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Military forces worldwide are utilizing a British company's wargame software, inspired by Tom Clancy novels, to simulate battle scenarios. The software, Command: Professional Edition, allows for testing various tactics and equipment, exploring hypothetical situations like nuclear warfare, and improving decision-making skills. The Pentagon and other military entities have adopted this software for training, education, and analysis, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing military preparedness and strategic planning. [Extracted from the article]

NATO's new leader, Mark Rutte, has pledged continued support for Ukraine in its fight against Russia's invasion and has vowed to pressure China to curtail its support of Moscow, regardless of the outcome of the U.S. presidential election. Rutte, who recently took over as secretary-general of NATO, praised both U.S. presidential candidates for their commitment to defending Ukraine. He also emphasized the importance of defending Ukraine, boosting NATO's capabilities, and addressing global challenges to Euro-Atlantic security. Rutte plans to increase cooperation with Indo-Pacific allies and invite their defense ministers to a regular gathering of NATO defense ministers. [Extracted from the article]

According to top U.S. generals, Russia's recent gains in Ukraine do not indicate a breakthrough for Moscow. While Russian forces have advanced into Ukrainian territory near Kharkiv, American military leaders believe that Russia lacks sufficient troops to launch a large assault on the city. Instead, the push seems aimed at protecting Russian territory and tying down Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces are already stretched thin, and Russia's offensive could create opportunities for a breakthrough elsewhere. However, the U.S. generals express confidence that Ukrainian defenders will be able to hold the line and thwart further Russian progress. [Extracted from the article]

Russia has launched armored attacks in Ukraine's northeast, creating a new front against Ukrainian forces. The attacks come at a critical moment for Ukraine, as they await U.S. military aid and struggle to hold the line against mounting Russian offensives. Ukrainian troops are outnumbered and facing a shortage of weaponry, while Russian forces are gradually advancing in the east. The situation is further complicated by Russia's lack of coordination between its air force and ground troops. Ukraine must now make difficult choices about where to deploy its limited resources to defend against Russian advances. [Extracted from the article]

Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, NATO's top military officer, is taking on a new role as a business executive due to the urgency of management concerns in achieving NATO's defense goals. Bauer is engaging with executives and policymakers to address alliance shortfalls, particularly in Europe's insufficient and inefficient military spending. He emphasizes the need for the private sector to play a fundamental role in defense and advocates for greater cooperation and rationalization of defense industries in Europe. Bauer also highlights the challenges of funding military production due to sustainability goals and the exclusion of military contractors by investment companies. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the frustration expressed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after the US and its allies defended Israel against an Iranian attack, highlighting the limited support Ukraine has received from the West. Ukrainian cities have been under attack from Russian missiles and drones for over two years, while aid from the US remains stalled in Congress. Ukrainian officials have refrained from publicly criticizing US policy, but some have expressed frustration at the lack of support compared to the defense of Israel. The article also explores the differences in security relationships between the US and Israel versus the US and Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

Russia is launching probing attacks against Ukrainian forces along the front line, taking advantage of recent battlefield victories and Ukraine's shortage of ammunition and personnel. Ukrainian troops are responding by digging trenches and fortifying their positions, replicating the physical obstacles that Russia created on its side of the front. However, Ukraine's campaign to build fortifications has not yielded significant results, and the absence of progress is proving to be a liability as Russia intensifies its assaults. Russia is pushing along multiple axes in Ukraine's east, aiming to wear down Ukrainian forces and exhaust their manpower reserves. While Russia has more men and resources, it struggles to focus them and relies on poorly prepared soldiers, resulting in high casualties. Ukraine is also facing manpower problems and struggles to mobilize troops. Russia is adding around 30,000 men to its armed forces each month, but it is also losing men at a rapid pace. The capture of Avdiivka came at a high cost for Russia, with thousands of casualties and the loss of heavy armor. Despite the losses, Russia has the forces to continue its advance. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine is facing a battle to keep its businesses running amidst the ongoing war with Russia. The conflict has left the country with shattered infrastructure and a struggling economy. Entrepreneurs like Igor Liski are facing challenges in securing project finance due to banks' reluctance to lend during the war. The European Union and international financial institutions are providing support, but Ukraine still needs significant funding to continue fighting and rebuild. The country is also focusing on energy projects, such as wind farms, to promote self-sufficiency and reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. [Extracted from the article]

Sweden's approach to national security, which includes engaging teenagers, retirees, teachers, and police officers in the country's defense, offers a model for other European countries concerned about Russian aggression. Sweden's "total defense" strategy involves conveying the need for security to ordinary people, which also garners broad support for its military industry. The decision for Sweden and Finland to join NATO was prompted by Russia's threats and invasion of Ukraine. Sweden's all-of-society approach to defense is notable because it shares no land border with Russia and previously sought engagement with Moscow. The new Nordic members bring a different mindset to NATO and have been urged as an example for other members due to growing threats from Russia, China, and other adversaries. Sweden's popular support for the armed forces is high, and it has provided significant military support to Ukraine. Sweden's defense industry is at the cutting edge due to broad support for the military and the country's booming civilian tech sector. Sweden's defense industry is self-sufficient and has become one of the world's top arms exporters. The country also integrates civilian technologies into military equipment. Sweden's innovation, defense industry, and top-tier technology make it a valuable addition to NATO. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the potential impact of Donald Trump's criticism of European NATO members for not spending enough on defense. It raises the question of whether shaming allies strengthens or weakens the alliance. While the attacks may prompt countries to increase military spending, NATO's unity and credibility are also important factors in its success. The article highlights the historical significance of NATO in maintaining peace and prosperity in Europe and emphasizes the potential consequences of undermining the alliance. It concludes by discussing the ongoing efforts to strengthen NATO through increased defense spending and large-scale military exercises. [Extracted from the article]

European NATO members are increasing their military spending in response to the threat of a second Trump administration and Russian aggression. However, there is still a long way to go for Europe to reduce its dependence on US military support. European countries have pledged to spend 2% of their GDP on their militaries this year, but there is wide variation in the actual spending levels. While the increase in spending benefits American producers, Europe needs to spend its money more effectively and improve cooperation among member states. Joint procurement of military equipment among EU members currently accounts for only about 5% of their total military spending. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine is facing a shortage of ammunition and equipment as Russian forces continue to advance. Ukrainian troops are being outshot by Russian forces, with a ratio of about 10 Russian shells to every one fired by Ukraine. The scarcity of shells, missiles, and rockets is hindering Ukraine's efforts to hold back Russian advances. Despite some success in the air and sea war, Ukraine's defenses are weakening, and there is concern about the fragility of the front line. Congress's inability to agree on more military aid for Ukraine is exacerbating the situation. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the increasing threats to freedom of navigation on the high seas, which has been a fundamental principle of the international order for centuries. Security crises in various regions, such as the Red Sea, Black Sea, Horn of Africa, and South China Sea, have disrupted sea traffic and raised concerns about the future of global trade. The article highlights the importance of maritime security and the challenges faced by navies in maintaining safe passage for ships. It also emphasizes the economic implications of these disruptions, including rising freight rates and potential impacts on global food prices. The article concludes by raising questions about the sustainability of freedom of navigation and the need for international cooperation to ensure the continued flow of global trade. [Extracted from the article]

World leaders are bracing themselves for the possibility of a second Trump administration. Many leaders are concerned about a potential administration that would ignore diplomatic norms and traditions, as well as the potential for a reduction in the U.S. security umbrella. Foreign governments are working to understand who might join Trump's inner circle and what their policy ideas look like. Some leaders see potential benefits in a president who emphasizes business-world pragmatism, while others are worried about a more inward-looking U.S. There are concerns about how a second Trump presidency would affect relationships with foreign powers, particularly in Asia, where allies are worried about a possible American pullback from the region. [Extracted from the article]

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban is using his veto power to disrupt European Union (EU) plans and push for changes in EU policy. Orban's opposition to EU support for Ukraine has complicated decision-making within the bloc. He aims to reshape the EU from within and has built a dominant political position at home. Despite EU pressure, Orban has managed to retain influence and secure EU funds for Hungary. He hopes to become a leading player in the anti-EU, anti-liberal political movement. However, uniting hard-right EU parties may prove challenging. Orban's limited power means that he cannot completely block EU decisions, but he can delay them. [Extracted from the article]

European Union leaders have pledged to continue providing financial aid to Ukraine, despite failing to agree on a proposed $54 billion funding package. The disagreement stems from Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's opposition to the aid package. While the EU did agree to begin accession talks with Ukraine, the funding issue will be revisited in late January or early February. The failure to agree on funding was a disappointment for Ukraine, but the start of accession talks was seen as a win for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. [Extracted from the article]

The European Union has agreed to begin membership talks with Ukraine, a move that is seen as a political victory for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. However, the EU failed to reach an agreement on a new long-term package of budget support for Ukraine. Talks on Ukraine's accession to the EU could start in the coming months, but the process is expected to take years. The decision to start membership talks with Ukraine is seen as a resounding endorsement of the country's efforts to join the West and distance itself from Russia. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine is facing multiple challenges as it prepares for a prolonged period of defensive warfare against Russia. Despite a costly campaign to push back Russian forces, the front lines have not shifted significantly, and support from the US and Europe is now uncertain. President Volodymyr Zelensky has ordered the construction of battlefield fortifications, acknowledging the difficulty of regaining occupied territories. The US funding fight and delays in European aid further complicate Ukraine's situation. While Ukraine's Western allies emphasize its successes, the country is bracing for a long and difficult war. [Extracted from the article]

NATO members are facing challenges due to simultaneous crises in the Middle East and Ukraine. Concerns have arisen about the conflict in Gaza potentially spreading across the region, prompting NATO to reaffirm its commitment to eastern Mediterranean countries. The alliance is also addressing the safety of NATO forces in Iraq, turmoil in Middle East partners, and tensions in the former Yugoslavia. While NATO does not play an active role in the Israel-Palestine conflict, individual delegations stress the need to consider the security implications of the conflict in Gaza. Additionally, NATO is dealing with flare-ups in the conflict between Serbia and Kosovo and the safety of its mission in Iraq. The European Union and the G-7 have also been actively involved in the Middle East crisis. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the current state of the war between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the shift from Ukraine's failed counteroffensive to a defensive strategy. The Ukrainian military acknowledges that the war has reached a stalemate, with no significant breakthrough expected. Russia, on the other hand, sees its long-term strategy paying off as it controls a significant portion of Ukrainian territory. The article also mentions the challenges faced by Ukraine in terms of ammunition and equipment, as well as the need for Western support. The next phase of the war is described as increasingly difficult for Ukraine, with talks unlikely as long as Russia aims to control Ukraine and Ukraine seeks to retake its territory. The article suggests that Ukraine's safest course of action may be to adopt a defensive posture and force Russia to exhaust its resources. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses concerns among Western defense officials about potential shortages of weapons and ammunition due to increased demand caused by ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. NATO planners are worried that limited production capacity may not be sufficient to support both allies in the fight. Prices of certain supplies have already soared, and politicians are calling on defense companies to expand capacity and accelerate output. The US has begun investing in retooled factories to produce more weapons, and European countries have also placed some orders, although not on the same scale as the US. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the intricacies and difficulties of urban warfare in the context of a potential Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip. It provides insights into the experiences of an Israeli soldier during the 2014 conflict with Hamas, highlighting the unpredictable and claustrophobic nature of the battlefield. The article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of urban warfare, including the use of tunnels by Hamas fighters and the challenges faced by ground forces. It also emphasizes the potential humanitarian consequences of an invasion, such as civilian casualties and the plight of hostages held by Hamas. The article concludes by discussing the military capabilities of both sides and the potential impact of a prolonged conflict. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the use of inexpensive, high-tech weapons combined with low-tech brute force in recent conflicts in Israel and Ukraine. Palestinian militant group Hamas used drones to blind surveillance systems and weaken military command-and-control capabilities before launching an attack on Israel. Similarly, Ukrainian forces have used improvised drone-bombers to target Russian troops, defeating advanced air-defense systems and destroying costly equipment. The article highlights the challenges faced by large militaries in defending against small, inexpensive drones and the need for sophisticated, multilayered defenses. It also mentions the rapid learning and adaptation of nonstate actors in acquiring and modifying drone technology. [Extracted from the article]

Earlier: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with President Biden and lawmakers from both parties in Washington to shore up American support for Ukraine's war efforts. Keywords: ukraine; Asia; BRICS Countries; Emerging Market Countries; Developing Economies; Central/Eastern Europe; Europe; North America; Russia; United States EN ukraine Asia BRICS Countries Emerging Market Countries Developing Economies Central/Eastern Europe Europe North America Russia United States N.PAG N.PAG 1 10/04/23 20231002 NES 231002 Washington has led the response to Russia, but domestic political spats raise worries about commitment U.S. political fights and presidential-election campaign rhetoric are casting a shadow over battlefields in Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: gfx-contrib; ukraine; wsjworld; Asia; BRICS Countries; Emerging Market Countries; Developing Economies; Central/Eastern Europe; Europe; Russia EN gfx-contrib ukraine wsjworld Asia BRICS Countries Emerging Market Countries Developing Economies Central/Eastern Europe Europe Russia N.PAG N.PAG 1 09/20/23 20230918 NES 230918 Drenching rain and icy cold could impede Ukraine's chance of exploiting an eventual breakthrough ZAPORIZHZHIA, Ukraine - For Ukrainian soldiers struggling to make headway against entrenched Russian troops, the counteroffensive is taking on a new urgency as summer gives way to shorter days, drenching rain and then snow. Gfx-contrib, ukraine, wsjworld, Asia, BRICS Countries, Emerging Market Countries, Developing Economies, Central/Eastern Europe, Europe, Russia Photo: LIBKOS/Associated Press Any pause in Ukraine's assault could let Russia entrench itself more deeply in occupied territory, complicating future Ukrainian attempts to retake control. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords: ukraine; Political/General News; International Relations; Politics/International Relations; Domestic Politics; SYND; WSJ-PRO-WSJ.com; Jens Stoltenberg; Volodymyr Zelensky; political EN ukraine Political/General News International Relations Politics/International Relations Domestic Politics SYND WSJ-PRO-WSJ.com Jens Stoltenberg Volodymyr Zelensky political N.PAG N.PAG 1 07/14/23 20230712 NES 230712 In failing to offer Ukraine a clear path to joining the alliance, NATO disappoints Kyiv Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky blasted NATO's refusal to offer Kyiv a clear timeline or path to join the alliance. "Inviting Ukraine to join NATO would be our strategic responsibility and would firmly link Ukraine to the Euro-Atlantic security architecture", summit host Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda said Monday. [Extracted from the article]

Ukraine, Political/General News, National/Public Security, Armed Forces, Risk News, Military Action, Weapons Programs, SYND, WSJ-PRO-WSJ.com, political Keywords: ukraine; Political/General News; National/Public Security; Armed Forces; Risk News; Military Action; Weapons Programs; SYND; WSJ-PRO-WSJ.com; political EN ukraine Political/General News National/Public Security Armed Forces Risk News Military Action Weapons Programs SYND WSJ-PRO-WSJ.com political N.PAG N.PAG 1 07/10/23 20230707 NES 230707 Biden and NATO leaders, fearing a war of attrition with Russia or China, will focus on rebuilding militaries and their supplies at coming summit Behind the deadly front lines where Ukrainian and Russian soldiers are locked in combat, a less-noticed life-or-death battle is raging to keep troops supplied with arms and ammunition. At its launch, officials noted that while the Defense Department has rich programs to foster innovation, Pentagon contracting and legal rules pose daunting hurdles for startups. [Extracted from the article]