Report for Friday, June 13, 2025

Report for Friday, June 13, 2025

• Trump urges Iran to make a deal before “there is nothing left” amid ongoing Israeli operation
  
  
• Top U.S. Intel Chief’s Unofficial View Is That Nuclear War Is Closer Than Ever
  
  
• Trump Mulls Using Defense Powers to Fund Rare-Earth Projects
  
  
• Germany's Pistorius pledges military aid in Kyiv amid new Russian offensive gains
  
  
• New Army Reserve Unit Enlists Silicon Valley Executives to Upgrade Tech

CIPHER BRIEF EXCLUSIVES

Opinion: China Wants Our Hearts. Literally. Dr. Samantha Ravich, Chair of the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and Johanna Yang, a research associate at the same center, expose alarming vulnerabilities in U.S. healthcare systems linked to Chinese technology. They cite a cyberattack on U.S. medical device firm Masimo and a report by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) revealing that patient monitors made by the Chinese company Contec contain embedded backdoors deliberately designed to exfiltrate sensitive health data and enable remote manipulation. These devices can feed false vitals to medical staff, risking deadly misdiagnoses. Ravich and Yang argue that China is embedding itself across U.S. critical infrastructure — from power grids to hospitals — and urge an immediate ban and removal of Chinese-made medical equipment. They call on the Trump administration to enforce "deterrence by punishment," including sanctions and counter-cyber measures, to reassert U.S. cybersecurity sovereignty. The Cipher Brief

THE AMERICAS

House GOP appropriators pass defense spending bill defeating Dem measures on Air Force One, Ukraine. The House Appropriations Committee passed its $832 billion fiscal 2026 defense spending bill on Thursday in a contentious 36–27 vote, with Republicans defeating several amendments led by Democrats. The bill includes significant boosts for missile defense ($13B), F-35 procurement ($8.5B for 69 jets), and shipbuilding ($36.9B). Notably, Republicans blocked efforts to prevent President Trump from converting a Qatari-donated Boeing 747 into a new Air Force One, and rejected added Ukraine military aid and constraints on naming ships after civil rights figures. Tensions flared during debates over LGBTQ recognition and the Emoluments Clause. Despite partisan divides, some bipartisan amendments passed, including limits on military law enforcement under Posse Comitatus and a report on Trump’s proposed military parade. Breaking Defense

Appeals court rules White House can keep California National Guard deployed in LA, for now. An appeals court has temporarily allowed President Trump to maintain federal control over California National Guard troops deployed in LA, blocking a lower court's ruling that ordered him to return authority to Governor Gavin Newsom. A U.S. District Judge had earlier ruled that Trump exceeded his legal powers and violated the Tenth Amendment by deploying the Guard and Marines without state consent, calling the move an unlawful militarization. The legal fight stems from California’s lawsuit challenging the deployment, seeking to limit federal forces to guarding federal facilities and prevent them from engaging in immigration enforcement or civil policing. The Trump administration argues it has the constitutional authority to deploy the Guard to quell unrest threatening federal property, while Newsom insists state and local authorities can manage the situation without federal intervention. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended the deployment but refused to commit to following future court rulings that might limit executive authority. Washington PostPoliticoReutersCNN

ICE Agents Target Emergency Rooms, Homeless Shelters, L.A. Mayor Says. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has accused federal immigration agents of targeting emergency rooms and homeless shelters in recent raids, intensifying public outrage over ongoing immigration enforcement. The Department of Homeland Security denied Bass’s claims, calling them “blatantly false.” Protests sparked by previous raids at schools, Home Depots, and car washes have entered their sixth day, with clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement resulting in hundreds of arrests and unrest. Citing “fringe elements” running within largely peaceful protests, Bass has imposed a downtown curfew and demanded ICE leave the city. Protests have also spread to other cities, and nationwide demonstrations are expected to grow, especially around President Trump’s planned military parade in Washington. The Justice Department is directing prosecutors to prioritize and publicize cases against demonstrators, while states like Texas have deployed National Guard troops in response to anticipated unrest. Wall Street Journal

Lawmakers urge Pentagon to establish dual-use factories aimed at scaling weapon development.U.S. lawmakers are proposing the creation of a Civil Reserve Manufacturing Network (CRMN) as part of the fiscal 2026 defense budget, to counter China's growing dominance in global manufacturing. This network would consist of dual-use factories that produce commercial goods in peacetime but can rapidly shift to weapons production during wartime using artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing. The idea, modeled after the Civil Reserve Airlift Fleet, aims to enable swift production of military components like submarines, aircraft, ground vehicles and munitions without requiring new capital investment during transitions. The proposal highlights the urgency of reforming the U.S. defense acquisition system, which struggles with delays and cost overruns, unlike China’s fast-paced industrial mobilization. Lawmakers recommend allocating over $131 million from Army, Air Force, and defense-wide R&D budgets, with a directive for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to report on qualifying the first factory within 30 days of the budget’s enactment. Breaking Defense

After Trump feud, role of Musk's SpaceX in Golden Dome missile shield in question. The role of Elon Musk’s SpaceX in the U.S. “Golden Dome” missile defense project is now uncertain following the public fallout between Musk and President Donald Trump. Originally, SpaceX was expected to partner with Palantir and Anduril to develop a satellite network for detecting and tracking missile threats. However, sources say the White House is now considering alternative plans that may downsize SpaceX’s role or focus more on ground-based systems. This marks the first potential setback for Musk’s government contracts since his break with Trump, who had previously relied on Musk as an advisor and major donor. Critics warn that the project’s direction is increasingly politicized, with decisions potentially based on loyalty over technical merit. The Trump administration insists that all bids will be judged on innovation and cost-effectiveness. The $175 billion system, which Trump wants operational by 2029, remains vaguely defined, with contractors uncertain about its final architecture or requirements. Reuters

Top U.S. Intel Chief’s Unofficial View Is That Nuclear War Is Closer Than Ever. U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard issued a personal warning—via a video shared on her private X account—that the world is now "closer to the brink of nuclear annihilation than ever before," criticizing unnamed political elites for escalating tensions among nuclear-armed nations. This alarmist message starkly contrasts her more measured public testimony before Congress, which focused on non-nuclear threats like transnational crime. Her unorthodox approach sparked debate about whether her personal views align with her official responsibilities. Wall Street Journal

Trump Mulls Using Defense Powers to Fund Rare-Earth Projects. Sources say that the Trump administration is preparing to invoke Cold War-era emergency powers under the Defense Production Act to fund and prioritize rare earth projects vital to national security, amid escalating concerns over China’s dominance in the sector. The plan would support domestic mining, processing, and supply chain development, with MP Materials—the only U.S. rare earth producer—likely to benefit. Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg and other officials are coordinating funding, while David Copley of the National Energy Dominance Council is leading broader efforts to fast-track shovel-ready projects. This move follows China’s recent restrictions on rare earth exports, which intensified U.S. fears of supply chain vulnerabilities. Currently, China controls about 85% of global rare earth processing, and U.S. stockpiles are deemed woefully inadequate. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum warned that billions may be needed to secure mineral reserves. The administration sees this as a chance to showcase a strong response to Beijing and rebuild domestic capacity in key defense and tech industries. Bloomberg

Soldiers, Strykers and 100-degree temps: Inside Trump's border military zone. In April and May 2025, the Trump administration designated two “National Defense Areas” along about 260 miles of the New Mexico and Texas border, transferring land to the U.S. Army and deploying 8,000 active-duty troops and 105 Stryker armored vehicles. The zones, treated as military installations, empower troops to detect migrants, temporarily detain them, and impose trespassing charges—though many prosecutions have failed due to unclear signage. While illegal border crossings have plunged to historic lows thanks to tightened immigration policies, the military presence draws mixed reactions: some local ranchers support the enhanced security, while humanitarian groups and residents decry it as “deadly theater” that disrupts land use, obscures operational transparency, and risks hiding migrant remains. Reuters

House approves Trump request to cut $9.4 billion in funding for foreign aid, broadcasting. The U.S. House on Thursday narrowly approved President Donald Trump’s request to cut $9.4 billion in previously authorized spending, primarily targeting foreign aid and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Passed by a 214–212 vote, the measure is part of Trump’s broader push for “America First” policies and fiscal restraint, with Republicans arguing the cuts eliminate wasteful spending. Democrats, however, warn the move will devastate vulnerable populations globally, slashing funds for global health, HIV response, clean water, and refugee support. Critics say the cuts will harm millions and damage U.S. global standing. Roughly $1.1 billion is being pulled from CPB, jeopardizing over 1,500 local public stations, many in rural areas. The cuts follow findings by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), previously led by Elon Musk. Senate action is expected in July. If passed, the package could set a precedent for further rescissions, using a simple majority vote rather than the usual 60-vote threshold. South China Morning Post

GAO: Navy will consolidate Medium, Large USV programs. The U.S. Navy plans to consolidate its two main unmanned surface vessel programs—the Large Unmanned Surface Vessel (LUSV) and the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV)—into a single effort aimed at developing a new autonomous ship by 2027, according to a new Government Accountability Office (GAO) report. The goal is to create a cost-effective, standardized vessel that can be outfitted for either strike (LUSV) or intelligence/surveillance (MUSV) missions, depending on payload. Rear Adm. William Daly emphasized the need for an affordable, mass-producible design, while the Navy has begun preparing industry for this "Future Unmanned Surface Vessel." Despite spending $3.2 billion on LUSV since 2019, progress has been slow, and the Navy is revising its cost models due to the unique features of unmanned systems. Meanwhile, the Navy is set to take ownership of Defiant (USX-1), a fully unmanned vessel built under DARPA’s No Manning Required Ship program. Breaking Defense

Hegseth suggests Pentagon has contingency plans to attack Greenland if necessary. At a tense congressional hearing on Thursday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced fierce questioning over reports that the Pentagon has contingency plans to take Greenland and Panama by force, and over his use of Signal chats to discuss sensitive military operations. Hegseth’s hedging on plans for Greenland and Panama fueled suspicions, especially in light of Trump’s past statements about acquiring the strategic Danish territory. After being asked repeatedly about contingency plans, the Pentagon chief said, “We look forward to working with Greenland to ensure that it is secured from any potential threats.” He also declined to directly answer whether classified information was shared on Signal, or if he would take responsibility for any breaches, deflecting by emphasizing mission success. His evasive responses sparked outrage, particularly from Democrats and military veterans, with Rep. Salud Carbajal calling him “an embarrassment.” Associated PressCBS News

Washington’s No. 2 diplomat questions need for NATO in deleted social media post.U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau sparked controversy on Wednesday evening with a now-deleted post on X questioning NATO's relevance, just ahead of a key summit where the alliance will discuss increased defense spending and the ongoing war in Ukraine. Responding to a post by NATO Ambassador Matthew Whitaker that mentioned the Indo-Pacific, Landau called NATO “a solution in search of a problem,” prompting confusion and backlash. A State Department spokesperson later said the comment was intended as a private, lighthearted remark reflecting Landau’s interest in improving NATO. The post, however, contrasts sharply with the views of most European members who view NATO as essential to countering Russia. The incident comes amid growing concern over President Trump’s commitment to the alliance and his shifting stance on Russia and Ukraine. ReutersNew York Times

Russian Harvard scientist released on bail months after arrest. Russian scientist Kseniia Petrova, a researcher at Harvard University, has been released on bail after spending four months in U.S. detention for failing to declare frog embryos she brought into the country for research. She faces a federal smuggling charge, which carries a potential 20-year sentence and a $250,000 fine. Her next court hearing is scheduled for June 18. Petrova was detained by U.S. customs in February at Boston’s Logan Airport, and her visa was revoked. The Trump administration labeled her a national security threat, and shuffled her between detention centers in Vermont, Louisiana, Oklahoma and Rhode Island. The scientist argued against deportation, citing her past arrest in Russia for protesting the war in Ukraine, and fears of further persecution. Her case is unfolding amid a broader Trump administration crackdown on international students, which includes mass visa revocations and legal conflicts with institutions like Harvard. BloombergNew York TimesThe Guardian

THE UKRAINE UPDATE

Germany's Pistorius pledges military aid in Kyiv.During a visit to Kyiv on Thursday, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to jointly produce long-range cruise missiles, drones, and rockets. Pistorius emphasized that modern warfare has shifted from tanks and artillery to electromagnetic warfare and drones, necessitating innovation and collaboration. Zelenskyy confirmed production would take place in both Ukraine and Germany, with Germany funding the initiative and Ukraine providing technical expertise. The first systems are expected within months. Pistorius also announced a total of €9 billion ($10.4 billion) in German military aid for 2025, reaffirming Berlin’s long-term commitment. However, he reiterated that Germany will not provide Taurus long-range missiles, despite ongoing Ukrainian appeals. Deutsche Welle

Russian Forces Expand Fighting to a New Region of Eastern Ukraine. Russian forces have entered Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region for the first time in the three-year war, marking a symbolic and strategic expansion of the battlefield amid stalled cease-fire talks. Advancing from Donetsk, Russian troops have secured a small foothold without capturing settlements, using small-unit tactics to test Ukrainian defenses. While unlikely to seek full control of the region, the push aims to demoralize Ukrainians and strengthen Russia’s position in Donetsk, particularly for a renewed assault on Pokrovsk. The move also threatens to displace civilians again and complicates Ukraine’s negotiating stance. Analysts note that Russia’s advances have accelerated, with over 200 square miles seized last month alone. New York Times

Zelensky says Ukrainian troops are pushing back Russian forces in Sumy. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Thursday that Ukrainian forces are gradually pushing back Russian troops in the Sumy region, where Russia has gained ground in recent weeks. Moscow’s incursion began in April after President Vladimir Putin called for a buffer zone, claiming Ukrainian troops had been expelled from Russia’s Kursk region. Zelensky offered no concrete evidence of progress but praised Ukrainian soldiers for their efforts. Presidential adviser Mykhailo Podolyak acknowledged a buildup of Russian forces in Sumy and advised caution until clearer information emerges. Open-source tracker DeepState and other Ukrainian military bloggers confirmed recent Russian advances, reporting troops within 20 kilometers of Sumy city, a regional capital of 250,000 people. Russian media echoed those reports, suggesting Russian forces now control areas south of a key highway. Some 200 settlements have been ordered to evacuate with many people seeking refuge in the regional capital. Reuters Reuters

Ukraine, NATO eye tech trials for intercepting Russia’s cabled drones. NATO and Ukraine are set to trial cutting-edge countermeasures against Russia’s emerging threat: fiber‑optic–cabled FPV drones that evade electronic jamming. The trials—slated for June 20 in Tallinn and organized by NATO’s Allied Command Transformation and the NATO‑Ukraine Joint Analysis, Training, and Education Center—will feature tech solutions from defense firms. Requirements include at least 500 m detection range, capability for day/night operation, weight under 100 kg, and cost below $100,000. These drones transmit real-time video via immune-to-jamming cables, forcing defenders to use both passive tactics—such as following glinting fiber optics—and active methods like intercepting or destroying drones mid-air. Yet battlefield cable clutter complicates tracking, prompting exploration of integrated intel, passive detection, and drone interceptors. Defense News

Putin’s recruits: The young Africans fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Hundreds of African men—nicknamed the “Black Wagners”—have been recruited by Russia to fight in Ukraine, signaling a widening scope of Moscow’s military manpower sourcing beyond its traditional ranks. This recruitment drive reflects Putin’s ongoing strategy to replenish frontline forces with foreign combatants, many drawn by promises of pay or recruited through coercive channels, including among migrant and student communities. Their deployment underscores both Russia’s escalating reliance on external fighters and the deepening international dimensions of the Ukraine conflict. France24

EU taps Ylva Johansson to be special envoy for Ukrainians. The European Commission has named former Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson as the European Union’s first special envoy for Ukrainians, part of a broader long-term refugee strategy unveiled in June 2025. Johansson will oversee efforts to support over 4.3 million displaced Ukrainians and help implement the Commission’s new approach, which includes both integration and repatriation pathways. The EU has extended temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2027, while encouraging member states to begin transitioning some to permanent legal status. “Unity Hubs” — joint EU-Ukraine centers — will guide refugees on integration and return options. While Ukraine seeks the eventual return of its citizens, EU officials acknowledge that many may choose to stay, with some countries hoping to retain Ukrainian workers. Johansson’s role is to enhance coordination and support informed decisions for refugees as the war continues. Politico EU

ISW Russian Occupation Update for Thursday, June 12. Russian-occupied Crimea faces an impending water crisis due to poor Russian management, resource misallocation, and damage from the 2023 destruction of the Kakhovka dam. Reservoirs are at half capacity, and officials prioritize tourism over residential water needs, threatening basic services for many Crimeans. Meanwhile, Russia is tightening control over Ukrainians in occupied territories through intensified filtration practices, including detaining those suspected of deleting mobile content. In Kherson, occupation authorities are consolidating control of agriculture via the Russian-run Kherson Grain Company, forcing Ukrainian farmers into state-dependent systems. President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed new sanctions on nearly 50 Russian individuals and organizations involved in the deportation and indoctrination of Ukrainian children, including youth groups like Yunarmia and the “Movement of the First.” Concurrently, Russia's “University Shifts” program is deporting Ukrainian teenagers to Russian universities for summer sessions aimed at cultural assimilation. These developments underscore Russia's ongoing violations of international law and its efforts to erase Ukrainian identity. Institute for the Study of War

ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment for Thursday, June 12. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russia has suffered over one million casualties since its full-scale invasion began in February 2022, with more than half occurring since January 2024. Russian forces are sustaining an average of 1,286 casualties per day in 2025 for minimal territorial gains, a pace experts deem unsustainable. Russian troops have recently crossed into Dnipropetrovsk Oblast near Kurakhove, aiming to expand and level frontlines in the Novopavlivka direction while incurring high losses. Ukrainian forces continue to strike Russia’s defense industrial infrastructure, including a Thursday drone attack on the Rezonit Plant near Moscow. Ukraine and Russia exchanged wounded prisoners of war under terms set in Istanbul talks, though Russia accuses Ukraine of failing to cooperate. Southeastern European nations reiterated support for Ukraine at a summit in Odesa, with Serbia notably signaling improved ties. Germany pledged €9 billion in aid, including new IRIS-T air defense systems and long-range weapon support.

EUROPE

European foreign ministers ready to toughen action against Russia. At a Thursday meeting in Rome, foreign ministers from key European nations—alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and a Ukrainian representative—agreed to toughen measures against Russia over its ongoing war in Ukraine. Officials from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Britain, and the European Union expressed readiness to impose new sanctions, particularly targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors. They also confirmed their intention to maintain the freeze on $300 billion in Russian sovereign assets until Moscow ends its aggression and compensates Ukraine for damages. The ministers reiterated support for Ukraine, including defense industry cooperation and potential new security initiatives. The meeting followed intensified Russian attacks and recent failed peace talks in Istanbul. The G7’s prior agreement to fund Ukraine with $50 billion, backed by profits from frozen Russian assets, remains part of the broader strategy to undermine Russia’s war effort. Reuters

Most G7 members ready to lower Russian oil price cap without US. Most G7 countries are prepared to lower the $60 per barrel price cap on Russian oil, even without U.S. support, according to sources ahead of the June 15–17 G7 summit in Canada. The European Union and UK, backed by Canada and other European G7 members, are pushing to reduce the cap to $45 due to falling global oil prices and to further curb Russia’s war financing. Japan’s stance remains unclear, and the U.S. under President Trump has so far resisted the move, though some U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Lindsey Graham, support it. While U.S. participation is influential, especially for dollar-denominated transactions, the EU and UK hold substantial control over maritime insurance and the rules governing tanker fleets, allowing them to enforce a reduced cap. Russia’s oil revenues are already under pressure, with state-run Rosneft reporting a 14.4% profit drop, as Western allies crack down on Moscow’s shadow fleet circumventing sanctions. Reuters

Why can't the West match Russia's ammunition production?Western nations are struggling to match Russia’s explosive production due to decades of offshoring, environmental regulations, and industrial neglect. While NATO allies have ramped up shell casing output, they lack the necessary gunpowder and explosive materials—especially nitrocellulose, the core propellant for modern munitions. Russia, by contrast, has converted to a wartime economy and doubled its gunpowder production since 2022, aided by unregulated environmental practices and steady imports from China and Central Asia. Western factories, many shuttered after the Cold War, are only now restarting or being refurbished, with major production increases not expected until 2027. NATO's reliance on a handful of aging facilities—like Virginia’s Radford plant or Poland’s Nitrochem—exposes a critical vulnerability. Ukraine, in urgent need of ammunition, is especially impacted, as its domestic explosive factories remain small-scale or vulnerable to attack. Some Western firms are exploring alternatives to nitrocellulose, but solutions remain years away, leaving an urgent gap in NATO’s wartime readiness. Kyiv Independent

Global nuclear arms spending up 11% in 2024, Geneva-based campaign group say. In 2024, nuclear weapons spending by the world's nine nuclear-armed countries rose by 11%, reaching $100.2 billion, according to a report by the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN). The increase, largely used to modernize and expand arsenals, was led by the U.S., which spent $56.8 billion—more than all other nuclear states combined. China and Britain followed with $12.5 billion and $10.4 billion, respectively. The other states listed were Russia, France, Israel, India, Pakistan, and North Korea. Although geopolitical tensions, particularly related to Russia and the war in Ukraine, have influenced political rhetoric, ICAN notes that the rise in spending is primarily due to the cost of maintaining long-term contracts and developing advanced nuclear delivery systems. Reuters

Wars have now displaced over 122 million people as aid funding falls, UN says. The number of people displaced by war and persecution worldwide has surpassed 122 million, driven by prolonged conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, and Myanmar, according to a Thursday report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Despite the return of nearly 2 million Syrians following the collapse of Bashar al-Assad’s regime, displacement continues to rise. UNHCR chief Filippo Grandi cited a volatile global landscape marked by modern warfare and a lack of political will to broker peace. At the same time, humanitarian aid funding has dropped to 2015 levels, even as the number of displaced people has nearly doubled. Major donors including the U.S., U.K., and European Union have redirected resources from aid to defense. Aid leaders warn that continued underfunding increases the risk of rape, trafficking, and broader humanitarian collapse, especially in already vulnerable regions. UN agencies say they are reaching a breaking point. ReutersAssociated PressFrance 24

U.S. ambassador to Russia to leave post soon, says embassy. U.S. Ambassador to Russia Lynne Tracy will soon step down, the U.S. embassy in Moscow announced on Thursday. Tracy, a career diplomat, took her post in January 2023 during a period of heightened tensions over the war in Ukraine. Her tenure was marked by strained relations and efforts to secure the release of Americans detained in Russia, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and former Marine Paul Whelan, both freed in a major prisoner swap in August 2024. Since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House, U.S.-Russia diplomatic contacts have resumed. Russia’s new ambassador to Washington, Alexander Darchiev, presented his credentials to Trump this week. Reuters

Russia recruited a teenage spy. His arrest led to a cryptocurrency trail. A Reuters investigation reveals how Russia, strained by mass diplomatic expulsions since its 2022 invasion of Ukraine, has resorted to recruiting teenagers and untrained agents for espionage, often using cryptocurrency to fund operations. One such case involves Laken Pavan, a Canadian teenager recruited by Russia’s Federal Security Service (FSB) in occupied Donetsk. After receiving crypto payments, Pavan traveled across Europe and was eventually arrested in Warsaw in May 2024 after confessing plans to spy on behalf of Russia. He pled guilty and is serving a 20-month sentence in Poland. Court documents and chat logs reviewed by Reuters show how Pavan was coerced with promises of Russian citizenship and threats of death. Blockchain tracing revealed payments to Pavan were linked to a wallet that has processed over $600 million since mid-2022 and was tied to the sanctioned Russian crypto exchange Garantex. The case highlights Russia’s shift to “hybrid warfare” tactics using vulnerable individuals and murky digital finance channels. Reuters

Police under attack as violence in Northern Ireland spreads. Anti-immigrant riots continued for a fourth night in Northern Ireland, shifting to Portadown, where rioters attacked police with petrol bombs, rocks, and fireworks. The unrest began on Monday after two 14-year-old boys were charged—via a Romanian interpreter—with a serious sexual assault, sparking tensions. While Portadown saw significant violence and property damage, including fires and street debris, other protests, such as in Ballymena, were calmer, partly due to heavy rain and strong police presence. ReutersBBCNew York Times

THE MIDDLE EAST

Latest: Trump urges Iran to make a deal before “there is nothing left”. U.S. President Donald Trump, while denying direct American involvement in Israel’s strikes against Iran, endorsed the attack and revealed he had given Iran a 60-day ultimatum to agree to nuclear restrictions. Calling the strikes “excellent,” Trump warned of further action, suggesting Iran now faces a “second chance” to comply with U.S. demands. Wall Street JournalReuters

Israel strikes Iran's nuclear sites and military chiefs, U.S. denies any role. Israel launched a sweeping wave of strikes across Iran early Friday, targeting nuclear infrastructure, missile facilities, air defenses, and senior military and scientific leadership. The Natanz nuclear site, a cornerstone of Iran’s uranium enrichment program, was hit. Airstrikes killed several top commanders, including Revolutionary Guards Corps chief Hossein Salami, Armed Forces chief Mohammad Bagheri, and deputy commander Gen. Gholamali Rashid, as well as senior nuclear scientists Fereydoun Abbasi and Mohammad Mehdi Tehranji. Covert sabotage operations also disabled radar and air defense systems across Iran, and nuclear negotiator Ali Shamkhani was critically injured. The campaign marked a major tactical shift, with Israel aiming to neutralize Iran’s nuclear threat and disrupt its military command structure in a single blow. The U.S. denied involvement but acknowledged being notified. The strikes triggered Iranian fighter jet activity, global market volatility, and threats of retaliation from Tehran, raising fears of a broader regional war. Missile attacks against Israel are expected; the Israel Defense Forces said that Iran had launched more than 100 drones in retaliation for the attacks.AxiosNew York TimesCNNNew York TimesWashington Post

Iran responds to Israeli attack with drone assault.Iran launched over 100 drones at Israel on Friday morning, in retaliation for Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, scientists, and senior military commanders. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the drone assault, with spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin stating that Israeli air defenses were actively intercepting the threats. By later in the day, Israeli officials reported that many of the drones had been successfully intercepted, though the threat remains ongoing. The U.S. was not involved in Israel's strikes, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who warned Tehran against targeting American interests. President Trump commented on the escalation via Truth Social, blaming Iran for failing to reach a nuclear deal and warning of even more devastating consequences if hostilities continue. The drone attack marks a significant escalation in tensions, though Israel claims it was prepared for such a retaliatory move and had anticipated Iran's response. According to sources, at least 20 senior Iranian commanders have been killed. CBS News Reuters

In Twist, U.S. Diplomacy Served as Cover for Israeli Surprise Attack. As U.S. diplomacy toward Iran was unfolding—with a planned sixth round of nuclear talks in Oman—the negotiations ironically provided cover for a surprise Israeli airstrike. Israel, having coordinated timing with the Trump administration, launched a preemptive assault that killed top Iranian generals and nuclear scientists, and struck key nuclear facilities. Though Washington officially denied involvement, internal communications suggest that U.S. officials were aware and did not oppose the attack, providing Israel with “plausible denial.” This operation disrupted diplomatic momentum, raised fears of Iranian retaliation, and deepened U.S. entanglement in a volatile regional conflict, complicating Trump's professed preference for diplomacy. Wall Street Journal

Special IAEA board meeting to be held over Israel's Iran strikes, diplomats say.The U.N. nuclear watchdog’s board of governors will hold an exceptional meeting to discuss Israel’s recent strikes on Iran, diplomats confirmed. The meeting was triggered after at least one board member formally requested it during the board's regular quarterly session on Friday. Although Iran is not currently on the board, it called for the meeting with backing from Russia, China, and Venezuela. Diplomats offered varying accounts of which member officially made the request, but under the board’s rules, any member can convene such a meeting. Reuters

Netanyahu says fighting with Iran will continue as long as Israel deems necessary. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed in an early morning video statement on Friday that Israel launched strikes on Iran’s nuclear and missile infrastructure, vowing the campaign will continue “as many days as it takes.” He justified the attack as a preemptive move to keep Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, declaring that delaying action would endanger future generations. Amid fears of retaliation, Israel declared a national state of emergency, with citizens sheltering in anticipation of Iranian missile and drone strikes. Netanyahu invoked the Holocaust, saying history demands that Israel act decisively. He framed the offensive as part of a broader war with Iran and its proxies, calling this moment one of both grave challenge and historic purpose for Israel’s survival. New York Times

Trump's 'peacemaker' pledge takes big hit as Israel strikes Iran. Nearly five months into President Donald Trump’s second term, his promises of global peace are collapsing amid various escalating conflicts. Israel launched a wide-ranging attack on Iranian targets on Thursday, defying Trump’s calls for restraint and undermining ongoing U.S.-led nuclear negotiations. The strike is seen as a blow to Trump’s diplomacy and his envoy Steve Witkoff, whose talks with Tehran had stalled. The conflict adds to the president’s growing list of foreign policy setbacks, including renewed violence in Gaza, no progress in the Russia-Ukraine war, and stalled efforts to expand the Abraham Accords. Critics blame Trump’s abandonment of the Obama-era Iran deal for contributing to the crisis. Internal divisions within his administration and doubts about Witkoff’s effectiveness further complicate matters. Analysts warn the situation could spiral into regional war, with Iran potentially retaliating against U.S. interests and allies. The outcome may define whether Trump’s peacemaker image suffers a fatal blow or just a temporary setback. Reuters

How Iran's network of Middle East power faded. Iran’s once-powerful network of Middle East allies—the so-called “Axis of Resistance”—has significantly weakened, diminishing Tehran’s ability to retaliate against Israel and other adversaries. Built over decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the network included Hezbollah, Hamas, Syria’s Assad regime, Iraqi Shi’ite militias, and the Houthis in Yemen. However, major setbacks have undermined its strength: the 2020 U.S. assassination of Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani left a leadership void, while Israel’s recent military operations have decimated Hezbollah’s senior ranks and forced a ceasefire. Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was ousted in late 2024 after losing Iranian and Hezbollah support. Hamas, still active in Gaza, has lost much of its leadership and operational capacity. The Houthis and Iraqi militias remain aligned with Iran but show limited willingness to intervene in defense of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure. With its regional influence diminished and key allies weakened, Iran now faces a growing crisis with fewer tools to project power. Reuters

Thousands head to Egypt in bid to break Israel’s Gaza blockade. Thousands of international activists from over 80 countries are participating in the “Global March to Gaza,” aiming to challenge Israel’s blockade and highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The protest, involving around 4,000 volunteers, began in Cairo and will culminate near the Rafah border crossing, though activists do not plan to enter Gaza. Egypt, caught between regional diplomacy and domestic pressure, has not formally endorsed the march and has detained or delayed over 170 participants at Cairo airport. Israel condemned the protest, warning it could endanger Israeli Defense Forces personnel. The march follows a naval aid attempt intercepted by Israel, which included Greta Thunberg among its passengers. Activists say the march is a peaceful effort to pressure governments to act. With Gaza in its 21st month of war and facing famine, organizers stress the urgency of direct action. Egypt has insisted all participants obtain permits due to security concerns in the border region. CNN

United Nations overwhelmingly demands an immediate Gaza ceasefire over US, Israel opposition. The United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly approved a resolution on Thursday demanding an immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, with 149 countries voting in favor, 19 abstaining, and 12—including the U.S. and Israel—voting against. The resolution also calls for the release of hostages held by Hamas, return of Palestinian detainees, and full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza. While non-binding, the vote reflects strong global condemnation of the humanitarian crisis, which has claimed over 54,000 Palestinian lives and pushed Gaza toward famine. Israel’s UN envoy called the resolution a “blood libel,” arguing it undermines hostage negotiations. The U.S., which vetoed a similar Security Council measure last week, said the resolution would hinder diplomatic efforts. The vote comes ahead of a planned UN conference on the two-state solution, which the U.S. has discouraged countries from attending. Despite repeated calls from the UN, previous ceasefire resolutions have been ignored by the parties involved. Reuters

ASIA & OCEANIA

Japan warns of collision risks after Chinese fighter jet’s ‘abnormal approaches.’ Japan has lodged protests with Beijing after a Chinese J-15 fighter jet from the aircraft carrier Shandong made dangerously close passes to a Japanese P-3C patrol plane over the Pacific on June 8 and 9. The jet flew within 45 meters horizontally and even crossed directly in front of the patrol aircraft without altitude separation, prompting warnings from Japan’s defense ministry about potential collisions. Analysts described the maneuvers as “threats” that could easily escalate if a mistake were to occur. China defended its actions, blaming Japan’s surveillance activities. The incident echoes a 2001 U.S.-China collision over Hainan Island, raising concerns about rising regional tensions. Experts believe the aggressive behavior signals China’s opposition to growing Japan-U.S. defense ties under President Trump, and reflects Beijing’s push to project military power beyond its coast. Online reaction in Japan was sharply critical, with fears of increasing “grey-zone” confrontations in the region. South China Morning Post

Taking lessons from Ukraine, Taiwan eyes sea drones to counter China. Inspired by Ukraine’s success using sea drones against Russia, Taiwan is developing its own fleet of uncrewed explosive-laden vessels to defend against a potential Chinese invasion. As part of a “Swift and Sudden” project led by the defense ministry’s R&D institute, Taiwan aims to build low-cost, mobile weapons to wage asymmetric warfare. The SeaShark 800 drone, developed by Thunder Tiger, can carry 1,200 kilograms of explosives and travel 500 kilometers, creating strategic uncertainty in the Taiwan Strait. A special defense budget is expected later this year to support further development. Taiwan’s military, dwarfed by China’s, is focusing on innovative tactics as China ramps up pressure, including repeated war games. A showcase of unmanned surface vehicles is planned, featuring domestic and international firms. Experts stress Taiwan’s capability to build advanced sea drones but note that integrating them into a broader military strategy remains a key challenge for the government and armed forces. Reuters

China, Hong Kong national security authorities launch joint operation, carrying out raids and seizing exhibits. Beijing’s national security authorities, in coordination with Hong Kong police, launched their first publicly known joint investigation into alleged collusion with foreign forces under the national security law. The case involves six individuals and one organization, suspected of endangering national security between November 2020 and June 2024. Authorities searched homes and offices, seizing bank documents and electronic devices, and required those involved to surrender travel documents. It remains unclear if any arrests or charges have been made. The operation follows the recent enactment of Hong Kong’s subsidiary legislation to its domestic security law, which compels government bodies and civil servants to assist Beijing’s Office for Safeguarding National Security. The law also imposes secrecy requirements and criminalizes obstruction of the office’s duties. Established in 2020, China’s security office is building a permanent base in Hong Kong. The joint move signals intensifying cooperation and enforcement of mainland-imposed national security measures within the city. South China Morning PostAssociated PressBloombergHong Kong Free Press

North Korea's Kim hails restored destroyer, announces plans for more to be built. North Korea has successfully repaired and refloated its 5,000-ton Choe Hyon-class destroyer Kang Kon, which suffered damage during a failed launch last month. At a second launch ceremony on Thursday, leader Kim Jong Un vowed to deliver the vessel to the navy by mid-2026 and announced plans to build two more ships of the same class next year. Kim linked the naval expansion to defending North Korean sovereignty and warned of “overwhelming military action” in response to U.S. strategic moves in the region. Analysts say the rapid recovery of the damaged vessel shows Pyongyang’s growing ability to expand its naval power quickly when prioritized. While its navy has traditionally focused on small coastal ships, the new destroyers—equipped with guided missiles and Russian air defense systems—signal a shift toward broader maritime capabilities and growing cooperation with Moscow. Bloomberg ReutersAssociated Press

AFRICA

White House pressing for peace deal between Rwanda and Congo soon. The U.S. is pushing for rapid progress in peace talks between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, aiming for an agreement by June or July, according to U.S. Special Envoy Troy Fitrell. Despite ongoing tensions and a missed ministerial meeting in May, technical teams are working to move the process forward. Parallel negotiations in Doha between the DRC government and M23 rebels have resumed, aiming to address conflict in eastern Congo. While the U.S. and Qatar support mediation, deep mistrust between Kinshasa and Kigali continues to threaten a lasting resolution. Fitrell also noted that Washington is in talks for investment in minerals and physical and digital infrastructure to support the Congolese mining industry, and develop the restive nation’s agriculture. ReutersBloomberg

Trump’s top Africa diplomat to step down. Troy Fitrell, the Trump administration’s top Africa diplomat and acting head of the State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, will retire in mid-July after a 30-year career. Known for his deep expertise and leadership on U.S.-Africa policy, Fitrell played a central role in promoting commercial diplomacy and pushing for Africa to become a major U.S. trading partner. His departure follows the removal of Major General Jami Shawley and the merger of the National Security Council’s Africa and Middle East teams, leaving Washington with limited Africa-focused personnel. Deputy Assistant Secretary Jonathan Pratt will succeed him. Meanwhile, Massad Boulos, Trump’s son-in-law’s father, is now the administration’s most senior Africa official. Fitrell recently suggested increased U.S. involvement in Sudan peace talks, amid strained ties with South Africa over controversial U.S. policy decisions. Semafor

CYBER, TECH & MARKETS

US says China's Huawei can't produce more than 200,000 AI chips this year. Huawei Technologies will likely produce no more than 200,000 advanced AI chips in 2025, all for Chinese use, according to U.S. export control official Jeffrey Kessler. Though this is below Huawei's demand, Kessler warned lawmakers that China is rapidly advancing its chip capabilities and catching up to the U.S. The company, restricted from accessing high-end U.S. chips since 2019, is pushing its Ascend 910C AI chips as an alternative to Nvidia’s. While Huawei’s chips remain a generation behind, CEO Ren Zhengfei says the firm is investing over $25 billion annually to close the gap. U.S. officials remain wary, despite China's current limitations, noting the pace of progress. The Trump administration has tightened export controls on tech goods, including semiconductor tools and software, amid broader trade tensions with Beijing. Kessler said no immediate new restrictions are planned but emphasized the need for continued vigilance in a fast-changing tech landscape. ReutersBloombergNasdaq

New Army Reserve Unit Enlists Silicon Valley Executives to Upgrade Tech. The U.S. Army Reserve has launched a new innovation corps called Detachment 201, enlisting top Silicon Valley tech leaders—including Shyam Sankar from Palantir, Andrew "Boz" Bosworth from Meta, and former OpenAI executives Kevin Weil and Bob McGrew—as part-time lieutenant colonels. Serving around 120 hours a year, they’ll help modernize Army operations through AI, data analytics, robotics, and health-tech initiatives, while being barred from working on projects that financially benefit their companies. This move symbolizes a growing embrace of defense collaboration by tech companies and signals a strategic effort by the military to accelerate its tech adoption and talent recruitment model. Wall Street Journal

Chinese AI Companies Dodge U.S. Chip Curbs by Flying Suitcases of Hard Drives Abroad.To circumvent U.S. export restrictions on advanced AI chips, Chinese tech firms are increasingly moving their AI development operations abroad. In one case, Chinese engineers flew from Beijing to Malaysia carrying 80 terabytes of training data to use on Nvidia-powered servers rented through local entities. This method avoids direct import of restricted hardware into China while still allowing access to high-end U.S. chips. Washington has tightened rules to limit China’s AI capabilities, but enforcement remains complex, with layers of intermediaries masking end users. Although the Biden administration proposed country-specific chip caps, the Trump administration dropped the idea to ease burdens on American firms, instead issuing guidance that companies must prevent Chinese access. With U.S. scrutiny growing and Southeast Asian authorities cracking down on transshipments, Chinese firms are also eyeing the Middle East. Meanwhile, data center growth in Southeast Asia has surged, with local investors rapidly funding AI infrastructure to meet soaring demand. Wall Street Journal

‘This is coming for everyone’: A new kind of AI bot takes over the web. As AI tools like ChatGPT increasingly replace traditional search engines, a new wave of retrieval bots is rapidly reshaping web traffic patterns. Unlike older data-scraping bots used for AI training, these bots retrieve and summarize real-time content in response to user prompts, often bypassing publisher restrictions. According to content monetization platform TollBit, traffic from such bots grew 49% in Q1 2025, with bot visits outpacing those from human users. This shift is hurting direct site traffic, especially for news publishers, even as overall content access soars. AI companies argue that scraping public content is fair use, sparking lawsuits and licensing deals. The Washington Post recently partnered with OpenAI, while others like Time use TollBit’s data to negotiate deals. Yet, most AI bots still access content without paying. Experts warn that the internet, long optimized for human searches, must now adapt to AI-driven traffic—presenting both challenges and opportunities for content creators. Washington Post

European journalists’ devices found to be infected with Paragon spyware activity. Two more European journalists, including Italy’s investigative reporter Ciro Pellegrino, have been confirmed as targets of Paragon’s “Graphite” spyware, with one phone successfully infected through a zero-click iMessage exploit. The revelations come from digital forensics group Citizen Lab, which traced the attacks to Paragon servers and identified the spyware’s use of a now-patched iOS vulnerability. The targeting appears linked to Fanpage, the outlet where both Pellegrino and previously identified victim Francesco Cancellato work. Fanpage had published investigations into ties between Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and neo-fascist groups. Although the Italian government denies involvement, it admitted to using Graphite against pro-immigration activists and has blocked Paragon, a U.S.-owned surveillance company, from verifying whether Cancellato’s phone was targeted. Paragon has since cut ties with Italy, citing lack of transparency. The spyware scandal, involving covert surveillance of journalists and civil society figures, raises serious concerns about government overreach and the growing abuse of commercial surveillance tools in democratic societies. The RecordThe Citizen LabReutersThe GuardianTechCrunch

Researchers discover Fog ransomware attack on Asian financial org.A recent cyberattack on an Asian financial institution using Fog ransomware has drawn attention due to its unusual methods, suggesting motives beyond financial gain. Symantec researchers found the attackers employed legitimate employee monitoring software, Syteca, and rarely used pentesting tools like GC2, which enables covert data exfiltration via Google or Microsoft platforms. This approach—especially the establishment of persistence after deploying ransomware—led analysts to suspect potential espionage. Unlike typical ransomware attacks that end with data theft and encryption, the attackers appeared to want ongoing access to the victim's network. Such tactics resemble past incidents in Asia and Oceania in which Chinese state-linked hackers used ransomware as a cover for espionage. The attackers possibly entered through Microsoft Exchange servers and used Syteca to spy or steal information. Researchers stress that the use of legitimate software helps avoid detection. Fog ransomware previously targeted American education institutions, such as the University of Oklahoma. The RecordBleepingComputer

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Brad Christian, Executive Editor

Ethan Masucol, Assistant Editor

Brian Bonner, Senior Contributor

Ken Hughes, Tech & Cyber Contributor

Katharine Campbell, Writer, Contributor