns that an Israeli offensive in Lebanon could lead to broader war, with Iran likely to back Hezbollah. Israel has threatened military action if Hezbollah isn't pushed from the border. Diplomatic efforts are underway, including meetings between Israeli and U.S. officials. The U.S. is concerned about assisting Israel against Hezbollah's rockets. The conflict has already caused casualties on both sides. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah claims to have over 100,000 fighters, potentially escalating the conflict with broader regional involvement.
Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani to be next Vice Chief of Army Staff
Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani is set to be the next Vice Chief of Army Staff succeeding Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, following the government's clearance of his appointment.
Pressing Russia to release Indians in Russian military: Foreign Secretary Kwatra
India has been pressing Russia for the safety and repatriation of Indian nationals employed by the Russian Army, following the deaths of two more Indians in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, bringing the total to four. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra emphasized continuous discussions with Russian authorities to ensure the safety of Indians in the war zone. India has demanded a halt to further recruitment of its nationals by the Russian Army. The government has contacted families and taken immediate action for those in the conflict zone. Ten Indians have been repatriated so far.
US, South Korea conduct joint bombing drills
The United States flew a B-1B bomber over the Korean Peninsula for the first joint bombing drills with South Korea in seven years, amidst heightened tensions from North Korea's provocations. The US bomber, escorted by South Korean F-15K jets, dropped Joint Direct Attack Munitions during the exercise. South Korea suspended a 2018 inter-Korean military pact and resumed military activities along the demarcation line. The drills aim to reinforce the US extended deterrence commitment and combined defense posture against North Korea's threats.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says US 'can be secure only if Asia is'
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific region for US security at a security forum in Singapore.
Blinken says Washington approved use of US weapons by Ukraine inside Russia
US President Joe Biden has approved Ukraine using US weapons to strike Russian targets attacking the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv. This move follows Kyiv's request for authorization from Washington. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed the move, stating that it was a result of the US strategy of adjusting and adapting to the battleground. Biden has relaxed his policy on weapons supplies for Ukraine twice this year, earlier this year, he resisted calls to send long-range missiles to Kyiv.
Top US and Chinese defence officials seek to restore communications as tensions rise in Indo-Pacific
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun for the first time in person since 2022. The two discussed tensions in the Indo-Pacific region at the Shangri-La defence forum. The US emphasised freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. China accused the US of inflaming regional security. Both countries are restoring defence contacts and plan to resume military-to-military communications.
US defence secretary Lloyd Austin raises concerns about China's military activity
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed concerns over China's military actions near Taiwan during a meeting with his Chinese counterpart in Singapore. The meeting marked the first direct contact since 2022. Major General Patrick Ryder emphasised that China should not exploit Taiwan's democratic process for coercive measures. He highlighted the importance of respecting Taiwan's political transition as a routine democratic practice.
US will announce $275 million more in artillery and ammunition for Ukraine, officials say
The United States is set to announce $275 million in military aid for Ukraine to combat Russian advances in the Kharkiv region. The aid package includes HIMARS and artillery rounds.
Russia begins nuclear drills in an apparent warning to West over Ukraine
Russia's military has started drills with tactical nuclear weapons in response to Western officials' comments on deeper involvement in Ukraine. The drills involve non-strategic nuclear weapons like Kinzhal and Iskander missiles in the Southern Military District near Ukraine and Crimea.
Pentagon vows to keep arming Kyiv amid fresh Russian assault
The US announced no new aid packages Monday, but has now provided about $50.6 billion in military assistance to Ukraine since Russia invaded in 2022. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials said Kyiv's troops still control nearly 60% of Vovchansk and are fighting house-to-house to defend the border town in northeastern Kharkiv region from Russian attacks.
China criticises US in military unit's call with US defence official, says China ministry
China criticized the US during a video call between the Office for International Military Cooperation of the China Central Military Commission and the US Assistant Defense Secretary. The Chinese defense ministry stated that military "collusion" between the US and Taiwan, along with Taiwan pro-independence forces' "separatist" acts, are the main sources of chaos in the Taiwan Strait. Additionally, China accused the US of "meddling" in and "instigating" disputes in the South China Sea through proxies.
Why the US paused weapons shipment to Israel amid Gaza conflict
Amidst escalating violence in Gaza, the US has suspended a shipment of heavy bombs to Israel, citing concerns over civilian casualties. President Joe Biden emphasized the commitment to Israel's defense but stated that offensive weapons for densely populated areas would not be supplied. The decision comes amid a military assault in Rafah, raising questions about the impact of US arms in conflict zones. This development reflects a broader effort to balance support for allies with humanitarian considerations in conflict zones.
Russia warns Britain it could strike back after Cameron remark on Ukraine
Russia has warned Britain that if Ukraine uses British weapons to attack Russian territory, Moscow could target British military installations and equipment. British Ambassador Nigel Casey was summoned to the foreign ministry for a protest after Foreign Secretary David Cameron's statement that Ukraine has the right to use British weapons to strike Russia contradicted an earlier assurance that long-range weapons given to Ukraine would not be used against Russia.
AI-controlled F-16 fighter jet completes successful test flight with Air Force Secretary onboard
An experimental AI-controlled F-16 fighter jet completed a successful test flight with Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall onboard, marking a milestone in military aviation. The U.S. Air Force aims to deploy over 1,000 unmanned warplanes by 2028, highlighting its aggressive pursuit of AI integration. Despite concerns about autonomous decision-making, Kendall emphasized the importance of AI for security. The shift towards AI-enabled aircraft offers enhanced security and strategic advantages, driven by factors such as cost efficiency and the vulnerability of manned fighter jets to electronic warfare.
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