US News

• A Florida town is attempting to fine a homeowner $165,000 for a cracked driveway, a damaged fence, and parking cars on the lawn. [Link]
• Two Cleveland police officers were arrested and charged with stealing $5,000 from a man on the way to pay for his mother’s funeral. The officers are also being investigated for stealing money or property from three other people. [Link]
• The FBI employed at least 12 confidential informants to infiltrate the Michigan group that is accused of a plot to kidnap Governor Gretchen Wittmer. [Link]
• The US Postal Service runs a social media surveillance unit called Internet Covert Operations Program (iCOP). The unit uses facial recognition, monitors protests, has access to DHS fusion centers, and creates fake online identities. [Link]

Cuba

• The State Department says it is seeking options to support the Cuban people. [Link]
• Miami’s mayor calls for the US to intervene in Cuba and suggests Biden should consider bombing Cuba. [Link]

China

• Biden’s nominee for Secretary of the Navy – Carlos Del Toro – says he will focus exclusively on China and it is essential to prevent China from being able to seize Taiwan. [Link]
• The State Department said China uses forced labor in Xinjiang and business with supply chains through that territory could be in violation of US law.  [Link]

Afghanistan

• The Taliban captured a major border crossing with Pakistan. [Link]
• Russia issued a warning to central Asian countries that are considering allowing the US a base to conduct missions in Afghanistan. [Link]

Iran

• The US says it is for Iran to decide if the seventh round of indirect talks takes place in Vienna. [Link]
• Iran says it is willing to release all American prisoners if the US releases all Iranian held for violating US sanctions. [Link]

South Africa

• The arrest of former South African President Jacob Zuma sparked protests and looting that left over 70 dead. [Link]