A former security guard at the U.S. Embassy in Norway has been indicted on suspicion of espionage, accused of sharing sensitive information with Russia and Iran. The man allegedly provided details about embassy diplomats, floor plans, and security protocols. While acknowledging the facts, the defendant denies criminal guilt, citing legal interpretation of the information’s classification. If found guilty, he could face up to 21 years in prison, and this case follows another involving a researcher at Norway’s Arctic University suspected of espionage.
Read More
The Netherlands is preparing to make a “significant contribution” to the supply of Patriot systems to Ukraine, with Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans confirming the nation’s willingness to co-finance additional supplies. This commitment comes as part of the ongoing effort to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses and counter Russia’s attacks, as stated during the recent Ramstein-format meeting. The Dutch Ministry of Defence is actively consulting with the United States and other allies to finalize a plan for delivering these American-made weapons, with specific details expected to be determined in the coming days in collaboration with NATO and other partners. This initiative aligns with the broader effort, spearheaded by Germany and the U.S., to provide Ukraine with essential air defense capabilities.
Read More
Mikhail Tarasenko, a deceased deputy in Russia’s State Duma, was reported to have participated in eleven legislative votes on Tuesday, the same day he died. Despite his “serious illness,” Tarasenko’s voting record included support for measures such as allowing widows of fallen servicemen to use their late husbands’ vehicles. It is likely that these votes were cast by colleagues using his voting card, a practice previously observed with ill deputies. Tarasenko, a long-standing member of the United Russia party, had served in the Duma since 2007.
Read More
Recent actions by the Russian government indicate a significant crackdown on internet freedom. The supervisory authority Roskomnadzor blocked 56,000 websites for refusing to remove content deemed “extremist.” Simultaneously, a controversial new law criminalizes the search for such content, sparking criticism and protests. The law, passed by the State Duma, targets those seeking content critical of the Kremlin and aims to further restrict internet access, which has been increasing since the invasion of Ukraine.
Read More
President Zelensky has signed a bill that significantly undermines the independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption institutions, NABU and SAPO, granting the prosecutor general increased control over their investigations. This move, which followed parliament’s approval of the amendments, has sparked protests and strong criticism from watchdogs who fear the legislation will cripple these agencies. The law allows the prosecutor general to direct NABU investigations and reassign SAPO’s powers, potentially closing investigations at the defense’s request. International partners like the EU have expressed concerns, highlighting the importance of independent anti-corruption bodies for Ukraine’s reform agenda and its path toward EU accession.
Read More
Recent reports indicate that Russia is utilizing a new decoy drone composed entirely of Chinese-made components, marking a shift in the origin of its military technology. According to Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR), the drone is designed to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses and may also carry a warhead. The discovery highlights China’s increasing support for Russia’s war efforts, with the majority of the components sourced from a single Chinese company, CUAV Technology. This development underscores Russia’s growing reliance on China for critical technology, including AI and extended-range fiber-optic cables, while international sanctions are in place.
Read More
Howard Phillips, a 65-year-old former City worker, was found guilty of assisting what he believed to be Russian intelligence agents after falling on financial hardship. He offered to provide logistical support, including handing over the home address and landline of Grant Shapps, for what he hoped would be easy money. MI5 conducted an undercover operation where Phillips met with officers posing as Russian agents, expressing his desire for employment and financial stability. After his conviction, Phillips now faces a lengthy jail sentence.
Read More
U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker warned that China could face repercussions for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine if a peace settlement is not reached. The U.S. is considering “severe” secondary tariffs on countries, including China, that continue to purchase Russian oil, which is a key revenue source for Russia’s war effort. This strategy aims to pressure Russia by limiting its oil and gas income, with potential for increased tariffs on Chinese exports to the U.S. if it continues to buy Russian oil. This comes as China remains one of Russia’s closest economic partners and a major buyer of Russian crude oil.
Read More
An investigation reveals that Russian authorities are actively involving children in the design and testing of drones for the war in Ukraine. This involvement begins with seemingly innocuous video games and progresses to advanced competitions, with talented students being recruited by defense companies. Teenagers have been found to be modeling drone components for major enterprises, often encouraged to conceal the military applications of their projects. Furthermore, children have been shown constructing kamikaze drones in factories, violating international conventions. This initiative is part of a broader effort to boost Russia’s drone production, a crucial element of its war effort.
Read More
On July 22, Ukraine launched a series of drone attacks across Russia, with Moscow reporting that its air defenses intercepted numerous drones. One of the confirmed targets was the Novokuybyshevsk Petrochemical Company in Samara Oblast, a facility crucial for producing explosives used in Russian military operations. The governor of Samara reported no casualties or damage, but confirmed temporary restrictions on mobile internet. The attacks included one near Moscow, marking the sixth consecutive night of drone strikes on the capital.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker