NUCLEAR ARMED NATIONS
North Korea says tested missile capable of carrying super-large warhead
North Korea successfully tested a new tactical ballistic missile capable of carrying a super-large warhead, state media said Tuesday, with analysts suggesting the weapon could be nuclear-capable. Pyongyang's state media claimed it had successfully launched the Hwasongpho-11Da-4.5 missile, which it said was capable of carrying a 4.5 ton-class super-large warhead.
How did North Korean soldiers wander across the world's most heavily guarded border?
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea is an intensely fortified strip of land, 248 kilometers long and 4 kilometers wide, possibly the most heavily armed place on Earth. It features two million mines, barbed wire fences, tank traps, and tens of thousands of troops from both sides. Despite this, recent incidents of North Korean soldiers crossing into South Korea have been attributed to overgrown foliage obscuring the demarcation line markings.
Russia and North Korea sign partnership deal that appears to be the strongest since the Cold War
Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed an agreement pledging mutual aid against "aggression," signaling stronger ties amid their standoffs with the West. The summit marked Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years and raised concerns over potential arms deals for Russia's war in Ukraine. The agreement enhances security, trade, and cultural ties. U.S. and South Korean officials expressed alarm, and Putin’s subsequent visit to Vietnam underscores Russia’s efforts to bolster alliances amid global tensions.
South Korea blasts Russia-North Korea deal, says it will consider supplying arms to Ukraine
South Korea condemns Russia and North Korea's mutual defense agreement, reconsidering support to Ukraine. North Korea and Russia vow military assistance in case of war, causing concern. Seoul warns of negative consequences on relations with Moscow.
Putin in Vietnam, seeking to strengthen ties in Southeast Asia while Russia's isolation deepens
Putin was greeted by dignitaries upon his arrival in the Southeast Asian country as soldiers in white dress uniforms stood at attention. He arrived from North Korea, where he and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un signed an agreement that pledges mutual aid in the event of war.
North Korea says deal between Putin and Kim requires immediate military assistance in event of war
The new agreement between Russia and North Korea, as reported by North Korean state media, requires the countries to provide immediate military assistance to each other in the event of war. This agreement marks a significant upgrade in their relations, covering security, trade, investment, cultural, and humanitarian ties. The summit between Kim Jong Un and Vladimir Putin also raised concerns about a potential arms arrangement between Pyongyang and Moscow, with North Korea supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. Tensions on the Korean Peninsula remain high, with ongoing weapons tests and military exercises involving the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.
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China's nuclear force now three times larger than India's: SIPRI data
China is rapidly increasing its nuclear arsenal, now boasting 500 warheads, triple that of India. This expansion reflects heightened geopolitical tensions and a global trend toward modernizing nuclear capabilities. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reports that all nine nuclear-armed states are enhancing their arsenals, with China and the US notably placing warheads on high operational alert.
Putin says Russia and North Korea have vowed to aid each other if attacked in new partnership deal
Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years comes amid growing concerns over an arms arrangement in which the country provides Moscow with badly needed munitions for its war in Ukraine in exchange for economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim's nuclear weapons and missile program.
Before his summit with North Korea's Kim Jong Un, Vladimir Putin vows they'll beat sanctions together
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to North Korea for supporting his actions in Ukraine and pledged close cooperation to overcome US-led sanctions. Ahead of his two-day summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Putin highlighted their mutual opposition to Western ambitions and plans to develop independent trade and payment systems. Putin’s visit marks his first to North Korea in 24 years and underscores growing military and economic ties. US and South Korean officials have accused North Korea of supplying Russia with military aid for the Ukraine conflict, which both countries deny.
Russia President Vladimir Putin makes a rare visit to North Korea, an old ally
Putin was met at Pyongyang's airport by North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. They shook hands and embraced, and Kim later joined Putin in his car to personally guide him to Pyongyang's Kumsusan State Guest House, North Korea's official Korean Central News Agency said.
9 nuclear-armed nations including India continued to modernise N-arsenals in 2023: SIPRI
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that nine nuclear-armed nations, including the US, Russia, France, China, India, and Pakistan, continued to modernize their nuclear arsenals in 2023. China notably increased its nuclear arsenal from 410 to 500 warheads and is expected to continue growing. The report highlighted that around 2,100 deployed warheads were on high operational alert, primarily held by Russia and the US, with China joining for the first time.
Watchdog: Nuclear-armed nations are deepening reliance on nuclear weapons
In 2023, the world's nine nuclear-armed states continued modernizing their arsenals, deepening reliance on nuclear deterrence, per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). Amid rising geopolitical tensions, nuclear spending surged by $10.7 billion, totaling $91.4 billion. The US and Russia, holding nearly 90% of global warheads, remain central to these developments.
Why is there a Russian nuclear submarine just 200 miles off the coast of Florida?
There are four Russian naval ships in Cuba and they are participating in a joint naval exercise with the host nation. The US is closely monitoring the situation.
Modi 3.0 takes aim: Blueprint to make the Indian armed forces future ready
India faces growing security challenges from China and Pakistan, prompting calls for a robust and integrated defence strategy. This includes bolstering nuclear deterrence, enhancing military capabilities, and pushing for systemic reforms in defence production and organization. The new government must prioritize these measures to ensure national security and strategic autonomy in the coming years.
G7 urges N.Korea, Russia to 'cease unlawful arms transfers'
G7 foreign ministers expressed grave concern over increasing cooperation between Russia and North Korea, especially regarding arms transfers from Pyongyang to Moscow for potential use in attacking Ukraine. They called for the cessation of these unlawful transfers and emphasized the importance of holding both countries accountable. Recent sanctions by their governments aim to impose costs on entities involved in these transfers. The ministers condemned the use of such arms in striking Ukraine's critical infrastructure, prolonging the suffering of the Ukrainian people.
Pakistan does not adhere to 'no first use' of nuclear weapons policy: ex-Army official
Pakistan does not adhere to a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, clarified Lt Gen (retd) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai, Adviser to the National Command Authority, during a seminar commemorating the 26th anniversary of Pakistan's 1998 nuclear tests. Kidwai emphasized that Pakistan's nuclear deterrence capabilities are fully operational and ready to respond to any threats, underscoring that Pakistan maintains strategic ambiguity regarding its nuclear stance.
Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif says 1998 nuclear tests ensured 'credible minimum deterrence'
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif commemorated the 26th anniversary of Pakistan's first successful nuclear tests, highlighting the nation's journey towards credible minimum deterrence. Pakistan conducted six tests on May 28, 1998, in response to India's tests, becoming the seventh nuclear nation and the first Muslim state with nuclear capabilities. Designated as Youm-e-Takbeer, the day was declared a public holiday.
South Korea imposes sanctions on North Koreans, two Russian vessels
On Friday, South Korea imposed sanctions on seven North Korean individuals and two Russian vessels for violating U.N. Security Council resolutions through weapons trade and related activities between Pyongyang and Moscow. The vessels transported military supplies, while the sanctioned individuals facilitated arms negotiations and supported North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. Accusations of North Korea supplying weapons to Russia for the Ukraine war have been denied by both countries. Russia condemned the sanctions and vowed to respond.
Indian counter-terror team to help France with Paris Olympics
Officials familiar with the matter have disclosed that India is poised to offer its expertise in security measures to France for the forthcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games scheduled to take place in Paris in July 2024. Both the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) engaged in extensive deliberations with their French counterparts. A consensus was reached between the two sides to dispatch a delegation comprising experts in counterterrorism and homeland security to Paris prior to the commencement of the major event.
Iran President Raisi dead: How it may impact the region including Israel, oil prices, gold, and stock markets
The death of Iranian President Raisi in a helicopter crash is poised to have significant repercussions, given Iran's longstanding conflicts and alliances in the Middle East. The incident comes amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, raising concerns about regional stability and Iran's nuclear ambitions.
How might a US-Saudi civil nuclear deal work?
White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan to visit Saudi Arabia to discuss a civil nuclear cooperation agreement, key for U.S.-Saudi relations and Israeli-Saudi reconciliation under Section 123 of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act of 1954.
What is Putin and Xi's 'new era' strategic partnership?
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping have agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership, criticizing the United States for actions they see as threatening their countries. They expressed determination to defend their interests, resist interference, and support each other on key issues like Taiwan and Ukraine. They also condemned U.S. missile defense systems, nuclear weapons development, and military alliances in Asia. The joint statement outlines plans to deepen cooperation in trade, industry, agriculture, technology, energy, and nuclear energy.
Italy's president says Russia's invasion of Ukraine can't be solved by rewarding Moscow's aggression
Italy's president, Sergio Mattarella, addressed the U.N. General Assembly, stating that Russia's invasion of Ukraine cannot be resolved by rewarding aggression. He emphasized that peace can only be achieved by restoring Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Italy, now leading the G7, and many international partners stand in solidarity with Ukraine, defending nations attacked in violation of international law. Mattarella warned against violating principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, stressing that Russia's actions have rekindled war in Europe and disrupted global peace.
What are tactical nuclear weapons and why did Russia order drills?
Moscow's announcement of tactical nuclear weapons drills, amid Putin's reminders of Russia's nuclear might, showcases their political messaging strategy. The deployment in Belarus enhances targeting capabilities in Eastern Europe, countering perceived Western threats.
Russia proposes UN resolution on banning weapons in space, after vetoing similar UN-Japan draft
Russia has proposed a U.N. resolution urging all nations to prevent the deployment of weapons in outer space "for all time." This comes after Russia vetoed a U.S.-Japan resolution aimed at curbing an arms race in space. The Russian draft resolution goes further by calling for a ban on all types of weapons in space, including the use of force in outer space. The vetoed resolution focused only on weapons of mass destruction, excluding other weapons in space. Russia's move is seen as a response to recent developments, including the U.S.'s confirmation of Russia's anti-satellite weapon capability.
US official urges China, Russia to declare only humans, not AI, control nuclear weapons
A senior U.S. official has called on China and Russia to join the United States and others in committing to human control over nuclear weapons, excluding artificial intelligence from decision-making processes. Paul Dean, a State Department arms control official, emphasized the importance of this norm, noting that the U.S., France, and Britain have all made such declarations. Dean urged China and Russia to follow suit, highlighting the need for responsible behavior in the context of the P5, the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
Why is Japan seeking a summit with nuclear-armed North Korea?
United States President Joe Biden has expressed support for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's efforts to hold face-to-face talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Kishida hopes to become the first Japanese leader in 20 years to hold leadership talks with North Korea, with a focus on resolving the issue of Japanese nationals abducted by North Korea in the 1960s and 1970s. While Kishida is willing to hold talks without preconditions, North Korea's response remains unclear. The abduction issue has broad public support in Japan, but Kishida's efforts could be politically risky if they do not yield tangible results.
Iran’s better, stealthier drones are remaking global warfare
Iran's drone technology is reshaping global conflicts, with drones based on Iranian designs being used in various countries, including Sudan, Syria, and Ukraine. These drones, like the Zagel-3 based on Iran's Ababil model, are becoming increasingly sophisticated and are used by militias and militaries worldwide. Iran's drone industry, fueled by sanctions and innovative methods to circumvent them, is a key element of its military strategy, allowing it to project power and influence far beyond its borders.
What are solid-fuel missiles, and why is North Korea developing them?
North Korea launched a suspected intermediate-range ballistic missile, possibly related to developing a new solid-fuel hypersonic weapon. Solid-fuel technology offers advantages like easier operation and greater responsiveness in crisis. Countries like the U.S., Soviet Union, and China have utilized solid fuel in missile systems. North Korea's solid-fuel ICBM aims to enhance its nuclear counterattack capability.
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