Small Wars Journal

5/9/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Mon, 05/09/2022 - 9:13am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1. Address by the President of Ukraine on the Day of Remembrance and Reconciliation
2. RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 8 (PUTIN'S WAR)
3. Pentagon’s China Warning Prompts Calls to Vet U.S. Funding of Startups
4. Historian Niall Ferguson details 'Cold War II' — which 'began some time ago'
5. Russo-Ukraine War Update - May 9, 2022 | SOF News
6. US diplomats arrive in Kyiv ahead of resumption of embassy operations
7.  Biden admin accelerates plans to reopen Kyiv embassy
8. China says it conducted exercises near Taiwan
9. Ukraine spoils Vladimir Putin’s May 9th parade
10. Putin tries to justify Ukraine invasion in Victory Day speech
11. Inside the battle on the Eastern Front
12.  The Erosion of Liberal Democracy and the Rise of Strongman-ism
13. A Pot of U.N. Money. Risk-Taking Officials. A Sea of Questions.
14. Al-Qaida chief blames US for Ukraine invasion in new video
15. Is America Ready for Chinese-Russian Liminal Warfare?
16. NATO Should Admit Finland and Sweden ASAP
17. Elon Musk Responds After Being Threatened By Russia
18. The Slippery Slope of Intelligence Sharing with Ukraine
19. Stay Calm and Consider 5 Steps on Solomon Islands
20. Don’t Call It a Gray Zone: China’s Use-of-Force Spectrum
21. Can Ukraine’s Military Keep Winning?
22. A Force for the Future - A High-Reward, Low-Risk Approach to AI Military Innovation
23. Too Fragile to Fight: Could the U.S. Military Withstand a War of Attrition?

Korean News Content:

1. N.Korea Fires Missile from Submarine
2. Signs of movement detected at Kaesong Industrial Complex: ministry
3. S. Korea, U.S. closely monitoring N. Korea's nuclear test site: ministry
4. Moon appeals for resumption of inter-Korean dialogue in farewell speech
5. NATO cyber defense group holds ceremony to welcome S. Korea's membership
6. Moon meets with Chinese VP on last day in office
7. N. Korea urges tighter steps against coronavirus amid speculation on possible outbreak
8. Spectacular return of Ri Pyong Chol sends shockwaves through the N. Korean military
9. Joint drill begins a day before new president's term
10. Yoon's inauguration ushers in era of Yongsan
11. Change of power happens tomorrow
12. Why is North Korea's state media silent on recent missile launches?
13. Yoon to start his five-year term with JCS briefing, inauguration ceremony
14. N. Korea sentences young woman to two decades in prison for distributing S. Korean TV shows, movies
15. South Korea's new president carves his own route to the top
16. Analysis: What North Korea learned from Ukraine: Now's the perfect time for a nuclear push
17. South Korea hunts tungsten treasure in race for rare minerals
18. From handshakes to hostilities: How dangerous is the situation in North Korea?

5/8/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Sun, 05/08/2022 - 10:59am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1. RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 7 (PUTIN'S WAR)
2. On World War Two anniversary, Zelenskiy says evil has returned
3. Putin believes he can't "afford to lose" in Ukraine, CIA chief says
4. Chinese calculations on Taiwan affected by Ukraine conflict, says CIA director
5. Forcing Design or Designing Force? The Reinvention of the Marine Corps
6. MARSOC: The US Marines Have Their Very Own 'Special Forces'
7. Nakasone says Cyber Command did nine 'hunt forward' ops last year, including in Ukraine
8. Biden’s trade team: RIP globalization
9. Opinion | The War Is Getting More Dangerous for America, and Biden Knows It
10. As war grinds on, the definition of victory remains murky
11. Biden Already Willing to Increase Recent Defense Spending Request
12. CIA director says China ‘unsettled’ by Ukraine war
13. Pentagon Seeks to Update U.S. Weapons Stocks Depleted by Ukraine Donations
14. We Need More Amphibs, and We Need to Buy Them Smarter
15. How Patton’s Unique Information Forces and Competitive Approach to Information Enabled Operational-Level Success in August 1944
16. Russian Armor Losses Validate Marines' Decision To Dump Their Tanks Says General
17. Russia Pummels Besieged Azovstal Steel Plant
18. 11th Airborne Division - To Be Based in Alaska | SOF News

Korean News Content:

1. ROK says DPRK fires short-range ballistic missile off east coast
2.  N.K. state media outlets remain silent about SLBM launch
3. N. Korea repaired missile-capable submarine before using in latest SLBM launch: sources
4. Northeast Asian Security Will Require North Korea’s Regional Reintegration
5. Signs of nuclear test preparations at Punggye-ri nuclear test site
6. Time for a joint strategic research with the U.S.
7. Reading North Korea
8. Improving North Korean Defector Integration in South Korea: Survey Findings and Recommendations
9. Yoon’s Key North Korea Challenges: Pyongyang’s Increasing Hostility and Washington’s Backslide Into Strategic Patience
10. Two Koreas go tit-for-tat ahead of South's change in administration
11. 'Little LA' planned near new presidential office
12. Will South Korea boost ties with Europe amid China-US rivalry?
13. Psychologists found a "striking" difference in intelligence after examining twins raised apart in South Korea and the United States
 

The PLA’s Evolving Outlook on Urban Warfare: Learning, Training, and Implications for Taiwan ZFTWARNING Sat, 05/07/2022 - 1:32pm

5/7/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Sat, 05/07/2022 - 10:42am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1. RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 6 (PUTIN'S WAR)
2. Russia’s offensive in Donbas bogs down
3. ‘I Simply Refuse’: Wiretaps Catch Putin’s Troops Breaking Own Tanks in Sabotage Scheme
4. US seeks to downplay role in sinking of Russian warship
5. THE PLA’S EVOLVING OUTLOOK ON URBAN WARFARE: LEARNING, TRAINING, AND IMPLICATIONS FOR TAIWAN
6. US intelligence told to keep quiet over role in Ukraine military triumphs
7. The Croesus Delusion: Why We Habitually Misread Sun Tzu
8. Training, Weapons, Intel: The US Military's Slow Slide Toward Confrontation with Russia over Ukraine
9. Putin’s Private Army Accused of Raping New Moms on Maternity Ward
10. CIA instructs Russians on how to share secrets with the spy agency
11. The Lessons Taiwan Is Learning From Ukraine
12. Putin’s Next Power Play Is a Parade
13. China’s Xi Proposes Global Security Initiative
14. Taiwan jets scramble as China air force enters air defence zone
15. Shadow Risk: How Gray Zone Campaigns Can Escalate
16. The mystery of the Moskva and Makarov
17. To Save Democracy and Defeat Putin, Give Up ‘the West’
18. Where’s Biden on growing nuclear threats?
19. Ukrainian tractors vs. Russian tanks: The hundred-year history behind the meme
20. How the West should respond to China’s search for foreign outposts
21. Pentagon moves $1.45 billion to restock Javelin, Stinger missiles sent to Ukraine

Korean News Content:

1.  North Korea fires suspected missile into sea
2. New conservative South Korean leader prepares for inauguration with pledge for deeper ties to U.S.
3. N. Korea could stage nuclear test this month: State Dept.
4. North Korea Fires Off Suspected Sub-Launched Ballistic Missile
5. Incoming gov't vows to reassess N.K. threats as soon as it takes office
6.  Yoon says any meetings with N.K. leader should be for 'tangible' results
7. Top nuke envoys of S. Korea, U.S. condemn N.K. missile launch in phone call
8. The Yoon-Biden summit imagined
9. Biden will reaffirm ‘ironclad’ defense commitment to S.Korea, Japan against N.Korea on Asia trip
10. Rebooting Talks With North Korea
11. Taiwan Expects GDP to Overtake Korea's
12. North Korea Is Back
13. Treasury sanctions cryptocurrency tool tied to North Korean hackers
14. North Korea denounces Sweden, Finland over NATO application
15. Treasury sanctions crypto service that helped N. Koreans launder funds

5/6/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Fri, 05/06/2022 - 7:00am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1.  RUSSIAN CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 5 (PUTIN'S WAR)
2. UKRAINE INVASION UPDATE 25
3. U.S. provided intelligence that helped Ukraine sink Russian warship
4. Army Creating Second Paratrooper Division as Service Forges New Identity for Arctic Troops
5. Andy Levin’s ‘Two-State Bill’ Won’t Support Middle East Peace
6. Defenders inside Ukrainian steel mill refuse to surrender
7. How millions of Russians are tearing holes in the Digital Iron Curtain
8. Ukraine Brutally Trolls Putin With App Tracking Russian Deaths
9. Why the Philippine election could be a win for China
10. Can the Intelligence Community Tell What’s Brewing in Afghanistan?
11. A View From the Trenches on the Debate Wracking the Marine Corps
12. Russia Just Lost Its Most Advanced Operational Tank In Ukraine
13. An Airfield Too Far: Failures at Market Garden and Antonov Airfield
14. Pentagon in damage control mode over report that US intel was used to kill Russian generals
15. NCOs: America Has Them, China Wants Them, Russia is Struggling Without Them
16. China Likely to Use ‘Nuclear Coercion’ in Bid to Take Taiwan by 2027, STRATCOM Chief Says
17. How to Save the Postwar Order
18. The Trouble With “the Free World”
19. Why the battle for Mariupol is important for Vladimir Putin.
20. U.S. offers assurances to Sweden, Finland over NATO application
21. NSA cyber boss seeks to discourage vigilante hacking against Russia
22. For first time, France talks openly about sending weapons to Ukraine

Korean News Content:

1. US assesses that North Korea may be ready to conduct underground nuclear test this month
2. North Koreans roll their eyes during May Day lectures about socialism's superiority
3. U.S., South Korean Defense Leaders Condemn North Korean Missile Launch
4. The Mirage of Kim-Moon-Trump (KMT) Summit Diplomacy
5. U.S. Senate unanimously approves Goldberg as new ambassador to S. Korea
6. Biden will reaffirm U.S. commitment to defense of S. Korea, Japan through Asia tour: Psaki
7. U.S. remains capable of defending homeland against N. Korean missiles: Gen. VanHerck
8. Unification ministry to hold cultural events for N. Korean defectors next week
9. North Korea: Kim’s Power Play Trap And Nuclear Brinkmanship – Analysis
10. New Ransomware Variant Linked to North Korean Cyber Army
11. S. Korea's spy agency joins NATO cyber defense group
12. From Kim-Trump summits to missile tests: The failures of South Korea's President Moon
13. Kim Jong-un Doubles Down on Nuclear Threat
14. N. Koreans face their worst spring famine since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic
15. N. Korea issues new KPW 50,000 cash vouchers for use in commercial transactions
16. N.Korean Missile Test 'Fails'

Ukraine: WAR BULLETIN May 5, 6.00 pm EST The seventy-first day of the heroic resistance of the Ukrainian people to a Russian military invasion continues.

Fri, 05/06/2022 - 12:24am
 

 Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the United Nations

 

WAR BULLETIN

May 5, 6.00 pm EST

 

WAR ROOM

 

General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The total combat losses of the enemy from 24.02 to 05.05 were approximate:

personnel - about 24700 (+200),

tanks ‒ 1092 (+15),

APV ‒ 2651 (+41),

artillery systems – 499 (+8),

MLRS - 169 (+6),

Anti-aircraft warfare systems - 83 (+2),

aircraft – 196 (+2),

helicopters – 155 (+0),

vehicles and fuel tanks - 1907 (+40),

boats / cutters - 10 (+0),

UAV operational-tactical level - 312 (+9).

special equipment - 38 (+0).

cruise missiles - 89 (+2).

Russian enemy suffered the greatest losses (of the past day) in the Popasna direction.

Data are being updated.

The seventy-first day of the heroic resistance of the Ukrainian people to a Russian military invasion continues.

The enemy does not stop conducting offensive operations in the Eastern Operational Zone in order to establish full control over the territory of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and maintain the land corridor with the temporarily occupied Ukrainian Crimea.

At the same time, the enemy is provoking tensions in the Transnistrian region of the Republic of Moldova. Carries out a regrouping of troops in certain areas, and takes measures to replenish reserves. the enemy is trying to improve the tactical position of his units.

In the Slobozhansky direction, the enemy continues to shell the city of Kharkiv and reconnoitre the positions of units of the Defence Forces of Ukraine. In the area north of the city of Izyum continues artillery and mortar shelling.

Russian artillery shelling along the line of contact continues in the Donetsk and Tavriya directions. The enemy uses operational-tactical and army aircraft to launch missile and bomb strikes in order to restrain the actions of Ukrainian troops.

The enemy units are trying to conduct offensive operations in the Lyman, Severodonetsk and Popasnyansk areas, but have been unsuccessful.

In the Avdiiv and Kurakhiv directions, the enemy continues to shell the positions of the defenders of Ukraine.

In the Mariupol area, the occupiers are focusing their efforts on blocking and trying to destroy Ukrainian units in the Azovstal area. With the support of aircraft, the enemy resumed the offensive in order to take control of the plant.

According to available information, some servicemen of the 38th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of the 35th Combined Arms Army of the Eastern Military District, after being taken to the recovery area, due to significant personnel losses, refused to continue participating in hostilities in Ukraine. The mentioned servicemen are in the area near the Ukrainian-Russian border and are waiting to be transferred to the Russian Federation.

Units of the 2nd Army Corps of the 8th Combined Arms Army of the Southern Military District, located in the village of Svativskyi district of Luhansk oblast, staffed by locals from nearby settlements have low morale and psychological condition, significant problems with weapons and equipment and not ready to perform tasks.

The enemy did not conduct active hostilities in the South Buh area. It fired missiles and bombs at the positions of Ukrainian troops and the infrastructure of the region.

Due to the successful actions of Ukrainian defenders, the enemy lost control over several settlements on the border of the Mykolayiv and Kherson regions.

On the previous day, the air defence units of the Air Force and the Land Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine had hit nine air targets: four UAVs (two of them anti-aircraft missile units of the Land Forces) and three enemy cruise missiles. Two planes were also hit. Previously - Su-30 fighters. The information is being clarified.

Eleven enemy attacks were repulsed in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts over the past 24 hours, five tanks, seven units of armoured combat vehicles and five units of enemy vehicles were destroyed.

In the temporarily occupied territories, occupiers continue to steal the products of agricultural enterprises and accuse the Government of Ukraine of creating a humanitarian catastrophe in the territory controlled by the occupiers. The invaders imitate humanitarian activities with the demonstrative distribution of food kits and medicines to local residents.

The enemy continues to launch missile strikes on transport infrastructure to prevent the movement of humanitarian aid and military-technical assistance.

The use of mortars and artillery along almost the entire line of contact continues.

Engineering equipment for positions in the border areas of the Kursk region continues in the Seversky direction.

In the Slobozhansky direction, the enemy tried to restore the lost positions near the city of Kharkiv, and made an unsuccessful attempt to attack near the settlement of Stary Saltiv.

Due to the constant sanitary losses of personnel, the enemy is increasing the system of medical support of troops, using a network of civilian medical institutions in the temporarily occupied territories of Kharkiv region. The occupiers built a hospital on the basis of Kupyansk City Hospital.

The enemy does not stop trying to improve the tactical position of its units in the area of ​​the city of Izyum, carries out artillery shelling of nearby settlements, and it has no success.

Due to heavy losses, Russians withdrew units from the 4th Tank Division of the 1st Tank Army and the 106th Airborne Division of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation to rebuild.

In the Donetsk direction, the enemy tried to capture Popasna, take full control of the city of Rubizhne and provide favorable conditions for the continuation of the offensive in the direction of the cities of Lyman and Severodonetsk, but was unsuccessful.

In the South Bug area, Russian enemy focused on fortifying positions and replenishing ammunition, fuel, and logistics.

Administrative and policy measures are underway in the temporarily occupied territories. Russian occupiers continue to carry out filtering measures against local residents, preventing evacuations to the territory controlled by the UkraiFnian authorities. At the same time, Russian occupiers are taking measures to replenish persFonnel losses through accelerated training of military servicemen under contract.

 

State Service of Special Communication and Information Protection

Russian invaders are trying to leave Ukrainians in occupied areas with no access to true information. Residents of Kherson region and a part of Zaporizhzhia region were left without communication last week. Due to enemy shelling, the fiber optic network was damaged and a number of exchange points de-energized in Kherson.

“As of the morning May 4, mobile service operators have restored communication in Kherson city and region by using backup power lines. Terrestrial communication service has also been restored,” the State Service of Special Communication and Information Protection (SSSCIP) Head Yurii Shchyhol reports.

He has also informed about the cases of re-routing fiber-optic lines and comm stations by the occupants to connect Ukrainian internet users to the Russian network.

“This is a gross violation of international law. We have already requested the International Telecommunication Union to impose appropriate sanctions on the Russian Federation and cancel the aggressor country’s membership in the Union,” Yuii Shchyhol points out.

The SSSCIP Head is convinced that communications will be restored in all the territories, currently controlled by Russians. It will happen right after these territories are either liberated or the network operators can access the infrastructure. Ukraine will never abandon its people.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/obirvanij-okupantami-zvyazok-u-hersoni-ta-hersonskij-oblasti-vidnovleno-golova-derzhspeczvyazku-yurij-shchigol

 

Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights

The occupiers plan to block access to Instagram and Facebook in the Kherson region.

The media reported that in the territory of the Kherson region temporarily occupied by Russian troops, the occupiers plan to block local residents from accessing social networks, including Instagram and Facebook.

Such actions will significantly complicate the communication of citizens with their relatives and friends.

It will also significantly limit the ability of citizens to access socially important information from government agencies, especially about the danger to life and health.

Such actions violate Articles 8 and 10 of the Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms and the 1949 Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War.

https://bit.ly/3LR8WUe

 

The largest nuclear power plant in Ukraine and Europe Zaporizhzhya NPP (ZNPP) has been under the control of the Russian military for over 2 months.

Russia is under constant pressure and harassment of ZNPP personnel, in particular, the station's management is prohibited from leaving the city of Energodar.

As a result of such actions by the Russian Federation, a meeting of the Council of Chief Engineers of NNEGC Energoatom, which addressed urgent issues of physical safety of nuclear facilities, nuclear and radiation safety and repairs of nuclear facilities, was held without the participation of a representative of ZNPP.

In order to comply with the norms of nuclear, radiation and environmental safety, it is extremely important for ZNPP specialists to be present at such meetings, because, despite the Russian occupation, ZNPP continues to operate in Ukraine's energy system.

Currently, the ecological, fire and radiation conditions on the territory of the industrial site and the sanitary protection zone of ZNPP are within the norm.

I emphasize that the capture of ZNPP and the regular flights of cruise missiles over Ukrainian nuclear facilities pose an environmental threat to the world.

Russia's actions at the Zaporizhzhya NPP are a crime against humanity and a war crime as defined in Articles 7 and 8 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, and an act of nuclear terrorism.

https://bit.ly/38Vy2Tp

 

Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine

During recent days, the Russian military is more often stealing hundreds of thousands of tons of grain in the occupied territories of Ukraine.

Today in Ukraine there are in total of about 25 million tons of grain and oilseeds. If we talk about the temporarily occupied territories, there at the time of the occupation remained about 1 million 300 thousand tons of grain. In terms of providing food for all 40 million Ukrainians, Ukraine has sufficient reserves in the controlled area. If compare the areas that are currently temporarily unavailable in these areas, it turns out about minus 30%. And to provide food for all 40 million Ukrainians, the required sown area is about 35%.

https://www.facebook.com/mapfu2021

 

 

 

POLICY

 

President of Ukraine 

Speech by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the High-Level International Donors' Conference in Support of Ukraine in Warsaw

After ten weeks of the full-scale war of the Russian Federation against Ukraine, our meeting in this format and for this purpose proves that Ukraine, Europe and the whole free world are on the way to a common victory.

Our state retains full functionality. Our continent is united. Millions and millions of people around the world support us to make tyranny lose.

The Armed Forces of Ukraine and all our heroic defenders bravely and firmly defend freedom on the battlefield. But how this brutal war will end is decided not only on the battlefield. But also in the aspects of economy, finance, humanitarian support, the ability to ensure a normal life in the territory free from the enemy, in rebuilding what was destroyed by the Russian army.

Freedom must demonstrate that it protects and provides for people better than tyranny, which has enjoyed a massive flow of money for oil, gas and other raw materials for decades.

That's how freedom will win. That is why this conference is important for everyone in Europe. Both strategically and tactically important.

First. Sufficient financial resources are needed so that Ukrainian men and women are provided with everything they need while the war continues. The Ukrainian state, as the administrator of these funds, will ensure all urgent needs - both defensive and social and humanitarian.

Second. We are already preparing a large-scale Recovery Plan for Ukraine after the war and need a strategic international support plan for Ukraine that will be a modern analogue of the historic Marshall Plan. It is money, technology, expertise and growth opportunities that are needed to return to a secure life, to modernization and to social development.

It will be an investment in the stability of the whole of central and eastern Europe. So that the aggressor knows that it will not break the power of Europe and all free nations. And so that everything destroyed by the war is rebuilt at a high level.

The reconstruction of Ukraine must now become the same historical example for our time and for the future as the restoration of European countries after World War II. And such free world’s investments, if they are fast, if they are sufficient, will mean that millions of our people who became IDPs because of this war will be able to return home.

We offer our partners - civilized and responsible states - to take patronage over those regions, over those cities, over those industries of Ukraine that have suffered from the war waged by Russia. Take patronage to work with us to rebuild these regions, our cities, towns and industries.

Such a patronage project can create a new and equally historic example of interaction and partnership between the free world, between the regions, cities and companies of Europe and democratic countries.

Third. Ukraine’s quick movement to the European Union is needed through its candidate status, which must be granted right now - in conditions of war. As part of a special shortened procedure for EU membership. Because this war of Russia against Ukraine was planned as a prelude to a strike at a united Europe. Greater unification is a powerful answer. That is why Ukraine's membership in the European Union must be an absolute reality. Not just promises, not just prospects, but practical steps.

I know we are ready for these steps. And you know it, too. And I am sure that most of you, European leaders, are also ready for this.

I am very grateful to Poland and Sweden, to Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki and Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson for organizing this important high-level donor conference.

I am very grateful to President of the European Council Charles Michel and to President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen for their leadership, which makes Europe a true defender of the most important thing - freedom.

I am grateful to all the participants of the Conference for being with us in this war for a free and democratic life for millions of people. Not only for Ukraine. But for all of us who may be threatened by tyranny.

I believe that Europe will show its strength today. You will show your strength. In particular, international institutions - UN institutions, whose representatives are here with us now and can be even more effective. Because this is for our common freedom.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/mininfrastrukturi-vnaslidok-masovanogo-raketnogo-udaru-zavdano-shkodi-6-zaliznichnim-pidstanciyam-v-centralnih-ta-zahidnih-oblastyah

 

President of Ukraine held an online meeting with the 43rd President of the United States George W. Bush

"It is a great honor to meet you. I would like to thank the United States of America, the American people. I saw how people in the United States treat us on social networks, they take to the streets, support Ukraine with flags," the President said.

The 43rd President of the United States expressed his support for Volodymyr Zelenskyy and all the Ukrainian people in the fight against the aggressor.

"Your courage is very important for further success. If you continue to do what you do, you will always have our support if you continue to fight as you do now," said George W. Bush.

The President of Ukraine stressed that our state feels real help and sincere support from the United States.

"Americans are sincere, open-minded people, and I feel it. We have common values. I feel that it is from the heart," the President said.

The 43rd President of the United States noted the resilience of Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine in resisting the invaders.

"Your country has been invaded by forces that want to kill innocent people. And the fact that you stand firm inspires Americans," said George W. Bush.

For his part, the President of Ukraine recalled the tragic events that took place in the United States on September 11, 2001. He noted that at that time many Ukrainians sympathized with the American people and shared the pain of relatives and friends of the victims of the terrorist act.

 

"Our conversation is important to me because you are an example of a strong leader," said Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The President invited the 43rd President of the United States to visit Ukraine at his convenience.

https://www.president.gov.ua/en/news/prezident-ukrayini-proviv-onlajn-zustrich-iz-43-m-prezidento-74813

 

Andriy Smyrnov discussed with Amnesty International delegation the establishment of special international tribunal on Russian crimes

Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Smyrnov met with a delegation of the international non-governmental human rights organization Amnesty International led by Secretary General Agnès Callamard.

Agnès Callamard stressed that Amnesty International seeks to focus the attention of as many countries as possible on the problem of the war in Ukraine. In particular, the organization plans to interact with representatives of the media and civil society.

The Deputy Head of the Office of the President noted that Ukraine needs strong support from the international community in documenting war crimes committed by Russia in our country. According to him, the International Criminal Court is already working on the cases in which evidence of Russian crimes during the war in Ukraine is being investigated, but the inevitability of punishment for top officials of the aggressor country must be inevitable.

Andriy Smyrnov stressed the importance of establishing a special international criminal tribunal, which will be able to quickly assess the evidence of crimes of Russian aggression against Ukraine.

"Active multi-level consultations are underway at various international platforms on the need to establish and launch a mechanism for such a tribunal," said the Deputy Head of the Office of the President.

He noted that last week the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe adopted two resolutions calling for the establishment of an international tribunal.

"Ukraine's representation at the level of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and the President's Office is involved in the negotiation process with allied countries, with which the model and forms of operation of such a tribunal are being discussed," Andriy Smyrnov said.

"Given the obvious signs of aggression, all the evidence that the civilized world has seen, the horrible crimes committed by the aggressor country - Russia, in my opinion, the assessment of this fact should be given as soon as possible. And the entire military-political leadership of the aggressor country must bear severe and unavoidable responsibility for this," he stressed.

The Deputy Head of the Office of the President noted that among the issues being discussed is also the location of such a tribunal.

"We are in favor of it being located in Ukraine. In Bucha, Irpin, Borodyanka or in Kyiv. Ukraine is ready to provide full technical and organizational support for the work of such a tribunal," Andriy Smyrnov said.

He stressed that the new tribunal should not be overburdened with a large number of powers in order to avoid conflicts of jurisdiction with other international judicial institutions. However, time must show how quickly the existing international institutions will be able to assess the convincing evidence of Russia's war crimes against Ukraine and its citizens.

"Ukrainian society, its citizens tortured by Russian war criminals, all those who have endured any form of suffering as a result of Russia's war against Ukraine, destroyed Ukrainian business - all are waiting for answers to these questions. And this legal assessment must be given within a reasonable time. Both politically, in a global context, and legally - in the judiciary," said the Deputy Head of the Office of the President.

Andriy Smyrnov also informed the Amnesty International delegation about the work of Ukraine's judicial system in wartime.

During the meeting, Amnesty International representatives presented the President's Office with a vine sapling. Human rights activists said the plant was brought from the Syrian region, which was completely destroyed by the Russian army. This is a gift from the Syrian people, which supports the democratic aspirations of Ukrainians.

Andriy Smyrnov noted that he would personally hand over the vine sapling to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

https://www.president.gov.ua/en/news/andrij-smirnov-obgovoriv-z-delegaciyeyu-amnesty-internationa-74797

 

Prime Minister of Ukraine

Ukraine is developing a Recovery Plan and a Recovery Fund - United24 Recovery, announced Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal in his speech at the High-Level International Donors' Conference in support of Ukraine, held on May 5 in Warsaw, Poland.

The Head of Government noted a month ago the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and him personally called on European cities to take under the patronage their mutilated Ukrainian sister cities.

"The outcome has exceeded my expectations. The United Kingdom has agreed to take care of the restoration of the Kyiv region. Denmark took under the patronage Mykolayiv. Greece is ready to help Odesa. This is a good start. But Kharkiv, Sumy, Chernihiv are waiting for your help. Hundreds of towns and villages across our country are waiting. And I know definitely, they will get this help," said Denys Shmyhal.

Denys Shmyhal accentuated every state, every region, every city can participate in the Recovery Plan for Ukraine. For its part, Ukraine is developing recovery parameters for each sector.

“In synergy we will determine what Ukrainian cities should be like and what the Ukrainian economy should be like. Which technologies and areas are preferred, which rules business should abide by, what future Ukraine we should build. Modern, European, environment-friendly and developed. And aftermath we invite every country, every region, every city in the world to directly take part in the reconstruction,” noted the Prime Minister.

The Head of Government highlighted that Ukraine was planning not just to rebuild what had been destroyed or ruined by the oppresso but was striving to build a new European country. From green technologies to European construction standards. From agricultural processing to self-sufficiency in the energy domain. From the development of the military-industrial complex to climate modernization. From the free European market to the urban spaces of the modern age.

“Each of you can help build your part of the country of dreams - the future Ukraine. This is not an allegory. We have created the United24 platform. And each of you can join in helping Ukraine. People, corporations, countries, organizations. Everything will be transparent. Delloite’s audit. Reports on the website. Everything will be available. U24.gov.ua. Please, join,” the Head of Government summed up.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/harkiv-sumi-chernigiv-ta-sotni-mistechok-i-sil-chekayut-dopomogi-partneriv-u-vidnovlenni-denis-shmigal

 

During a working visit to Warsaw on May 5, the Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal met with the Prime Minister of Iceland Katrín Jakobsdóttir. The parties discussed the consequences of Russia's war against Ukraine and the need to prolong sanctions pressure against the terrorist country. 

The Prime Minister of Ukraine told that Russia continued to block Ukrainian seaports, which poses a food crisis threat to the world. This is another crisis that Russia is trying to generate after the energy and migration crisis.

"We cannot smothly deliver 90 million tons of agricultural products to Europe, Asia and Africa. We are discussing with our partners the need to create green transport corridors to safely deliver goods by sea. Otherwise, the world is threatened by a global food crisis that could last several years. This is a global challenge for the whole world," said the Head of the Ukrainian Government. 

Denys Shmyhal stressed the importance of consolidating the efforts of the international community to stop Russia and its attempts to undermine stability around the world. According to him, the world community must be united as never before to put pressure on Russia and force them to stop the blockade of Ukrainian ports. It is crucial to secure the delivery of Ukrainian agricultural products and other goods to the EU.

"They are waging war not only against Ukraine, they are fighting against the whole democratic world. In order to be able to confront effectively and in a consolidated way, we need four things that I constantly emphasize on. Weapons, sanctions, financing of our country to maintain macrofinancial stability. The need to give Ukraine a European perspective also remains crucial," Denys Shmyhal stressed. 

The Prime Minister of Iceland, Katrín Jakobsdóttir, expressed her strong support for Ukraine and stressed the importance of continuing to provide humanitarian and financial assistance to our country and intensifying sanctions pressure on Russia.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/premyer-ministri-ukrayini-ta-islandiyi-obgovorili-shlyahi-protidiyi-prodovolchij-krizi-yaku-provokuye-rosiya

 

5/5/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Thu, 05/05/2022 - 7:11am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1. RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 4 (PUTIN'S WAR)
2. Retired US major general: What it will take for the Ukrainians to win
3. Putin Has a Problem: Are Russian Soldiers Breaking Their Own Tanks?
4. U.S. Intelligence Is Helping Ukraine Kill Russian Generals, Officials Say
5. U.S. nuclear commander warns of deterrence ‘crisis’ against Russia and China
6. U.S. to boost defense posture, prepositioned stocks in Indo-Pacific: Austin
7. The War Over Ukrainian Identity
8. The West vs. the Rest
9. The War in Ukraine Calls for a Reset of Biden’s Foreign Policy
10. Finland’s New Frontier
11. U.S. Sent Cyber Team to Lithuania Over Russia Hacking Threat
12. Taiwan's military is training for urban warfare against Chinese troops. Here's the kind of fight they're facing.
13. Special Operations Command Europe kicks off Trojan Footprint 22 with participants from more than 30 nations
14. US, Japan Defense Ministers Pledge To Defend Rules-Based Order
15. Better weather may shift Russia’s fortunes in Ukraine
16. Global NATO Takes Shape Ahead of US-ASEAN Meet
17. Why Hasn’t Russia Unleashed ‘Cybergeddon’ in Its War on Ukraine?
18. How Layered Defense in Ukraine is Shaping Future U.S. Military Operations
19. In new directive, US Army reins in Army Futures Command
20.  US ramps up training of Ukrainian forces
 

Korean News Content:

1. N. Korea's media mute about latest missile test
2. U.S. condemns N. Korea's missile launch, urges Pyongyang to engage in dialogue
3. President Biden Announces Presidential Delegation to the Republic of Korea to Attend the Inauguration of His Excellency Yoon Suk Yeol
4. S. Korea mulling expanding support to Ukraine: trade chief
5. U.S. may discuss deployment of additional THAAD system to S. Korea: State Dept.
6. North Korea fires ballistic missile amid rising animosities
7. North Korea cracks down on 'capitalist' pop culture
8. Pope Francis, Japan’s Kishida discuss hopes for nuclear-free world after North Korea test launch, Ukraine war
9. What do young North Koreans think about the country's recent military parade?
10. Yoon names 19 presidential secretaries
11. China says it is set for stronger cooperation with new S. Korean gov't
12. N. Korea slams South’s new president Yoon as ‘pro-US’ and ‘confrontational’
13. Has Moon Jae-in’s North Korea Peace Process Failed?
14. Phillip Goldberg on his way to being U.S. envoy to Seoul

Ukraine: WAR BULLETIN May 3, 6.00 pm EST

Wed, 05/04/2022 - 9:49pm

Embassy of Ukraine in the USA

 

WAR BULLETIN

May 3, 6.00 pm EST

 

WAR ROOM

 

General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The total combat losses of the enemy from 24.02 to 03.05 were approximately:

personnel - about 24200 (+400),

tanks ‒ 1062 (+14) од,

APV ‒ 2567 (+48) од,

artillery systems – 475 (+16) од,

MLRS - 162 (+10) од,

Anti-aircraft warfare systems - 80 (+0) од,

aircraft – 194 (+0) од,

helicopters – 155 (+0) од,

vehicles and fuel tanks - 1843 (+19) од,

boats / cutters - 10 (+2) од,

UAV operational-tactical level - 291 (+20).

special equipment - 38 (+0).

cruise missiles - 84 (+0).

Russian enemy suffered the greatest losses (of the past day) in the Izyum direction.

The sixty-ninth day of the heroic resistance of the Ukrainian people to a russian military invasion continues.

The enemy is taking measures to replenish significant losses of equipment in units of the armed forces conducting hostilities on the territory of Ukraine. According to available information, in the city of Boguchar, Voronezh region, between April 27 and May 2, 2022, seventeen tanks and sixty BMP-1 were taken out of storage. They were sent to the Ukrainian territories temporarily occupied.

In the Izyum direction, the enemy exerted active fire on units of Ukrainian troops.

In the Donetsk direction, the main efforts of the enemy continue to focus on establishing full control over the settlements of Rubizhne and Popasna and advancing in the direction of the settlements of Lyman and Slovyansk.

The enemy did not conduct active hostilities in the South Buh area. It continued to fire on units of our troops along the line of contact.

During the previous day, the Air Defence and Land Forces air defense units hit seven Orlan-10 UAVs and one Forpost UAV.

Twelve enemy attacks have been repulsed in Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts in the past 24 hours, six tanks, five artillery systems, twenty-two units of armoured combat vehicles and eight units of enemy vehicles have been destroyed.

Russians also suffered losses in other areas.

The enemy does not stop conducting offensive operations in the Eastern Operational Zone in order to establish full control over the territory of Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts and maintain the land corridor between these territories and the temporarily occupied Crimea.

In the Slobozhansky direction, the enemy operates as a group of the 6th Combined Arms Army of the Western Military District, the 41st Combined Arms Army of the Central Military District, and the coastal troops of the Baltic and Northern Fleets. The city of Kharkiv continues to launch airstrikes and shell artillery.

In the Izyum direction, the enemy, by forces of separate units of the 1st Tank Army, the 20th Combined Arms Army of the Western Military District; The 29th, 35th, and 36th Combined Arms Armies, and the 68th Army Corps of the Eastern Military District and Airborne Troops are conducting offensive operations in the direction of Izyum-Barvinkove and they suffer losses.

To support their actions, the occupiers moved a battery of 240-mm Tulip heavy self-propelled mortars and a unit armed with Tornado multiple rocket launchers from the Belgorod region to the Izyum area.

In the temporarily occupied territories of Kharkiv oblast, the enemy continues to carry out filtration measures. To do this, it additionally involves units of the Rosguard.

In the Donetsk and Tavriya directions, groups of Russian troops, forces of separate units of the 1st and 2nd Army Corps, the 8th and 58th Combined Arms Armies of the Southern Military District; 5th Combined Arms Army, and Pacific Fleet of the Eastern Military District; the 2nd and 41st Combined Arms Armies and the 90th Tank Division of the Central Military District and Airborne Forces are conducting offensive operations on a certain section of the line of contact. The occupiers are carrying out airstrikes and artillery shelling of our troops' positions.

The enemy continues to focus on the offensive in the Lyman, Severodonetsk, Popasnyansk, Avdiivka, and Kurakhiv areas in order to take full control of the settlements of Rubizhne, Popasna and develop the offensive in the directions of the Lyman, Siversk, and Slovyansk.

In order to improve the system of logistics, the enemy continues to deploy in certain areas warehouses with ammunition, fuel, and oil, as well as organized a point for repair and restoration of damaged equipment.

At the same time, on some borders, the enemy carries out the equipment of the second line of defense.

In the city of Mariupol, the enemy continues to block units of Ukrainian troops in the area of ​​the Azovstal plant. Carries out fire damage by artillery and tanks on the territory of the metallurgical plant.

In the Tavriya direction, the enemy continues to conduct demonstrations and manoeuvrers in order to restrain the actions of units of the Defence Forces of Ukraine and prevent their transfer to other directions.

In the South Bug area, the enemy is fighting with the 8th and 49th Combined Arms Armies, the 22nd Army Corps, the Black Sea Fleet Coast Guard, and the Airborne Forces to improve the tactical situation, and continues to fire on units of our troops. the enemy is regrouping troops, increasing the system of fire destruction, air defense, and logistics.

The situation in the Transnistrian region of the Republic of Moldova remains difficult. Units of the operational group of the troops continue to be in full combat readiness. Armed formations of the Transnistrian region of the Republic of Moldova are serving in an enhanced mode. Preparations are underway for the evacuation of the families of officers of the task force of the Russian troops.

In the Volyn, Polissya, and Siversky directions, certain units of the Armed Forces of the republic of belarus continue to carry out tasks to strengthen the Ukrainian-Belarusian border in the Brest and Gomel regions. In the area of ​​the settlement of Khmelivka, Sumy region, the activities of enemy sabotage and reconnaissance group were exposed.

Ships of the Black Sea Fleet in the Black and Azov Seas continue to launch missile strikes on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine, to isolate the area of ​​hostilities, reconnaissance, and fire support in the coastal direction.

Units of the Defence Forces of Ukraine continue to inflict losses on russian enemy. Thus, according to available information, as a result of effective and coordinated actions of defenders of Ukraine, units of the 38th Separate Motorized Rifle Brigade of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation lost about 60 percent of the dead and wounded.

 

Prosecutor General’s Office of Ukraine

In the Mykolaiv region territory, the bodies of local residents with traces of gunshot wounds and torture were found in a mass grave. One men's legs were tied. Nearby, traces of Russian military personnel stay were found.

https://www.facebook.com/pgo.gov.ua/posts/362233715939468

 

Ukrainian Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights

The active mobilization of men in the temporarily occupied territories continues. The occupants have resorted to the forced conscription of men who are unfit for military service in accordance with medical conclusions. It is possible to avoid mobilization only with a bribe, which is why corruption is flourishing in the temporarily occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions.

https://www.facebook.com/denisovaombudsman/posts/533144408166836

 

Russians attract Ukrainian children to support the war against Ukraine. In occupied Sevastopol, a musical marathon "For a World without Nazism" was held. Occupants dedicated it in the memory of citizens who were "tortured by fascists - Ukrainian nationalists". Children dressed in military uniforms and carrying Russian flags were also involved in this "event," as a vivid example of hate propaganda against everything Ukrainian.

 https://www.facebook.com/denisovaombudsman/posts/533163931498217

 

 

POLICY

 

President of Ukraine 

Speech by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Verkhovna Rada

First of all, I would like to thank the leader of the United Kingdom, Boris Johnson, and all the people of the United Kingdom. For the words we hear. For the actions we see. For the support we feel. For the help we actually receive. For the victory that we will definitely gain together!

On October 8, 2020, our countries became strategic partners. And on February 24, 2022, we proved that our partnership is not on paper. Our partnership is on the battlefield. In the battles for common ideals, battles for a common future.

It has been almost ten weeks since the Russian Federation declared full-scale war against them and invaded our beautiful Ukrainian land. During this time, Ukraine and Britain have gone a path from partners to friends and brothers. And the one who lied that he is a friend and a brother has gone a path from a neighbor to an occupier and a terrorist. Is it sad? Yes. Is it scary? No. Because these almost ten weeks have proved: it is not scary when such an evil enemy is against you if such a good friend is next to you. Such as Great Britain. And leader Boris Johnson.

I would like to thank the United Kingdom, which is bringing this moment closer with us and which is ready to guarantee our security. And this gratitude of mine is not a formality. Because I know that the guarantees of Great Britain will never be a formality for Ukraine. Because these almost ten weeks have proved that your word is solid and your actions are decisive. Without any "almost". I hate that word - "almost".

As well as our interaction and support of British allies. First of all, it is a weapon and equipment for our military, which protects both Ukraine, Europe and the whole world from the Russian occupiers. I will not voice all the details to the public - let it be an unpleasant surprise for the aggressor every day.

Instead, I can speak openly about all other forms of support. This is humanity. And help for our refugees and internally displaced persons. Medicines, food, ambulances and fire engines and other large humanitarian aid. This is justice. And assistance in the investigation of war crimes of the Russian Federation in Ukraine. This is resilience. Macro-financial assistance for our economy. This is the abolition of customs duties, the abolition of quotas for our bilateral trade. This is the reconstruction of our land, this is the reconstruction of Kyiv and the Kyiv region, which will be joined by Great Britain.

These are important global things. Sanctions against the Russian Federation, energy embargo, asset blocking. These are ordinary, very simple human, but no less important, symbolic things. Blue and yellow flags on Trafalgar Square and Downing Street. When we are supported by London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast, supported by Liverpool, Manchester and hundreds of other cities in this great state.

When Ukraine is supported by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Sir Paul McCartney, Elton John and Sting. Richard Branson, Joanne Rowling, the Beckhams, Benedict Cumberbatch, Queen, Pink Floyd, Deep Purple. Ed Sheeran, Hugh Laurie, Stephen Fry, Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, Daniel Radcliffe and, of course, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

It is also very important - the return of Melinda Simmons, and the recent visit of Prime Minister Johnson. At a very difficult time and at a very necessary moment. Our walk in the streets of Kyiv showed the world that the heart of Ukraine feels. Pain. But the people we met there, their words, their eyes, smiles and gifts - already famous roosters, the same as in Borodyanka - all this showed the world what our Ukrainian soul feels. Indomitability. Unbreakability. Therefore, hope for victory. Today, I, our parliament and the entire Ukrainian people can say one thing: thank you, Britain! Thank you, friends!

You are the people's deputies of the greatest state in the modern world! I'm sure of it! You are the people's deputies of Ukraine. Keywords are "people" and "Ukraine". I think we will abandon trifles, political speculation until peacetime, although it is better to abandon them forever. The agenda of the Verkhovna Rada is obvious. The keyword is "order". Because there is no time for spam, quarrels and PR - everyone already knows you. I think wise rationalism and sound nationalism are important. All this is very important for us today.

You are part of a large Ukrainian army. Your frontline is a legislative field in which you must work for our people, for each of us, for our state, for our victory. Like our army, like the whole country. Work 24/7. No days off, no unnecessary emotions, slogans, etc. Today we all have one party, and this party is Ukraine. One faction - Ukraine. One majority - Ukraine. One, strong, independent. And everything that does not help it or, God forbid, harms, weakens or splits, must be not in the minority, no. This must be a thing of the past.

Just like someone's hopes of sitting out somewhere. Currently, the absence of a deputy is justified by only two things: his work abroad or in the regions for the interests of our state or his death for the interests of the state. The rest is of no interest to Ukraine today. It doesn't need anything else, it won't have anything else! Anything else follows the Russian warship!

Please do not waste time on unnecessary laws. There are important priorities for the state. I know that you are professionals, you will do it. The state is waiting. Please do not waste your time, my time, the time of the people of Ukraine on minor initiatives and unimportant things. It seems to me that laws should be as timely as Lend-Lease. Accurate as our "Stugna" and "Bayraktar". And bring benefits like "Neptune". And glory like our army. And to be such that will go down in history like the people of Ukraine!

https://www.president.gov.ua/en/news/vistup-prezidenta-ukrayini-volodimira-zelenskogo-u-verhovnij-74737

 

Speech by President Zelenskyy in the Parliament of Albania

Yesterday, Muslims around the world celebrated Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Islam. During this month, the Muslims of Ukraine and our entire society have not seen a single calm or peaceful day. That's how we live after February 24. Russia has turned all our days into a mortal danger.

More than 600 children have fallen victim to this Russian invasion - 220 killed and 406 injured.

Today is a farewell ceremony for journalist Vira Gyrych who was killed by a Russian missile at her home in the capital of our state, Kyiv. An ordinary multi-storey building near the downtown of the capital.

In Ukraine’s largest city in the east, in Kharkiv, a fifth of all houses was destroyed or damaged by Russian shelling. This is more than 2.500 houses.

Mariupol, once one of the most developed cities on the Sea of Azov shore, is completely destroyed by Russian army. They didn’t allow water, food, medicine - nothing and no one. They didn’t stop bombing it. This is a scorched city. But you can take any Ukrainian city or village where they came and there will be very similar messages.

Older people who survived two occupations - the Nazi occupation during World War II and now the Russian army occupation - say they did not see such atrocities 80 years ago.

Now they saw the Russian military shooting children in the face and ordinary people who had been taken prisoner being forced to lie on the ground day and night in sub-zero temperatures. It turns out that the Russian troops have a special method of "fighting" the escape of prisoners in the cold season: they are forced to pour water into their shoes, put the shoes on and lie on the ground in the cold. People stopped feeling their feet, their toes froze. But the occupiers did not even allow them to stand up, let alone to warm up.

In the areas liberated from the Russian army, we constantly find graves of tortured people. They have their hands tied, traces of shots on their arms and legs, and broken ribs. Many were shot in the back of the head.

Retreating from our land, the Russian army left the dead just on the streets as well.

Russia was offered to cease fire at least on Orthodox Easter. There was no answer. As like on Pesach. Russia has also ignored the sanctity of the Ramadan month.

86 religious sites were destroyed or damaged by shelling. These are churches, mosques, houses of worship. The Russian army is not trying to protect even the facilities of the Russian church from its shelling! This is a complete abandonment of morality, rejection of universal values, non-recognition of life as an unconditional value.

They do not want to stop in Ukraine. They want to go further.

In an attempt to revive the worst-level tyranny seen in XX century, Russia has become the greatest threat to the entire free world. I am grateful to every nation that is fighting this tyranny with us.

I am grateful to Albania for not hesitating who to support in this struggle. You are definitely on the side of freedom and truth. Thank you for concrete steps for Ukraine. For defense assistance. For supporting sanctions on Russia. For taking care of our people and hosting our children, especially in Durrës.

This attitude of yours towards Ukrainian men and women in difficult times reminds me of St. Mother Teresa, who taught people that good daily efforts can defeat evil and bring them closer to the holiness that people will remember from generation to generation.

I believe that by working together with all Europeans this way - by our daily good efforts, we will be able to stop this war waged by Russia and to protect Europe in the future from recurrence of such a threat.

As 6th package of sanctions against Russia's aggression is being discussed in the EU, we must all insist that it includes an oil embargo and a real blockade of any schemes that Russia uses to deceive the free world and ignore sanctions. Russian banks must be completely disconnected from the global financial system.

However difficult it may be, it is necessary to deliberately restrict trade with Russia, as if not today, then tomorrow it will consciously use trade ties to hit your market when it wants some political concessions from you. You need to deprive it of this tool in time.

I ask you to close the ports for Russian ships and limit the arrival of Russian tourists. Because you can never know who came to you... Maybe the killers who were in Bucha? Or the tormentors of Mariupol? Or someone who is already working to undermine your country?

I am grateful to Albania for its cooperation within the United Nations platform. Especially now when your country is a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.

We need to do a principled thing and stop using UN funds to sponsor Russia. If it violates the UN Charter, threatens the world's food security and destroys peace in Europe, it has no right to receive a single cent from the UN.

Since 2014, when Russia seized our Crimean peninsula and started the war in Donbas, the UN has purchased goods and services from it for at least two and a half billion dollars. This is simply unfair. Wrong.

Decades ago, Ukraine and Albania chose the path of democracy and European integration. We did not deviate from this path. Together we are committed to the freedom development and a united Europe. I believe that when the time comes to decide on Ukraine's accession to the EU, your vote will be able to sound in our support.

Full speech: https://www.president.gov.ua/en/news/promova-prezidenta-ukrayini-v-narodnih-zborah-albaniyi-74745 

 

Andriy Yermak discussed with American businessman Kimbal Musk support for Ukraine during the war

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak held a video conference with American businessman, member of the Board of Directors of Tesla and SpaceX Kimbal Musk. The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov.

On behalf of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and all Ukrainians, Andriy Yermak thanked Kimbal Musk and his brother, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, for supporting our country during the difficult times of the war.

"We highly appreciate this real support for Ukraine during this terrible war with Russia. We are grateful for the high-speed Internet thanks to Starlink (terminals - ed.), which we received from you. Very grateful! Everyone knows what a great role you have played in this assistance," said the Head of the President's Office.

Kimbal Musk stressed that it is a great honor for him to help our country, because today Ukraine is fighting for democracy against tyranny. "We are with you. Thank you for fighting so bravely," he said.

Andriy Yermak informed the American businessman about the situation in Ukraine. He said that currently the largest number of troops is concentrated in the southern and eastern regions of our country.

The Head of the President's Office also reminded of the catastrophic situation in Mariupol, which is blocked by the Russian military, and told about the process of evacuation of the city's residents.

He also noted the importance of assistance provided to Ukraine by partner countries during the war. Andriy Yermak invited Kimbal Musk to visit Ukraine at a time convenient for him. The Head of the President's Office noted that the American businessman may be interested in projects developed by talented Ukrainian IT specialists. "I'm sure you will really like the capital of Ukraine, and we will be able to talk in detail about possible joint projects," said Andriy Yermak.

During the meeting, projects and areas of cooperation that could involve Kimbal Musk’s company and American business in general were discussed.

The Head of the Office of the President informed the interlocutor about the project of post-war reconstruction of Ukraine, in particular about the initiative of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to involve partner countries in the reconstruction of settlements affected by the war.

Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov thanked Kimbal Musk and SpaceX for providing Ukraine with Starlink terminals.

https://www.president.gov.ua/en/news/andrij-yermak-obgovoriv-z-amerikanskim-pidpriyemcem-kimbalom-74741

 

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine

"The Government has developed a set of actions in many areas. The first is to monitor the state of food security and agricultural infrastructure in general. Second, national food producers will receive state support. Third, the most socially vulnerable population will receive targeted food aid. In addition, the state will exercise special control of monitoring and appropriate regulation of food prices," said Mykola Solskyy, Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine.

Thus, ministries, the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, and regional military administrations will regularly monitor, in particular, statistics on the balance of basic foodstuffs. They will control the level of trade margins. Volumes of domestic agricultural products for export will continue to be regulated by the state for the period of martial law.

The need and number of enterprises that need financing for the expansion, rehabilitation and construction of production facilities will be studied.

In addition, the needs of domestic enterprises of the agro-industrial complex in critical imports will be constantly met.

Among other things, the state will also regularly purchase food packages for socially vulnerable groups. Local programs to ensure self-sufficiency of territorial communities with food products will be implemented.

"With all these measures, we are trying to achieve the key goal - to meet needs of Ukrainians through provision of the required amount of products. And also to fully provide enterprises working in the field of agricultural production with opportunities for further work. As well as to guarantee our state and its citizens sustainable food security in this dangerous time of war," Mykola Solskyy summed up.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/uryad-zatverdiv-plan-iz-zabezpechennya-prodovolchoyi-bezpeki-v-umovah-voyennogo-stanu

 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine

Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day.

Freedom of speech and free expression of views have always been an integral part of Ukrainian society. In 2014, Russia launched a war against our state and destroyed freedom of speech in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

Persecution of journalists, unjustified searches of newsrooms and private homes, abductions and torture have turned these areas into so-called "information ghettos".

The invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops on February 24 marked a new phase of brutal repression against independent journalism in Ukraine. In more than two months, Russian invaders have killed more than 20 Ukrainian and foreign journalists. More than a hundred regional media outlets in the temporarily occupied territories were forced to shut down due to threats, the destruction of newsrooms, and the inability to work under temporary occupation.

Radio Liberty journalist Vira Hyrych became a recent victim of Russian armed aggression. Vira was killed in a house in central Kyiv, when a Russian missile hit it. Russia committed this crime during the visit of UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to Ukraine, which showed Russia’s true attitude to international institutions and the basic principles of international law.

Along with military aggression, Russia is waging an information war. The list of crimes committed by the Russian Federation against the media in Ukraine includes the murder and abduction of journalists, the shelling and seizure of TV towers, and hacking attacks on the websites.

Ukrainian cities occupied or surrounded by Russia are isolated from the Ukrainian information space, Ukrainian broadcasting, and the work of national Internet operators there are blocked.

In the occupied territories, Russia is launching its propaganda channels which are used for even greater information expansion, justifying the Russian invasion of Ukraine and inciting ethnic hatred.

Ukraine, together with international partners, is coordinating efforts to combat Russian propaganda and disinformation. We are grateful to those countries that have stopped broadcasting Russian propaganda outlets on their territories.

We call on the international community to expand sanctions against the Russian media, which spread propaganda and misinformation. The media of the aggressor state must be cut off from the possibility of distorting the facts of Russia's war against Ukraine.

We are grateful to Ukrainian and international journalists who, under difficult conditions, often risking their lives, work in combat zones to convey the truth about Russia's war crimes in Ukraine.

https://mfa.gov.ua/en/news/statement-ministry-foreign-affairs-ukraine-occasion-world-press-freedom-day

 

State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection

All democratic governments - the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, most EU countries and others - offer their assistance to Ukraine in cyber defense.

“Each country offers the best technology at its disposal. These are very diverse proposals. All of them are very useful and interesting. We are grateful to everyone who helps us,” said Viktor Zhora, Deputy Head of the State Special Service.

Ukraine is also supported by a number of leading companies in the world.

https://www.kmu.gov.ua/en/news/usi-demokratichni-krayini-svitu-dopomagayut-ukrayini-protistoyati-atakam-rf-u-kiberprostori

 

5/4/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Wed, 05/04/2022 - 9:24am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1. RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 3 (PUTIN'S WAR)
2. The Russian Dilemma Isn’t So Unfamiliar
3. Ukrainian Guerillas: Fighting Russians in Temporarily Occupied Territories
4. Special forces adjust artillery to a reconnaissance report resulting in Russian equipment losses
5. Backlash to DHS Disinformation Governance Board grows, fueled in part by misinformation
6. Republicans announce bill to shut down DHS ‘disinformation’ unit
7. Dr. Dave Johnson’s warning on brute force in the Ukraine: “This is What the Russians Do”
8. How Ukrainians Saved Their Capital
9. Will Putin go nuclear to avoid defeat in Ukraine?
10. Opinion | A Message to the Biden Team on Ukraine: Talk Less
11. Spirit of America - Helping Ukraine Win | SOF News
12. Walking a tightrope: Ukraine war puts Japan's energy security on thin ice
13. Nuclear deterrence must work in both directions, not just against the West
14. Blinken to unveil 'no surprises' China strategy pre-Asia push
15. Ukraine says it is 'ready' if Belarus joins Russian war effort
16. Iran’s rulers demanding too much even for Biden
17. FDD | State Department Report Glosses Over Assad’s Narco-Trafficking Wealth
18. Commentary: Andrea Stricker — Team Biden must stop Russia's Iran deal
19. Fires, explosions and false-flag operations: How war is spilling beyond Ukraine’s borders
20. EU targets Russian oil, banks as Moscow's ally Belarus stages army drills
21. When Julia Child worked for a spy agency fighting sharks
22. Reversing Roe Would Harm Military Readiness, Abortion-Rights Advocates Warn

Korean News Content:

1. N. Korea fires 1 ballistic missile toward East Sea: S. Korean military
2. N.Korea fires ballistic missile as South prepares for new president
3. Defense chief nominee vows stronger alliance, deterrence against N.K. threats
4. North's latest missile launch seems to have been big
5. Yoon's envoys to Washington, Tokyo already chosen
6. U.S. 'second gentleman' coming for Yoon's inauguration
7. Korea-U.S. Defense C4I Compromised, South Korean Captain and a Defense Contractor Arrested for Spying for North Korea
8. U.S. wants U.N. Security Council vote on N.Korea sanctions in May
9. Pyongyang authorities stop young people at random to inspect their cell phones
10. The frightening debt Vladimir Putin owes North Korea’s Kim Jong Un
11. North Korea preparing nuclear test for first time in years, intelligence officials say
12. Major national tasks (incoming Yoon Administration)
13. Global problems may exacerbate shortages in N.Korea's isolated economy
14. N.Korea mobilises office workers to fight drought amid food shortages

5/3/22 National Security and Korean News and Commentary

Tue, 05/03/2022 - 7:41am

Access National Security News HERE.

Access Korean News HERE.

National Security News Content:

1. RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE CAMPAIGN ASSESSMENT, MAY 2 (PUTIN'S WAR)
2. Biden Administration Foreign Policy Tracker: May
3. What Impact Did Canada’s Military Have on Ukrainian Resistance?
4. Special Operations Forces (SOF): The Integrators for Total Defense and Resistance
5. Wars, nuclear tests and Taliban 2.0: Global hotspots, far from Ukraine
6. Multiple dead after mysterious explosion at Russian ammunition plant
7. Tagging the Red Dragon: The Future of the Philippines’ Strategic Intelligence
8. To Win the Next War, the Pentagon Needs Nerds
9. The Difference Between America’s 2 Cold Wars
10. Japan-Russia ructions roiling Pacific waters
11. Lawmakers Worry Pentagon Will ‘Shortchange’ INDOPACOM’s Budget Request
12. Why the Chinese military wants thousands of 'made-to-order' noncommissioned officers
13. Another Cuban Missile Crisis?
14. Taiwan needs joint exercises, missiles, right now
15. Biden’s Javelin factory tour spotlights struggle to backfill Ukraine munitions
16. The UN Must Do More for Ukraine—and Itself
17. How AI Would — and Wouldn’t — Factor Into a U.S.-Chinese War
18. Partisan Fight Breaks Out Over New Disinformation Board
19. Pentagon budget aims to shrink the military by thousands
20. A Solution Desperately Seeking Problems: The Many Assumptions of JADC2
21. How NATO Could Strike Back if Putin Uses Tactical Nuclear Weapons in Ukraine
 

Korean News Content:

1. Biden Administration Foreign Policy Tracker: May (KOREA)
2. S. Korea, U.S. to begin two-week combined air drills next week: sources
3. U.S.-S. Korea alliance an incredibly important relationship: Psaki
4. U.S. continuing increased surveillance of N. Korea: Pentagon
5. A Nuclear South Korea? Why It Might Be the Best Option
6. South Koreans hack top-secret server in exchange for Bitcoin from North Korea - OKN
7. Two South Koreans arrested for helping Pyongyang steal ‘military secrets’
8. Will South Korea stop bankrolling Myanmar’s military?
9. Defense chief nominee says N. Korea may conduct normal-angle ICBM launch
10. S. Korea, China agree on close cooperation for stability in regional security
11. Incoming gov't to seek N. Korea's complete denuclearization, boost defense capability
12. Japan foreign minister to attend South Korean President-elect Yoon’s inauguration to mend frayed ties
13. Yoon asks for Australia's support over Quad working groups
14. S. Korea, Japan hold diplomatic consultations on strained ties
15. Four months after re-opening, China-North Korea rail traffic shuts again
16. What's behind North Korea's continued refusal to accept COVID-19 vaccines?
17. North Korea distributes pork to military units to mark 90th anniversary of army's founding