Russia

• The US on Wednesday announced a new $200 million arms package for Ukraine that includes HIMARS ammunition, artillery shells, anti-tank weapons, and other equipment. AWC
• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky sent a request to Tel Aviv to coordinate a trip to Israel in a show of support. The White House is trying to unify the wars in Israel and Ukraine by pushing a spending bill that includes aid for Kiev, Tel Aviv, Taipei, and funding for the border wall. The Institute 
• The White House has conveyed to members of Congress that it will request an emergency supplemental funding package that will include military aid for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, as well as additional funding for border security, NBC News reported on Wednesday. AWC

China

• Rep. Michael McCaul (R-TX), chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Wednesday that Egypt warned Israel of a potential attack three days before Hamas launched its incursion into southern Israel, confirming earlier reports. AWC
• Gaza’s only power plant was shut down on Wednesday after it ran out of fuel as the situation in the besieged enclave is becoming increasingly desperate for civilians after days of relentless Israeli airstrikes. AWC
• Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) on Tuesday declared that “we’re in a religious war” and called for Israel to “level” the Gaza Strip, home to over 2 million people, including about 1 million children. AWC
• The New York Times reported on Wednesday that US intelligence shows Iranian leaders were surprised by the Hamas attack on southern Israel and that no evidence has been found indicating Iran helped plan the operation. AWC

Niger

• Washington formally declared the July 26 ouster of Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum – and the subsequent establishment of a miliary junta in Niamey  – a coup d’etat on Tuesday. The junta, called the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland (CNSP), is led by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani. Per US law, this designation means the US will indefinitely cut off all military assistance, including counterterrorism and training missions. The Institute