US News
- The Cost of War Project finds the Pentagon transferred at least $1.6 billion in weapons to police departments under the 1033 Program since 9/11. The number is likely higher as the Pentagon undervalues the surplus weapons it gives away. [Link]
- Earlier in the year, Congress gave the Pentagon $1 billion to combat Covid and make medical equipment. The Pentagon diverted most of the money to defense contractors to build weapons. [Link]
- The Washington Post reports Trump is frustrated with Russia for not responding to a US offer of a limited extension of New Start. Russia has offered to extend the treaty by five years. Trump wants a shorter extension. [Link]
- In a UN speech, Trump attacked China over Covid. [Link]
- The US placed sanctions on five Venezuelan lawmakers. [Link]
Europe
- Turkey and Greece agree to resume talks over territorial disputes. Talks have been stalled for four years. [Link]
Afghanistan
- The US Envoy to Afghanistan says the level of violence is unacceptably high and he expects more setbacks at talks. [Link]
- In a Congressional committee hearing, a Pentagon official again said the DoD has no evidence of Russia placing bounties on US soldiers in Afghanistan. [Link]
Middle East
- Secretary of Defense Mark Esper says the US will maintain Israel’s qualitative military edge over other Arab states. Israel expressed concern over the US selling the UAE and Bahrain the F-35. [Link]
- A Saudi airstrike targeted a plastic factory in Yemen. [Link]
- Fuel shortages in Yemen are causing power outages at hospitals. Some healthcare workers are turning dialysis machines by hand to prevent clotting. [Link]
