Welcome to our “Defense Briefing” program, I’m your host: Liang Jun. Today, we dive into the unveiling of Canada’s Memorial to the Victims of Communism, which has sparked controversy due to the absence of government representatives and ongoing debates over the names to be inscribed. Advocates are calling for transparency and accountability as the project faces significant budget overruns and delays.
In another story, mysterious drones have been spotted flying over sensitive areas in New Jersey, prompting Senator Richard Blumenthal to suggest they should be shot down if necessary. While there’s no confirmed threat to national security, the sightings have raised eyebrows and calls for more clarity on the situation, as lawmakers demand answers on whether these drones are rogue operations or part of a larger issue.
Lastly, President-elect Donald Trump has voiced strong opposition to Ukraine’s use of US-supplied missiles to strike deep into Russia, labeling it a foolish decision that escalates the conflict. Despite his criticisms, he maintains that US support for Ukraine is crucial for future negotiations. As tensions rise, all eyes are on how these developments will shape international relations. Please continue watching for more detailed coverage.
CBC reports that Canada’s Memorial to the Victims of Communism was unveiled in Ottawa, yet the event was overshadowed by ongoing controversy. Etobicoke Centre MP Yvan Baker expressed disappointment over the absence of any Liberal government representatives, highlighting the project’s lack of support from the current administration. The memorial, designed to honor those who fled communist persecution, features 4,000 metal rods forming two walls, but the wall of remembrance remains blank due to ongoing vetting of names. This vetting process has been complicated by the historical context of the individuals involved, some of whom may have controversial backgrounds from the tumultuous periods of World War II.
South China Morning Post reveals that concerns are rising over mysterious drones spotted flying at night across New Jersey and the mid-Atlantic region. Senator Richard Blumenthal has called for these drones to be shot down if necessary, particularly as they have been seen near sensitive areas like airports and military bases. Despite the escalating worries, White House National Security spokesman John Kirby stated that many reported sightings might actually be manned aircraft and that there is currently no evidence of a national security threat. As the sightings continue to increase, local lawmakers are demanding more transparency to alleviate public fears, while experts suggest that confusion may stem from the drones’ visibility and size.
South China Morning Post also highlights Donald Trump’s strong opposition to Ukraine’s use of American-supplied missiles to strike deep into Russia. In a recent interview, Trump criticized this strategy as escalating the conflict unnecessarily. While he insists on supporting Ukraine, he believes that leveraging U.S. backing is essential for negotiating peace. His comments have drawn attention from Russian media, suggesting a rift in the approach to the ongoing war. Meanwhile, White House spokesman John Kirby emphasized the Biden administration’s commitment to ensuring Ukraine is in a strong position for any future negotiations, reaffirming the U.S. stance on supporting Kyiv amidst the complex geopolitical landscape.
South China Morning Post reports that mainland China is intensifying its military presence around Taiwan, particularly focusing on the island’s eastern coast, which has historically been viewed as a safe haven for Taiwanese defenses. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has significantly increased its reconnaissance and strategic operations in this area, deploying more helicopters, combat aircraft, and drones. Notably, the number of PLA warplanes operating around Taiwan’s east soared to 119 in July, nearly tripling previous summer totals. This shift in strategy challenges the long-held belief that Taiwan’s eastern side is secure, as the PLA’s activities have heightened tensions in cross-strait relations and allowed for better intelligence gathering and tactical preparations.
In a separate report by CBC, President-elect Donald Trump expressed concerns over Ukraine’s use of U.S.-supplied missiles to strike deep into Russian territory, calling it “crazy” and suggesting that such actions escalate the conflict unnecessarily. Trump’s comments come as President Biden lifted restrictions on Ukraine’s use of longer-range missiles, a decision made amid increasing threats from Russian forces, including the deployment of North Korean troops. While Trump aims for a swift resolution to the war, he remains vague about his plans, emphasizing the need for an agreement that does not abandon Ukraine. His remarks raise questions about the future of U.S. policy toward Ukraine and the potential for negotiations with Russia.
According to the Associated Press, U.S. Senate Chaplain Barry Black is hospitalized following a brain bleed but is expected to recover smoothly. Black, who has served as chaplain since 2003, is known for his impactful prayers during politically charged times, often addressing the challenges of the moment with insight and compassion. His role includes opening Senate proceedings with prayer and providing spiritual guidance to senators and staff. As a prominent figure in the Senate, Black’s absence is felt, and his recovery is anticipated by many who appreciate his contributions to the legislative body.
CNN reports that the Biden administration is ramping up weapon deliveries to Ukraine in a final push before leaving office, aiming to strengthen Kyiv’s position as the new Trump administration takes over. A senior administration official revealed plans for a $500 million aid package, which includes a historic effort to transport hundreds of thousands of artillery rounds, rockets, and armored vehicles into Ukraine within the next five weeks. This surge in deliveries is being coordinated by national security adviser Jake Sullivan, who emphasized the urgency of getting these resources to Ukraine. Meanwhile, Trump has criticized the Biden administration’s decision to allow Ukraine to strike inside Russia, claiming it escalates the conflict unnecessarily. He has proposed conditions for US aid, including Ukraine’s participation in peace talks with Russia.
The Associated Press highlights a significant decline in reported sexual assaults at U.S. military service academies, marking a second consecutive year of decrease after a previous alarming surge. According to Pentagon data, the reported assaults dropped from 137 in 2023 to 106 in 2024, with a notable decrease in unwanted sexual contact among female students from over 21% in 2022 to around 13% in 2024. However, defense officials caution that the numbers remain troublingly high, and efforts to improve reporting and prevention strategies are ongoing. The new leadership taking over the Pentagon under Trump raises concerns about the potential impact on these initiatives, especially given the previous emphasis on addressing sexual assault within military academies.
BBC reports that NATO’s Secretary General Mark Rutte has called for a shift to a wartime mindset among member states, warning that they are unprepared for future conflicts, particularly with Russia. In a speech in Brussels, Rutte highlighted the need for increased defense spending, urging members to “turbocharge” their budgets as the security situation has deteriorated significantly. He pointed out that Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation with the West, with its defense spending projected to account for a third of its state budget by 2025. Rutte stressed that if NATO members do not invest more in defense now, they could face much higher costs in the future to combat potential threats.
BBC - The Royal Navy’s final Trafalgar-Class attack submarine, HMS Triumph, has completed its last voyage from Scotland to Devonport, marking the end of an era after over 20 years of service. As it departed from HM Naval Base Clyde, tugboats celebrated the submarine’s journey with water cannons, while a crowd of well-wishers waved goodbye. HMS Triumph, the last of seven Trafalgar-Class submarines, has a storied history, having been deployed in operations across the globe, including missions in Australia, Afghanistan, and Libya. Commander Aaron Williams reflected on the submarine’s legacy, emphasizing its role as a symbol of commitment and courage. Laid down in 1987 and commissioned in 1991, HMS Triumph made headlines with its record-setting 41,000-mile submerged deployment in 1993. The submarine’s operational history includes launching Tomahawk missiles during conflicts in Afghanistan and Libya. Rear Admiral Andy Perks expressed mixed emotions of pride and sadness at the farewell, highlighting the submarine’s role in national security for over three decades. The official decommissioning ceremony is set for 2025, as the Royal Navy transitions fully to the new Astute-Class submarines, with five already in service and two more under construction.
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