International Security

China’s Telecom Hack: Espionage, Outdated Tech, and a Double Standard

China’s sophisticated hacking operations have undeniably penetrated deep into the infrastructure of U.S. telecommunications companies. This isn’t some isolated incident; it represents a pattern of exploitation, leveraging vulnerabilities to gain access and potentially steal valuable data. The scale of this intrusion is deeply concerning, raising serious questions about national security and the integrity of our critical communications systems.

The alarming reality is that these breaches often exploit outdated technology. Many telecommunications systems rely on decades-old protocols and interfaces, leaving them vulnerable to attacks that would be easily thwarted with modern security measures. This points to a critical need for upgrades and improvements across the sector, a move that seems urgently necessary given the current threat landscape.… Continue reading

Putin Reportedly Thrilled by Trump’s Gabbard DNI Nomination

On Deadline White House, former CIA Director John Brennan and former FBI Assistant Director Frank Figliuzzi expressed serious concerns regarding Tulsi Gabbard’s nomination as Director of National Intelligence. Their discussion with Nicolle Wallace centered on the implications for U.S. national security and international alliances. The analysts highlighted alarming new questions surrounding Gabbard’s suitability for the critical role. This discussion took place on November 19, 2024.

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Biden Urged to Background Check Trump’s Cabinet Picks

Despite lacking a legal mandate, FBI background checks for presidential nominees have been standard practice. President-elect Trump’s reported intention to bypass this process raises serious concerns about national security. Existing memoranda of understanding between the Department of Justice, the President, and the Senate Judiciary Committee provide avenues for President Biden and the Senate to initiate investigations, even without Trump’s cooperation. This action is crucial to uphold the Senate’s advice and consent role and safeguard against potentially unqualified or compromised nominees. Failure to act would set a dangerous precedent, undermining checks and balances.

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Democrats Call for Federal Probe of Musk’s Alleged Putin Ties

Democrats are pushing for federal investigations into Elon Musk’s alleged ties to Vladimir Putin. This call for a probe stems from concerns about potential collusion and influence peddling, raising questions about national security implications. The timing of this request, however, is generating considerable skepticism and frustration. Many feel that the urgency is misplaced, given the apparent inaction on similar concerns throughout previous administrations.

The proposed investigation focuses on alleged contacts between Musk and Putin, raising serious questions about whether these interactions compromised national security or influenced Musk’s business decisions, particularly regarding his actions on Twitter and Tesla. The potential for foreign influence in American businesses, especially from a country like Russia, is seen as a significant threat.… Continue reading

Trump’s Partisan Military: A Threat to American Might

Reports suggest President-elect Trump’s administration plans to reshape the U.S. military by creating a review board of retired officers and replacing senior leadership with individuals more aligned with his views. This politicization of the military threatens decades of non-partisanship, potentially leading to decreased effectiveness as merit is replaced by political loyalty. Such actions risk undermining civilian control, jeopardizing crucial objective advice, and eroding unit cohesion within the armed forces. Ultimately, this could culminate in the use of the military against domestic political opponents, severely damaging military effectiveness and America’s global standing.

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Trump Trial Fallout: US Risks Losing Crucial Foreign Intelligence

Former U.S. Attorney Barbara McQuade warns that if Donald Trump’s classified documents case is dropped and he returns to the presidency, key American allies may cease sharing sensitive intelligence. This stems from concerns that Trump’s past handling of classified information, much of it originating from foreign governments, demonstrates a lack of trustworthiness. The potential loss of this crucial intelligence sharing would severely compromise national security. Co-hosts of the #SistersInLaw podcast concur, emphasizing the international ramifications of a potential Trump second term and the impact on foreign intelligence cooperation.

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Senators Demand Musk Russia Probe

Senators Reed and Shaheen expressed serious concerns about Elon Musk’s security clearance and reliability as a government contractor, citing his undisclosed communications with foreign officials, including alleged contacts with a Kremlin official involved in spreading propaganda. Musk’s involvement in Trump’s presidential campaign and diplomatic efforts, alongside his SpaceX’s deep integration into US defense and intelligence, further fueled these concerns. The senators highlighted the potential national security risks posed by these actions, particularly given Russia’s ambitions in space. The letter to the Attorney General and Defense Department Inspector General requests an investigation into these matters.

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Senators Demand Federal Probe into Musk’s Alleged Putin Contacts

Following reports of Elon Musk’s extensive communications with Russian officials, including Vladimir Putin, Senators Jack Reed and Jeanne Shaheen have demanded a federal investigation. Their letter to the Attorney General and Defense Department Inspector General raises concerns about Musk’s reliability as a government contractor and security clearance holder, citing potential conflicts of interest and national security risks. The senators highlight Musk’s failure to report these contacts, contrasting his behavior with standard protocols for those with high-level security clearances. This call for investigation follows reports of Russian counter-space weapon development and alleged Kremlin propaganda efforts on Musk’s X platform.

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Democratic Senators Demand Probe into Musk’s Russia Ties

Democratic senators are pushing for a thorough investigation into Elon Musk’s reported communications with Russian officials, citing serious national security concerns. The calls, allegedly involving President Vladimir Putin and other high-ranking figures, raise troubling questions about potential compromises in U.S. interests.

This isn’t just about idle speculation; the senators’ concerns are deeply rooted in Musk’s significant involvement with the U.S. government. His companies, particularly SpaceX, hold billions of dollars in government contracts, making his relationships with adversarial nations a matter of extreme gravity. The potential for conflicts of interest is undeniable and requires urgent scrutiny.

The senators’ call for a probe isn’t a mere symbolic gesture; it’s a formal request directed at key agencies including the Pentagon’s inspector general and the U.S.… Continue reading

Democrat Accuses Tulsi Gabbard of Being Russian Asset

Representative Wasserman Schultz vehemently denounced Donald Trump’s nomination of Tulsi Gabbard as director of national intelligence, asserting that Gabbard is likely a Russian asset. This assessment stems from Gabbard’s past actions, including clandestine meetings with Syrian President Assad and the propagation of Kremlin-backed disinformation regarding U.S.-funded biolabs in Ukraine. Wasserman Schultz highlighted Gabbard’s history of meeting with war criminals and violating State Department guidelines as further evidence of her questionable loyalty. The congresswoman expressed grave concern over the potential security risks posed by Gabbard’s access to classified information in such a sensitive role.

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