Thursday, April 30, 2015

This Chart Shows Every Ship In The US Navy



Business Insider: This chart shows just how massive the US Navy is

The US Navy is the unquestioned dominant naval force in the world.

In terms of both absolute tonnage and technical superiority, the US Navy is the world's largest and most advanced maritime military force. The capabilities of the US Navy are further enhanced and augmented by its military alliances such as NATO, in which the US plays a key role.

The following graphic from Naval Graphics shows every vessel serving in the US Navy as of April:


WNU Editor: You can see the graphic in closer detail here.

Where Does The Islamic State Get It's Weapons

The first Chinese CQ assault rifle documented by Conflict Armament Research in Syria, left, and a detail of the rifle’s obscured serial number. Credit Conflict Armament Research

C. J. Chivers, New York Times: Where the Islamic State Gets Its Weapons

Early one morning in late February, a European investigator working in Kobani, the northern Syrian city that for months had been a battleground between Kurdish fighters and militants from the Islamic State, stepped outside the building where he was staying and saw something unusual. A Kurd on the street was carrying a long black assault rifle that the investigator thought was an American-made M-16.

Many M-16s, the conventional wisdom goes, entered Syria after militants seized thousands of them from Iraq’s struggling security forces, which in turn had received the guns — along with armored vehicles, howitzers and warehouses’ worth of other equipment — from the Pentagon before American troops left the country in 2011. The militants’ abrupt possession of former American matériel was part of the battlefield turnabout last summer that led Julian E. Barnes, a Wall Street Journal correspondent, to tweet a proposed name for the Pentagon’s anti-militant bombing campaign: Operation Hey That’s My Humvee. And yet by this year, for all the attention the captured weapons had received, M-16s were seemingly uncommon in Syria. The expected large quantities had eluded researchers.

WNU Editor: The answer is .... everywhere.

Can America Win The Next War?

Jeff Stein and Jonathan Broder, Newsweek: Can America Win a War?

The two divisions, totaling nearly 22,000 men, were massed on the east bank of the river. With their superior numbers, arms and veteran officers, not to mention a long tradition of battlefield triumphs, they were confident of routing the ragtag band of rebels hiding in the woods and marshes on the other bank.

The signal was given, and the first artillery volley fired. The soldiers moved out, crossed the river—and marched into military history. Within three days, the two divisions were annihilated, and their commander’s head was severed and sent back across the lines as a message: Don’t come back.

This was not a battle from the worst days of the wars in Afghanistan or Iraq. It was the Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, nine years after the birth of Christ, in what is now northwestern Germany. It has been called “the battle that changed the course of history,” because it marked forever the limits of the Roman Empire. Latin would never take root east of the Rhine.


WNU Editor: This is a long read .... but the authors are asking questions that need to be asked. Read it all.

Top NATO Commander: Russia Readying For A New Ukraine Offensive

Photo: US Air Force Gen. Philip Breedlove

Reuters: Russia may be readying for new Ukraine offensive: NATO commander

(Reuters) - Russia's military may be taking advantage of a recent lull in fighting in eastern Ukraine to lay the groundwork for a new military offensive, NATO's top commander told the U.S. Congress on Thursday.

U.S. Air Force General Philip Breedlove, the NATO supreme allied commander, said Russian forces had been seeking to "reset and reposition" while protecting battlefield gains, despite a fragile ceasefire agreed in February.

"Many of their actions are consistent with preparations for another offensive," Breedlove said.

Pressed during the hearing, Breedlove acknowledged he could not predict Moscow's next move but characterized its ongoing actions as "preparing, training and equipping to have the capacity to again take an offensive."


WNU Editor: NATO supreme allied commander General Breedlove has been asking for additional troops since assuming the post .... so why not scare Congress by saying that Russia will launch an invasion .... while not providing any proof.

More News On U.S. Air Force General Philip Breedlove Claiming That Russia Is Readying A New Ukraine Offensive

U.S. Commander: Russia Set for Next Offensive -- AP
Breedlove Warns Congress of Russian Aggression -- US Department of Defense
Top NATO General Warns on Russia’s Plans in Ukraine -- WSJ
Top U.S. Commander Says Russian Offensive Possible In Ukraine -- Radio Free Europe
Breedlove: More assets needed to counter Russia in Ukraine -- Stars and Stripes
NATO Commander Backs US Providing Offensive Weapons to Ukraine -- Sputnik

Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- April 30, 2015

KCNA/Reuters

Gordon G. Chang, Daily Beast: Are Coup Fears Keeping Kim Jong Un Home?

In a surprising turn, Kim Jong Un cancelled a trip to celebrate with Vladimir Putin and the Kremlin. After months of high-level executions, it’s leaving some to wonder if he’ll ever take a trip and return as the Supreme Leader again.

Today, the Kremlin announced that Kim Jong Un will not be attending next week’s events in Moscow commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. “He has decided to stay in Pyongyang,” said spokesman Dmitry Peskov. “This decision is related to North Korea’s internal affairs.”

The announcement was generally unexpected. Among those taken by surprise was South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, which had just issued a report to the National Assembly’s Intelligence Committee on the topic. Yesterday, two lawmakers, including one from the ruling Saenuri Party, revealed the NIS believed that the North Korean leader was still planning on attending the victory celebration in the Russian capital.

Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- April 30, 2015

So You Think You Can Provide Maritime Security... -- Robert Farley, The Diplomat

Change in the name of stability for Saudi Arabia -- Michael Stephens, Al Jazeera

Lessons, 40 Years After the Fall of Saigon -- New York Times

How Young Vietnamese View the Vietnam War -- Elisabeth Rosen, The Atlantic

Forty years after fall of Saigon, Vietnam now directs anger at China -- Donald Kirk, CSM

Is it Liberation Day or Defeat Day in Saigon? -- Andrew Lam, L.A. Times

Shinzo Abe Bets on America's Fading Memories -- David Graham, The Atlantic

Money Talks and Knock-Offs Walk in North Korea -- William O’Connor, Daily Beast

A great power is rising as a third force in the East -- Sholto Byrnes, The National

Carinthia Won't Be the Next Greece -- Leonid Bershidsky, Bloomberg

Ukraine Separatists Rewrite History of 1930s Famine -- Andrew Kramer, NYT

Putin Needs Neither War Nor Peace in Ukraine -- Leonid Bershidsky, Bloomberg

The Pentagon's 'Long War' Pits NATO Against China, Russia and Iran -- Pepe Escobar, Sputnik

U.S. Pays Off Hostage Takers -- Shane Harris, Daily Beast

America's Good News Energy Story -- James Robbins, US News and World Report

Hitler’s Strange Last Orders -- Walter Kempowski, Daily Beast

World News Briefs -- April 30, 2015 (Evening Edition)



BBC: US Navy to assist US-flagged ships through Strait of Hormuz

Defence officials have said that US Navy ships will accompany US-flagged commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, to make sure they are not interfered with by Iran.

Iranian patrol boats surrounded a US cargo ship in the strait on Friday.

Earlier this week, Iranian naval ships reportedly fired warning shots near a Marshall Islands-flagged cargo ship before seizing it and its crew.

The strait connects the Arabian Sea and the Persian Gulf.

MIDDLE EAST

Iran says warships at entrance to key Yemen strait.

Navy to escort U.S. commercial ships near Iran.

Shipping company says crew of vessel seized by Iran is safe. Iran embassy says Maersk vessel to be freed after debts settled.

Saudi says dozens of Yemen rebels dead in border battle.

Besieged Yemeni city sees worst fighting yet: residents.

U.S. coalition target Islamic State with 21 air strikes: statement.

Five car bombs kill 17 across Baghdad.

Iraq poised to deploy Iran-backed Shi'ite militia in offensive in West.

Islamist fighters seize southern Syria crossing: monitor.

U.S. allies in Middle East ramping up support for rebel forces in Syria.

UK tells UN of Iranian attempts to buy nuclear technology - report.

Near Syrian border, wounded fighters and civilians recover.

Saudi Arabia burns through foreign reserves.

ASIA

Nepal earthquake: two rescued after five days in Kathmandu building wreckage.

Afghan forces struggle to drive back Taliban from besieged city.

China and South Korea criticise Japanese prime minister's speech in US.

China says U.S.-Philippines drill bad for regional peace.

3 killed in Chinese town where North Koreans blamed in past. North Korean soldiers suspected of China killings.

North Korea 'may have restarted Yongbyon nuclear reactor'.

Kim Jong-un won’t attend WWII celebration in Moscow.

U.S. criticizes North Korean diplomats for drowning out dissidents at UN.

India worried as China, Russia expand ties with Pakistan.

Ten men jailed in Pakistan over Malala attack.

Vietnam celebrates 40 years since end of war.

AFRICA

DR Congo grants amnesty to hundreds of M23 rebels.

United States says Burundi risks boiling over if political opposition stifled. Burundi on edge over leader’s election bid as thousands flee. Burundi opposition leaders threaten to boycott vote.

Nigeria: More women and children freed from Boko Haram.

Chad tightens security against Boko Haram at cost of disruption.

Nine soldiers killed in rebel attack in Mali: defense ministry.

Libya: IS militants kill 2 Tunisian reporters kidnapped last year.

Libya's Benghazi, cradle of anti-Gaddafi revolt, torn by chaos that followed.

Chad, E.Guinea troops also accused of child sex abuse.

Kenya softens its position on proposed closure of Dadaab refugee camp.

Kenya 'ignored Garissa university raid intelligence'.

EUROPE

Russia may be readying for new Ukraine offensive: NATO commander.

Western leaders agree ceasefire in Ukraine needs to stabilize: Germany.

IMF says to visit Kiev May 12 to review bailout program.

One Ukrainian serviceman killed in separatist attacks: Kiev military.

Chechen leader Kadyrov ready to give evidence in Nemtsov murder case.

Russia cuts rates as rouble rallies.

German police prevent terror attack, paper reports.

Greece signals concessions in crunch talks with lenders.

IMF says next Greek payment to Fund due May 6.

Mediterranean boat disaster: '200 Senegalese' among dead.

AMERICAS

Colombia's high court urges probe of ex-President Uribe.

Bid to end mass collection of phone data advances in Congress.

Baltimore death draws nationwide protests.

US Senate rejects tying terrorism support to Iran sanctions relief.

Colombia's ex-spy chief sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Violent clashes at Brazil teachers' protest in Curitiba.

Chile's Bachelet seeks rapid approval of anti-corruption measures.

Argentina to pay compensation over 1994 Jewish centre attack.

Pope Francis orders Vatican to open Argentina Dirty War disappearance case files.

Medicine shortages so bad Venezuela is using fingerprinting.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Former Guantánamo detainees protest in Uruguay to demand aid from US. Uruguay threatens to cut off public assistance to ex-Guantanamo detainees.

GOP measure would make it harder for Obama to empty Guantanamo.

Terrorism in Africa: The imminent threat to the United States.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

George Soros may face a monster tax bill.

Anonymous messaging Secret app 'worth $100m' shut down.

Meet the richest person in New York.

U.S. oil hits five-month high as dollar weakens.

Citing Concerns About Iran U.S. Navy Warships Will Now Escort U.S.-Flagged Commercial Vessels That Pass Through the Strait of Hormuz



CNN: Navy to escort U.S. commercial ships near Iran

Washington (CNN)CNN has learned that U.S. Navy warships will now accompany U.S.-flagged commercial vessels that pass through the Strait of Hormuz due to concerns that ships from Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps navy could try to seize a U.S. cargo ship.

Pentagon officials provided clarification Thursday afternoon that not every ship will necessarily be accompanied by the Navy. But this is still a significant change in the U.S. military posture in the Strait.

The classified plan was approved by the Pentagon earlier Thursday, according to a senior defense official.

WNU Editor: Apparently the seizure of a container ship two days was not the first time that Iran has tried to seize cargo ships in the past week .... Iranian navy 'harassed' American cargo ship just days before they seized second vessel carrying 34 sailors (Daily Mail) .... in turn it looks like a lot of shipping companies lobbied the U.S. government for protection, hence we have today's announcement that US-flagged  ships will not be escorted.

More News On U.S. Navy Warships Will Now Escort U.S.-Flagged Commercial Vessels That Pass Through the Strait of Hormuz

U.S. Navy Starts Accompanying Ships in Strait Where Iran Seized Cargo Carrier -- WSJ
U.S. Navy starts to accompany U.S. ships passing through Strait of Hormuz -- Reuters
U.S. Navy escorting American ships in Strait of Hormuz amid Iran tension -- CBS/AP
US Navy to assist US-flagged ships through Strait of Hormuz -- BBC
U.S. Accompanying U.S.-Flagged Ships in Strait of Hormuz -- Bloomberg
US Navy to accompany US-flagged ships in Persian Gulf after Iran seizes vessel -- FOX News
Navy will escort U.S. ships traveling near Iran -- Virginia Pilot
US Navy to Accompany US-Flagged Ships Through Strait of Hormuz -- Defense One

These Are The 5 Major Syrian Military Goals In The Civil War

(Click on Image to Enlarge)

Christopher Kozak, Business Insider/Institute For The Study Of War: These are the Assad's regime's 5 biggest military goals in the Syrian Civil War

The following is the second excerpt of the upcoming report from the Institute for the Study of War titled “An Army in All Corners — Assad’s Campaign Strategy in Syria.”

The April 27th excerpt focused on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s goal to “preserve his rule in a post-war Syria through a negotiated ‘political solution.’”

Written by ISW Syria Analyst Christopher Kozak, this study examines Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s strategy of maintaining armed outposts throughout the country to frame his claim to a united and contiguous post-war Syrian state.

WNU Editor: A must read analysis on the Syrian conflict.

Is The Syrian Army On The Verge of Collapse?

Forces loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad hold their weapons as they walk in Aleppo's historic citadel October 1, 2014.

Jeremy Bender, Business Insider -- The Syrian military is on the verge of collapse

The Syrian Army is facing its most serious challenges since the start of the Syrian Civil War.

Fatigued, over-stretched, and losing the support of its base constituency, the Syrian Army is conceivably nearing the point of collapse. Major rebel offenses have taken control of the strategic cities of Idlib and Jisr al-Shegour in the north. Meanwhile, a second rebel offensive in the south has been steadily working its way towards Damascus, the capital.

These steady rebel gains have demoralized the Syrian military, created fissures within the regime of president Bashar al-Assad, and force Damascus to accept greater foreign assistance in propping an ailing government, according to an April 30th New York Times report.

Here's why the regime may be nearing its most serious crisis yet.

WNU Editor: If they are having trouble gaining recruits .... Assad regime struggles to find new military recruits (Al Arabiya) .... this war of attrition will ultimately force Assad to be completely dependent on Hezbollah and Iran .... an alliance that would only embolden the Sunni rebel groups and further escalate this sectarian civil war.

Syrian Rebel Group Releases Amazing Video Of A 'Graduation Ceremony' Featuring 1,700 Soldiers And A Fleet Of Armoured Tanks



Daily Mail: The Army of Islam: Militant group battling ISIS and the Syrian regime show their might in 'graduation ceremony' featuring 1,700 soldiers and a fleet of armoured tanks

* Jaysh Al-Islam fights against government soldiers in Syrian city of Damascus
* Made up of around '60 rebel factions', it also opposes Islamist groups like ISIS
* Held the 'largest military parade witnessed' since start of the Syrian revolution
* Saudi Arabia is 'funding the group with millions of dollars in arms and training'

A militant group which opposes both ISIS and the Syrian regime has released a striking video showing off 1,700 troops, fleet of armoured tanks and special forces soldiers in an impressive military parade.

These men form a small part of Jaysh Al-Islam - or Army of Islam - who reportedly command as many as 25,000 loyal fighters following the merger of up to 60 rebel factions inside Syria.

Dozens of masked special units show off a range of skills including close-range combat in what the group claims is the 'largest military parade witnessed' since the dawn of the Syrian revolution in 2011.

WNU Editor: This is a stunning video (the full video is here) .... and these rebel groups are having an impact .... Syrian army pushed back in north by new militant coalition (IHS Jane's 360). No surprise that predictions are now growing that the Syrian government in this part of Syria is under threat .... Syrian opposition success in Idlib province likely to threaten Aleppo, Latakia, and Assad's hold on power (IHS Jane's 360).

Civil War In Syria News Updates -- April 30, 2015

Rebel fighters inspect a site damaged by what activists said was shelling by warplanes loyal to Syria's President Bashar al-Assad in Jisr al-Shughour town, after the rebels took control of the area, April 26, 2015. (Reuters/Khalil Ashawi)

Newsweek/Reuters: CIA-Backed Rebels Fight Alongside al-Qaeda Wing in Syria

REYHANLI, Turkey (Reuters) - Hardline Islamists fighting side-by-side with groups backed by the United States have made gains in northern Syria in recent weeks while showing rare unity, which some fear may be short-lived.

An Islamist alliance calling itself Army of Fatah, a reference to the conquests that spread Islam across the Middle East from the seventh century, has seized northwestern towns including the provincial capital Idlib from government forces.

The alliance, which includes al-Qaeda's wing in Syria, known as the Nusra Front, and another hardline militant group, the Ahrar al-Sham movement, is edging closer to the coastal province of Latakia, President Bashar al-Assad's stronghold.

Civil War In Syria News Updates -- April 30, 2015

U.S. allies in Middle East ramping up support for rebel forces in Syria -- Washington post
Shared battlefield goals trump ideology among Syria rebels - for now -- Reuters
In Syria, Support for Rebel Unity Carries Risks -- Stratfor
With string of quick victories, Syrian insurgents expose Assad's fundamental weaknesses -- AP
Regime bombing kills 23 in north Syria: monitor -- Al Arabiya/AFP
Damning new accusations against Assad regime -- CBS/AP
Syrian Government Launches Fresh Chemical Attack In Idlib: Activists -- IBTimes
Activists Report Another Chemical Weapons Attack By Regime Forces In Syria -- AP
Islamist fighters seize southern Syria crossing: monitor -- Reuters
Syria accuses Turkey of ‘direct aggression’ alongside militants -- Al Arabiya/Reuters
‘Direct aggression’: Syria accuses Turkey of helping militants -- RT
Saudi Arabia is helping al-Qaeda invade Syria -- Middle East Monitor

U.S. Navy Grapples On How To Respond To Iran's Navy Actions In The Middle East

The guided-missile destroyer USS Farragut is shown in this undated photo operating in heavy seas in the Atlantic Ocean. It is now in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz, where the Iranian navy forced the container ship Maersk Tigris deeper into Iranian waters and is still holding it. (Aaron Chase/U.S. Navy via Reuters)

Washington Post: New dilemma for the Navy as it grapples with Iran at sea

The United States was grappling Wednesday with a naval dilemma: How should the Navy respond to Iranian ships intercepting a civilian container ship in the Strait of Hormuz and holding if the vessel wasn’t flying the U.S. flag?

The Maersk Tigris was flagged by the Marshall Islands when it was intercepted Tuesday, said Col. Steve Warren, a Pentagon spokesman. The tiny Pacific nation was seized by the U.S. military during World War II and gained independence in 1986. The government there signed a legal agreement with Washington in 1983 known as a Compact of Free Association that guides their relations, and requires the United States to respond militarily on behalf of the Marshall Islands when required.

Update: Iran Navy to send 35th flotilla to Gulf of Aden: Commander (Press TV)

WNU Editor: My suggestion to the U.S. Navy/Pentagon/White House is that they sort out their rules of engagement/policy sooner rather than later .... the Iranian navy is making their presence felt everywhere .... Iran says warships at entrance to key Yemen strait (AFP).

Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- April 30, 2015



RT: Russia's cutting-edge military hardware parades through Moscow for V-Day rehearsal

Thousands of Muscovites were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of Russia’s latest military hardware rolling across the cobbles of Moscow’s iconic Red Square during the first night-time rehearsal ahead of Victory Day parade.

Infantry from Russia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan practiced their performances in front of the public for the first time this year, ahead of Victory Day on May 9. Troops from other countries such as India, Mongolia, Serbia, and China were also present at the rehearsal.

Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- April 30, 2015

Night rehearsal of Victory Day military parade in Moscow -- ITAR-TASS

New Armata tanks roll through Red Square in May 9 parade rehearsal -- ITAR-TASS

Russia's Northern Fleet holds large-scale drills -- ITAR-TASS

Russian cyberwar advances military interests in Ukraine, report says -- Fortune

Navies from China, Russia to hold first Mediterranean Sea joint drills -- FOX News/AP

China rebuffs U.S. criticism of military parade to mark end of war -- Reuters

China says worried by new U.S. cyber strategy -- Reuters

China’s advanced J-11D heavy fighter jet takes maiden flight -- RT

Eyeing exports, China steps up research into military drones -- Reuters

Vietnam Buys Deadly New Missiles Capable of Hitting China -- The Diplomat

Some French soldiers in CAR abuse probe identified - source -- Reuters

Hollande: no mercy over claims French soldiers abused children in CAR -- The Guardian

Security Budgets on the Rise in Europe -- Defense News

Turkey Says It 'Urgently' Needs Armed Drones -- Defense News

Israeli military worries over troops' use of social media -- Channel News Asia/Reuters

France Sells 24 Rafale Fighters to Qatar -- Defense News

Assad regime struggles to find new military recruits -- Al Arabiya

French Air Chief Sees Long Mission in Iraq -- Defense News

Taliban Gains Pull U.S. Units Back Into Fight in Afghanistan -- NYT

German BND spy agency 'helped US target France' -- BBC

Pentagon Unclear Why Iran Seized Maersk Tigris; U.S. Destroyer, 3 Patrol Craft Nearby -- USNI

Pentagon says US 'able to respond' if needed after Iran seizes cargo ship -- FOX News

Pakistani police drop case against former CIA lawyer, station chief over 2009 drone strike -- FOX News/AP

Investigator who helped expose CIA's post-9/11 torture program faces political backlash -- Daily Mail

CIA manager who had been ousted over abusive conduct now holds important counter terror post -- AP

Much of NSA bulk surveillance as you’ve known it may soon end -- Washington Post

Pentagon insists on extension of Russian rocket engine use till 2022 -- RT

While looking to future war, Army Pacific leaders share worries about the present -- News Tribune

GAO Favors Army Aviation Plan Over Guard's -- Defense News

CIA Chief Says Overhaul Puts Spies and Analysts ‘Cheek by Jowl' -- GovExec

Jade Helm 15, a military exercise, brings wild speculation in Texas about ‘martial law’ -- Washington Post

NORAD to Conduct Test Flights Over Washington, D.C., Area -- Washington Free Beacon

A Ground War Against ISIL -- Todd Johnson, Defense News

Last US Marines to leave Saigon describe chaos of war's end -- AP

The Corruption In Afghanistan Continues

Gary Owen, VICE: Phantom Troops, Taliban Fighting, and Wasted Money — It's Springtime in Afghanistan

It's springtime, which means blossoming flowers, Opening Day baseball, and the start of the Taliban's annual campaign to violently drive foreigners out of Afghanistan. But instead of calling it spring, NATO calls it "fighting season," which for the allied coalition is one of only two seasons in the country. (The other is "poppy season," when the Taliban and the poppy harvest make it clear that America's plans to counter narcotics in the country are going every bit as poorly as America's plans to counter the insurgency.)

Spring is also when the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction (SIGAR) releases one of his quarterly reports [pdf below]. That happened Wednesday, and it's only slightly less discouraging than the annual resumption of official Taliban hostilities.

More News On Corruption In Afghanistan

U.S. wasting billions of taxpayer money on Afghanistan security forces: IG -- Washington Times
Billions Meant For Afghan Security Forces Subject To Corruption -- Vocativ
U.S. Doesn't Know How Many Afghans Are Fighting the Taliban -- Newsweek
IG: US can't verify how money for Afghan troop salaries is being spent -- Stars and Stripes
Watchdog: Almost $500 Million at Risk in Afghanistan -- Fiscal Times
$488 million U.S. investment in Afghan reconstruction is at risk -- Watchdog.org
If You Find $1.3 Billion in Missing Aid to Afghanistan, Please Contact the Pentagon at Your Earliest Convenience. -- Reason

Afghan Forces Unable To Dislodge Taliban Forces From Kunduz

Afghan National Army soldiers fire artillery during a battle with Taliban insurgents in Kunduz, Afghanistan, April 29, 2015. The U.S. military has sent fighter jets to Afghanistan's northern province of Kunduz, where Taliban insurgents have launched a major offensive and overrun government checkpoints close to the main city, U.S. and Afghan sources said. REUTERS/Stringer

Reuters: Afghan forces struggle to drive back Taliban from besieged city

(Reuters) - The Afghan army and police on Thursday failed to expel Taliban fighters from the outskirts of a besieged provincial capital as a seventh day of fierce fighting put pressure on national forces struggling largely without U.S. military backup.

The Taliban push is a major test of the Afghan security forces trained by NATO, which ended its combat mission in Afghanistan in December, 13 years after the U.S.-backed military intervention that toppled the hard-line Islamist regime.

The governor of the northern province of Kunduz vowed that the capital, Kunduz city, would not fall to the insurgents, but acknowledged that pushing back the Taliban was proving tough.

"It goes very slowly because we do not want defenseless civilians to suffer," said governor Mohammad Omar Safi.

WNU Editor: I guess the reports on victory were premature .... Afghan Police Claim 'Core' Of Taliban's Northern Offensive Destroyed (Radio Free Europe)

More News On Afghanistan

Afghan Forces Press Counter-Offensive To Defend New Front Line Against Taliban -- WSJ
Afghan Forces Struggle To Push Taliban Back From Besieged Kunduz -- Radio Free Europe
Clashes leave 165 dead in Afghanistan -- SBS
U.S. military sends jets to northern Afghan city under siege -- Reuters
U.S. Jets Deploy as Afghan Forces Battle to Stop Taliban Advance -- Bloomberg
U.S. still has fighting role in Afghanistan -- UPI
Taliban Gains Pull U.S. Units Back Into Fight in Afghanistan -- NYT
Afghan official claims insurgents flooding in from Pakistan -- DAWN
Concern over Afghanistan casualties -- Independent.ie
Afghans increasingly frustrated with Ashraf Ghani over security, economy -- L.A. Times
How the 'Kunduz spa resort' turned into a Taliban den -- Deutsche Welle
Taliban Onslaught: What is Happening in Afghanistan? -- Franz-Stefan Gady, The Diplomat

World News Briefs -- April 30, 2015

AFP: Iran says warships at entrance to key Yemen strait

Tehran (AFP) - Two Iranian destroyers, sent to the Gulf of Aden to protect commercial ships, have reached the entrance of Bab el-Mandab, a strategic strait between Yemen and Djibouti, Iran's navy said Thursday.

In another sign of tensions between Gulf rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, the Saudi charge d'affaires was summoned to the foreign ministry in Tehran to hear a "strong protest" over Saudi military action which prevented an Iranian plane from landing in Sanaa.

MIDDLE EAST

Besieged Yemeni city sees worst fighting yet: residents.

Iraq poised to deploy Iran-backed Shi'ite militia in offensive in West.

Islamist fighters seize southern Syria crossing: monitor.

U.S. allies in Middle East ramping up support for rebel forces in Syria.

UK tells UN of Iranian attempts to buy nuclear technology - report.

Shipping company says crew of vessel seized by Iran is safe.

Near Syrian border, wounded fighters and civilians recover.

ASIA

Afghan forces struggle to drive back Taliban from besieged city.

China and South Korea criticise Japanese prime minister's speech in US.

China says U.S.-Philippines drill bad for regional peace.

3 killed in Chinese town where North Koreans blamed in past. North Korean soldiers suspected of China killings.

North Korea 'may have restarted Yongbyon nuclear reactor'.

Kim Jong-un won’t attend WWII celebration in Moscow.

India worried as China, Russia expand ties with Pakistan.

Ten men jailed in Pakistan over Malala attack.

Vietnam celebrates 40 years since end of war.

AFRICA

United States says Burundi risks boiling over if political opposition stifled. Burundi on edge over leader’s election bid as thousands flee. Burundi opposition leaders threaten to boycott vote.

Nigeria: More women and children freed from Boko Haram.

Chad tightens security against Boko Haram at cost of disruption.

Five soldiers killed in rebel attack in Mali: source.

Libya: IS militants kill 2 Tunisian reporters kidnapped last year.

Libya's Benghazi, cradle of anti-Gaddafi revolt, torn by chaos that followed.

Kenya softens its position on proposed closure of Dadaab refugee camp.

Kenya 'ignored Garissa university raid intelligence'.

EUROPE

IMF says to visit Kiev May 12 to review bailout program.

One Ukrainian serviceman killed in separatist attacks: Kiev military.

Chechen leader Kadyrov ready to give evidence in Nemtsov murder case.

Russia cuts rates as rouble rallies.

German police prevent terror attack, paper reports.

Greece signals concessions in crunch talks with lenders.

IMF says next Greek payment to Fund due May 6.

Mediterranean boat disaster: '200 Senegalese' among dead.

AMERICAS

Baltimore death draws nationwide protests.

US Senate rejects tying terrorism support to Iran sanctions relief.

Violent clashes at Brazil teachers' protest in Curitiba.

Chile's Bachelet seeks rapid approval of anti-corruption measures.

Argentina to pay compensation over 1994 Jewish centre attack.

Pope Francis orders Vatican to open Argentina Dirty War disappearance case files.

Medicine shortages so bad Venezuela is using fingerprinting.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Former Guantánamo detainees protest in Uruguay to demand aid from US. Uruguay threatens to cut off public assistance to ex-Guantanamo detainees.

GOP measure would make it harder for Obama to empty Guantanamo.

Terrorism in Africa: The imminent threat to the United States.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Anonymous messaging Secret app 'worth $100m' shut down.

Meet the richest person in New York.

U.S. oil hits five-month high as dollar weakens.

Iraq is Still Waiting For Their U.S. Made F-16s

June 8, 2011: A U.S. Air Force F-16CJ Fighting Falcon jet takes off from Malta International Airport outside Valletta. (Reuters)

Washington Times: Iraq still waiting on F-16 fighter jets, U.S.-trained pilots for Islamic State battle

Iraq’s besieged military was supposed to be flying front-line American F-16 fighters by now, joining other Arab forces in a daily air war against the Islamic State terrorist army controlling western and northern Iraq.

Instead, prospective Iraqi pilots are anchored in the United States, still undergoing training. The Iraqi air force, such as it is, is confined to dated Russian attack jets — compliments of Iran — helicopters and missile-firing AC-208 Cessnas.

While the war rages, there is no firm F-16 arrival date.

WNU Editor: You support logistics, radar, trained personnel, weapons, etc. .... the list is endless .... and then there is the issue of having trained pilots flying these aircraft .... Iraqis to get American F-16s – but can they fly them? (FOX News). If the Iraqis are flying F-16s later this year, I will be surprised.

Chinese - Russian Navies To Hold First Joint Mediterranean Exercise

Russian destroyers at a port in Shanghai during the China-Russia joint military exercises held last year, May 18, 2014. (File photo/ Xinhua)

Voice of America/Reuters: China, Russia to Hold First Joint Mediterranean Naval Drills

BEIJING - China will hold joint naval drills with Russia in mid-May in the Mediterranean Sea, the first time the two countries will hold military exercises together in that part of the world, the Chinese Defense Ministry said on Thursday.

China and Russia have held naval drills in Pacific waters since 2012. The May maneuvers come as the United States ramps up military cooperation with its allies in Asia in response to China's increasingly assertive pursuit of maritime territorial claims.

A total of nine ships from the two countries will participate, including vessels China now has on anti-piracy patrols in waters off Somalia, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Geng Yansheng told a monthly news briefing.

Update: China-Russia Navies Planning First Joint Mediterranean Maneuvers -- Epoch Times/AP

WNU Editor: This is a follow-up on their agreement from 2 weeks ago to expand their joint military exercises .... China, Russia to upgrade joint military exercises (WantChinaTimes)

Is The U.S. Navy Buying The Right Ships?

The USS Hurricane, USS Typhoon and USS Chinook in the Persian Gulf, March 2015. U.S. NAVY/Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Charles Oki

David Axe, Reuters: The Pentagon is buying the wrong ship, and it’s costing taxpayers billions

The United States will spend $585 billion on its armed forces in 2015 — the biggest military budget in the world by far. That’s just the Defense Department budget and doesn’t include the tens of billions of dollars that Washington spends on veterans, the purview of the Veterans Administration, or nuclear-weapons development, which falls under the Department of Energy.

There’s tremendous pressure in Congress to spend less. Though the Pentagon argues vehemently that budget cuts will harm national security, there are some fairly obvious places where defense cuts would not only save taxpayers’ money, they could also actually boost national security.


WNU Editor
: A sobering assessment from David Axe .... read it all.

Remembering The Fall Of Saigon 40 Years Ago



USA Today: Vietnam celebrates 40 years since end of war

Thousands of people marked the 40th anniversary of end of the Vietnam War on Thursday with a massive military parade in the capital of Ho Chi Minh City.

More than 3 million Vietnamese and nearly 60,000 American troops were killed before Saigon, then the capital of U.S.-backed South Vietnam, was captured by communist troops from the North on April 30, 1975.

North Vietnamese tanks crashed through the front gate of the presidential palace, before the troops hoisted the communist flag.

The following year, North and South Vietnam were reunified.




Remembering The Fall Of Saigon 40 Years Ago

Vietnam Celebrates 40th Anniversary of End of War -- VOA
40 years after Vietnam War, communists celebrate victory; Americans reflect on fall of Saigon -- FOX News/AP
Vietnam, 40 years after the fall of Saigon -- Al Jazeera
Forty years since the Fall of Saigon: Thousands gather in Vietnam to mark anniversary of the day communist forces seized control of the country -- Daily Mail
Vietnam PM: US 'committed barbarous crimes' during war -- BBC
Vietnam Celebrates War Anniversary, Slams 'Barbarous' American Crimes -- IBTimes
The U.S. and Vietnam: 40 Years After the Fall of Saigon -- US News and World Report
1975 CBS News footage shows dramatic evacuation of Saigon -- CBS News
Inside the Final Days of Vietnam -- Politico
The last Marines of Vietnam remember the fall of Saigon -- PBS News Hour
Enemy at the gate: The history-making, chaotic evacuation of Saigon -- CNN
Last US Marines to Leave Saigon Describe Chaos of War's End -- NYT
40 years after Vietnam War, north-south wounds fester -- SF Gate
Vietnam War: 40 years later, the fall of Saigon remains an endless abyss of sorrow for some -- Bruce Newman, San Jose Mercury News
40 years later, Vietnam still deeply divided over war -- USA Today
Vietnam's reunification turns 40: A retrospective -- UPI
Forty Years After Fall of Saigon, Entrepreneurs Return to Vietnam -- WSJ
Vietnam, ruled by communists for 40 years, is now the No. 1 fan of capitalism on the planet -- Quartz
Forty years after fall of Saigon, Vietnam now directs anger at China -- Donald Kirk, CSM
A Photojournalist Recalls the Unvarnished Truth of Vietnam -- Tim Page, Newsweek
Photos: The Fall of Saigon -- US News and World Report
Then and Now: Amazing photos show how Vietnam has healed...40 years after fall of Saigon -- Express.com

U.K. Informs The UN That Iran Is Still Using Blacklisted Firms To Purchase Nuclear Technology

A general view of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, some 1,200 km (746 miles) south of Tehran October 26, 2010. Reuters/IRNA/Mohammad Babaie

Reuters: Exclusive: Britain told U.N. monitors of active Iran nuclear procurement - panel

(Reuters) - Britain has informed a United Nations sanctions panel of an active Iranian nuclear procurement network linked to two blacklisted firms, according to a confidential report by the panel seen by Reuters.

The existence of such a network could add to Western concerns over whether Tehran can be trusted to adhere to a nuclear deal due by June 30 in which it would agree to restrict sensitive nuclear work in exchange for sanctions relief.

Talks between six major powers and Tehran are approaching the final stages after they hammered out a preliminary agreement on April 2, with Iran committing to reduce the number of centrifuges it operates and other long-term nuclear limitations.

Update: UK tells UN of Iranian attempts to buy nuclear technology - report -- The Guardian

WNU Editor: In any other normal situation this would be enough to end the nuclear talks .... but this is not "normal times", and as far as the Iranians are concerned .... a deal is still in the works .... Iran Says Negotiators To Start Drafting Final Nuclear Deal On April 30 (Radio Free Europe).

North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un Has Cancelled His Trip To Russia Due To 'Domestic Affairs'



New York Times: Kim Jong-un Won’t Attend WWII Celebration in Moscow

MOSCOW — Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea, will not attend a celebration in Moscow in May of the 70th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany, a top Russian official said on Thursday.

Dmitri S. Peskov, President Vladimir V. Putin’s spokesman, said that Moscow had learned of Mr. Kim’s decision through “diplomatic channels,” and that the tentative plans were canceled because of “internal Korean affairs,” the Interfax news agency reported.

Kremlin representatives have said several times this year that they expect the North Korean leader to attend.

WNU Editor: The speculation in Moscow is that the reason why he decided to not attend was due to "internal problems" .... Kim Jong Un Cancels May 9 Trip to Moscow Over Domestic Affairs (Sputnik). What's my take .... if these reports are true .... Kim Jong-un executes 15 top officials, say South Korean spies (The Guardian) .... it tells me that maybe his hold on power is not as strong as some observers may believe, and that by leaving the country will expose him to a possible coup.

More News On North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un Cancelling His Trip To Russia

North Korean leader will not visit Moscow in May - Kremlin -- Reuters
North Korean leader 'will not attend Russia WW2 events' -- BBC
North Korea's Kim Jong-un Cancels Trip to Russia -- The Diplomat
Kremlin: Kim Jong Un Cancels Trip to Russia -- VOA
Kim Jong Un to Be Absent From Russian Victory Celebrations -- WSJ
Kim Jong Un's visit to Moscow is off, Russian official says -- CNN
Moscow is a no-go for Kim Jong-un as he cancels planned visit to Russia -- The Guardian

China Warns Of An Internet Arms Race

The Pentagon’s new cyber strategy presents a potentially far more muscular role for the US military’s cyber warriors – something that worries China. Photograph: Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

The Guardian: China worried US cyber strategy 'ups the ante on the internet arms race'

* New Pentagon cybersecurity policy singles out China, among others, as threat
* Country also dismisses concerns over parade to mark end of second world war

China’s defence ministry expressed concern on Thursday over the Pentagon’s updated cyber strategy, which stresses the US military’s ability to retaliate with cyber weapons, saying this would only worsen tension over internet security.

The ministry also rebuffed a senior US official who cast doubt on China’s plans to hold a military parade in September to mark the end of the second world war.

The Pentagon’s new cyber strategy presents a potentially far more muscular role for the US military’s cyber warriors than the Pentagon was willing to acknowledge in its last strategy rollouts in 2011, and singles out threats from Russia, China, Iran and North Korea.

Update #1: China says worried by new U.S. cyber strategy -- Reuters
Update #2: China Opposes U.S. Cyber Security Strategy's Accusations -- CRI English

WNU Editor: These Chinese warnings are way-too-late. As the Edward Snowden NSA revelations have revealed .... we have been in a cyber arms race for a very long time.

The African Nation Of Burundi Is Gripped By Political Violence



The Guardian: Burundi: thousands flee to Rwanda as protests grip capital before June poll

More than 22,000 Burundians flee to Rwanda in a month amid violence provoked by President Pierre Nkurunziza’s bid for third term as president

Thousands of people have crossed from Burundi into neighbouring Rwanda over the past week, fleeing intimidation by youth militia who are reportedly targeting rural areas as protests grip the capital, Bujumbura, over the president’s decision to stand for a third term in June’s presidential elections.

According to reports, the authorities have cut mobile access to social media services such as WhatsApp and Facebook. Private radio stations have been shut down and youth militia are marking the homes of those opposed to the president. With protests in the capital ongoing, many fear more violence in a country that endured vicious ethnic violence during its 12-year civil war.

More News On Burundi's Growing Political Violence

Burundi on Edge Over Leader’s Election Bid as Thousands Flee -- Bloomberg
Burundi still tense with street protests as US sends senior diplomat -- AP
Burundi Shuts Down National University, Sends Students Home -- VOA
Burundi sends college students home amid unrest -- AP
Burundi president told U.S. diplomat protests against him illegal - spokesman -- Swiss Info
Burundi court to examine president’s third-term bid -- Mail & Guardian
United States says Burundi risks boiling over if political opposition stifled -- Reuters
Analysis - Burundi's patchwork army faces test to keep the peace -- Reuters
What explains Burundi’s protests? -- Cara E. Jones and Stephanie Schwartz, Washington Post
Burundi on the Brink -- New York Times

Here Comes The U.S. Marines Guardbots



IBTimes: GuardBot: US marines testing robot guard balls that can swim and roll on any terrain

The US marines are currently testing out an unmanned spherical robot ball that can both swim in water and roll across most terrain in order to perform reconnaissance for armed forces.

GuardBot is the brain child of GuardBot Inc, a robotics firm based in Stamford, Connecticut in the US.

The idea for the robot was first conceived in 2004, and the autonomous robot was initially designed to go to Mars, but now the US Navy is interested in using robot as a guard in unknown territory, and to provide reconnaissance in warfare.


WNU Editor: If it works as promised this technology has the capacity to be a force multiplier that I am sure will be freeing up troops for other duties.

Has Japan Abandoned Its Policy Of Being A Pacifist Nation?

Sailors stand on the deck of the Izumo warship as it departs from the harbor of the Japan United Marine shipyard in Yokohama, south of Tokyo. March 25, 2015. REUTERS/Thomas Peter

William Johnson, Reuters: With a $42 billion defense budget, is Japan a hawk in dove’s clothing?

Japan’s identity as a pacifist nation, as defined by Article 9 of its constitution, is increasingly at odds with reality. The Japanese Naval Self-Defense Force is the second-most powerful naval force in the region, trailing only its close ally, the United States Navy. Japan has the seventh-largest defense budget in the world; its Ministry of Defense is the largest department in the entire Japanese government.

Strategically, a strong Japanese military allows the United States — a close ally of Japan’s — to maintain distance from any military confrontation with China over territorial claims. It deprives China of the argument that the United States is neither a party to the dispute, nor native to the region. The problem for the United States lies in convincing allies, especially South Korea, that an increasingly robust Japanese military does not risk a return to Japanese imperialism.

WNU Editor: Japan has a long history .... and being a pacifist nation is not one of them. The key goal right for the U.S. now is to reassure it's allies in Asia that Japan's intentions are not aggressive .... and that there is nothing to be afraid of. My prediction .... this is not going to be a very hard sell.