southfront--2020-06-11--Syrian Currency Falls Following US Announcement Of More Unilateral Sanctions

Prices of food , medicine , and other basics are spiralling out of reach in Syrian markets as the local currency collapses in value , shortly before new unilateral US sanctions come into force .
The pound ’ s decline has accelerated since mid-October of last year when the financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon choked off a main source of foreign currency inflows .
International sanctions against Syria , damage to the country ’ s industry from the fighting , and an exodus of money by panicked Syrians had pushed the currency sharply lower during the conflict , now in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Syrian pound on the informal market has plunged from about 940 to the US dollar in January to a rate today of at least 3,000 .
And the rate of decline has been accelerating : it has more than halved in value since the beginning of May and dropped even faster in the last week .
Stiff penalties and a range of restrictions on unauthorised transactions and foreign currency dealings imposed by the Central Bank have not led to any levelling off of the rate .
Its official price stands at 704 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ say shops and pharmacies are keeping their doors shut because the value of the currency is dropping too fast for traders to set prices .
Price rises of essentials including cooking gas , bread , and sugar – combined with increasingly worthless wages – are leading to public alarm and anger .
At 2,000 Syrian pounds , a kilo of lemons is out of reach for a civil servant whose salary is now worth less than $ 20 a month .
As Syria enters its tenth year of civil war , more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ humanitarian assistance , about half of whom are displaced from their original homes .
Price rises are driving more people into poverty and food insecurity is rising , even in parts of the country relatively unaffected by the instability of recent years .
Before the latest crash , about a third of the population were not getting enough to eat , and 87 % had no savings , according to a WFP survey in April .
The price for a typical “ reference ” basket of food items such as flour , beans @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supply had increased 111 % in a year , according to WFP .
Inflation and shortages have led to new levels of poverty in government-controlled areas , while some areas controlled by opposition armed groups in the north have reportedly adopted the Turkish lira or dollar as alternatives to the Syrian pound .
The current economic crisis has multiple causes : the long civil war has exhausted all reserves Syria may have had ; economic and political turmoil in Lebanon has seized up its dollar banking sector – used by Syrian importers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses ; oil and gas production is barely functioning in Syrian government-held areas ; the business empire of tycoon and al-Assad relative Rami Maklouf has been partially suspended ; and Russia and Iran have limited capacity to offset the impact of the sanctions .
Analysts dispute whether the US sanctions , to be imposed pursuant to the so-called ‘ Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Law ’ , are the primary cause of the present crash .
Sanctions have already contributed to severe socio-economic impacts on the civilian population , despite being presented as highly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is also designed to deter any foreign involvement in reconstruction of infrastructure damaged in the war , which includes civilian sites .
The sanctions penalise most transactions with the Syrian state and the supposed aim of the sanctions is to limit its military , construction projects , and the oil and gas industries .
The measures , introduced in response to alleged repression and human rights abuses according to US officials , will start on 17 June .
There are no UN sanctions on the Syrian government itself or its leadership .
However @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the EU have had a cumulative effect on humanitarian operations , and securing waivers to allow aid-related imports and bank transfers can be onerous : US banking and economic sanctions have squeezed out most trade with Syria .
At the same time , Syria ’ s main supplier of fuel – including cooking gas – is Iran , and tighter US sanctions on shipping have limited those imports too .
LINK MORE ON THE TOPIC • IN VIDEO : SYRIAN SOLDIERS , LOCALS INTERCEPT ANOTHER U.S. PATROL IN NORTHERN AL-HASAKAH

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Prices of food, medicine, and other basics are spiralling out of reach in Syrian markets as the local currency collapses in value, shortly before new unilateral US sanctions come into force.
The pound’s decline has accelerated since mid-October of last year when the financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon choked off a main source of foreign currency inflows. International sanctions against Syria, damage to the country’s industry from the fighting, and an exodus of money by panicked Syrians had pushed the currency sharply lower during the conflict, now in its ninth year.
The value of the Syrian pound on the informal market has plunged from about 940 to the US dollar in January to a rate today of at least 3,000. And the rate of decline has been accelerating: it has more than halved in value since the beginning of May and dropped even faster in the last week.
Stiff penalties and a range of restrictions on unauthorised transactions and foreign currency dealings imposed by the Central Bank have not led to any levelling off of the rate. Its official price stands at 704.
Local media and Syrian diaspora reports say shops and pharmacies are keeping their doors shut because the value of the currency is dropping too fast for traders to set prices. Price rises of essentials including cooking gas, bread, and sugar – combined with increasingly worthless wages – are leading to public alarm and anger. At 2,000 Syrian pounds, a kilo of lemons is out of reach for a civil servant whose salary is now worth less than $20 a month.
As Syria enters its tenth year of civil war, more than 11 million people inside the country require humanitarian assistance, about half of whom are displaced from their original homes. Price rises are driving more people into poverty and food insecurity is rising, even in parts of the country relatively unaffected by the instability of recent years.
Before the latest crash, about a third of the population were not getting enough to eat, and 87% had no savings, according to a WFP survey in April. The price for a typical “reference” basket of food items such as flour, beans and oil representing a month’s supply had increased 111% in a year, according to WFP.
Inflation and shortages have led to new levels of poverty in government-controlled areas, while some areas controlled by opposition armed groups in the north have reportedly adopted the Turkish lira or dollar as alternatives to the Syrian pound.
The current economic crisis has multiple causes: the long civil war has exhausted all reserves Syria may have had; economic and political turmoil in Lebanon has seized up its dollar banking sector – used by Syrian importers and for the hard currency deposits of Syrian businesses; oil and gas production is barely functioning in Syrian government-held areas; the business empire of tycoon and al-Assad relative Rami Maklouf has been partially suspended; and Russia and Iran have limited capacity to offset the impact of the sanctions.
Analysts dispute whether the US sanctions, to be imposed pursuant to the so-called ‘Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Law’, are the primary cause of the present crash. Sanctions have already contributed to severe socio-economic impacts on the civilian population, despite being presented as highly targeted. The latest batch of sanctions is also designed to deter any foreign involvement in reconstruction of infrastructure damaged in the war, which includes civilian sites.
The sanctions penalise most transactions with the Syrian state and the supposed aim of the sanctions is to limit its military, construction projects, and the oil and gas industries. The measures, introduced in response to alleged repression and human rights abuses according to US officials, will start on 17 June.
There are no UN sanctions on the Syrian government itself or its leadership. However, sanctions by the United States and the EU have had a cumulative effect on humanitarian operations, and securing waivers to allow aid-related imports and bank transfers can be onerous: US banking and economic sanctions have squeezed out most trade with Syria. At the same time, Syria’s main supplier of fuel – including cooking gas – is Iran, and tighter US sanctions on shipping have limited those imports too. LINK
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southfront--2020-06-11--Neocon-Styled U.S. National Security Strategy Project Lays Ground For New Global Conflict

Spearheaded by RSC Chairman Mike Johnson and RSC National Security & Foreign Affairs Task Force Chairman Joe Wilson , the proposal is a conservative , solutions-oriented plan for preserving American leadership around the globe and promoting a U.S. foreign policy that advances the interests of the American people at home and abroad .
It provides over 130 solutions to counter China , Russia , Iran and other ‘ US adversaries ’ .
The report is separated into five parts , presented briefly below : China is now the US top competitor , Russia ’ s now # 2 , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to rein in China , the US needs to do the following , according to the RSC : • Preserving American leadership : The strategy stands up to the Chinese Communist Party ’ s attempts to reorient today ’ s world order to one based in authoritarianism by standing strongly for American values of freedom , democracy , human rights , the rule of law , and open markets .
• A tough but targeted approach to China : The strategy offers the toughest package of sanctions ever proposed by Congress on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ It would specifically sanction the entire United Front Work Department and senior CCP leaders , including members of the Politburo for their malign influence campaigns , internment of Uyghurs , and assault on Hong Kong .
The strategy proposes targeted measures rather than broad-based tariffs that may hurt the U.S. economy .
• A multifaceted strategy to protect American innovation and ideas : The strategy would enhance U.S. laws safeguarding American intellectual property ( IP ) , modernize the Foreign Asset Registration Act ( FARA ) , block Chinese propaganda efforts , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transfer of critical technology to China .
• Bold free trade expansion around the world : The strategy proposes bilateral free trade agreements with democratic partners facing increasing threat or malign influence from China , including Taiwan , Indonesia , the Philippines , India , Brazil , Kenya , and others .
There are numerous recommendations for congress such as introducing a tougher visa regime for Chinese nationals , and even such conditions as “ student visa holders to report to the Department of Homeland Security if they change majors and require periodic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The US needs to review every potential benefit that China receives from it , whether it was intentional or not .
Furthermore , sanctions on China should be ramped up , with an added graphic presenting who has been sanctioned so far .
Trade is also something that needs heavy focus , the map below shows which countries the US has free trade with , in total they are 20 .
China has 11 such agreements .
Russia , of course , is still dangerous , but it ’ s competitiveness of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it previously was , according to the RSC .
• Stopping Putin ’ s aggression : The strategy offers the toughest package of sanctions on Russia ever proposed by Congress , including secondary sanctions on Russian oil and gas projects , sanctions on Russian sovereign debt , sanctions on Russian proxies in other countries , and designating Russia as a State Sponsor of Terrorism .
• Communicate with the Russian people : The strategy would call for the creation of a strategy to communicate directly to the Russian people and support their aspirations @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should be focused on stopping Russia ’ s expanding influence in the Black Sea region , according to the RSC .
In short , Georgia should be strengthened and receive much more support so it doesn ’ t get invaded by Russia , even there being no actual danger of that happening .
Also sanctions , sanctions and more sanctions .
And of course , spreading propaganda , stoking the flames of Russians ’ “ aspirations for democracy and human rights.
” • Advancing American Interests in the Middle East : Confronting Iran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the jihadists are put in the same pile , all the while one of the parties most responsible for the decline of ISIS and other extremist groups in the Middle East is specifically Iran , and also Russia .
Major General Qassem Soleimani , who was assassinated by the US was a central figure in the fight against terror .
• Enhancing the President ’ s maximum pressure campaign on Iran : The strategy proposes the toughest sanctions on Iran ever proposed by Congress .
It codifies many of the President ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sectors of Iran ’ s economy , and sanctions Iran ’ s regional proxies , including its militias in Iraq , Syria , and Yemen , the Assad regime in Syria , as well as Hezbollah in Lebanon .
• Deplete the resources of Iranian proxies : The strategy would prevent U.S. taxpayer dollars from funding Iran ’ s proxies in Lebanon and Iraq by ending aid to the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Iraqi Ministry of Interior .
• A new clear authorization to pursue terrorist groups : The strategy pushes back @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the President ’ s war powers by offering for consideration a new AUMF that would allow the President to go after any State Department designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations .
• Directly confronting the Salafi-jihadi ideological movement : The strategy would prevent the creation of Salafi-jihadi safe havens and cut off financing and state support for associated groups .
It would codify President Trump ’ s efforts to deplete terrorist ’ s resources and designate additional terrorist organizations .
According to the report , the Congress should require a report on the long-term threats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Forces and other Iranian-backed militias in the war on ISIS .
Also , any opportunity for Iran to have effective relations with its neighbors should be impeded .
Congress should cut off U.S. security assistance funding to the Lebanese Armed Forces and prohibit an IMF bailout of Lebanon .
Because Lebanon isn ’ t allied to Israel , Hezbollah is the enemy .
In Syria , Congress should support the Trump administration ’ s push for a political transition and withdrawal of all Iranian forces from Syria and require the Department of Defense @ @ @ @ @ @ @ no-fly zone in Idlib , Syria .
The Houthis should be sanctioned by the US , and should be designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization .
And to further support Saudi Arabia and the UAE ’ s military intervention in the country , the Congress shouldn ’ t withhold any arms sale , on the contrary – it should increase them .
After all , the indigenous population of the country has no right to fight against the invaders and their puppet government .
In terms of countering extremism , the US Congress @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministry of Education so as to help its citizens not join the ranks of Al-Qaeda and other groups .
After all , Russia , together with Iran defeated ISIS , while the US-led coalition was busy attempting to occupy as many oil wells as possible , and paying Kurdish fighters to fight the militants .
Congress should enact a statement of policy supporting the use of U.S. intelligence , reconnaissance , and air strikes to aid local Iraqi and Syrian forces fighting ISIS , prevent the rise of other Salafi-jihadist terror groups , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ resources from being taken by Iran .
Like protect these same oil resources from being taken by the Syrians themselves .
This really needs no in-depth explanation , if they ’ re not American values – they ’ re wrong .
It ’ s the same on the ground , and also even in space , where American values mean right of the strong , blackmailing your allies into submission , and be willing to sacrifices every allied interest for the purpose of fulfilling one ’ s own goals .
• Elevating human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ elevate these values in American foreign policy by strengthening human rights sanctions and codifying the Ministerial on Religious Freedom .
It would support Secretary Pompeo ’ s Commission on Unalienable Rights and reject attempts by international organizations to redefine human rights and curtail economic and religious liberties .
• Competing to win at the U.N. and other multilateral organizations : The strategy would counter China and Russia ’ s efforts to control international bodies .
It would also urge Congress to support President Trump ’ s efforts to withdraw from irreparable organizations and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cooperation with democratic countries .
• Promoting accountability at the U.N. : The strategy would mandate that U.S .
Ambassadors meet annually with their host governments to discuss that country ’ s voting record at the U.N .
It would also audit the use of U.S. funding by the U.N. and condition funding to U.N. bodies on implementation of accountability reforms .
The U.N. must cut off assistance to dictatorships such as humanitarian aid that is being diverted to the Assad regime in Syria .
In addition , Congress should remove references in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or other international organizations for human rights determinations .
Essentially , all international agreements should be withdrawn from , and then the rules-based order should be entirely ad hoc , depending on whatever goal Washington deems worthy .
Notably , with all the speaking about support of human rights , the RSC claims the following : Human rights could be kept , but only if others keep them , and it doesn ’ t cost money for US businesses and government .
In regard to the UN , Congress should direct the President @ @ @ @ @ @ @ contributions toward a voluntary basis .
So that the US can voluntarily use its funding as a way to strongarm the global bureaucracy into submission .
Congress should direct the Department of State Inspector General to inspect and audit the use of U.S. funds by international organizations and make a portion of U.S. contributions to international organizations contingent on cooperation .
Congress should direct the Department of State to rank U.N. organizations in terms of how valuable they are to U.S. interests .
Finally , Congress should stop funding for some pressing issues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ US interest .
Finally , an alternate UN should potentially be established , but only for “ Democracies.
” ( taking into accout that the US leadership uses the word ‘ democracy ’ pretty wide when it wants to protect its PP – puppets and partners , and claims that its compentitors are not ‘ democracies ’ just because they defend their interests against the US pressure ) • Aligning U.S. foreign aid with U.S. foreign policy : The strategy would help assistance reach more people while better advancing our international interests .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ with new legislation reducing legislative directives for foreign assistance , placing the U.S. Agency for International Development ( USAID ) inside the Department of State , and empowering Ambassadors to have a stronger role in administering foreign aid .
• Modernizing the Department of State : The strategy would strengthen diplomacy by ensuring the State Department concentrates on its core competencies .
It supports replacing the Foreign Service with a new diplomatic corps rooted in merit rather than tenure , as well as eliminating duplicative bureaus and programs , and elevating human rights @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Strengthening public diplomacy , international broadcasting , and counter disinformation efforts : The strategy would reconstitute the U.S. Information Agency ( USIA ) and empower it with U.S. public diplomacy and counter disinformation efforts .
The USIA ’ s mission would be to promote American ideals of democracy , human rights , and open markets , and undermine U.S. adversaries such as China , Russia , Iran , and others .
The USIA would be able to contract with private entities to assist in counter-disinformation efforts .
In conclusion , the RSC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of US hegemony are necessary due to the various threats to global order that have arisen in recent times .
The timing of the RSC-proposed ‘ security strategy ’ is telling itself .
The US is currently passing through a strong crisis in the social , economic and political spheres .
It is caused by several factors : the global economic decline , negative consequences of the COVID-19 crisis and the political and social turbulence amid the ongoing wave of protests .
Therefore , the authors and supporters of the newly proposed ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the public from the internal crisis of the United States and consolidate the society under the pretext of fighting ‘ foreign enemies ’ .
At the same time , the Neocon faction of the Republican Party likely sees the single opportunity for the United States to deal with the global crisis – to start a new aggressive war .
If the RSC-proposed document is accepted as an official posture of the United States foreign policy , it will become a strong step , rather even two steps , towards the new global conflict @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( EIA ) of the US Department of Energy predicted a shortage of oil supply at 2.9 million barrels per day in the third quarter of 2020 .
Does it expect some ‘ destructive developments ’ that would target oil producing countries ?
As to the efficiency of the possible increase of the US pressure on its competitors , it should be noted that in this particular period the situation in Russia and China is advantageous for external meddling .
Both countries are weakened by the developing economic crisis , while the situation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the wide COVID-19 lockdown measures implemented earlier this year .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • China Warns US Resumption Of Nuclear Tests Would ‘ Open Pandora ’ s Box ’

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On June 10th, the Republican Study Committee (RSC) released “The RSC National Security Strategy: Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats.”
Spearheaded by RSC Chairman Mike Johnson and RSC National Security & Foreign Affairs Task Force Chairman Joe Wilson, the proposal is a conservative, solutions-oriented plan for preserving American leadership around the globe and promoting a U.S. foreign policy that advances the interests of the American people at home and abroad.
It provides over 130 solutions to counter China, Russia, Iran and other ‘US adversaries’.
The report is separated into five parts, presented briefly below:
Communist China: A New Strategy for Countering America’s Top Threat.
China is now the US top competitor, Russia’s now #2, and that’s reality. In order to rein in China, the US needs to do the following, according to the RSC:
Preserving American leadership: The strategy stands up to the Chinese Communist Party’s attempts to reorient today’s world order to one based in authoritarianism by standing strongly for American values of freedom, democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and open markets.
A tough but targeted approach to China: The strategy offers the toughest package of sanctions ever proposed by Congress on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). It would specifically sanction the entire United Front Work Department and senior CCP leaders, including members of the Politburo for their malign influence campaigns, internment of Uyghurs, and assault on Hong Kong. The strategy proposes targeted measures rather than broad-based tariffs that may hurt the U.S. economy.
A multifaceted strategy to protect American innovation and ideas: The strategy would enhance U.S. laws safeguarding American intellectual property (IP), modernize the Foreign Asset Registration Act (FARA), block Chinese propaganda efforts, and ensure a whole-of-government effort to stop the transfer of critical technology to China.
Bold free trade expansion around the world: The strategy proposes bilateral free trade agreements with democratic partners facing increasing threat or malign influence from China, including Taiwan, Indonesia, the Philippines, India, Brazil, Kenya, and others.
There are numerous recommendations for congress such as introducing a tougher visa regime for Chinese nationals, and even such conditions as “student visa holders to report to the Department of Homeland Security if they change majors and require periodic revetting upon reentering the United States.”
The US needs to review every potential benefit that China receives from it, whether it was intentional or not.
“Congress should require a report detailing the extent China has benefited from U.S. taxpayer funded research and from Chinese funding of U.S. research institutions.”
Furthermore, sanctions on China should be ramped up, with an added graphic presenting who has been sanctioned so far.
Trade is also something that needs heavy focus, the map below shows which countries the US has free trade with, in total they are 20. China has 11 such agreements.
Russia: Rolling Back Aggression Through a Strategy of Deterrence
Russia, of course, is still dangerous, but it’s competitiveness of the US isn’t so all-encompassing as it previously was, according to the RSC.
A large portion is focused on specifically stopping “Putin’s aggression.”
Stopping Putin’s aggression: The strategy offers the toughest package of sanctions on Russia ever proposed by Congress, including secondary sanctions on Russian oil and gas projects, sanctions on Russian sovereign debt, sanctions on Russian proxies in other countries, and designating Russia as a State Sponsor of Terrorism.
Communicate with the Russian people: The strategy would call for the creation of a strategy to communicate directly to the Russian people and support their aspirations for democracy and human rights.
Activities should be focused on stopping Russia’s expanding influence in the Black Sea region, according to the RSC.
In short, Georgia should be strengthened and receive much more support so it doesn’t get invaded by Russia, even there being no actual danger of that happening.
Also sanctions, sanctions and more sanctions.
And of course, spreading propaganda, stoking the flames of Russians’ “aspirations for democracy and human rights.”
Advancing American Interests in the Middle East: Confronting Iran & the Jihadi Terrorist Movement
Iran and the jihadists are put in the same pile, all the while one of the parties most responsible for the decline of ISIS and other extremist groups in the Middle East is specifically Iran, and also Russia.
Major General Qassem Soleimani, who was assassinated by the US was a central figure in the fight against terror.
Enhancing the President’s maximum pressure campaign on Iran: The strategy proposes the toughest sanctions on Iran ever proposed by Congress. It codifies many of the President’s successful efforts into law, blocks additional sectors of Iran’s economy, and sanctions Iran’s regional proxies, including its militias in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen, the Assad regime in Syria, as well as Hezbollah in Lebanon.
Deplete the resources of Iranian proxies: The strategy would prevent U.S. taxpayer dollars from funding Iran’s proxies in Lebanon and Iraq by ending aid to the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Iraqi Ministry of Interior.
A new clear authorization to pursue terrorist groups: The strategy pushes back against House Democrats’ efforts to limit the President’s war powers by offering for consideration a new AUMF that would allow the President to go after any State Department designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations.
Directly confronting the Salafi-jihadi ideological movement: The strategy would prevent the creation of Salafi-jihadi safe havens and cut off financing and state support for associated groups. It would codify President Trump’s efforts to deplete terrorist’s resources and designate additional terrorist organizations.
According to the report, the Congress should require a report on the long-term threats posed by backing the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Forces and other Iranian-backed militias in the war on ISIS.
Also, any opportunity for Iran to have effective relations with its neighbors should be impeded.
Congress should cut off U.S. security assistance funding to the Lebanese Armed Forces and prohibit an IMF bailout of Lebanon. Because Lebanon isn’t allied to Israel, Hezbollah is the enemy.
In Syria, Congress should support the Trump administration’s push for a political transition and withdrawal of all Iranian forces from Syria and require the Department of Defense to produce a feasibility assessment for a no-fly zone in Idlib, Syria.
The Houthis should be sanctioned by the US, and should be designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
And to further support Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s military intervention in the country, the Congress shouldn’t withhold any arms sale, on the contrary – it should increase them. After all, the indigenous population of the country has no right to fight against the invaders and their puppet government.
In terms of countering extremism, the US Congress should invest funds in the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Education so as to help its citizens not join the ranks of Al-Qaeda and other groups.
“Congress should reject partnering with Russia to combat ISIS in Libya and enact the Libya Stabilization Act.”
After all, Russia, together with Iran defeated ISIS, while the US-led coalition was busy attempting to occupy as many oil wells as possible, and paying Kurdish fighters to fight the militants.
Congress should enact a statement of policy supporting the use of U.S. intelligence, reconnaissance, and air strikes to aid local Iraqi and Syrian forces fighting ISIS, prevent the rise of other Salafi-jihadist terror groups, and, in Syria, prevent oil resources from being taken by Iran. Like protect these same oil resources from being taken by the Syrians themselves.
Maintaining an International Order Based on American Values
This really needs no in-depth explanation, if they’re not American values – they’re wrong. It’s the same on the ground, and also even in space, where American values mean right of the strong, blackmailing your allies into submission, and be willing to sacrifices every allied interest for the purpose of fulfilling one’s own goals.
Elevating human rights and democracy: The strategy would elevate these values in American foreign policy by strengthening human rights sanctions and codifying the Ministerial on Religious Freedom. It would support Secretary Pompeo’s Commission on Unalienable Rights and reject attempts by international organizations to redefine human rights and curtail economic and religious liberties.
Competing to win at the U.N. and other multilateral organizations: The strategy would counter China and Russia’s efforts to control international bodies. It would also urge Congress to support President Trump’s efforts to withdraw from irreparable organizations and replace them with new mechanisms of multilateral cooperation with democratic countries.
Promoting accountability at the U.N.: The strategy would mandate that U.S. Ambassadors meet annually with their host governments to discuss that country’s voting record at the U.N. It would also audit the use of U.S. funding by the U.N. and condition funding to U.N. bodies on implementation of accountability reforms. The U.N. must cut off assistance to dictatorships such as humanitarian aid that is being diverted to the Assad regime in Syria.
In addition, Congress should remove references in U.S. law that rely upon the UN or other international organizations for human rights determinations.
Essentially, all international agreements should be withdrawn from, and then the rules-based order should be entirely ad hoc, depending on whatever goal Washington deems worthy.
Notably, with all the speaking about support of human rights, the RSC claims the following:
“Congress should prohibit the use of federal funding for promoting international guidelines and standards obligating businesses to protect and fulfill social and economic rights.”
Human rights could be kept, but only if others keep them, and it doesn’t cost money for US businesses and government.
In regard to the UN, Congress should direct the President to pressure the U.N. to shift member contributions toward a voluntary basis. So that the US can voluntarily use its funding as a way to strongarm the global bureaucracy into submission.
Congress should direct the Department of State Inspector General to inspect and audit the use of U.S. funds by international organizations and make a portion of U.S. contributions to international organizations contingent on cooperation.
Congress should direct the Department of State to rank U.N. organizations in terms of how valuable they are to U.S. interests.
Finally, Congress should stop funding for some pressing issues that don’t cater directly to US interest.
“Congress should end U.S. funding for the U.N. Development Program, the U.N. Office of Dis-armament Affairs, the U.N. Human Settlements Program, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, the U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, and the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change.”
Finally, an alternate UN should potentially be established, but only for “Democracies.” (taking into accout that the US leadership uses the word ‘democracy’ pretty wide when it wants to protect its PP – puppets and partners, and claims that its compentitors are not ‘democracies’ just because they defend their interests against the US pressure)
“Congress should enact a statement of policy promoting the Community of Democracies as an alternative multilateral organization to the U.N. Congress has always played an important role in U.N. reform efforts. As mentioned before, the Task Force believes that the U.N. system plays an important role in pushing international cooperation and multilateralism, but the time has come for Congress to discuss replacements for some international organizations, especially those within the U.N. umbrella, that would be more democratic, efficient, and accountable.”
Results-Oriented Approach to Foreign Aid and International Diplomacy
“Unlike the state-directed mercantilism of some competitors that can disadvantage recipient nations and promote dependency, the purpose of U.S. foreign assistance should be to end the need for it. The United States seeks strong partners, not weak ones. U.S. development assistance must support America’s national interests. We will prioritize collaboration with aspiring partners that are aligned with U.S. interests. We will focus on development investments where we can have the most impact— where local reformers are committed to tackling their economic and political challenges,” US President Donald Trump.
Aligning U.S. foreign aid with U.S. foreign policy: The strategy would help assistance reach more people while better advancing our international interests. It supports replacing the Foreign Assistance Act with new legislation reducing legislative directives for foreign assistance, placing the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) inside the Department of State, and empowering Ambassadors to have a stronger role in administering foreign aid.
Modernizing the Department of State: The strategy would strengthen diplomacy by ensuring the State Department concentrates on its core competencies. It supports replacing the Foreign Service with a new diplomatic corps rooted in merit rather than tenure, as well as eliminating duplicative bureaus and programs, and elevating human rights, democracy, and multilateral affairs.
Strengthening public diplomacy, international broadcasting, and counter disinformation efforts: The strategy would reconstitute the U.S. Information Agency (USIA) and empower it with U.S. public diplomacy and counter disinformation efforts. The USIA’s mission would be to promote American ideals of democracy, human rights, and open markets, and undermine U.S. adversaries such as China, Russia, Iran, and others. The USIA would be able to contract with private entities to assist in counter-disinformation efforts.
In conclusion, the RSC say that such large changes and re-establishment of US hegemony are necessary due to the various threats to global order that have arisen in recent times.
“New global threats make American leadership more imperative now than ever before. Americans have risen to the challenge time and time again to confront threats to our homeland and to the world at large. Our success is fueled by our national character marked by the ideals of liberty, human rights, and open markets. This is not the first time the American way of life has been challenged. Whether during World War II, the Cold War, or the Global War on Terrorism, conservatives have provided solutions rooted in these bedrock principles to help us face a variety of threats. In this critical time, a retreat from global leadership does not only mean a strengthening of Russia, China, Iran, and the Salafi-jihadi terrorist movement, but it also means a retreat of liberty and prosperity itself around the world, and a threat to our own national security and economic prosperity.”
The timing of the RSC-proposed ‘security strategy’ is telling itself. The US is currently passing through a strong crisis in the social, economic and political spheres. It is caused by several factors: the global economic decline, negative consequences of the COVID-19 crisis and the political and social turbulence amid the ongoing wave of protests.
Therefore, the authors and supporters of the newly proposed ‘strategy’ seeks to draw attention of the public from the internal crisis of the United States and consolidate the society under the pretext of fighting ‘foreign enemies’. At the same time, the Neocon faction of the Republican Party likely sees the single opportunity for the United States to deal with the global crisis – to start a new aggressive war.
If the RSC-proposed document is accepted as an official posture of the United States foreign policy, it will become a strong step, rather even two steps, towards the new global conflict. Meanwhile, the Energy Information Administration (EIA) of the US Department of Energy predicted a shortage of oil supply at 2.9 million barrels per day in the third quarter of 2020. Does it expect some ‘destructive developments’ that would target oil producing countries?
As to the efficiency of the possible increase of the US pressure on its competitors, it should be noted that in this particular period the situation in Russia and China is advantageous for external meddling. Both countries are weakened by the developing economic crisis, while the situation in Russia is further complicated by consequences of the wide COVID-19 lockdown measures implemented earlier this year.
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southfront--2020-06-11--Turkish Military Establishes 63th Post In Syria’s Greater Idlib (Video, Map)

On June 11 , the Turkish military established yet another post in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib , where several terrorist groups operate .
Enab Baladi , a pro-opposition outlet , said the new post was established in the vicinity of the town of Monataf in the al-Zawiya Mount in the southern Idlib countryside .
“ This military post is considered close to the frontlines with the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) and its allies , ” a commander in the Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation told Enab Baladi , adding that more points will be established @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days .
With the establishment of the new post , the number of Turkish positions in Greater Idlib has grown to 63 , according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) .
Last week , four positions were established in southern Idlib .
Turkey is not only establishing more posts in Greater Idlib , but also deploying reinforcements there .
On June 11 , a large Turkish convoy entered the Syrian region .
The large Turkish military presence in Greater Idlib has forced militants there to adhere to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this presence remains a serious threat to the SAA .
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On June 11, the Turkish military established yet another post in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib, where several terrorist groups operate.
Enab Baladi, a pro-opposition outlet, said the new post was established in the vicinity of the town of Monataf in the al-Zawiya Mount in the southern Idlib countryside.
“This military post is considered close to the frontlines with the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and its allies,” a commander in the Turkish-backed National Front for Liberation told Enab Baladi, adding that more points will be established in al-Zawiya Mount in the upcoming few days.
With the establishment of the new post, the number of Turkish positions in Greater Idlib has grown to 63, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). Last week, four positions were established in southern Idlib.
Turkey is not only establishing more posts in Greater Idlib, but also deploying reinforcements there. On June 11, a large Turkish convoy entered the Syrian region.
The large Turkish military presence in Greater Idlib has forced militants there to adhere to the Turkish-Russian March 5 agreement. However, this presence remains a serious threat to the SAA.
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southfront--2020-06-11--Syrian Army Repels ISIS Attack In Southeast Hama, Responds With Large Operation

Late on June 10 , ISIS cells attacked several positions of the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) around the town of Uqayribat in the southeastern Hama countryside .
Clashes around Uqayribat lasted until the early hours of June 11 .
Eventually , the army repelled the attack with support from the Syrian Arab Air Force and the Russian Aerospace Forces .
Several airstrikes targeted the terrorists as well as their equipment in the villages of Rweideh , Jani Elelbawi and Mustariyhat Tahmaz .
The SAA responded to the terrorist ’ s attack by launching a large combing operation in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) .
“ The Syrian Observatory documented more human casualties due to air and ground bombing and clashes during the past 24 hours , as the death toll of Islamic State elements rose to 21 , while the death toll of the regime forces and the militants loyal to them rose to 13 , ” the UK-based monitoring group said in a report .
The ongoing SAA operations in eastern Homs and western Deir Ezzor have apparently forced ISIS cells to fled towards southeast @ @ @ @ @ @ @ remnants in central Syria are under immense pressure now .
If the SAA and its allies continue their operations , the group presence in the region may reach its end this year .
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Late on June 10, ISIS cells attacked several positions of the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) around the town of Uqayribat in the southeastern Hama countryside.
Clashes around Uqayribat lasted until the early hours of June 11. Eventually, the army repelled the attack with support from the Syrian Arab Air Force and the Russian Aerospace Forces. Several airstrikes targeted the terrorists as well as their equipment in the villages of Rweideh, Jani Elelbawi and Mustariyhat Tahmaz.
The SAA responded to the terrorist’s attack by launching a large combing operation in the southeastern countryside of Hama, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
“The Syrian Observatory documented more human casualties due to air and ground bombing and clashes during the past 24 hours, as the death toll of Islamic State elements rose to 21, while the death toll of the regime forces and the militants loyal to them rose to 13,” the UK-based monitoring group said in a report.
The ongoing SAA operations in eastern Homs and western Deir Ezzor have apparently forced ISIS cells to fled towards southeast Hama.
The terrorist group’s remnants in central Syria are under immense pressure now. If the SAA and its allies continue their operations, the group presence in the region may reach its end this year.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Military Situation In Yemen On June 12, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen : • Clashes between Ansar @ @ @ @ @ in the Sarwah area on a daily basis ; • Ansar Allah has targeted fortified @ @ @ @ @ Maas and Kanayes with missiles .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in Yemen:
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Hazm area 2 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Zahir area 4 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Majzar area 13 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Shada area 2 times;
Saudi-led coalition warplanes struck the Nihm area 8 times;
Clashes between Ansar Allah ans Saudi-led forces erupt in the Sarwah area on a daily basis;
Ansar Allah has targeted fortified positions of Saudi-led forces at Maas and Kanayes with missiles.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Turkey To Establish Permanent Military Bases In Libya, Reorganize GNA Forces, Begin Drilling For Oil

The Turkish Armed Forces are preparing to establish two permanent military bases in Libya , Turkish outlet Yeni Safak reported .
Government of National Accord ( GNA ) President Fayez al-Sarraj visited Ankara and met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan .
In the meeting they discussed that Turkey would actually reorganize the GNA ’ s forces into a proper military .
This is like a situation similar to what Turkey attempted to do in Libya with the Syrian National Army , when it simply rebranded a set of militant groups under a formal army ’ s command .
This @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actually become an army , or even the regular Libyan Army .
Yeni Safak is reporting that Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar had essentially been defeated , and this opens the way for Turkey to first reorganize the military , begin drilling activities in oil fields , and even provide contracting services for the reconstruction of cities that saw clashes .
According to unnamed Libyan sources , the military cooperation between the GNA and Turkey will be deepened .
Currently , efforts are on-going to clean the al-Watiya airbase from mines and traps , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkey for it to also operate out of it .
Turkish UAVs , missile defense systems and other equipment is planned to be deployed there .
Aircraft would be deployed to both Misrata , as well as al-Watiya to fortify the bases further .
Furthermore , because Turkey was able to use its navy , in addition to its air force and ground forces in Libya , the results are better than in Northeastern Syria , where it can ’ t utilize it ’ s navy effectively .
Within the scope of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Turkish Armed Forces , the Turkish Armed held a maritime task force off the coast of Libya .
Combat ships , reconnaissance ships , auxiliary ships prevented threats from the sea , the logistics line was operated uninterruptedly , and land elements were contributed with radar systems and support weapons .
Also , this is effectively used against Greece , which according to the Turkish side carries out provocations in the Mediterranean by refusing to accept the maritime agreement between the GNA and Turkey .
Accordingly , it is considered that the Port @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sea base for permanent deployment .
Turkey will also extract the most oil from the region nearby Misrata .
The presence of Turkish warships is considered essential for the security of drilling activities in the region .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Fighting Throughout Libya Stalls , As Diplomatic Games Take Place • GNA And Turkey Primed For Offensive On Sirte , But There Appears To Be No Rush

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The Turkish Armed Forces are preparing to establish two permanent military bases in Libya, Turkish outlet Yeni Safak reported.
Government of National Accord (GNA) President Fayez al-Sarraj visited Ankara and met with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
In the meeting they discussed that Turkey would actually reorganize the GNA’s forces into a proper military. This is like a situation similar to what Turkey attempted to do in Libya with the Syrian National Army, when it simply rebranded a set of militant groups under a formal army’s command. This doesn’t specifically mean they will actually become an army, or even the regular Libyan Army.
Yeni Safak is reporting that Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar had essentially been defeated, and this opens the way for Turkey to first reorganize the military, begin drilling activities in oil fields, and even provide contracting services for the reconstruction of cities that saw clashes.
According to unnamed Libyan sources, the military cooperation between the GNA and Turkey will be deepened.
Currently, efforts are on-going to clean the al-Watiya airbase from mines and traps, and then it would be provided to Turkey for it to also operate out of it.
Turkish UAVs, missile defense systems and other equipment is planned to be deployed there.
Aircraft would be deployed to both Misrata, as well as al-Watiya to fortify the bases further.
Furthermore, because Turkey was able to use its navy, in addition to its air force and ground forces in Libya, the results are better than in Northeastern Syria, where it can’t utilize it’s navy effectively.
Within the scope of the naval-air-land joint operations concept implemented by the Turkish Armed Forces, the Turkish Armed held a maritime task force off the coast of Libya.
Combat ships, reconnaissance ships, auxiliary ships prevented threats from the sea, the logistics line was operated uninterruptedly, and land elements were contributed with radar systems and support weapons.
Also, this is effectively used against Greece, which according to the Turkish side carries out provocations in the Mediterranean by refusing to accept the maritime agreement between the GNA and Turkey.
Accordingly, it is considered that the Port of Misrata will be turned into a sea base for permanent deployment.
Turkey will also extract the most oil from the region nearby Misrata. The presence of Turkish warships is considered essential for the security of drilling activities in the region.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Former HTS Field Commander Killed In Libya

A prominent Syrian terrorist known as Abu Yarub al-Ithri was reportedly killed while fighting for the Government of National Accord @ @ @ @ @ .
Libyan sources confirmed on June 12 that al-Ithri was killed in an airstrike by @ @ @ @ @ the outskirt of the coastal town of Sirte .
The terrorist was taking part in @ @ @ @ @ the town .
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) revealed that @ @ @ @ @ is “ Samir al-Atrash , ” was a former field commander in al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
According to the SOHR ’ s director , Rami Abdulrahman , al-Ithri was @ @ @ @ @ and moral issues .
The terrorist fled to Turkish-occupied Afrin , where he joined the @ @ @ @ @ From there he was enlisted to fight in Libya .
A total of 390 Turkish-backed @ @ @ @ @ fighting in Libya , so far .
Despite these losses , Turkey is still working @ @ @ @ @ the war-torn country .
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A prominent Syrian terrorist known as Abu Yarub al-Ithri was killed while he was fighting for the Government of National Accord (GNA) in Libya.
Libyan sources confirmed on June 12 that al-Ithri was killed in an airstrike by the Libyan Air Force on the outskirt of the coastal town of Sirte. The terrorist was taking part in the ongoing GNA attack on the town.
The UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) revealed that al-Ithri, whose real name is “Samir al-Atrash,” was a former field commander of al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS).
According to the SOHR’s director, Rami Abdulrahman, al-Ithri was fired from HTS for corruption and moral issues. The terrorist fled to Turkish-occupied Afrin, where he joined the so-called Syrian National Army. From there he was enlisted to fight in Libya.
A total of 390 Turkish-backed Syrian militants have been killed fighting in Libya so far. Despite these losses, Turkey is still working to send more militants to the war-torn country.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Russia’s Nuclear-Powered Missile Carrier Submarine Knyaz Vladimir Entered Combat Duty

The latest Russian nuclear-powered ballistic missile carrier submarine , Knyaz Vladimir , entered into combat duty in the Russian Navy on June 12th , Russia Day .
Earlier , on May 28th , the acceptance certificate was signed at the Sevmash enterprise .
On June 1st , on the Day of the Northern Fleet , the document was approved by the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy , Admiral Nikolai Evmenov .
The Navy emphasized that the nuclear submarine cruiser has no rival around the world .
According to the Naval Doctrine of the Russian Federation , in the future , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ being built in a large series , will form the basis of Russia ’ s strategic nuclear forces .
The ceremony was led by the head of the Navy , Admiral Nikolai Evmenov .
It was also attended by the Commander of the Northern Fleet Alexander Moiseev , Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Oleg Ryazantsev , Acting Governor of the Arkhangelsk Region Alexander Tsybulsky , Mayor of Severodvinsk Igor Skubenko , President of the United Shipbuilding Corporation ( USC ) Alexei Rakhmanov and CEO of Sevmash Mikhail Budnichenko .
Earlier , Knyaz @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and arrived in Severodvinsk , at the Sevmash plant .
The boat has been in the White Sea since May 12th , control tests were carried out first in the surface and then in the underwater position .
The main part of the tests , including rocket and underwater torpedo fire were held at the end of 2019 .
The Knyaz Vladimir is the improved Project 955A strategic missile-carrying underwater cruiser , which represents the fourth generation of nuclear-powered subs built for the Russian Navy .
It was floated out in November 2017 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Defense Ministry , the sub Knyaz Vladimir is less noisy and features improved maneuvering , depth and armament control systems .
All Borei-class submarines can carry 16 Bulava ballistic missiles .
They are also armeed with 533mm torpedo tubes .
The shipbuilders earlier planned to deliver the nuclear-powered sub Knyaz Vladimir to the Russian Navy by the end of 2019 .
The Bulava SLBM–a sea-launched variant of the Topol-M—can reportedly be fitted with six to 10 nuclear multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle ( MIRV ) warheads yielding 100 to 150 kilotons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 40 decoys .
The three-stage solid propellant ( with a liquid head stage ) Bulava has an estimated range of over 8,300 kilometers ( 5,157 miles ) .
The Knyaz Vladimir was laid down in 2012 and floated out in 2017 with a two-year delay .
The Borei- ( A ) -II-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile carrier submarine feature upgraded stealth capabilities , better underwater maneuverability , and can carry extra SLBMs MORE ON THE TOPIC : • In Video : Russia ’ s Knyaz Vladimir Nuclear Sub Test Fired Bulava Ballistic Missile For @ @ @

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The latest Russian nuclear-powered ballistic missile carrier submarine, Knyaz Vladimir, entered into combat duty in the Russian Navy on June 12th, Russia Day.
Earlier, on May 28th, the acceptance certificate was signed at the Sevmash enterprise. On June 1st, on the Day of the Northern Fleet, the document was approved by the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy, Admiral Nikolai Evmenov.
“On the Day of Russia, June 12, at Sevmash in Severodvinsk, a solemn ceremony will be held for admission to the Navy the latest strategic missile submarine cruiser of the Borey-A project 955A Knyaz Vladimir and the rise of the naval Andreev flag,” the release said.
The Navy emphasized that the nuclear submarine cruiser has no rival around the world.
“This event underlines the status of the Russian Federation as a great sea power with an ocean fleet. The strategic missile submarine cruiser Prince Vladimir embodied the advanced scientific thought of our scientists, shipbuilders,” the words of Evmenov were quoted.
According to the Naval Doctrine of the Russian Federation, in the future, the submarines of this project, which are being built in a large series, will form the basis of Russia’s strategic nuclear forces.
The ceremony was led by the head of the Navy, Admiral Nikolai Evmenov.
It was also attended by the Commander of the Northern Fleet Alexander Moiseev, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Oleg Ryazantsev, Acting Governor of the Arkhangelsk Region Alexander Tsybulsky, Mayor of Severodvinsk Igor Skubenko, President of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) Alexei Rakhmanov and CEO of Sevmash Mikhail Budnichenko.
Earlier, Knyaz Vladimir completed controlled entry into the sea and arrived in Severodvinsk, at the Sevmash plant.
The boat has been in the White Sea since May 12th, control tests were carried out first in the surface and then in the underwater position. The main part of the tests, including rocket and underwater torpedo fire were held at the end of 2019.
The Knyaz Vladimir is the improved Project 955A strategic missile-carrying underwater cruiser, which represents the fourth generation of nuclear-powered subs built for the Russian Navy. It was floated out in November 2017. According to the data of Russia’s Defense Ministry, the sub Knyaz Vladimir is less noisy and features improved maneuvering, depth and armament control systems.
All Borei-class submarines can carry 16 Bulava ballistic missiles. They are also armeed with 533mm torpedo tubes. The shipbuilders earlier planned to deliver the nuclear-powered sub Knyaz Vladimir to the Russian Navy by the end of 2019.
The Bulava SLBM–a sea-launched variant of the Topol-M—can reportedly be fitted with six to 10 nuclear multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) warheads yielding 100 to 150 kilotons apiece, as well as 10 to 40 decoys. The three-stage solid propellant (with a liquid head stage) Bulava has an estimated range of over 8,300 kilometers (5,157 miles).
The Knyaz Vladimir was laid down in 2012 and floated out in 2017 with a two-year delay. The Borei-(A)-II-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile carrier submarine feature upgraded stealth capabilities, better underwater maneuverability, and can carry extra SLBMs
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southfront--2020-06-12--Norway To Test Nanosatellites For Tactical Use In The Arctic

Norway is to test new nanosatellites in a research project , said Chief Scientist Lars Erling Bråten at the Defense Research Institute in a press release .
In October 2021 , the test satellite will be launched .
The satellite will be in low polar orbit and act as a relay for military communications equipment .
The test satellite that Danish GomSpace has been selected to develop and deliver will pass over northern Norway up to 15 times per day to investigate how such satellites can provide stable coverage and are used for tactical communications in military operations .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ million ( $ 2 million ) .
This is heavily influenced by increasing military capability in the Arctic .
Norway also wants to develop nanosatellites so as to utilize them tactically in the Arctic .
Existing SATCOM-systems does not fulfill the requirements for tactical utilization in The Arctic .
This is in part due to limited coverage at high latitudes .
The Norwegian Defence Research Establishment ( FFI ) has started a two-year research project to solve these issues .
The mission will demonstrate military Ultra High Frequency ( UHF ) tactical communications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ LEO ) satellite .
FFI has selected GomSpace to develop and build the satellite .
The test satellite is to be launched in October 2021 .
The primary mission objective is to demonstrate the military use and relevance of an arctic satellite relay for tactical communication .
In addition to demonstrating a complementary UHF SATCOM service in the North Sea and the Arctic , the mission seeks to demonstrate in-orbit functionality , including real-time communications relay and store-and-forward communications services .
The system will support commercially available terminals .
For a polar LEO @ @ @ @ @ @ @ satellite will be able to cover any point on the Earth ’ s surface at least four times per day .
There may be as many as 15 daily passes at higher latitudes .
One of the project objectives is to test the ability to launch and start operations of a small satellite with an accelerated time schedule .
The objective is to launch the satellite within 2 years from project start and 17 months after contract between the industry and FFI .
The mission ’ s aim isn ’ t to produce @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what the current capability in the field is , what needs to be improved and what is realistically achievable in a proper timeline .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • SpaceX Launches 60 New Starlink Satellites , Making It Largest Operator Of Satellites Worldwide • Russia To Launch 4th Satellite Of Its EKS Kupol Missile Early Warning System

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Norway is to test new nanosatellites in a research project, said Chief Scientist Lars Erling Bråten at the Defense Research Institute in a press release.
“The satellite systems that exist today provide limited coverage far north. The goal is to have a new Norwegian system fully developed and tested in just two years,” Bråten said.
In October 2021, the test satellite will be launched. The satellite will be in low polar orbit and act as a relay for military communications equipment.
The test satellite that Danish GomSpace has been selected to develop and deliver will pass over northern Norway up to 15 times per day to investigate how such satellites can provide stable coverage and are used for tactical communications in military operations.
The contract with GomSpace is worth SEK 19 million ($2 million).
This is heavily influenced by increasing military capability in the Arctic.
Norway also wants to develop nanosatellites so as to utilize them tactically in the Arctic.
Existing SATCOM-systems does not fulfill the requirements for tactical utilization in The Arctic. This is in part due to limited coverage at high latitudes.
The Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI) has started a two-year research project to solve these issues. The mission will demonstrate military Ultra High Frequency (UHF) tactical communications via a polar Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite. FFI has selected GomSpace to develop and build the satellite.
The test satellite is to be launched in October 2021.
The primary mission objective is to demonstrate the military use and relevance of an arctic satellite relay for tactical communication. In addition to demonstrating a complementary UHF SATCOM service in the North Sea and the Arctic, the mission seeks to demonstrate in-orbit functionality, including real-time communications relay and store-and-forward communications services. The system will support commercially available terminals.
For a polar LEO orbit of 600 km altitude, the satellite will be able to cover any point on the Earth’s surface at least four times per day. There may be as many as 15 daily passes at higher latitudes.
One of the project objectives is to test the ability to launch and start operations of a small satellite with an accelerated time schedule. The objective is to launch the satellite within 2 years from project start and 17 months after contract between the industry and FFI.
The mission’s aim isn’t to produce immediate results, but essentially find out what the current capability in the field is, what needs to be improved and what is realistically achievable in a proper timeline.
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southfront--2020-06-12--Shocking Moment Dubai Cop On Hoverbike Falls Out Of Sky

California-based startup Hoversurf had one of its Hoverbikes crash in Dubai this week , and the scary footage was uploaded to YouTube ( now taken down ) , shows the rider of the bike falling out of the sky .
Hoversurf is an electric vertical takeoff and landing ( eVTOL ) vehicle that Dubai Police have expressed a lot of interest in adding a fleet of these vehicles .
The police department received its first Hoverbikes in 2019 and has started training officers to fly it .
According to The Drive , one of the city ’ s law enforcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hoversurf S3 ( basically a rideable quad-rotor drone ) and reaching an altitude of about 100 feet before rapidly descending again , losing control , and impacting the ground , after which the hoverbike dangerously flips over the top of its operator.
” Here ’ s the video of the terrifying crash : The original video was uploaded by Hoversurf to YouTube but was quickly taken down .
The Drive said , “ Hoversurf admitted in the now-removed video ’ s description that the crash was the result of a mechanical failure.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( FAA ) requirements and can be purchased for a whopping $ 150,000 and doesn ’ t need a license to operate .
If Hoversurf is trying to market flying bikes — why would the company upload a video of one crashing ?
Oops…

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
California-based startup Hoversurf had one of its Hoverbikes crash in Dubai this week, and the scary footage was uploaded to YouTube (now taken down), shows the rider of the bike falling out of the sky.
Hoversurf is an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicle that Dubai Police have expressed a lot of interest in adding a fleet of these vehicles. The police department received its first Hoverbikes in 2019 and has started training officers to fly it.
According to The Drive, one of the city’s law enforcement officers was “taking flight on a Hoversurf S3 (basically a rideable quad-rotor drone) and reaching an altitude of about 100 feet before rapidly descending again, losing control, and impacting the ground, after which the hoverbike dangerously flips over the top of its operator.”
Here’s the video of the terrifying crash:
The original video was uploaded by Hoversurf to YouTube but was quickly taken down. The Drive said, “Hoversurf admitted in the now-removed video’s description that the crash was the result of a mechanical failure.”
Hoverbike has met all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements and can be purchased for a whopping $150,000 and doesn’t need a license to operate.
If Hoversurf is trying to market flying bikes — why would the company upload a video of one crashing? Oops…
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southfront--2020-06-12--US Bipartisan War Machine Caucus Confirms ‘National Security Strategy’ Consensus

On Wednesday 10 May , Republican Study Committee ( RSC ) chairman Mike Johnson and RSC National Security & Foreign Affairs Task Force chairman Joe Wilson released the “ .
” The document advocates further escalation of the geopolitical and military provocations and threats against China , Russia and Iran in particular , and ‘ doubling down ’ on the US ’ frenzied military spending spree .
The following day , a key bipartisan Senate committee demonstrated that it is a bipartisan affair .
On Thursday 11 May , the Senate Armed Services Committee authorized massive spending programs to purchase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hub ’ ( presumably Senate-speak for a massive new military base , or expansion of an existing base ) somewhere in the Indo-Pacific region .
The announcement came just a day after the Republican Study Committee ( RSC ) published a new National Security Strategy .
The document calls for measures that would push the US ’ already record military spending even higher as the document denounces and threatens the US ruling class ’ s favourite villains – ‘ Communist China : A new strategy for countering America ’ s top threat ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ through a strategy of deterrence ’ , and Iran , ‘ Advancing American interest in the Middle East : Confronting Iran and the jihadi terrorist movement ’ .
It would also continue to deepen the already historic levels of inequality and militarization within the US as the people are squeezed to pay for the ruling classes ’ extravagant military adventures .
Today , our constitutional government , our American way of life , and the U.S.-led world order based on freedom face a variety of growing threats from abroad .
Our nation ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ different ideas for how we tackle those threats .
For eight years , President Obama ’ s failed policies allowed our greatest adversaries to grow stronger while weakening America ’ s position as the world ’ s preeminent power .
During this time , Communist China and Russia went completely unchecked , Iran was gifted a plane full of cash , jihadist groups such as ISIS were casually dismissed as the “ JV squad , ” key allies were offended , foreign aid and United Nations dues failed to advance U.S. interests , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stage .
In contrast , since taking office , President Donald Trump has restored bold American leadership and credibility by advancing an “ America First ” national security and foreign policy agenda .
This approach seeks to advance American global interests above all else and restore confidence in America ’ s purpose .
It recognizes the United States is the best force for good in the world and that our strength creates more freedom , prosperity , and potential for people everywhere .
The idea of “ American Exceptionalism ” shines bright again @ @ @ @ @ @ @ standing up to Communist China for the first time in decades , Russia has been exposed as a national security threat , Iran ’ s sweetheart nuclear deal has been replaced with a maximum pressure campaign , and we have decimated traditional ISIS strongholds .
Additionally , international governing bodies and recipients of U.S. foreign aid have been put on notice that American support comes with “ America First ” conditions .
And importantly , President Trump has stood by our most important ally in Israel , even taking the long overdue , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Jerusalem .
Congressional Democrats have fought this commonsense “ America First ” strategy at every turn .
They have repeatedly questioned the president ’ s aggressive posture against Communist China , even defending China ’ s handling of the COVID-19 crisis .
Despite supporting President Obama ’ s weak posture on Russia , they now claim to be “ Russia hawks ” even though there is ample evidence to the contrary .
They were outraged when President Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal and even more upset when he took down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ American lives .
Instead of celebrating our embassy ’ s move to Jerusalem , Congressional Democrats expressed silence or open disdain .
They continue to support the same failed foreign policies that undermined American credibility , damaged our alliances , and emboldened tyrants and terrorists… The strategy would increase polarization and hostility and result in two implacably opposed camps – the US , NATO and their allies , and Russia , China , Iran , Venezuela and their allies .
Apart from hurling the world into another extremely expensive and destructive arms race @ @ @ @ @ @ @ finish off many of the planet ’ s already heavily polluted and damaged ecosystems in itself , even if the weapons are never used in anger or through a misunderstanding – the world would return to ( or remain in ) a state of maximum alert and tension .
The extremely reckless and dangerous military showdowns between air and naval forces in particular would become even more common , risking the outbreak of armed hostilities that could very easily escalate to unprecedented proportions within a matter of minutes ( such as the US @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and manoeuvres around China LINK , and maritime and air force confrontations with Russia over the Black Sea LINK ) .
It must be emphasized that these provocations and confrontations all occur just outside Russia ’ s , China ’ s and Iran ’ s borders , many thousands of kilometres from the US .
It is indisputable who the aggressor is in each instance .
There would be no room for a ‘ non-aligned movement ’ , the unilateral and illegal economic sanctions and blockades imposed by the US would force all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co. policies and actions or face severe punitive measures .
All ( legal ) trade and investment between the two blocs would cease as all investments of targeted countries in the US and European Union/ NATO are at risk of being held hostage and confiscated at will ( as has already occurred with Venezuela , Iran and Libya in particular ) .
The strategy would shred what little is left of international law , stability and security .
It is inconceivable that China , Russia or Iran will submit to US ‘ full @ @ @ @ @ @ @ international arm ’ s control treaties and agreements that are left would become meaningless .
Moreover , the document glorifies the cowardly and criminal murder of Iran ’ s military commander Qassem Soleimani , failing to mention that it was followed by probably the US ’ greatest military defeat and humiliation ever , or at least since the war against Vietnam ( or maybe Afghanistan ) , as US troops in Iraq cowered in their fortified bunkers waiting for the reprisal attack against the US most powerful base in Iraq , an attack @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which the US had no response .
The Republican ‘ national security strategy ’ claims that its policies and objectives are distinct from those of the Democrats .
The reality , that US ‘ wars of choice ’ , provoking a new cold war with Russia and China and the associated hyper-militarization of the United States and the world are a bipartisan affair , was revealed the next day , as the Senate Armed Services Committee announced that it wants to spend nearly $ 7 billion over two years to launch an aggressive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and reinforcing U.S. military installations in the Pacific region .
It ’ s also calling for strategic deployments of additional weapons and platforms “ to keep China and other threats , including Russia , at bay ” .
The Senate ’ s version of the National Defense Authorization Act ( NDAA ) , a bill produced annually to set policy and financing for the Department of Defense , also includes a total of $ 9.1 billion to buy 95 more F-35s made by Lockheed Martin – 14 more than the White House asked @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pacific Deterrence Initiative , approved as part of the Senate version of the 2021 defence budget and policy bill , includes $ 1.4 billion for next year and plans $ 5.5 billion for fiscal 2022 to augment missile defence , fund new efforts in support of regional allies , and forward-posture more troops in the region .
“ The best way to protect U.S. security and prosperity in Asia is to maintain a credible balance of military power but , after years of underfunding , America ’ s ability to do so is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act , released by the Senate Armed Services Committee , reads .
The Senate-approved NDAA “ encourages ” the Air Force to establish a new F-35A Joint Strike Fighter operating location in the Indo-Pacific region “ quickly to posture ready forces in our priority arena , ” the bill summary states .
In April , Pacific Air Forces took delivery of its first two F-35s , stationed at Eielson Air Force Base , Alaska .
The base is set to have 54 of the aircraft by December 2021 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the NDAA includes a total of $ 9.1 billion to buy more of the stealthy fifth-generation fighters .
Elements of the Pacific Deterrence Initiative also include improving active and passive missile-defence systems for bases and operating locations in the region ; building up the military ’ s system of prepositioned stockpiles , including vehicles , weapons and fuel ; and starting to transition the military ’ s operating model in the Pacific from large and difficult-to-defend bases to “ dispersed , resilient , and adaptive basing.
” The PDI would follow the European @ @ @ @ @ @ @ response to the Russian annexation of Crimea .
The EDI , initially known as the European Reassurance Initiative , allowed the U.S. to deploy more troops to Europe for exercises and presence missions to reassure allies .
The Senate ’ s NDAA would also require the secretary of the Army to draft and present a plan to station or deploy its two batteries of interim cruise missile defence capability into operational theatres .
This refers to the Israeli-made Iron Dome weapons system , purchased by the Army in 2019 to fill an ‘ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is set to take delivery of the first of two Iron Dome batteries in December .
In addition , it would require the chief of naval operations and the head of U.S. European Command to collaborate on a “ detailed plan ” to base two additional guided-missile destroyers in Rota , Spain , a hub that has been used for quick-response missions to Africa and the surrounding region .
The Senate bill , which totals $ 740.5 billion , must still be reconciled with a House version .
The House Armed Services Committee @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the bill later this month .
LINK MORE ON THE TOPIC • Neocon-styled US National Security Strategy project lays ground for new global conflict • US strategic bombers trained for strikes on Russia when they were intercepted over the Black Sea • Apocalypse soon ?
US still scrambling and surging to develop new high tech weapons systems

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On Wednesday 10 May, Republican Study Committee (RSC) chairman Mike Johnson and RSC National Security & Foreign Affairs Task Force chairman Joe Wilson released the “RSC National Security Strategy: Strengthening America & Countering Global Threats.” The document advocates further escalation of the geopolitical and military provocations and threats against China, Russia and Iran in particular, and ‘doubling down’ on the US’ frenzied military spending spree. The following day, a key bipartisan Senate committee demonstrated that it is a bipartisan affair.
On Thursday 11 May, the Senate Armed Services Committee authorized massive spending programs to purchase 95 F-35s and establish a new ‘hub’ (presumably Senate-speak for a massive new military base, or expansion of an existing base) somewhere in the Indo-Pacific region.
The announcement came just a day after the Republican Study Committee (RSC) published a new National Security Strategy. The document calls for measures that would push the US’ already record military spending even higher as the document denounces and threatens the US ruling class’s favourite villains – ‘Communist China: A new strategy for countering America’s top threat’, ‘Russia: Rolling back aggression through a strategy of deterrence’, and Iran, ‘Advancing American interest in the Middle East: Confronting Iran and the jihadi terrorist movement’.
It would also continue to deepen the already historic levels of inequality and militarization within the US as the people are squeezed to pay for the ruling classes’ extravagant military adventures.
The introduction proclaims:
Today, our constitutional government, our American way of life, and the U.S.-led world order based on freedom face a variety of growing threats from abroad. Our nation’s two political parties are offering very different ideas for how we tackle those threats. For eight years, President Obama’s failed policies allowed our greatest adversaries to grow stronger while weakening America’s position as the world’s preeminent power. During this time, Communist China and Russia went completely unchecked, Iran was gifted a plane full of cash, jihadist groups such as ISIS were casually dismissed as the “JV squad,” key allies were offended, foreign aid and United Nations dues failed to advance U.S. interests, and America behaved sheepishly on the world stage. In contrast, since taking office, President Donald Trump has restored bold American leadership and credibility by advancing an “America First” national security and foreign policy agenda. This approach seeks to advance American global interests above all else and restore confidence in America’s purpose. It recognizes the United States is the best force for good in the world and that our strength creates more freedom, prosperity, and potential for people everywhere. The idea of “American Exceptionalism” shines bright again. As a result, America is standing up to Communist China for the first time in decades, Russia has been exposed as a national security threat, Iran’s sweetheart nuclear deal has been replaced with a maximum pressure campaign, and we have decimated traditional ISIS strongholds. Additionally, international governing bodies and recipients of U.S. foreign aid have been put on notice that American support comes with “America First” conditions. And importantly, President Trump has stood by our most important ally in Israel, even taking the long overdue, extraordinary step of moving our embassy to Jerusalem. Congressional Democrats have fought this commonsense “America First” strategy at every turn. They have repeatedly questioned the president’s aggressive posture against Communist China, even defending China’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis. Despite supporting President Obama’s weak posture on Russia, they now claim to be “Russia hawks” even though there is ample evidence to the contrary. They were outraged when President Trump pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal and even more upset when he took down terrorist leader Qassem Soleimani in defense of American lives. Instead of celebrating our embassy’s move to Jerusalem, Congressional Democrats expressed silence or open disdain. They continue to support the same failed foreign policies that undermined American credibility, damaged our alliances, and emboldened tyrants and terrorists…
The strategy would increase polarization and hostility and result in two implacably opposed camps – the US, NATO and their allies, and Russia, China, Iran, Venezuela and their allies. Apart from hurling the world into another extremely expensive and destructive arms race – which would probably be enough to finish off many of the planet’s already heavily polluted and damaged ecosystems in itself, even if the weapons are never used in anger or through a misunderstanding – the world would return to (or remain in) a state of maximum alert and tension.
The extremely reckless and dangerous military showdowns between air and naval forces in particular would become even more common, risking the outbreak of armed hostilities that could very easily escalate to unprecedented proportions within a matter of minutes (such as the US ‘freedom of navigation’ navy patrols and manoeuvres around China LINK, and maritime and air force confrontations with Russia over the Black Sea LINK). It must be emphasized that these provocations and confrontations all occur just outside Russia’s, China’s and Iran’s borders, many thousands of kilometres from the US. It is indisputable who the aggressor is in each instance.
There would be no room for a ‘non-aligned movement’, the unilateral and illegal economic sanctions and blockades imposed by the US would force all countries to actively support the US & co. policies and actions or face severe punitive measures. All (legal) trade and investment between the two blocs would cease as all investments of targeted countries in the US and European Union/ NATO are at risk of being held hostage and confiscated at will (as has already occurred with Venezuela, Iran and Libya in particular).
The strategy would shred what little is left of international law, stability and security. It is inconceivable that China, Russia or Iran will submit to US ‘full spectrum dominance’, and the few international arm’s control treaties and agreements that are left would become meaningless.
Moreover, the document glorifies the cowardly and criminal murder of Iran’s military commander Qassem Soleimani, failing to mention that it was followed by probably the US’ greatest military defeat and humiliation ever, or at least since the war against Vietnam (or maybe Afghanistan), as US troops in Iraq cowered in their fortified bunkers waiting for the reprisal attack against the US most powerful base in Iraq, an attack which was announced in advance and to which the US had no response.
The Republican ‘national security strategy’ claims that its policies and objectives are distinct from those of the Democrats. The reality, that US ‘wars of choice’, provoking a new cold war with Russia and China and the associated hyper-militarization of the United States and the world are a bipartisan affair, was revealed the next day, as the Senate Armed Services Committee announced that it wants to spend nearly $7 billion over two years to launch an aggressive new military effort aimed at deterring China and reinforcing U.S. military installations in the Pacific region. It’s also calling for strategic deployments of additional weapons and platforms “to keep China and other threats, including Russia, at bay”.
The Senate’s version of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a bill produced annually to set policy and financing for the Department of Defense, also includes a total of $9.1 billion to buy 95 more F-35s made by Lockheed Martin – 14 more than the White House asked for in its budget request.
The Pacific Deterrence Initiative, approved as part of the Senate version of the 2021 defence budget and policy bill, includes $1.4 billion for next year and plans $5.5 billion for fiscal 2022 to augment missile defence, fund new efforts in support of regional allies, and forward-posture more troops in the region.
“The best way to protect U.S. security and prosperity in Asia is to maintain a credible balance of military power but, after years of underfunding, America’s ability to do so is at risk,” a summary of the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, released by the Senate Armed Services Committee, reads. The Senate-approved NDAA “encourages” the Air Force to establish a new F-35A Joint Strike Fighter operating location in the Indo-Pacific region “quickly to posture ready forces in our priority arena,” the bill summary states. In April, Pacific Air Forces took delivery of its first two F-35s, stationed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The base is set to have 54 of the aircraft by December 2021. The Senate’s version of the NDAA includes a total of $9.1 billion to buy more of the stealthy fifth-generation fighters. Elements of the Pacific Deterrence Initiative also include improving active and passive missile-defence systems for bases and operating locations in the region; building up the military’s system of prepositioned stockpiles, including vehicles, weapons and fuel; and starting to transition the military’s operating model in the Pacific from large and difficult-to-defend bases to “dispersed, resilient, and adaptive basing.” The PDI would follow the European Deterrence Initiative, launched in 2014 in response to the Russian annexation of Crimea. The EDI, initially known as the European Reassurance Initiative, allowed the U.S. to deploy more troops to Europe for exercises and presence missions to reassure allies.
The Senate’s NDAA would also require the secretary of the Army to draft and present a plan to station or deploy its two batteries of interim cruise missile defence capability into operational theatres. This refers to the Israeli-made Iron Dome weapons system, purchased by the Army in 2019 to fill an ‘urgent capability gap’. The service is set to take delivery of the first of two Iron Dome batteries in December.
In addition, it would require the chief of naval operations and the head of U.S. European Command to collaborate on a “detailed plan” to base two additional guided-missile destroyers in Rota, Spain, a hub that has been used for quick-response missions to Africa and the surrounding region.
The Senate bill, which totals $740.5 billion, must still be reconciled with a House version. The House Armed Services Committee plans to mark up its version of the bill later this month. LINK
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southfront--2020-06-12--U.S. And Iraq Release Joint Statement Loosely Outlining Troop Withdrawal And Other Issues

On June 11th , the US and Iraq released a joint statement on their strategic dialogue , outlining American troop withdrawal from the Middle East country .
The statement also included information on other topics .
However , notably , following the assassination of Major General Qassem Soleimani by US drone strike .
Nine others were killed alongside Soleimani , including four Iranian and five Iraqi nationals such as deputy chairman of Iraq ’ s Popular Mobilization Forces ( PMF ) and commander of the Iran-backed Kata ’ ib Hezbollah militia , Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis “ On the security partnership @ @ @ @ @ @ @ light of significant progress towards eliminating the ISIS threat , over the coming months the U.S. would continue reducing forces from Iraq and discuss with the Government of Iraq the status of remaining forces as both countries turn their focus towards developing a bilateral security relationship based on strong mutual interests .
The United States reiterated that it does not seek nor request permanent bases or a permanent military presence in Iraq , as previously agreed to in the 2008 SFA which provides for security cooperation to be undertaken on the basis of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committed to protecting the military personnel of the International Coalition and the Iraqi facilities hosting them consistent with international law and the specific arrangements for their presence as will be decided upon by the two countries.
” The joint statement , was released quickly , and the strategic dialogue was brief , with David Schenker , the top US diplomat for the Middle East , telling reporters the delegations did not discuss a timeline for reducing troops .
Separately , in terms of economy , the US vowed to support its economy .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ more than ten years .
The United States said it would look to encourage investment and promote economic reform in Iraq , which was rocked last year by major protests against unemployment and corruption .
“ We will support the new government through the international financial institutions to help it meet the challenge of COVID-19 and declining oil revenues , ” Schenker said .
“ The United States discussed providing economic advisors to work directly with the Government of Iraq to help advance international support for Iraq ’ s reform efforts , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with firm plans to enact fundamental economic reforms .
The two governments discussed the potential for investment projects involving world-class U.S. firms in the energy and other sectors , provided that business conditions are favorable.
” Tensions have calmed substantially since Mustafa al-Kadhimi– an ex-spy chief with close ties to the US and its allies in the region — took the reins as Iraq ’ s premier in May 2020 .
Two Iraqi officials said al-Kadhimi has been invited to the White House this year .
And the US statement underlined that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ The two sides reaffirmed the importance of the strategic relationship and their determination to take appropriate steps to enhance it in the interest of both countries and to achieve security , stability , and prosperity in the region .
The United States Government welcomed the opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen its partnership with Iraq as Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi begins his term in office .
The two governments look forward to in-depth discussions of the above issues at a Strategic Dialogue Higher Coordination Committee meeting in Washington , D.C. , likely in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is just a sort of intro into potential in-depth talks in July , after a short period of seeing what will transpire in the country , following this initial statement .
The spokesman for the pro-Iran Fatah bloc , Ahmad al-Assadi , has insisted on a six-month deadline for foreign troops ’ departure .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • String Of Attacks On US Forces And Facilities Continues In Iraq • Rockets Strike Baghdad ’ s Green Zone As Iraqi Group Releases Videos Of Attacks On US Vehicles

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On June 11th, the US and Iraq released a joint statement on their strategic dialogue, outlining American troop withdrawal from the Middle East country.
The statement also included information on other topics. However, notably, following the assassination of Major General Qassem Soleimani by US drone strike.
Nine others were killed alongside Soleimani, including four Iranian and five Iraqi nationals such as deputy chairman of Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) and commander of the Iran-backed Kata’ib Hezbollah militia, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis
“On the security partnership, the two countries recognized that in light of significant progress towards eliminating the ISIS threat, over the coming months the U.S. would continue reducing forces from Iraq and discuss with the Government of Iraq the status of remaining forces as both countries turn their focus towards developing a bilateral security relationship based on strong mutual interests. The United States reiterated that it does not seek nor request permanent bases or a permanent military presence in Iraq, as previously agreed to in the 2008 SFA which provides for security cooperation to be undertaken on the basis of mutual agreement. The Government of Iraq committed to protecting the military personnel of the International Coalition and the Iraqi facilities hosting them consistent with international law and the specific arrangements for their presence as will be decided upon by the two countries.”
The joint statement, was released quickly, and the strategic dialogue was brief, with David Schenker, the top US diplomat for the Middle East, telling reporters the delegations did not discuss a timeline for reducing troops.
Separately, in terms of economy, the US vowed to support its economy. This was the first strategic dialogue in more than ten years.
The United States said it would look to encourage investment and promote economic reform in Iraq, which was rocked last year by major protests against unemployment and corruption.
“We will support the new government through the international financial institutions to help it meet the challenge of COVID-19 and declining oil revenues,” Schenker said. “The United States discussed providing economic advisors to work directly with the Government of Iraq to help advance international support for Iraq’s reform efforts, including from the international financial institutions in connection with firm plans to enact fundamental economic reforms. The two governments discussed the potential for investment projects involving world-class U.S. firms in the energy and other sectors, provided that business conditions are favorable.”
Tensions have calmed substantially since Mustafa al-Kadhimi– an ex-spy chief with close ties to the US and its allies in the region — took the reins as Iraq’s premier in May 2020.
Two Iraqi officials said al-Kadhimi has been invited to the White House this year.
“There was a lack of confidence in the relationship with the previous government,” one of the officials said.
And the US statement underlined that it was prepared to work with him.
“The two sides reaffirmed the importance of the strategic relationship and their determination to take appropriate steps to enhance it in the interest of both countries and to achieve security, stability, and prosperity in the region. The United States Government welcomed the opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen its partnership with Iraq as Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi begins his term in office. The two governments look forward to in-depth discussions of the above issues at a Strategic Dialogue Higher Coordination Committee meeting in Washington, D.C., likely in July.”
As such this Strategic Dialogue is just a sort of intro into potential in-depth talks in July, after a short period of seeing what will transpire in the country, following this initial statement.
The spokesman for the pro-Iran Fatah bloc, Ahmad al-Assadi, has insisted on a six-month deadline for foreign troops’ departure.
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