Unidentified drone activity prompted a nearly four-hour closure of Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s airspace. Base officials monitored the “small unmanned aerial systems,” assuring that no impact on base personnel or assets occurred. This incident follows a recent surge in unexplained drone sightings near military installations and critical infrastructure across the US and abroad, though officials maintain there’s no evidence of a security threat. Investigations into these incidents are ongoing.
Read More
Readers are encouraged to submit news tips to The Daily Beast. The submission process is simple and allows for confidential sharing of information. This is an opportunity to contribute to investigative journalism and help bring important stories to light. Tips can be submitted through a dedicated portal on The Daily Beast website.
Read More
Following a failed attempt to delay a nationwide ban, TikTok must be sold by its Chinese owner, ByteDance, by January 19th to remain operational in the US. A US court rejected TikTok’s emergency motion, leaving its only recourse as an appeal to the Supreme Court. The ban, driven by national security concerns regarding data collection, is supported by the Justice Department, while TikTok disputes these claims. Failure to secure a Supreme Court reversal will leave TikTok’s future dependent upon President Biden’s potential extension and then President-elect Trump’s ultimate decision.
Read More
The UK government approved the £5.3 billion sale of International Distribution Services (IDS), Royal Mail’s parent company, to Daniel Kretinsky’s EP Group. This acquisition, subject to a national security review due to Royal Mail’s vital infrastructure status, includes legally binding agreements to maintain UK-based operations, the universal service obligation, and a government “golden share.” A key aspect of the deal provides Royal Mail employees with 10% of dividends and establishes a workers’ group to engage with company leadership. The deal is expected to finalize in the first three months of 2025 pending shareholder approval.
Read More
Multiple drones have been reported entering the airspace above a New Jersey naval station, prompting a wave of speculation and concern. The official response, suggesting a lack of threat and an inability to identify the source, has only fueled the fire, leaving many questioning the official narrative.
The nonchalant official response, claiming no threat, seems almost too convenient. Many are pointing out the stark contrast between the apparent ease with which these drones breach restricted airspace and the swift, often severe, reactions to even minor infractions by civilian drone operators. If a civilian with a proper license were to fly a drone near a military base, they’d likely face immediate and serious consequences from the FAA, if not more.… Continue reading
Donald Trump’s repeated refusal to disclose whether he has spoken with Vladimir Putin, citing inappropriateness, contrasts sharply with his willingness to publicize conversations with other world leaders. This pattern began in 2016 and continued through his first presidency, with reports alleging undisclosed communications even after leaving office. Trump’s recent claim that he “can’t” discuss potential conversations with Putin further fuels concerns about the nature of their relationship. This secrecy stands in stark contrast to his public boasting about interactions with other foreign leaders.
Read More
Trump’s latest crypto venture is raising serious concerns, particularly its partnership with a platform allegedly linked to Middle Eastern militant groups. This development underscores a pattern of behavior that many find deeply troubling. The sheer audacity of such a partnership, considering the potential national security risks involved, is shocking. It raises questions about whether established norms and regulations even apply to Trump anymore, and highlights a complete disregard for potential consequences.
This isn’t an isolated incident. Trump’s past actions, such as the abrupt withdrawal of US troops from Syria and Afghanistan, leaving behind valuable assets and potentially endangering allies, already raise serious concerns about his judgment and priorities.… Continue reading
Frustration over unexplained drone sightings in New Jersey is mounting among local officials and members of Congress. An FBI official testified before Congress that, despite over 3,000 reported sightings and an active investigation, they have yet to identify the source of the drone activity near sensitive sites. While no known threat exists, the unknown nature of the drones and their operators is deeply concerning, especially given their proximity to critical infrastructure. Lawmakers are demanding increased federal resources and collaboration to identify and address this ongoing issue.
Read More
The Biden administration’s recent decision to forgive $4.7 billion in loans owed to Ukraine has sparked considerable debate. This move, while seemingly generous, is framed by the administration as a strategic maneuver with several key justifications.
The primary argument centers around preventing former President Trump from using these outstanding loans as leverage against Ukraine. The potential for such influence, especially given the contentious relationship between the two countries, poses a significant national security concern. By removing this leverage point, the administration aims to bolster Ukraine’s sovereignty and prevent potential interference in its affairs.
Further bolstering this justification is the upcoming change in administration.… Continue reading
Senator Sanders opposes the nearly $850 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, citing the excessive military spending while many Americans face economic hardship. He highlights the potential for “disastrous misplaced power” within the military-industrial complex, echoing Eisenhower’s warnings. Sanders points to rampant fraud, waste, and cost overruns within the defense industry, citing examples of major contractors’ overcharging and fines. The NDAA’s passage remains uncertain, though opposition is expected less due to the budget size and more because of controversial provisions targeting transgender healthcare for minors.
Read More