US MILITARY ASSISTANCE
Joe Biden expected to announce USD 225 million weapons package for Ukraine, including Patriot system
President Biden will announce a USD 225 million aid package including a second Patriot missile system for Ukraine's air defence against Russian airstrikes, aligning with Zelenskyy's call against 3,000 monthly bombs. Deployment will use presidential drawdown authority, previously noted in June. At the NATO summit, allies, including the US, Germany, and Romania, pledged Patriots. The US provided USD 150 million for interceptors, artillery, and anti-tank weapons, and USD 2.2 billion in Ukraine Security Assistance funds for future systems like NASAMS. Additional support includes NASAMS, HAWKs, IRIS T-SLM, IRIS T-SLS, and Gepards.
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.
South Korea's Yoon to discuss Pyongyang's 'distinct threat' to Europe at NATO
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol plans to discuss North Korea's threat to Europe, due to its military ties with Russia, at the NATO summit in Washington. Yoon emphasized that Russia must choose its alignment, warning that military cooperation between Russia and North Korea threatens global security. He noted that South Korea's support for Ukraine would depend on Russia's actions. Yoon aims to strengthen South Korea's security ties with Europe and the U.S. and boost its role in global security matters. South Korea will also host a NATO cyber defense exercise in September.
US military bases in Europe on high alert amid terror threat concerns
Several US military bases across Europe have heightened their security alert to Force Protection Condition "Charlie," indicating a significant terror threat. This measure, last seen over a decade ago, reflects growing concerns ahead of major events like the Paris Olympics and European football championships. European countries have ramped up security, with Germany and France taking extensive precautions to address potential dangers. Authorities advise vigilance amid these heightened threat levels.
India may be supplying arms to Israel as 'return favor' for Kargil, claims Former Israeli Ambassador
Former Israeli Ambassador Daniel Carmon has indicated that India might be providing arms to Israel for its Gaza conflict, as a gesture of gratitude for Israel's support during the 1999 Kargil War. Reports claim India supplied drones and munitions to Israel, though India has neither confirmed nor denied these claims. The ongoing conflict has sparked protests in India, raising concerns about the support of Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Russia Ukraine war: North Korea criticises US for providing military aid to Ukraine
Russia Ukraine war: A top North Korean military official criticised the US over military aid to Ukraine in support of Russia, deepening concerns over Moscow and Pyongyang's military cooperation. A recent pact between Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-Un commits immediate military assistance in case of aggression, potentially facilitating arms trade and anti-US coalition. North Korea plans to send construction forces to Russia-occupied Ukrainian territories for rebuilding work, raising tensions with China.
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US aircraft carrier arrives in South Korea as a show of force against nuclear-armed North Korea
A U.S. aircraft carrier, the USS Theodore Roosevelt, has arrived in South Korea for a joint exercise involving Japan, aimed at bolstering military readiness against North Korean threats. The exercise, called Freedom Edge, follows heightened tensions after a security pact between Russia and North Korea. The U.S., South Korea, and Japan are increasing military cooperation, with the USS Roosevelt strike group expected to participate in the drills. The group will later head to the Middle East to promote regional stability and protect commerce.
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.
US and India strengthen military ties, eye deeper collaboration
Top American and Indian defense officials have highlighted the growing importance of the US-India military partnership, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. At the 'Partners in Progress' symposium in Bengaluru, Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna of the Indian Navy praised the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. He emphasized their joint commitment to ensuring peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through enhanced information sharing and maritime awareness. US Defense Attaché to India Rear Admiral Michael Baker also stressed the significant role of the US-India defense partnership in global peace and security.
US resumes aid deliveries to Gaza from temporary pier: CENTCOM
Gaza has been devastated by Israeli operations against Palestinian militant group Hamas now entering their ninth month, uprooting the coastal territory's population and leaving them in dire need of humanitarian assistance.
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 military completes major exercise in Africa and works to deepen partnerships
The U.S. and top African allies conducted the African Lion military exercise in Morocco, addressing new challenges in volatile regions. The exercise showcased joint military operations and emphasized a holistic approach to instability issues beyond military solutions.
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 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.
Airstrike kills 27 in central Gaza and fighting rages as Israel's leaders are increasingly divided
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism from the two other members of his War Cabinet, with his main political rival, Benny Gantz, threatening to leave the government if a plan is not created by June 8 that includes an international administration for postwar Gaza.
Member of Israel's War Cabinet says he'll quit the government June 8 unless there's a new war plan
In a significant development, Benny Gantz, a key member of Israel's War Cabinet, threatened to resign if the government doesn't adopt a new plan for the Gaza conflict. His plan includes the return of hostages, ending Hamas' rule, and normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia. Gantz's departure would leave Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reliant on far-right allies, potentially impacting the direction of the conflict. Meanwhile, aid distribution is set to begin in Gaza, where residents are struggling amid Israeli restrictions and heavy fighting.
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.
As Israel pushes deeper into Rafah, Hamas regroups elsewhere in ungoverned Gaza
Israeli forces battle Palestinian militants in Gaza, risking Egypt peace treaty. Heavy bombardment reported in Jabaliya and Zeitoun. Civilians flee to Khan Younis and Mawasi. Lack of a postwar governance plan in Gaza.
US says Israel's use of US arms likely violated international law, but evidence is incomplete
Biden administration suggests Israel's use of U.S. weapons in Gaza may breach international law, lacking specific evidence. Report underscores potential violations. Debate stirs over humanitarian aid restrictions and political motives, fueling tensions between the U.S., Israel, and Congress.
US says Israel's use of US arms likely violated international law, but evidence is incomplete
The Biden administration suggested that Israel's use of U.S.-supplied weapons in Gaza may have breached international law but stopped short of conclusive evidence due to wartime complexities. While finding "reasonable" evidence of violations, the report did not link specific U.S. arms to individual airstrikes. This assessment could influence future decisions on arms provisions to Israel. Critics argue the review overlooks clear Israeli blocks on aid delivery during the conflict, raising concerns about potential starvation among Palestinians in Gaza.
Heavy fighting in Gaza's Rafah keeps aid crossings closed and sends 110,000 civilians fleeing
The World Food Program will run out of food for distribution in southern Gaza by Saturday, said Georgios Petropoulos, an official with the U.N. Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Rafah. Aid groups have said fuel will also be depleted soon, forcing hospitals to shut down critical operations and bringing to a halt trucks delivering aid across south and central Gaza.
Netanyahu on US threat to withhold arms: Israel will fight with its 'fingernails' if needed
Netanyahu remains resolute on Gaza offensive despite U.S. arms threat, hinting at Rafah invasion. Concerns over humanitarian catastrophe persist. Hamas seeks hostage deal guarantees, while UNRWA faces aid rationing amid Rafah crossing closure.
Israel says it reopened a key Gaza crossing after a rocket attack but the UN says no aid has entered
The Israeli military reopened the Kerem Shalom crossing into Gaza after days of closure, but no humanitarian aid has entered yet, and there is no one to receive it on the Palestinian side after workers fled during Israel's military incursion. The closure, prompted by a Hamas rocket attack that killed four Israeli soldiers, has raised concerns about aid operations in Gaza. The U.S. paused a bomb shipment to Israel last week over fears of a full-scale assault on Rafah, further straining U.S.-Israel relations.
Has Israel followed the law in its war in Gaza? The US is due to render a first-of-its-kind verdict
The Biden administration is set to determine if Israel's actions in Gaza violate international and U.S. laws, amid scrutiny over its military support for Israel. This decision could influence the flow of weapons and aid to Israel. Critics question whether the U.S. will hold Israel accountable for alleged human rights violations, while supporters argue for maintaining strong ties with Israel. The administration's findings could impact future military assistance to Israel and have broader implications for U.S. foreign policy in the region.
Biden administration to miss deadline for report on Israeli weapons use, sources say
A National Security Memorandum, known as NSM-20, that U.S. President Joe Biden issued in February requires the State Department to report to Congress by May 8 on whether it finds credible Israel's assurances that its use of U.S. weapons does not violate U.S. or international law.
Russia seized initiative as US delayed support: Zelensky
President Zelensky of Ukraine criticized the delay in US military assistance, stating that while waiting for approval, Russia seized the initiative on the battlefield. The US had engaged in a prolonged debate over supporting Ukraine, leaving Kyiv facing shortages of crucial artillery and air defense munitions. Zelensky emphasized the need for timely support to achieve Ukrainian goals in the war and warned that Russian success could embolden further aggression. The US has committed significant security assistance to Ukraine since Russia's invasion in 2022, but congressional approval for new funding was delayed.
China blasts US military aid to Taiwan, saying the island is entering a "dangerous situation"
The US Senate late Tuesday passed USD 95 billion in war aid to Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan after months of delays and contentious debate over how involved the United States should be in foreign wars.
US aid could buy Kyiv time, but Ukraine needs many more troops
Ukrainian artillery gunners near Kupiansk are hopeful about the imminent U.S. aid package, seen as a crucial lifeline in their battle against Russian forces. The $61 billion aid is expected to replenish Ukraine's low stocks of artillery shells and air defenses. While the aid is anticipated to boost Ukraine's defense capabilities, challenges remain, including manpower shortages and questions about fortifications. The aid's impact may take time, with analysts suggesting a possible improvement in Ukraine's situation from autumn onwards.
Taiwan says it will discuss with US how to use new funding
The defence ministry expressed thanks to the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the package on Saturday, saying it demonstrated the "rock solid" U.S. support for Taiwan.
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