Report for Friday, June 14, 2024

THE TOP STORIES

Hezbollah launches large-scale rocket attack in Northern Israel

Biden strikes pessimistic tone on Israel-Hamas deal while Blinken says the “haggling” needs to stop.

U.S.-Ukraine sign historic 10-year security deal at G7 summit.

Microsoft President Grilled by Lawmakers in Tense Hearing on Cybersecurity.

CIPHER BRIEF EXCLUSIVES

As U.S. Military Draws Down in Africa, Fears of Terrorism Rise-  The Cipher Brief

ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

Hezbollah launches rocket, armed drones at Israeli military sites.  Hezbollah launched rockets and weaponized drones at nine Israeli military sites in a coordinated attack Thursday, in retaliation for the Israeli strike on Tuesday that killed a senior Hezbollah field commander. Reuters, quoting a source, said it was Hezbollah's largest attack on Israel since October 7.  Lebanon’s Al-Manar television reported more than 100 rockets, including volleys of Katyusha and Falaq rockets, fired across Israel’s northern border at six Israeli military locations.  Al-Manar television reported more than 100 rockets were fired at once. At about 3:29 pm Thursday Jerusalem time, (8:29 a.m. in Washington) the Israeli Defense Forces posted on X, “Hezbollah launched approx. 40 projectiles toward northern Israel moments ago. The IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted numerous launches, however, a number of hits that fell—ignited fires. Additionally, five suspicious aerial targets were identified. The IDF Aerial Defense Array successfully intercepted three of those targets.”  Israeli state broadcaster Kan aired footage of numerous mid-air interceptions of rockets above Israeli towns, including in Safed, 7.5 miles from the Israel-Lebanon border.  Reuters   X

Macron announces France, U.S. cooperation plan to deescalate Hezbollah-Israel conflict.   French President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday that the U.S., France and Israel are working together to defuse the worsening conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.  "With the United States we agreed on the principle of a trilateral (contact group), Israel, the United States and France to advance on the roadmap that we proposed and we will do the same with the Lebanese authorities," Macron told reporters on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Italy. Fighting between Hezbollah, and the Israeli military did not end. In fact, over the past few weeks, it seems to have ramped up.  Lebanese authorities say that more than 375 people, including 88 civilians, have been killed from Israeli strikes hitting Lebanon since October 2023. Israel's military says 18 soldiers and 10 civilians have been killed by Hezbollah fire. Late Thursday, a woman was killed by an Israeli strike on a house in southern Lebanon, the state-run National News Agency reported. Local media reported the strike hit a three-story apartment building and that a number of people, including women and children, were wounded and transported to local hospitals.  Reuters  Deutsche Welle   Associated Press

“I haven’t lost hope,” Biden says, admitting that a Gaza cease-fire deal is not in sight. President Joe Biden said Thursday he doesn’t expect to see a Gaza cease-fire deal sealed anytime soon. An American-backed plan has received 14 of 15 votes in the United Nations, with only Russia abstaining, but neither Israel or Hamas has signed onto it. “I haven’t lost hope,” Biden said, speaking to reporters on the margins of the Group of Seven summit in Brindisi, Italy, But when asked if a truce deal would be reached soon, Biden replied simply, “No.” Hamas responded to the proposal this week by asking for numerous changes.  Its goal is a permanent cease-fire and complete Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, which would clear the way for the militant group to rearm and regroup. Israel wants to destroy Hamas completely, so the two sides seem far apart. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan, briefing reporters at the summit, said, “Our goal is to figure out how we work to bridge the remaining gaps and get to a deal.  So we’re going to work with Qatar and Egypt.  Qatar and Egypt will work with Hamas.  Qatar, Egypt, and the United States will work with Israel.  And the goal is to try to bring this to a conclusion as rapidly as possible. Now, I can’t give you a timetable for that.”  Associated Press  ABC News  White House 

Gaza civilians angry at both Hamas and Israel for failing to reach a truce.  A new poll of Palestinians has shown Hamas losing support as the war it provoked drags on. Support for Hamas as Gaza’s government has fallen from 52 percent to 46 percent over the past three months, according to a survey by the Palestinian Center for Policy and Survey Research, which said it polled more than 700 Gazans. In the West Bank, 71 percent of Palestinians surveyed supported Hamas’s continued rule in Gaza, up from 64 percent in the previous poll.  Wall Street Journal 

Hamas official says ‘no one has any idea’ how many hostages remain alive. Hamas spokesperson and political bureau member Osama Hamdan told CNN Thursday that “no one has an idea” how many hostages are alive. Speaking to CNN in Beirut, Hamdan said the latest proposal on the table did not meet his group’s demands for an end to the war. He said Hamas needed “a clear position from Israel to accept the ceasefire, a complete withdrawal from Gaza, and let the Palestinians determine their future by themselves, the reconstruction, the (lifting) of the siege … and we are ready to talk about a fair deal about the prisoner exchange.”  “The haggling has to stop,” U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken told NBC on Thursday, urging Sinwar to end the war. “He’s relatively safe underground; the people that he purports to represent, they’re suffering every day.”  CNN

UN aid workers in Gaza are shunning U.S.-built pier.  The U.N. which has the widest reach for delivering aid within Gaza, has paused its work with the U.S. military pier because of suspicions that the Israeli military and police used the pier during a June 8 operation by Israeli security forces that rescued four Israeli hostages and killed more than 270 Palestinians. Associated Press

Colombia military hospital planning to offer medical treatment to injured Palestinian children. The Colombian Foreign Ministry on Thursday announced its plan to provide medical care for Palestinian children wounded in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The children, along with their families, would be brought to a Colombian military hospital for rehabilitation, although specific details such as the number of children and the duration of their stay were not provided. Colombian military doctors, experienced from Colombia’s internal conflict, are expected to treat the injured children. Deputy Minister of Multilateral Affairs Elizabeth Taylor Jay made the announcement during President Gustavo Petro's trip to Sweden. Colombia is not the first nation to enact such a plan; other countries, including the UAE, Jordan, and Germany, have also been receiving Palestinians for medical treatment due to the conflict. Historically close to Israel, Colombia's relations with the country have cooled since Petro's election as the first leftist president in 2022. Since the war began, Colombia has repatriated 310 citizens and granted nationality to a Palestinian woman trapped in Gaza, allowing her family to settle in Colombia. Associated Press 

Spain, Turkey pressure international community into acting to end war.  Spain and Turkey have urged the international community to stop ignoring the ongoing conflict in Gaza and to push for an end to Israel's attacks on Hamas. Following a bilateral summit, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called for an immediate cease-fire and more humanitarian aid for Palestinians. Spain, Ireland, and Norway recognized a Palestinian state on May 28, with Sánchez encouraging other countries to do the same. Erdogan emphasized that the U.S. and other UN Security Council members should pressure Israel for a cease-fire. The two nations also stressed the need for the release of hostages held by Hamas. Spain further demonstrated its support for Gaza peacemaking efforts by requesting to join South Africa's case accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza at the U.N. court. The summit between Madrid and Ankara mainly centered on enhancing economic cooperation, with a memorandum signed to boost trade between Spain and Turkey to 25 billion euros by next year. Associated Press

THE UKRAINE UPDATE

Ukraine’s more liberal use of allied weapons complicates Russian logistics. Ukraine's use of allied weapons has complicated Russian logistics, targeting military and energy sites in Russia, Crimea, and Georgia. Despite new U.S. and German policies allowing Ukraine to use their weapons in Russia only in response to attacks, Kyiv has hit multiple strategic targets. This has forced Russia to shift its air defense systems and relocate its Black Sea Fleet. Ukraine continues to use domestically produced weapons to strike deep into Russian territory. Meanwhile, Russia's energy infrastructure and military operations face challenges. The international community is debating further support and sanctions to aid Ukraine and pressure Russia. Aljazeera 

ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment for Thursday, June 13, 2024. Ukraine signed 10-year security agreements with the US and Japan, reaffirming long-term support from G7 and Ramstein formats. The US-Ukraine agreement ensures cooperation in defense, security, economic recovery, reform, and Euro-Atlantic integration. The Japan-Ukraine agreement includes a $4.5 billion contribution in 2024 and continued support in various sectors. At the July summit, NATO partners will agree on a comprehensive military and financial aid package for Ukraine. The U.S. sanctioned the Moscow Exchange and other Russian entities 839 days into Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Ukrainian strikes in Crimea are forcing Russia to commit more air defense assets to the region. China reportedly uses diplomatic channels to discourage support for Switzerland's upcoming Global Peace Summit on June 15-16. The US, UK, and Canada condemned Russian subversive activities and electoral interference in Moldova. Russian regions are increasing monetary incentives to recruit military personnel.

Battlefield updates: Ukrainian forces advanced north of Kharkiv, and Russian forces made marginal gains near Siversk and Avdiivka. Institute for the Study of War

ANALYSIS- David Sanger- Will Biden’s Help for Ukraine Come Fast Enough and Last Long Enough? President Joe Biden signed a 10-year security pact with Ukraine and promised a $50 billion loan with the help of the European Union. The pact aims to ensure a steady supply of weapons, intelligence, and support for Ukraine. However, concerns remain about the timely arrival of the funds and the pact's longevity, especially given the upcoming U.S. elections. The agreement, lacking immediate funding, could face challenges in Congress, where support for further aid to Ukraine is contentious. The loan is crucial for Ukraine's defense and rebuilding efforts, but its success depends on sustained political commitment and overcoming Russia's persistent threats New York Times 

Russia accused of using hunger as a weapon of war in Ukraine. A group of international human rights lawyers has accused Russia of using starvation as a weapon during its 85-day siege of Mariupol in early 2022. The 76-page dossier by the Starvation Mobile Justice Team of Global Rights Compliance details how Russian forces systematically attacked vital civilian resources and blocked humanitarian aid and evacuation routes. Civilians were left without water, electricity, and gas, forcing them to drink from puddles, radiators, and melted snow. Residents like Nikolai Osychenko described living through the siege as a "Stone Age" experience, struggling to find food and water for survival. CNN 

Ukraine Stalled Russia Near the Border. This Town Has Paid the Price. Vovchansk, a town near Ukraine's northern border, has suffered extensive destruction due to Russia's recent cross-border offensive. Ukrainian forces, bolstered by Western weapons, have stalled Russian advances but could not prevent the devastation. The town's infrastructure, including city hall, cultural centers, and residential buildings, has been reduced to ruins, forcing most residents to flee. Despite heavy fighting and continuous bombardment, the front line remains static, with both sides unable to progress. The situation in Vovchansk exemplifies the broader struggles in Ukraine, where communities face relentless attacks and displacement. New York Times

Russians told to mobilize to inflict 'maximum harm' on West in response to sanctions. Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, called for Russians to inflict "maximum harm" on Western societies in response to escalating sanctions from the U.S. and its allies. Medvedev urged targeting Western economies, institutions, and citizens' well-being. He advocated for sabotage, misinformation, and arming Western adversaries. Despite being seen by some as a Kremlin hardliner, his influence is debated. Medvedev's comments come amid new U.S. sanctions affecting Russian currency trading and China-based semiconductor sales to Moscow. Reuters 

Moscow warns Paris. France is raising the risk of a direct clash with Russia by becoming more deeply involved in the Ukraine war, the Russian foreign ministry said on Thursday. X

A peace conference over Ukraine is unlikely to silence the guns. Volodymyr Zelensky’s Global Peace Summit, scheduled for June 15-16, faces challenges, including delays and notable absences from key figures like President Joe Biden and Chinese representatives. Despite these setbacks, 90 of the 160 invited delegations will attend, including leaders from Germany, France, and the UK. The summit aims to address food security, nuclear security, and the return of prisoners and children, though contentious issues like reparations and troop withdrawals remain unresolved. Zelensky’s team hopes to reaffirm Ukraine's peace terms and gain support from skeptical Global South countries. The Economist 

Ukraine wants peace but can’t trust Russia. Peace remains elusive as Ukraine distrusts Russia, refusing talks with a country aiming for its destruction. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky insists on Ukraine defining peace terms, emphasizing territorial integrity, food security, nuclear safety, and repatriation of POWs. “Putin understands that the only way to hide his crime is to destroy the victim. Therefore, negotiations with him do not make sense,”  Oleksandr Merezhko, head of the Ukrainian parliament’s foreign relations committee, told Politico. Russia, uninvited to the Swiss peace summit, denounces it as biased while offering conditional talks excluding Zelensky. Key nations like China and Saudi Arabia are not attending, and China and Brazil are proposing pro-Russia peace plans. The summit aims to solidify ally support for Ukraine, preparing for future negotiations with a stronger stance. Historical breaches of agreements by Russia fuel Ukraine's skepticism and insistence on its peace formula. Politico 

Ukraine’s draft woes leave the West facing pressure to make up for the troop shortfall. Ukraine's military recruitment campaign, initiated on April 16, 2024, aims to enlist hundreds of thousands of young men but faces public skepticism, draft dodging, and harsh enforcement measures. Despite a law lowering the draft age to 25 and allowing volunteers from age 18, Ukraine struggles to fill the needed positions. Only a fraction of the 3.7 million eligible men are expected to enlist, compounded by demographic challenges and emigration. Fewer than 420,000 males born in Ukraine are in the 25-27 age category. Some of these are among the 800,000 Ukrainian men who have either left the country, are already serving in the military, are exempt, or are deemed unfit for military service. According to analysts in the Ukrainian military’s general staff, these new recruitment efforts will likely add no more than 100,000 new troops. As resentment grows over aggressive recruitment tactics, Western analysts warn that without foreign support, Ukraine risks depleting its resources before Russia does. Some believe NATO troops' involvement may become inevitable. The Conversation 

Ukraine signs gas deal with U.S. to break Russian energy dominance. Ukraine has signed a deal with U.S. company Venture Global to import liquefied natural gas (LNG), aiming to reduce its reliance on Russian gas and enhance energy security. This aligns with Washington's goal to replace Russian gas in Eastern Europe with US LNG. The agreement involves Ukraine's largest private power producer, DTEK, purchasing LNG from the Plaquemines gas plant in Louisiana until 2026. Amid Russian attacks on Ukraine's power infrastructure, the country plans to diversify its energy sources with wind, solar, and small gas facilities. European Union leaders are pushing for investments to rebuild Ukraine's infrastructure, with costs estimated at €450 billion. EUObserver  

Drone damages empty fuel reservoir near Russia's Voronezh, governor says. Debris from a downed Ukrainian drone damaged an unused reservoir at a fuel depot in Russia's Voronezh region on Friday, regional governor Alexander Gusev said on the Telegram messaging app. Separately, the RIA news agency cited Russia's defense ministry as saying that 70 Ukrainian drones had been downed overnight over the Rostov region and 17 over other regions, including the Voronezh one. Reuters

Zelensky says China's Xi told him he will not sell any weapons to Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Thursday that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him China would not sell weapons to Russia during a phone conversation. Zelensky shared this information at a joint press conference Thursday with U.S. President Joe Biden at the G7 summit in Italy. Biden added that while China isn't supplying weapons, it is providing the capability and technology for Russia to produce them. Zelensky noted that if China shared Ukraine's peace views, there could be dialogue, but Beijing could propose an alternative "peace formula." This conversation marks their first known contact since April 2023. Reuters Transcript of Biden-Zelensky press conference

U.S., allies clash over F16 training. Ukraine and its allies disagree over the pace and extent of F-16 pilot training. Kyiv claims it has 30 pilots ready and criticizes the limited training slots in the U.S. and Denmark. Western officials argue the training must align with the gradual arrival of aircraft to ensure effectiveness and proper maintenance. They emphasize a balanced approach to prevent premature training without adequate jets. The aim is to expand training as Ukraine receives more aircraft, including French and Swedish models, transitioning the Ukrainian air force to NATO standards. Politico 

OPINION- Janet Yellen: A New Way to Make Russia’s Assets Pay for Ukraine’s Defense and Rebuilding. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen proposes using immobilized Russian assets to fund Ukraine's defense and rebuilding. With $280 billion in Russian assets generating revenue, the U.S. and its allies, including the European Union, aim to redirect these funds to support Ukraine. Yellen suggests a loan backed by the earnings from these assets to provide Ukraine with immediate financial support. This strategy intends to demonstrate long-term commitment against Putin's aggression and ensure Ukraine has the necessary resources to defend and rebuild. The proposal, discussed at recent Group of 7 meetings, seeks endorsement at the upcoming summit. New York Times 

OPINION – Why Ukraine isn’t ready for peace talks.Bloomberg columnist Marc Champion argues that Ukraine is not ready for peace talks because the stakes are too high for both Ukraine and the broader international order. Historians like Serhii Plokhy and Timothy Snyder emphasize that Ukraine's fate will shape global geopolitics for generations. Business leaders, despite personal losses, fear a premature peace deal would leave Ukraine vulnerable and economically unstable. The West needs to fully commit to Ukraine's defense and reconstruction to avoid empowering Russia and destabilizing Europe. Champion concludes that Ukrainians understand the stakes and are prepared to fight for a lasting and secure peace. Bloomberg 

AMERICAS

A New Chinese Megaport in South America Is Rattling the U.S.  China is building a deep-water megaport in Chancay, Peru, which could challenge U.S. influence in a resource-rich region that Washington has long considered its backyard. Majority-owned by the China Ocean Shipping Group (Cosco), the port aims to speed up trade between Asia and South America, benefiting regions as far as Brazil by shortening sailing times for goods like blueberries and copper. The U.S. worries that China's control over this potential commercial hub will strengthen Beijing's grip on the region's resources and deepen its influence among America's neighbors, potentially planting its military presence. Despite U.S. concerns, Peru is welcoming Chinese investment in the port and other areas, signaling a diplomatic void left by the U.S. in Latin America. The port could further integrate South American economies with China, enhancing Beijing's strategic and economic influence in the Western Hemisphere.  Wall Street Journal

Social media influencers are flooding social media with anti-immigrant videos.  Reuters highlights a half-dozen social media influencers with a total of 1.4 million followers, posting anti-immigration messages on YouTube, X, TikTok, Facebook and Rumble. The story quotes University of Iowa assistant professor Alex Scott, who specializes in the depiction of migrants in the media, as saying the influencers, with their homemade videos and unscientific methods, appeal to people who distrust mainstream media. Scott said they show migrants as dangerous. "One of the easiest ways to stoke fear in the heart of America is to say there's somebody coming to take something that's yours,” Scott said.  Reuters 

Pentagon selects Blue Origin, SpaceX and United Launch Alliance for rocket launch contracts. The U.S. Department of Defense has chosen Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) to compete for national security space missions under a $5.6 billion program. This selection is part of the National Security Space Launch Phase 3 procurement program, which aims to diversify the U.S. launch sector by including a wider variety of companies. The program will see these companies vying to launch sensitive military and intelligence satellites over the next ten years. SpaceX and ULA have been the primary providers since 2020 under a previous program, with ULA handling 60% of missions through 2027. The new phase aims to increase competition in the sector. Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin is eager to enter the arena with its New Glenn rocket, seeking to challenge SpaceX, which currently dominates the industry with its Falcon 9 rocket. SpaceX is also developing the Starship rocket, which is intended for human spaceflight and large satellite launches. ULA is transitioning from its Atlas 5 rocket to the next-generation Vulcan rocket, which is expected to fly its second mission later this year. The Pentagon's Phase 3 program is split into two categories: Lane 1, which includes specialized rockets for less stringent missions, and Lane 2, for rockets that meet a broader range of requirements. Thursday's announcement pertains to Lane 1, with Blue Origin receiving $5 million for assessment, and SpaceX and ULA each receiving $1.5 million. Awards for Lane 2 are expected in the autumn and will likely go to more experienced companies like SpaceX and ULA. Reuters 

U.S. nuclear submarine arrives in Guantanamo Bay, day after Russian warships docked in Cuba for drills. A U.S. Navy submarine, the nuclear-powered USS Helena, arrived at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba on Thursday, amid the presence of Russian warships conducting military exercises in the region. This visit is part of a "routine port visit" as the submarine travels through the area under U.S. Southern Command. The arrival follows a Russian fleet, including a frigate, a nuclear-powered submarine, an oil tanker, and a rescue tug, pulling into Havana Bay after Atlantic Ocean military exercises. U.S. ships have been monitoring the Russian exercises, which Pentagon officials say pose no threat to the U.S. Pentagon spokeswoman Sabrina Singh stated that such Russian port calls are not surprising and are taken seriously, but are not seen as a threat, though Moscow’s drills come shortly after President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to use U.S. weapons to strike inside Russian territory, an order that prompted President Putin to suggest potential asymmetrical responses globally. American officials have said they anticipate continued Russian naval presence in the Caribbean, with possible stops in Venezuela. Russia, a long-time ally of Venezuela and Cuba, has periodically deployed warships and aircraft to the region, with notable visits since 2008 and an unannounced ship docking in Havana in 2015 before U.S.-Cuban diplomatic talks. Associated Press

Party leader says Canadian lawmakers who knowingly aided other countries must be removed.  Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party, on Thursday expressed concern over an intelligence report revealing that some members of parliament (MPs) may be acting as agents for other nations. The report, indicating foreign interference by countries like India and China, has put Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the defensive. Singh, after reading an unredacted version of the report, voiced his alarm and emphasized the need to remove MPs involved in such activities to deter future interference and restore public confidence. The committee's report did not name specific MPs, nor did Singh disclose names or the number of implicated MPs. He also mentioned that there was no reason to remove any members of his own party based on the report. Ministers stated that naming the legislators would be illegal and that it is a matter for police investigation. In response to accusations of being lenient on security, Trudeau’s Liberal government has referred the matter to a special inquiry investigating allegations of foreign interference in the last two Canadian elections. The inquiry found evidence of interference but concluded that election results were unaffected, and the system remains robust. Canada’s spy agency warned of persistent Chinese election meddling, which Beijing has consistently denied. Reuters

EUROPE

China to dominate final day of G7, Pope to lead AI discussions. On Friday's final day of the G7 summit in Italy, leaders will focus on China's challenges and host Pope Francis to discuss artificial intelligence. This marks the first time a pope has attended the G7. The summit previously saw the G7 agree on a $50 billion loan for Ukraine, signaling Western resolve against Russia. Concerns about China's industrial capacity and support for Russia and its stance on Taiwan and maritime disputes are key topics. Additionally, the U.S. has imposed sanctions on China-based firms. Leaders will also address immigration issues, a significant concern for Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Reuters  

Biden, Zelensky inch toward NATO with 10-year defense agreement. U.S. President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a 10-year security agreement at the G7 summit on Thursday which aims to enhance Ukraine's defense and move closer to NATO membership. The agreement commits future U.S. administrations to support Ukraine, regardless of potential political changes. It focuses on modernizing Ukraine's military and includes provisions for intelligence sharing, military training, and joint exercises. The deal also ensures rapid consultations in case of armed attacks on Ukraine. Additionally, the G7 agreed to a $50 billion loan for Ukraine, using profits from frozen Russian assets. Reuters  Guardian Washington Post

NATO to confront Russian 'sabotage' attempts — Stoltenberg. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg announced that NATO is developing strategies to counter Russian sabotage efforts aimed at undermining support for Ukraine. The alliance has seen an increase in hostile activities, including cyber attacks, disinformation, arson, and attempts to infiltrate NATO countries. Defense ministers meeting in Brussels are focusing on enhancing intelligence sharing, protecting critical infrastructure, and restricting Russian intelligence personnel. Despite Russia's attempts to disrupt NATO support for Ukraine, Stoltenberg affirmed that NATO's commitment to Ukraine remains strong and unwavering. Recent incidents in Poland, Germany, and other NATO countries highlight the ongoing threat from Russian activities. Deutsche Welle 

Ukraine Calls For Ban On 4 Russian, Belarusian Wrestlers From Paris Olympics. Ukraine's National Olympic Committee has urged the International Olympic Committee to ban three Russian and one Belarusian female wrestler from the Paris Olympics for supporting Russia's war against Ukraine. Russian wrestler Dinara Kudayeva posted a tribute to her father, who died fighting against Ukraine, which was liked by Russian wrestlers Natalya Malysheva, Olga Khoroshavtseva, and Belarusian wrestler Iryna Kurachkina. RFE/RL

France racing to build giant army camp for Paris Olympics security. France is rapidly constructing its largest mainland army camp since World War II to house 4,500 soldiers for the Paris Olympics. The camp, built in 65 days on a former fairground, includes modern amenities like WiFi and air conditioning. Soldiers will patrol and secure the opening ceremony along the River Seine. In total, 18,000 military personnel will support 45,000 internal security forces. The camp is named after Olympian Corporal Alain Mimoun and features extensive facilities, including a gym and bars, designed to blend into the landscape.France 24

EU Fines Hungary €200 Million for Asylum Law Violations Amidst Migration Dispute. The European Union's top court has fined Hungary €200 million and imposed a daily €1 million penalty for breaching asylum laws and unlawfully deporting migrants, sparking criticism from Budapest. Prime Minister Viktor Orban's government has consistently opposed accepting asylum seekers, defying EU mandates and facing previous condemnation. The court's decision supports the European Commission's call for penalties, citing Hungary's failure to uphold the principle of solidarity and fair responsibility sharing among member states. Despite impending new asylum rules aimed at bolstering border security and refugee intake, Hungary continues to resist, arguing its stringent policies safeguard the EU's interests. France 24 Al Jazeera

Russia Denies Forcing Nigerian Students into Military Service Amid Ukraine Crisis. The Russian Embassy in Nigeria refutes claims of coercing Nigerian students in Russia to join the military for the Ukraine invasion, denying reports circulating in Nigerian media. Earlier, a Bloomberg article alleged Russia's forceful recruitment of African students, including Nigerians, for combat roles in exchange for visa renewals. The embassy denounces the reports as false and damaging to Russian-Nigerian educational cooperation. Nigeria's government also denies the coercion allegations. Meanwhile, Russia faces scrutiny for enrolling conscripts amidst escalating casualties in the Ukraine conflict, with President Putin signing a decree to enlist 150,000 personnel amid a significant toll on Russian forces since February 2022. Deutsche Welle

Russian Prosecutors Finalize Indictment of Evan Gershkovich.  Russian prosecutors have finalized the espionage indictment against Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter, who will be tried in Yekaterinburg, where he was arrested over a year ago. Gershkovich, currently held in Moscow's Lefortovo prison, faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted. Both he and the U.S. government, which considers him "wrongfully detained," deny the charges. The trial, expected to take four months to a year, will likely be closed to the media. Russian authorities have suggested a potential prisoner swap for Gershkovich post-verdict, amidst ongoing strained U.S.-Russia relations due to the Ukraine invasion.  NY Times Wall Street Journal Associated Press

Moldova accuses former army official of spying for Russia. Moldovan prosecutors said Thursday they opened a criminal investigation of Igor Gorgan, the former Moldovan army chief of general staff, for spying for Russia. The Insider, a Russian investigative outlet, and Moldovan publication Malenkaya Strana reported last week that Gorgan passed sensitive information about Moldova and neighboring Ukraine to Russia's intelligence services.  Also Thursday, the governments of the U.S., Canada, and United Kingdom released a statement accusing Russia of subversive activity and electoral interference targeting Moldova.  Reuters  State Department  

Bulgaria's GERB party wins most seats in parliament.  Bulgaria's center-right GERB party won 68 seats in the 240-seat parliament in Sunday's election and will need at least two coalition partners to form a government, according to state election commission results. The Movement for Rights and Freedom (MRF), mainly representing Bulgaria's ethnic Turkish minority, won 47 seats, while the pro-Western bloc We Continue the Change (PP) secured 39 seats, and the ultra-nationalist Revival party won 38 seats. GERB leader and former Prime Minister Boyko Borissov announced that his party would begin negotiations with all parties in parliament to form a coalition. The vote, the sixth in three years, was prompted by the collapse of a previous coalition. Bulgaria requires a stable government to secure EU funds for infrastructure, advance towards Euro adoption, and fully participate in the Schengen Area. Analysts suggest that a technocratic cabinet, composed of non-elected experts nominated by several parliamentary parties, could be the most feasible post-election scenario to achieve predetermined policy objectives, including Eurozone accession and reforms outlined in the National Recovery Resilience Plan.  Reuters

The secret arms deal that cost Putin an ally.  Leaked documents have revealed that Belarus delivered advanced weapons to Azerbaijan between 2018 and 2022, despite being an ally of Armenia in a Russian-led defense pact. This betrayal has led Armenia to announce its withdrawal from the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), signaling a shift towards the West and potentially weakening Russian influence. Armenia, locked in a long-standing conflict with Azerbaijan, views Belarus's actions as a major betrayal, especially since these weapons were used in recent conflicts, including the 2020 war over Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan accused CSTO members of not fulfilling their obligations and aiding Azerbaijan instead. The documents show Belarus provided Azerbaijan with modern military equipment, exacerbating Armenia's security concerns and prompting it to seek closer ties with Europe and NATO. This move highlights the complex and shifting alliances in the region and underscores the geopolitical tensions involving Russia, Belarus, and their former Soviet allies.  Politico

THE MIDDLE EAST

Yemeni Houthi missiles target ship, igniting Ing vessel and injuring one crew; US military destroys patrol boats, drone. Yemen’s Houthi rebels on Thursday targeted the commercial ship M/V Verbena in the Gulf of Aden, launching two anti-ship cruise missiles, striking the vessel, and sparking a blaze. The attack severely wounded one crew member, according to the U.S. military’s Central Command. The Ukrainian-owned, Palauan-flagged, and Polish-operated bulk cargo carrier, which was carrying wood from Malaysia to Italy, was still on fire, and the injured mariner was airlifted to another ship for treatment. The Houthis claimed responsibility for this and other attacks on ships in the Red Sea. Central Command noted that the Houthis launched two ballistic missiles in the Red Sea, which caused no significant damage or injuries. The U.S. military also reported destroying two Houthi patrol boats, an uncrewed surface vessel, and a drone over the Red Sea to weaken the Iran-backed group's capabilities. Since November, the Houthis have launched over 50 attacks on shipping, resulting in three sailor deaths, one vessel seizure, and another sinking. Reuters Associated Press Reuters

Iran sentences cartoonist to 6 years in prison for activism. Atena Farghadani, an internationally recognized Iranian cartoonist, has been sentenced to six years in prison by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Court. She received five years for "insulting sacred beliefs" and one year for "propaganda" against the Islamic republic, according to her attorney, Mohammad Moqimi. Farghadani's conviction was communicated on June 10, with the court imposing the harshest penalties due to the number of infractions she was alleged to have committed. She has previously faced the Iranian justice system, having served 18 months for multiple charges. Her latest detainment on April 14 resulted in severe beatings, and she was transferred to Qarchak prison, known for its harsh conditions, after refusing to accept what she termed an "arbitrary" bail. Farghadani, an art graduate from Alzahra University, gained international recognition in 2015 when she was awarded the Courage In Cartooning Award by the Cartoonists Rights Network International. Her sentencing is part of a broader suppression campaign following the nation’s Women, Life, Freedom protests in 2022, targeting many artists and cultural activists. In March, UN special rapporteur Javaid Rehman reported that Iranian authorities' actions since the 2022 protests could amount to international crimes, including murder, imprisonment, enforced disappearances, torture, rape, and persecution.  RFE/RL Index of Censorship

ASIA & OCEANIA

Mainland China’s security focus may indicate plans for Taiwan attack, analysts say.  Mainland China’s intense focus on security, campaigns against foreign spies, and stockpiling of resources could indicate preparations for a potential attack on Taiwan, according to witnesses at a U.S. congressional commission. Experts emphasized the importance of understanding China’s conflict preparations to discern any imminent threats. While current measures seem directed at domestic issues like economic challenges and unemployment, they could also serve dual purposes, including military readiness. The US and its allies are urged to continue supporting Taiwan and monitor China's actions closely. Recommendations to reduce tensions include fostering educational exchanges and maintaining communication to understand China’s risk calculations and goals better. South China Morning Post 

China threatens WTO action over EU electric car tariffs.  China is threatening to take the European Union to the World Trade Organization (WTO) over proposed high import tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, which the EU plans to impose following an investigation into illegal subsidies from the Chinese government. The provisional duties, set to start on July 4 and potentially become permanent in November, range from 17.4% to 38.1% depending on the manufacturer. China has criticized the EU's actions as protectionist and lacking a legal basis, urging dialogue to resolve the issue. German officials have also called for caution and direct talks with China to avoid a "tariff race" and reach a consensual solution. The dispute underscores the tension between the EU's goals of affordable electrification and maintaining its automotive industry competitiveness.  Deutsche Welle

‘Beijing knows where it hurts most’: China considers its response after EU tariff hike.  China is considering various countermeasures in response to the European Union's decision to raise tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) by up to 38% after a probe into alleged subsidies. Potential Chinese actions include taking the case to the World Trade Organization (WTO) or targeting the EU's automobile, agriculture, and luxury sectors. The EU's provisional tariffs, effective from July 4, will impact major Chinese EV manufacturers such as BYD, Geely, and SAIC. China’s commerce ministry and trade bodies criticized the EU's actions as protectionist and vowed to defend Chinese companies. Experts suggest that China might retaliate by restricting exports of crucial raw materials or imposing tariffs on European goods. Both sides have room for negotiation to avoid escalating the trade conflict, considering their intertwined economic interests.  South China Morning Post Politico 

China drones can counter US ‘hellscape’ in Taiwan Strait: analysts.  The US plans to create an “unmanned hellscape” in the Taiwan Strait using AI-driven drones if mainland China attempts to overwhelm Taiwan, highlighting the growing importance of AI in military strategy. Admiral Samuel Paparo of the US Indo-Pacific Command outlined this strategy, intended to counter a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan. Chinese military analysts believe the PLA can counter US drones with larger swarms equipped with advanced AI but caution against shifts in US strategy. This approach signals a move towards "strategic clarity" from the US, deviating from its traditional "strategic ambiguity" regarding Taiwan. Despite ongoing efforts to ease US-China tensions, both sides are preparing more seriously for potential conflict, reflecting the intensifying military postures. South China Morning Post 

PLA sends 3 advanced Type 055 destroyers for training exercise in South China Sea.  China's People's Liberation Army deployed three advanced Type 055 guided-missile destroyers, along with a Type 052C destroyer, for a six-day training exercise in the South China Sea amid rising tensions with the Philippines. The exercise, conducted by the PLA's Southern Theatre Command, focused on maritime assault, anti-submarine operations, and single-ship air defense to test various combat and training methods. The drills follow recent clashes involving Chinese and Philippine coast guard ships, including incidents around the disputed Second Thomas Shoal. China's advanced destroyers, featuring cutting-edge radars, electronic systems, and weapons, are crucial for both near and far-sea missions. The exercises also come amidst heightened monitoring and criticism of joint US-Philippine military activities in the region.  South China Morning Post

ANALYSIS- In China’s Backyard, America Has Become a Humbler Superpower.  Bilahari Kausikan, a seasoned Singaporean diplomat, noted that the United States oscillates between excessive self-criticism and periods of overconfidence, but neither state is permanent. He emphasized that despite America's increasing dysfunction, it remains crucial in maintaining global order. A growing number of U.S. officials now recognize the need for broader international cooperation amid complex global challenges like Gaza, Ukraine, China, North Korea, pandemics, climate change, artificial intelligence, and nuclear weapons. They aim to demonstrate that humility can coexist with American confidence in a sustainable strategy. Adm. John Aquilino, nearing the end of his tenure as head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, highlighted the importance of maintaining strong alliances, spending significant time communicating and visiting partners in the region. NY Times

Chinese spy agency issues warning after ‘secret’ military books sold for less than US$1. China’s Ministry of State Security issued a public warning against mishandling confidential information after a retiree bought classified military books from a recycling station for less than $1. The materials were sold improperly by military personnel who did not follow security protocols. The incident was highlighted as part of a campaign to educate the public on China’s anti-espionage laws. The ministry praised the retiree for reporting the materials and has advised relevant units to tighten information security. The warning coincides with recent amendments to China’s anti-espionage law and state secrets law, emphasizing stricter management of classified information.  South China Morning Post Associated Press

Could China strangle Europe’s weapons output with cotton?  China could potentially impact Europe's weapons production by controlling the supply of nitrocellulose, or "guncotton," essential for making propellant powder. After a Chinese plant explosion in May, concerns rose over supply disruptions. The EU plans to raise tariffs on Chinese EVs due to subsidies, potentially prompting China to retaliate by restricting nitrocellulose exports. Despite China's significant role, experts argue Europe could ramp up its production, if necessary, though it currently relies heavily on Chinese imports. European arms manufacturers have noted stable supplies but warn against future restrictions. The situation underscores the complex interdependence in global supply chains and the geopolitical tensions influencing them. South China Morning Post 

U.S. diplomat cautions risks of accidental conflict ignited by China's provocation. The de facto U.S. ambassador to Taiwan, Sandra Oudkirk, on Friday said that China’s “provocative” moves in the hotly contested South China Sea, particularly around Taiwan and Japan, could risk causing accidents or “miscalculations'' that could trigger a broader conflict. Oudkirk, the outgoing director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), affirmed Washington’s commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and urged China to avoid coercive actions. She emphasized the importance of strengthening Taiwan's defense capabilities, noting that pandemic-related supply chain issues have delayed U.S. arms deliveries, though they are now resolving. She indicated that upcoming deliveries of military capabilities to Taiwan should be monitored. Oudkirk's successor, Raymond Greene, currently the deputy chief of mission at the U.S. embassy in Tokyo, is well-acquainted with Taiwan. Reuters 

Vietnamese president urges stronger defense, economic ties with U.S. Newly elected Vietnamese president To Lam on Thursday advocated for stronger ties with the U.S., focusing on defense, security, and economic cooperation as part of Hanoi’s “bamboo diplomacy.” During a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper, Lam emphasized expanding collaboration and promoting high-level visits. The Southeast Asian nation’s exports to the U.S. increased by 22% in the first five months of this year, totaling $44.4 billion. In another meeting this week with Chinese Ambassador Xiong Bo, Lam stressed the importance of managing South China Sea disputes and respecting each country's interests. Vietnam’s foreign ministry recently expressed concern about a Chinese survey vessel in its exclusive economic zone. Additionally, Lam and other leaders are expected to host Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hanoi next week, though the visit is not yet officially announced. Reuters 

South Korea, U.S. warn against North Korea-Russia military ties ahead of Putin visit. South Korean and U.S. officials on Friday warned that a potential visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to North Korea could strengthen military ties between the two nations, violating U.N. Security Council resolutions. U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, in a call with South Korea vice foreign minister Kim Hong-kyun, promised to deal with potential regional instability and difficulties. Kim Hong-kyun emphasized the need for strong cooperation to respond to North Korean provocations and escalating regional tensions. Reports indicate Putin's visit to the North might occur soon, although the Kremlin has not confirmed details. Though Pyongyang and Moscow have denied arms deals, the two nations have vowed to deepen cooperation, and the U.S. is closely monitoring the situation, particularly concerned about what Russia might provide North Korea in return for its military support in Ukraine. U.S. intelligence warns that while Russia and North Korea might enhance their military, economic, and political cooperation, their relationship is unlikely to become a formal alliance due to mutual wariness. Preparations for a potential event in Pyongyang, possibly linked to Putin's visit, have been observed, indicating the significance North Korea places on its ties with Russia. Reuters

AFRICA

Famine agency’s analysis projects 756,000 Sudanese to face starvation soon.  The U.N. and aid groups say that 756,000 people in Sudan could face catastrophic food shortages by September. This preliminary data from June 1 reflects worsening conditions in the war-torn country. Previously, in December, 17.7 million people faced high food insecurity, but none were in catastrophic conditions; now, 25.6 million people, or 54% of the population, face critical shortages, including over nine million in an emergency or worse situation. The Rome-based Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) conducted the analysis, which still requires approval by the Sudanese government, U.N., and international agencies. The IPC's ability to assess the situation is hampered by security threats and infrastructure issues in Sudan. The IPC plans to publish a full report soon, but there are no final results yet. The data highlights 32 localities with severe shortages, especially in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), and U.S. special envoy to Sudan Tom Perriello this week suggested that parts of Sudan are already experiencing famine, though the full extent is unclear. Reuters

UN envoy voices concerns about children caught in Sudan’s conflict, along with Congo and Haiti. U.N. special representative for children and armed conflict Virginia Gamba on Thursday expressed her primary concerns about the situation for children in Sudan, followed by Congo and Haiti. She also highlighted worries about youth in Myanmar, Bangladesh, Somalia, and Afghanistan. The U.N.'s latest report and blacklist identified Israeli forces, Hamas, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants for violations against children in 2023. Russia’s armed forces and affiliated groups also remained on the blacklist for their actions in Ukraine. Gamba emphasized, however, the dire situation for children in Sudan, particularly in Darfur and Chad, due to ongoing conflict. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces were blacklisted for severe violations, including killing, maiming, and sexual violence, while the Sudanese Armed Forces were listed for similar offenses. Additionally, the new report blacklisted Congo’s armed forces, as well as 16 armed groups, for violations against children. Meanwhile, rising gang control in Haiti has led to severe crimes against children, including rape and kidnapping. Gamba expressed deep concern about the endemic and systemic nature of grave violations, particularly the rape of girls, across these regions. Associated Press

Death doll from eastern Congo attack rises to 42. At least 42 people were murdered by suspected Islamist militants in the village of Mayikengo, located in North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The attack, which occurred on Wednesday, was confirmed by local officials and a regional army spokesman, who mentioned that a formal statement would follow. This incident follows a similar attack earlier in the week in the same province, where insurgents killed at least 80 people. Lubero administrator Alain Kiwewa reported an initial death toll of 20 to 30, which is expected to rise, and attributed the attack to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group affiliated with the Islamic State, originally from Uganda but active in eastern Congo for nearly 30 years. Sector chief Macaire Sivikunula stated that 25 people, including six women, were initially reported killed, and later added that 17 more bodies were found on a road leading to a village market. The attackers had lured residents to a market meeting and then attacked them with firearms and machetes.  Reuters

Rwanda announces appointment of foreign minister Olivier Nduhungirehe.  Rwandan Prime Minister Edouard Ngirente on Wednesday revealed that Olivier Nduhungirehe, the nation’s ambassador to the Netherlands, has been appointed foreign minister. His predecessor will be reassigned to the interior ministry. Reuters 

CYBER & TECH

President of Microsoft asserts ‘red lines’ required for nation-state attacks.  Microsoft president Brad Smith on Thursday testified before a congressional committee about a 2023 cybersecurity incident in which Chinese government-linked hackers breached senior U.S. officials' email accounts. He accepted responsibility for Microsoft's cybersecurity shortcomings but suggested rivals on the review board might have biased the report against Microsoft. In a tense exchange between the tech executive and lawmakers, who grilled Smith about the company’s transparency regarding the breach and security issues, Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-Fla) said, ‘I just don’t trust what you’re saying.' Smith committed to providing Congress with timelines for implementing the report's 16 recommendations and updates on Microsoft's Secure Future Initiative. He also highlighted a new initiative tying executive compensation to Microsoft's cybersecurity posture, though he could not provide specifics. Smith called for the U.S. government to “draw red lines” to establish clear consequences for nation-state cyberattacks in order to enhance accountability and ensure a public response. Separately, the hearing addressed other cybersecurity issues, including Microsoft's role in protecting U.S. infrastructure and the challenges of deepfake technology. Smith acknowledged the need for more AI guardrails and confronted complaints about Microsoft's new Recall feature, which was recently disabled by default due to security concerns. When questioned repeatedly about a ProPublica report on Microsoft ignoring security warnings before the SolarWinds breach, Smith appeared to become frustrated, before saying he had not read the story and could not comment. This hearing follows a recent one with UnitedHealth CEO Andrew Witty regarding a ransomware attack on its subsidiary. The Record Politico

U.S. spy agencies’ foreign influence center reports it is sending out more private warnings. The U.S. intelligence community’s Foreign Malign Influence Center has issued more warnings about election interference over the past year than since its establishment in 2022. This increase in warnings coincides with the 2024 presidential race. The center, led by Jessica Brandt since late 2023, focuses on threats from diverse adversaries using emerging technologies, like generative AI, and issues warnings to political campaigns, companies, and organizations. Senate lawmakers have expressed concerns about the national security apparatus's readiness to address these threats, urging better processes for detecting foreign influence campaigns. Russia is identified as the primary threat, expected to undermine U.S. support for Ukraine and faith in American institutions. China, however, is more cautious in their campaigns due to potential blowback, while Iran uses disinformation to promote chaos and physical violence. The center follows a nonpartisan vetting process, ensuring the intelligence meets specific criteria before issuing warnings; the process involves a credibility assessment and input from senior career civil servants and federal leaders, aiming for thoughtful and careful actions rather than rushing to judgment. Preparations for the 2024 election include exercises with various agencies, focusing on spotting deepfakes and bolstering ties at state and local levels. Despite these efforts, measuring the ultimate success of thwarting foreign influence campaigns remains challenging. The Record

New York, Michigan city governments face shutdowns, disruptions after ransomware attacks. Multiple U.S. city governments, including Traverse City, Michigan, and Newburgh, New York, are facing ransomware attacks this week, disrupting services and forcing closures. In Traverse City, irregularities were discovered on Wednesday, leading to the shutdown of all county and city networks managed by Grand Traverse County. While essential services like 911 and emergency responders remain unaffected, in-person payments are unavailable, and residents are urged to use online payment systems. The FBI and Michigan State Police are assisting in the recovery efforts. Newburgh City Hall, meanwhile, was forced to close due to a cyberattack discovered on Monday, preventing the processing of payments for taxes, utilities, and permits. External IT experts are working to restore operations, but phone and email systems may experience delays. Emergency services remain operational. The ransomware attacks on these cities coincided with a similar incident in Cleveland, which also resulted in the temporary closure of City Hall. Details about the Cleveland attack are limited due to the ongoing investigation. In 2024, there have been 50 ransomware attacks on U.S. local governments, following 95 confirmed attacks in 2023. The Record

GAO gives U.S. government a nudge to address cyber backlog. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is pushing the White House to confront the extensive list of cybersecurity regulations that need to be addressed as the 2024 election approaches. The GAO has updated its "high-risk list" of areas vulnerable to waste, fraud, abuse, or mismanagement, emphasizing cybersecurity, which has been on the list since 1997. The watchdog’s latest report highlights four main areas: establishing a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, securing federal systems, protecting critical infrastructure, and safeguarding privacy and sensitive data. The White House has not yet implemented 567 out of 1,610 cybersecurity-related recommendations made by the GAO since 2010, and Marisol Cruz Cain, head of information technology and cybersecurity, stressed that many of these recommendations are crucial for national cybersecurity. The office criticized the national cybersecurity strategy for lacking performance measures and estimated costs, limiting its effectiveness. Recent updates to the plan did not address these concerns. The GAO also highlighted that over half of its 126 recommendations on critical infrastructure protection remain unaddressed. It urged federal agencies to ensure best practices against ransomware in sectors like energy, healthcare, and transportation. Cyberscoop

Ukraine’s Cyber Police arrest suspect affiliated with LockBit, Conti ransomware groups. The Ukrainian Cyber Police have announced the arrest of a 28-year-old man from the Kharkiv region suspected of aiding LockBit and Conti ransomware groups by developing decrypters to evade security detections. In late 2021, his tools were allegedly used to infect computers with hidden malware in attacks on enterprises in the Netherlands and Belgium. Authorities conducted searches in both Kyiv and Kharkiv, seizing equipment, phones, and notebooks. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison. The arrest was part of Operation Endgame, which also targeted botnet operators linked to the Conti group. This follows a broader crackdown on cybercrime, including the recent arrest of Taiwanese national Rui-Siang Lin for operating the Incognito Market, a major dark web narcotics marketplace that conducted $100 million in illicit transactions, and launching Antinalysis, a service to check cryptocurrency connections to criminal activities. The crackdown on darknet activities continues, with $1.7 billion received by such markets in 2023, recovering from the closure of Hydra in 2022. GuidePoint Security reported links between the RansomHub ransomware group and the Scattered Spider gang, highlighting social engineering tactics used for credential theft. Enhanced user education and identity verification processes are recommended to combat these tactics. Hacker News

REPORT INFO

The data cutoff for this product was 7:00 a.m. E.T.

Brad Christian, Elaine Shannon, Brian Bonner, Ken Hughes, Katharine Campbell contributed to this report.

Read deeply-experienced, expert-driven national security news, analysis, and opinion in The Cipher Brief