News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Daniel Riggs.

1. Czech Republic sends delegation to Taiwan, draws ire of China

2. China says Czech senate speaker will pay 'heavy price' for Taiwan visit

3. Vystrcil's Taiwan visit an opportunistic stunt: Global Times editorial - Global Times

4. Rubio says Congressional oversight of intelligence faces 'historic crisis' following DNI announcement

5. Rubio on Historic Challenges Facing Congressional Oversight of Intelligence Activities

6. Opinion | Coronavirus Winter Is Coming

7. Lost In Space: Why America Needs a New Defense Strategy

8.  Artificial Intelligence Is the Next Top Gun

9. Russian navy conducts major maneuvers near Alaska

10. As Trump shakes up the military footprint in Europe, the US and Russia are making moves in the high north

11. Wife of a senior US spy says he wanted to 'take me to the afterlife'

12. Trump lauds Abe as Japan's 'greatest prime minister' as bromance set to end

13. The limits of Zoom diplomacy in Asia

14. As Trump's popularity slips in latest Military Times poll, more troops say they'll vote for Biden

15. China wants to be a friend to the Pacific, but so far, it has failed to match Australia's COVID-19 response

16. COVID-19 and Economic Competition with China and Russia

17. Japan's Abe tells Trump strengthening of alliance will not change

18. China's Missile Volley Sparked by Cold-War-Throwback Spy Plane

1. Czech Republic sends delegation to Taiwan, draws ire of China

DW · by Deutsche Welle (www.dw.com)

No doubt this draws China's ire as we will see in subsequent articles.

2.  China says Czech senate speaker will pay 'heavy price' for Taiwan visit

Reuters · by Ben Blanchard, Yew Lun Tian · August 31, 2020

3. Vystrcil's Taiwan visit an opportunistic stunt: Global Times editorial - Global Times

globaltimes.cn

From a CCP mouthpiece.

Now this is a real insult.  (note sarcasm as this is probably a typo but I cannot resist. ) Note also the dig at Washington buried in this piece.

4. Rubio says Congressional oversight of intelligence faces 'historic crisis' following DNI announcement

The Hill · by J. Edward Moreno · August 29, 2020

Strong words from the Senator.

5. Rubio on Historic Challenges Facing Congressional Oversight of Intelligence Activities

rubio.senate.gov · by Aug 29 2020

Link above to the Senator's complete statement from his web site.

6. Opinion | Coronavirus Winter Is Coming

The New York Times · by Spencer Bokat-Lindell · August 27, 2020

An ominous warning. But with some practical advice.  We will heed it?

7. Lost In Space: Why America Needs a New Defense Strategy

The National Interest · by Peter Garretson · August 30, 2020

A very interesting analysis here:

8. Artificial Intelligence Is the Next Top Gun

Bloomberg · by James Stavridis · August 29, 2020

But is the "dogfight" the right simulation for air power today?  As we listen to some real pilots they remind us that if you get into a dogfight with an F-35 or F-22 you are doing it wrong.  Is "dogfighting" the pacing concept we should be using?

9. Russian navy conducts major maneuvers near Alaska

militarytimes.com · by Vladimir Isachenkov· August 30, 2020

10. As Trump shakes up the military footprint in Europe, the US and Russia are making moves in the high north

Business Insider · by Christopher Woody

11.  Wife of a senior US spy says he wanted to 'take me to the afterlife'

Daily Mail · by Harriet Alexander · August 30, 2020

I wonder about the "rest of the story" here.

Excerpts:

“Corcoran said that her new husband was suffering from PTSD following a lengthy CIA career.”

“Following the report, the NIC drafted a memo, which quickly leaked, claiming that the intelligence about the bounties was inconclusive.”

“The memo did not mention that the NIC's top analyst on military affairs and Taliban expert had killed himself days earlier.”

12. Trump lauds Abe as Japan's 'greatest prime minister' as bromance set to end

japantimes.co.jp · by Jesse Johnson · August 31, 2020

37 phone calls. 

Excerpts:

“In their Monday morning phone call - the pair's 37th - Abe said Japan would continue working to develop new national security policies, with the missile threat from North Korea, and implicitly China, in mind, while further deepening cooperation with the United States, according to a Japanese government official who was listening in.”

“Abe said during the news conference on Friday that his administration had convened a National Security Council meeting for Wednesday to discuss specific new defense policies. Those include a proposal from a group of ruling party lawmakers urging the NSC to consider acquiring the capability to defeat missiles even when in enemy territory. The government is due to reveal a new policy on missile defense in September.”

13. The limits of Zoom diplomacy in Asia

lowyinstitute.org · by Ben Bland

A view from Australia.  A call for a return face to face in person diplomacy.

 But there is a new normal and unfortunately Zoom is a part of it.  Surely someone could develop a more secure (but still very user friendly) platform, one that does not provide data back to servers in China.

Excerpts:

“However, there are doubts about the security of these online platforms. There is no personal touch. And the staid nature of video conferencing leaves no room for the sort of impromptu, sideline conversations where much of the real confidence-building and negotiation happens during summits and trips.”

“The priority of protecting the public from the pandemic is understandable. Nevertheless, the broader battle for influence in Asia has moved outside the Zoom waiting room to the echoing corridors of the world's foreign ministries, presidential palaces and prime ministerial suites.”

14. As Trump's popularity slips in latest Military Times poll, more troops say they'll vote for Biden

militarytimes.com · by Leo Shane III · August 28, 2020

I wonder what impact this will have on civil military relations and trust in the military.  I know it is apples and oranges but how does this compare to retired general officers speaking out about politics?  My anecdotal "evidence" informs me there is a difference between the active duty force and the retirement community.  What I see on social media (anecdotal yes) is a lot more support for Trump than for Biden.

But the question is should we be doing these kinds of surveys? I know there is no way to prevent organizations from taking them or from service members from participating.  But is this interpreted as the military putting its finger on the scale?  How will people be influenced (or not) by these survey results?

15. China wants to be a friend to the Pacific, but so far, it has failed to match Australia's COVID-19 response

theconversation.com · by Ian Kemish · August 30, 2020

Australia punching above its weight.

16.  COVID-19 and Economic Competition with China and Russia

warontherocks.com · by Howard J. Shatz · August 31, 2020

Sobering assessment:

However, Russia's foreign military interventions are likely to continue. These interventions tend to be low cost and high priority for the Kremlin's foreign policy, although popular support for the wars in eastern Ukraine and Syria has declined. Likewise, information operations and interference in U.S. and other foreign elections are low-cost and likely to continue. Following the disputed elections in Belarus in early August and subsequent violence, concerns about Russian intervention have emerged. Accordingly, Russia will remain a security challenge. Moscow is taking risks with its harassment of U.S. warships or aircraft. If incidents were to cause U.S. casualties, Congress could respond with more sanctions.

Finally, there are implications for both Russia and China together, with Russia continuing or even quickening its turn toward China. Accelerated by the 2014 sanctions, the two countries have drawn closer and upgraded their relations to a "comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era." Tangible aspects include the new Power of Siberia gas pipeline and plans to vastly increase Russia's energy export capacity to China. As long as Russia remains at odds with the West, a longer and steeper Russian downturn could create greater incentives for Russia to draw closer to China as a market and source of investment. Furthermore, either Russia's own policy of increasing isolation from the West, or an increase in the benefits it reaps from working with China, could disincentivize Russia from resolving its disagreements with the West to get sanctions lifted. That, in turn, may hamper Russia's ability to get much-needed Western investment and technology, potentially further stunting its growth over the long term - but not reducing it as a near-term challenge.

17. Japan's Abe tells Trump strengthening of alliance will not change

Reuters · by Kiyoshi Takenaka, Daniel Leussink, David Dolan and Jeff Mason · August 31, 2020

I hope he is right.

18.  China's Missile Volley Sparked by Cold-War-Throwback Spy Plane

Bloomberg · by Anthony Capaccio · August 29, 2020

------------------

“One man with courage makes a majority.”

- Andrew Jackson

Abraham Lincoln, 1854, on a political opponent who made false claims:

“To deny these things... puts an end to all argument. If a man will stand up and assert, and repeat, and re-assert, that two and two do not make four, I know nothing in the power of argument that can stop him.”

“Talking nonsense is the sole privilege mankind possesses over the other organisms. It's by talking nonsense that one gets to the truth! I talk nonsense, therefore I'm human”

- Fyodor Dostoevsky, Notes from Underground, White Nights, The Dream of a Ridiculous Man, and Selections from The House of the Dead

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Daniel Riggs.

1. New vice FM stresses 'transparent' communication in first talks with U.S. ambassador

2. 4 Koreans killed in car crash with US armored vehicle

3. Kim Jong-un's Sister Orchestrates Pyongyang Lockdown

4. Korea Skips Defense Talks with U.S., Japan

5. Kim Jong-un did not delegate power: Ex-US commander

6. Concerns rise over sidelining of Korea in regional issues

7. Moon Is Steering the Country out to Sea

8. North Korea's unprecedented TV move

9. South Korea Goes Back into Lockdown

10. North Korea claims the U.S. is the cyber bank robber

11. Ruckus rises over fake encrypted spy message on YouTube

12. Assessing the U.S. Shift to Great Power Competition and the Risk from North Korea

13. Soldiers in Unpa County are stealing and looting from locals

14. Top Air Force general tapped as new Joint Chiefs chair (South Korea)

15. N. Korean authorities arrest food seasonings wholesaler

16. Don't Look To Joe Biden For A Breakthrough With North Korea

17. [Heroes from afar] Red Cross oversaw treatment of Korean War prisoners

18. Explainer | Kim Jong-un: What is going on with North Korea’s leader?

19. North Korea mystery: Kim Jong-un plots to unveil 'top-secret weapon' at Pyongyang parade

20. North Korea Plays The I Dare You Game – OpEd

1. New vice FM stresses 'transparent' communication in first talks with U.S. ambassador

en.yna.co.kr · by 송상호 · August 31, 2020

He says the right words, especially about the alliance, but given his past writings and remarks and the nature of the Moon administration reading between the lines gives me pause.

2. 4 Koreans killed in car crash with US armored vehicle

The Korea Times · August 31, 2020

Another tragedy.  I spent a lot of time in that area in the 1980's and we drove down Highway 3 a year ago. It was amazing to see how developed and congested the area had become (but not surprising).

3. Kim Jong-un's Sister Orchestrates Pyongyang Lockdown

english.chosun.com· August 31, 2020

I am afraid it is only a matter of time before we learn of a real outbreak in the north.

(Note some information based on VOA reporting).

4. Korea Skips Defense Talks with U.S., Japan

english.chosun.com· August 31, 2020

5. Kim Jong-un did not delegate power: Ex-US commander

koreaherald.com · by Choi Si-young · August 31, 2020

I think General Brooks believes (as do I) the system in north Korea is based on one man (or woman) rule.  It is not designed for power sharing.  Quote: Brooks told Voice of America on Saturday that the North has seen changes in leadership roles -- for example, Kim Yo-jong’s elevated status. But rather than a sign of power sharing, he said, the shakeup instead signals to trusted aides that the 36-year-old leader is taking on senior-level responsibilities."

But this comment from a South Korea legislator is troubling: "Ruling party Rep. Song Young-gil, who chairs the South Korean parliament’s Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee, said earlier that the command, led by an American general, was legally unsound and “illegitimate” in its founding so it should be kept in check to prevent it from interfering with inter-Korean affairs."  To say the "founding" of the UNC is illegitimate is to deny UN Security Council Resolutions 82-85 which recognized north Korea as the aggressor, called on member nations to come to the defense of the South's freedom, and established the UN Command as the mechanism for integrating those member nations' military forces, and designated the US as the executive agent for the UNC.  Frankly speaking Rep. Song's view is right in line with north Korea's. It is almost as if he is repeating a north Korean talking point.

(Note also information in this report is also based on VOA reporting).

6. Concerns rise over sidelining of Korea in regional issues

The Korea Times · by Do Je-hae · August 31, 2020

I am concerned.  I think we should all be concerned. This is an "own goal" or self inflicted wound.

7. Moon Is Steering the Country out to Sea

english.chosun.com

The Chosun Ilbo editorial board is concerned and critical of the Moon Administration's direction.  It criticizes recent decisions as well as the ROK military leadership.

8. North Korea's unprecedented TV move

nzherald.co.nz

Breaking news above the supreme leader.

9. South Korea Goes Back into Lockdown

english.chosun.com· August 31, 2020

10. North Korea claims the U.S. is the cyber bank robber

koreajoongangdaily.joins.com· Shim Kyu-Seok

Typical north Korean response.  Admit nothing, deny everything and make counter accusations.

11. Ruckus rises over fake encrypted spy message on YouTube

The Korea Times · August 31, 2020

I am not sure I would describe this as ruckus.

12. Assessing the U.S. Shift to Great Power Competition and the Risk from North Korea

divergentoptions.org · by Richard McManamon · August 31, 2020

I am not sure I would characterize US policy as a lessened focus on north Korea.  I do not think we necessarily deprioritized it.  What is interesting about north Korea is that it is very much intertwined with the revisionist powers (China and Russia) and the other rogue power (Iran) and some of its military equipment does get to violent extremists organizations at least indirectly (SCUDs in Yemen).   Although we do seem to prioritize the revision powers first with the rogue powers second and VEOs third I do not think you can completely separate them into their own categories. They are all interrelated.

Re this excerpt: "President Trump has successfully communicated with Kim in the past by leveraging his attributes and finding common ground with the North Korean leader. While the complete dismantling of North Korea’s rocket and nuclear program may no longer be feasible, the U.S. can reestablish meaningful diplomatic relations with North Korea to influence Northern peninsula. This is not to suggest that if the U.S. were to extend an olive branch that North Korean missiles would be instantly dismantled. However, progress with North Korea can likely be increased through human interaction and an emotional connection versus harsher sanctions that may harm the population more than the senior leaders of the country." First, I am all for all contact with north Korea but it is the Kim family regime that prevents the re-establishment of meaningful diplomatic relations (I assume the author does not mean diplomatic recognition) that include substantive working level talks.  I also worry that "olive branches" may imply concessions such as lifting sanctions which will be a Kim win and only lead to further blackmail diplomacy.

13. Soldiers in Unpa County are stealing and looting from locals

dailynk.com · by Jong So Yong · August 31, 2020

Corruption in the nKPA.  More indications of problems within the military.  At least they have their priorities right: bread, alcohol, and cigarettes. 

14. Top Air Force general tapped as new Joint Chiefs chair

koreajoongangdaily.joins.com· by Shim Kyu-Seok

Army as MINDEF and Air Force as CJCS.

15. N. Korean authorities arrest food seasonings wholesaler

dailynk.com · by Kim Yoo Jin· August 31, 2020

Wasn't saccharine banned in the US in the 1980s?

16. Don't Look To Joe Biden For A Breakthrough With North Korea

The National Interest · by Denny Roy · August 30, 2020

The fact is no president can achieve a breakthrough as long as the Kim family regime remains in power.  There will be no breakthrough until te Korea question is resolved.

17. [Heroes from afar] Red Cross oversaw treatment of Korean War prisoners

koreajoongangdaily.joins.com· by Esther Chung

Interesting Korean War history.

18.  Explainer |  Kim Jong-un: What is going on with North Korea’s leader?

SCMP · by John Power and Maria Siow· August 31, 2020

A relatively long piece that covers a lot of ground in north Korea.

19. North Korea mystery: Kim Jong-un plots to unveil 'top-secret weapon' at Pyongyang parade

express.co.uk· by Oli Smith

That would be the best time for us to see the "Juche Bird."  But will it fly or just be in the parade?

 20. North Korea Plays The I Dare You Game - OpEd

eurasiareview.com · by Felix Imonti* · August 31, 2020

What?  There is this conclusion.  I just cannot grasp the author's rationale here.  Bypass "American sanction?"  No retaliation from the UN Security Council?  I do not think the author understands the impact of US law and what will happen to entities that defy sanctions.  This is very dangerous advice.

-------

“One man with courage makes a majority.”

- Andrew Jackson

Abraham Lincoln, 1854, on a political opponent who made false claims:

“To deny these things... puts an end to all argument. If a man will stand up and assert, and repeat, and re-assert, that two and two do not make four, I know nothing in the power of argument that can stop him.”

“Talking nonsense is the sole privilege mankind possesses over the other organisms. It's by talking nonsense that one gets to the truth! I talk nonsense, therefore I'm human”

- Fyodor Dostoevsky, Notes from Underground, White Nights, The Dream of a Ridiculous Man, and Selections from The House of the Dead

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. READ: Congressional intel committees will no longer receive full briefings on election security

2. Submarine scare off Alaska may have been U.S. Navy, not Russian

3. ‘A hail Mary’: psychedelic therapy draws veterans to jungle retreats

4. French military officer investigated over suspected security breach

5. C.I.A. uncensors memoir of F.B.I. agent who protested torture of terrorists

6. Elon Musk unveils brain chip implant: 'It's like a Fitbit in your skull'

7. Remarks of Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen on malign foreign influence in U.S. elections

8. US officials: no signs of foreign targeting of mail-in vote

9. Twitter’s algorithm does not seem to silence conservatives

10. In Syria, the Pentagon got a real taste of Russian information warfare

11. Why the CyberLEAP act must pass

12. Deepfakes very convincing, effective in influencing people, Amsterdam researchers found

13. Trump’s international economic legacy

14. China's Wang Yi tells other countries not to interfere in Chinese internal affairs

15. America can build peace better - if it includes women.

16. Joint maritime operations: Green Berets train in California

17. We ran our online election disinformation simulation game and there's plenty to be worried about

18. For some military veterans, QAnon conspiracies offer comfort and belonging

19. Comfortably numb

1. READ: Congressional intel committees will no longer receive full briefings on election security

The Hill · by The Hill Staff · August 29, 2020

The letter is here.

I am always amused by those who say the US is a republic and not a democracy (I think we are a federal democratic republic). But, those who say we are a republic and not a democracy should be reminded that some of the core principles of a republican system of government is the separation of powers and a system of checks and balances to ensure that the power of the government does not reside in one branch of government. This action seems to me to be an affront to checks and balances.

That said, a question: will the provision of "intelligence products" versus "intelligence briefings" prevent leaks and prevent the politicization of intelligence? 

I assume that while the Congress may not be able to compel "briefings," they can in fact compel testimony from the leaders of the intelligence community. 

2. Submarine scare off Alaska may have been U.S. Navy, not Russian

Forbes · by H I Sutton · August 30, 2020

I guess I am glad we did not initiate any defensive action against the submarine. But on a serious note, I imagine submarine analysis is damn hard.

3. ‘A hail Mary’: psychedelic therapy draws veterans to jungle retreats

New York Times · by Ernesto Londoño · August 30, 2020

Troubling perhaps. I think this is one indicator there are a lot of people who are not getting the mental health care they need or that the care they do receive is insufficient. I do fear some people may think psychedelic drugs are some kind of silver bullet.

4. French military officer investigated over suspected security breach

Reuters · by Maya Nikolaeva, Gwenaelle Barzic; William Maclean, & Pravin Char · August 30, 2020

My first thought as I learn of Russian recruiting efforts is that they must be doing pretty well (e.g., the recent US SF captain and now this French officer). My thought is that we hear about Russian efforts, but not much about US or western efforts against Russia. I hope that means we are doing better than the Russians and our assets are not getting compromised. I really wonder what is the score of "spy vs. spy."  Then I think about the Chinese and how our network was rolled up in China a few years back and I get really depressed.

5. C.I.A. uncensors memoir of F.B.I. agent who protested torture of terrorists

New York Times · by Charlie Savage & Carol Rosenberg · August 29, 2020

A long time coming. The comparisons are interesting.  You can view the PDF with side by side page comparisons here.

As I look through the comparisons, it is hard for me to understand the logic for all the redactions. I think some areas are likely valid as they may have exposed some once classified information, but some of the redactions do not make sense to me. I think this document may be studied in graduate schools and intelligence programs for some years to come.

6. Elon Musk unveils brain chip implant: 'It's like a Fitbit in your skull'

ABC News · by Erin Schumaker · August 29, 2020

It is a brave new world.  And the chip will connect to a store of information on servers in China (note sarcasm).

7. Remarks of Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey A. Rosen on malign foreign influence in U.S. elections

US Department of Justice · by Jerffrey A. Rosen · August 26, 2020

8. US officials: No signs of foreign targeting of mail-in vote

AP · by Eric Tucker & Christina A. Cassidy · August 26, 2020

9. Twitter’s algorithm does not seem to silence conservatives

Economist · by Economist · August 1, 2020

An interesting experiment. Of course, this will not convince those who believe otherwise. It is the subtitle that illustrates the real problem.

10. In Syria, the Pentagon got a real taste of Russian information warfare

National Interest · by Kris Osborn · August 29, 2020

11. Why the CyberLEAP act must pass

Venture Beat · by David Brumley · August 29, 2020

I forget that the real acronym masters are in Congress not the military. Congressional staffers are quite brilliant at coming up with names of bills that can be transformed into acronyms. This is an excellent example.

12. Deepfakes very convincing, effective in influencing people, Amsterdam researchers found

NL Times · by Janene Peters · August 24, 2020

13. Trump’s international economic legacy

Project Syndicate · by Jean Pisani-Ferry · August 27, 2020

This is an interesting critique and certainly not one I expected based on the title and the usual criticism of Trump.

14. China's Wang Yi tells other countries not to interfere in Chinese internal affairs

Reuters · by John Irish, Maya Nikoleava, & William Maclean · August 30, 2020

Okay. Does the China and the CCP pledge not to interfere in the internal politics of other countries? I think he doth protest too much.

15. America can build peace better - if it includes women.

United States Institute of Peace · by Amanda Long & Kathleen Kuehnast · August 19, 2020

Blessed are the peacemakers.

16. Joint maritime operations: Green Berets train in California

Fort Carson Mountaineer · by Public Affairs Office · August 29, 2020

17. We ran our online election disinformation simulation game and there's plenty to be worried about

TechDirt · by Mike Masnick · August 27, 2020

It takes a critically thinking electorate to defend against this threat.

18.  For some military veterans, QAnon conspiracies offer comfort and belonging

ConnectingVets.com · by Jack Murphy · August 28, 2020

This is truly a sad situation. I hope all the veterans I know will shun QAnon and its idiotic, but apparently enticing and dangerous, messages.

19. Comfortably Numb

Claremont Review of Books · by Charles Murray · Summer 2020

An interesting book review. This is a powerful conclusion that we should reflect upon. Where is our civic virtue these days?

""Divisions...under my command...fought on a front of seven hundred miles, in four groups, separated by great distances, with no lateral communications between them and beyond tactical support of one another.... Commanders at all levels had to act more on their own; they were given greater latitude to work out their own plans to achieve what they knew was the Army Commander's intention. In time they developed to a marked degree a flexibility of mind and a firmness of decision that enabled them to act swiftly to take advantage of sudden information of changing circumstances without reference to their superiors.... This acting without orders, in anticipation of orders, or without waiting for approval, yet always within the overall intention, must become second nature in any form of warfare."

- Field Marshall (British Army) William Slim, Defeat Into Victory

"The staff knew so much of war than I did that they refused to learn from me of the strange conditions in which Arab irregulars had to act; and I could not be bothered to set kindergarten for their benefit."

-   T.E. Lawrence

"Never esteem anything as of advantage to you that will make you break your word or lose your self-respect."

- Marcus Aurelius

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Duncan Moore.

1. New virus cases below 300 as social distancing toughened in greater Seoul

2. Seoul ‘shuts down’ in bid to blunt COVID-19

3. Defense ministry extends restrictions on troop vacation amid fight (South Korea)

4. Ex-minister Kang Kum-Sil envisions peace and life at DMZ

5. N.Korean border guards 'under shoot-to-kill orders' (report based on RFA reporting)

6. Continuity or reset? China and South Korea face a post-Abe Japan

7. South Korea's ruling party picks ex-prime minister as possible Moon successor

8. In North Korea, Joe Biden will seek change, not photo ops

9. Why South Korea would celebrate a Joe Biden win. What about North Korea?

10. China will look to take advantage of Joe Biden's North Korea policy

11. North Korea's Kim Jong-Un is eager to engage. Is Joe Biden?

12. Pyongyang ‘sends spy messages through YouTube for first time’, South Korea’s media rushes to report - but there’s a caveat

13. U.N. North Korea investigator: Seoul's singling out of defectors a mistake

14. To solve North Korea, Joe Biden must learn a lesson from Donald Trump

15. U.S. issues warning on North Korean hackers targeting banks worldwide

16. The U.S. is taking its crypto back from North Korea

17. Disappearance of Kim Jong-Un’s sister ominous sign of brutal Pyongyang power play

18. North Korea to create 'terror' with Juche Bird launch after coronavirus delay

1. New virus cases below 300 as social distancing toughened in greater Seoul

Yonhap News Agency · by entropy@yna.co.kr · August 30, 2020

2. Seoul ‘shuts down’ in bid to blunt COVID-19

Korea Herald · by Kim Arin · August 30, 2020

3. Defense ministry extends restrictions on troop vacation amid fight (South Korea)

Korea Herald · by Yonhap · August 30, 2020

4.  Ex-minister Kang Kum-Sil envisions peace and life at DMZ

Korea Herald · by Kim Hae-yeon · August 30, 2020

There is a tremendous amount of life in the DMZ. However, the DMZ will never be 100% safe for unlimited human use. The number of unaccounted-for mines that have shifted over the years due to the monsoon floods and other environmental conditions means that no one can ever guarantee the DMZ will be cleared for safe use. Yes, parts of it can–and much of the DMZ should—be preserved as natural habitats to allow animals and plants to flourish as they currently do. However, I think it would be irresponsible to ever declare the DMZ completely open and safe for public use. The bulk of the DMZ should be sustained as a nature preserve.

5. N.Korean border guards 'under shoot-to-kill orders' (report based on RFA reporting)

Chosun Ilbo · by Chosun Ilbo · August 28, 2020

Just as an aside: this report in the Korean press would likely not be possible without Radio Free Asia (and others that are dependent on Voice of America). Journalists from RFA and VOA have contacts inside North Korea. Their news reports provide information not only to the Korean people in the North (who are not allowed to hear their own news because it is regulated by the regime's Propaganda and Agitation Department); they also provide news and information that is used by the South Korean, US, and international mainstream media. The Koreans services of RFA and VOA punch well above their weight, contributing significantly (though indirectly) to information and influence activities simply by executing their mission: to report the news from the target area back to the target area and to report news from the US and international community to the target area and the region.

6. Continuity or reset? China and South Korea face a post-Abe Japan

Nikkei Asian Review · by Tsukasa Hadano & Yosuke Onchi · August 30, 2020

What happens in Japan could have a significant impact on Korea and, thus, the US. We should expect a lot of speculation in the coming days.

7. South Korea's ruling party picks ex-prime minister as possible Moon successor

Herald-Mail Media · by Jeong-Ho Lee Bloomberg · August 29, 2020

And I guess it is not too early to be speculating about South Korean presidential politics.

8. In North Korea, Joe Biden will seek change, not photo ops

National Interest · by Robert King · August 29, 2020

I get that the National Interest is running this "what if" series to examine what Biden's policies might be toward North Korea. But, it seems like a little bit of counting chickens before they hatch (though a number of their articles have been written from the prospective what if either candidate wins and comparing and contrasting what policies each might implement).

When I saw the title, my subconscious immediately read "regime change." However, I do not think that is what Ambassador King has in mind (and, if he does, it is not something he would express in public… although I cannot speak for the Ambassador, I would guess that he is in favor of unification under a United Republic of Korea, which would require not regime change but simply the regime going away!).

9. Why South Korea would celebrate a Joe Biden win. What about North Korea?

National Interest · by Ramon Pacheco Pardo · August 29, 2020

If Biden wins, North Korea will have lost its best chance of ever getting a deal. He needs both Trump and Moon to get a deal and both are most likely to make one. But Kim has squandered his chances. On the other hand, to get a deal with both Moon and Trump would require significant compromise by the regime because, despite both seeming that they want it more than Kim, they (and Biden) are not likely to fall into the traps of the past where the North gets much for very little or nothing. The North will (and must) be required to make substantial concessions in terms of declarations, dismantling, and inspections, which it has never agreed to before. That sums up the essence of the problem: Kim will not allow substantive working-level talks that lead to a real process, which requires transparency in the form of intrusive activity. Kim is just not going to agree to that. Which is why we need a strategy beyond the nuclear crisis that focuses on resolving the "Korea question."

10. China will look to take advantage of Joe Biden's North Korea policy

National Interest · by Patricia Schouker · August 30, 2020

Yes, there are still many who think we should pressure China to solve the North Korean problem, but I think that most realize that North Korea is a pawn to China in Great Power Competition, and that realization should help either man as president to (hopefully) prevent being "played" by China (and North Korea). They may appear to but neither candidate is likely to fall for China's subversive activities toward North Korea.

11. North Korea's Kim Jong-Un is eager to engage. Is Joe Biden?

National Interest · by Seong-ho Sheen · August 29, 2020

One thing I think we should all agree on is that President Trump has broken a number of taboos when it comes to North Korea. Whether you think that is good or bad, his efforts may provide future presidents (or himself, if he is re-elected) with the ability to be more flexible (but please note that I do not define being more flexible as giving into to demands for concessions in which Kim gets something for nothing).  But, President Trump or a successor can be more creative because of the unconventional, experimental, top down, pen pal diplomacy of the past 3 years. However, whether any of the most creative strategies might work is dependent on Kim Jong-Un. Of course, if we go for a strategy that looks beyond Kim Jong-Un and works to resolve the Korea question, then that same creativity will be useful as well.

12. Pyongyang ‘sends spy messages through YouTube for first time’, South Korea’s media rushes to report - but there’s a caveat

RT · by RT · August 30, 2020

A bigger caveat: this is from Russia's RT. 

But if I were advising North Korea and the regime wanted to do this, I might recommend exactly this and make it seem like this is some "station" in Mexico. Analysis such as Martyn Williams' below would be exactly what I would want. Then again, if I were advising the regime, I might recommend just doing something obvious like this to get people talking and focusing on the wrong thing while I use a different means of communication. As some famous general said, all warfare is based on deception.

13. U.N. North Korea investigator: Seoul's singling out of defectors a mistake

UPI · by Elizabeth Shim · August 28, 2020

This is a troubling statement about our linchpin and cornerstone allies.

14. To solve North Korea, Joe Biden must learn a lesson from Donald Trump

National Interest · by Mitchell Lerner · August 30, 2020

Whomever wins in November needs a long-term strategy that goes beyond the nuclear crisis.

Here is one from 2019.

Here is one from 2004.

15. U.S. issues warning on North Korean hackers targeting banks worldwide

Lexology · by Lexology · August 28, 2020

Beware of North Korea cyber actions.

16. The U.S. is taking its crypto back from North Korea

Live Bitcoin News · by Nick Marinoff · August 29, 2020

Let's get more aggressive in the cyber domain. This is a small but good example of just one thing we need to be doing.

17. Disappearance of Kim Jong-un’s sister ominous sign of brutal Pyongyang power play

news.com.au · by Benedict Brook · August 30, 2020

Relatively long assessment of the Kim family regime's Game of Thrones (with juche characteristics of course).

18. North Korea to create 'terror' with Juche Bird launch after coronavirus delay

Daily Star · by Tom Towers · August 30, 2020

Ah... the Juche Bird.

I do pay attention to everything that Professor Sung-Yoon Lee says and writes about North Korea. There are few real experts on North Korea, but he is one of them.

My sense is whether a "juche bird" will be launched this fall will depend on how the October 10th military celebrations go (or do not go or do not go right).

""Divisions...under my command...fought on a front of seven hundred miles, in four groups, separated by great distances, with no lateral communications between them and beyond tactical support of one another.... Commanders at all levels had to act more on their own; they were given greater latitude to work out their own plans to achieve what they knew was the Army Commander's intention. In time they developed to a marked degree a flexibility of mind and a firmness of decision that enabled them to act swiftly to take advantage of sudden information of changing circumstances without reference to their superiors.... This acting without orders, in anticipation of orders, or without waiting for approval, yet always within the overall intention, must become second nature in any form of warfare."

- Field Marshall (British Army) William Slim, Defeat Into Victory

"The staff knew so much of war than I did that they refused to learn from me of the strange conditions in which Arab irregulars had to act; and I could not be bothered to set kindergarten for their benefit."

-   T.E. Lawrence

"Never esteem anything as of advantage to you that will make you break your word or lose your self-respect."

- Marcus Aurelius

News & commentary by Dave Maxwell. Edited and published by Daniel Riggs.

1. On the Issue of Chinese Malign Influence, Both Trump and Biden are Right

2. Is the CCP losing its 'Mandate of Heaven'?

3. How Great Power Competition and Regional Rivalries are Destabilizing the Red Sea Region

4. U.S. Cyber Command helps prosecutors seize stolen cryptocurrency traced to illicit N. Korea nuclear weapons program

5. Opinion | Shinzo Abe's resignation could deal a blow to Japan and U.S. interests alike

6. Army official: 2 soldiers killed, 3 hurt in 'routine training' incident

7. East Asia military balance at risk from new missiles and drones

8. A New Era of Coronavirus Testing Is About to Begin

9. What's Next for the U.S.-Japan 'Special Relationship'

10. Top general says no role for military in presidential vote

11. Philippine human rights workers are being systematically killed in a growing war on dissent

12. The Army Now Has the Most 4-Star Generals on Duty Since World War II

13.  Silver Stars awarded to two Green Berets and a pararescueman for close-quarters Taliban battle

14. Jolo back to normal, but braces for terrorist attacks, says mayor

15. How Many of Maria Ressa's Warnings Will We Ignore?

16. Pentagon poised to award Medal of Honor to Alwyn Cashe, who died after saving fellow soldiers in Iraq

17. Belarusian Officials Shut Down Internet With Technology Made by U.S. Firm

18. The Myth of SOF Leadership and the Need for Urgency | SOF News

19. Report - SOF Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition | SOF News

20. Leadership questions mount at GWU, where officials plan layoffs, salary cuts

21. Algorithms, AI alone can't help Facebook tackle online extremism. It needs people too

1. On the Issue of Chinese Malign Influence, Both Trump and Biden are Right

The National Interest · by Craig Singleton · August 27, 2020

From my FDD colleague Craig Singleton.  

A key point:

The Chinese influence machine does not just target America's media landscape. Arguably, its most successful efforts to shape the narrative around China involve co-opting prominent academics and influential members of the business community to advance the Party's objectives, often in exchange for financial remuneration or promises of market access. This tactic, known as "elite capture," is also a hallmark of Beijing's One Belt One Road initiative.

On the Issue of Chinese Malign Influence, Both Trump and Biden are Right

Washington must stay on guard and continue to counter China's influence operations no matter who wins.

2. Is the CCP losing its 'Mandate of Heaven'?

eastasiaforum.org · by Friso Stevens · August 28, 2020

A view of a Chinese apologist?

3. How Great Power Competition and Regional Rivalries are Destabilizing the Red Sea Region

The National Interest · by Yoel Guzansky · August 28, 2020

A view from Israel.

4. U.S. Cyber Command helps prosecutors seize stolen cryptocurrency traced to illicit N. Korea nuclear weapons program

The Washington Post· by Spencer S. Hsu · August 28, 2020

Good work by Cybercom.

5. Opinion | Shinzo Abe's resignation could deal a blow to Japan and U.S. interests alike

The Washington Post · by Editorial Board

Hopefully we can manage the relationship during and after the transition.

6. Army official: 2 soldiers killed, 3 hurt in 'routine training' incident

fox17online.com · by KGTV Staff · August 28, 2020

"Routine training" can be very dangerous. Training like this is always high risk but I suppose that is routine for 160th SOAR.

7. East Asia military balance at risk from new missiles and drones

asia.nikkei.com

The subtitle begs the question: Does conventional deterrence no longer work?

8. A New Era of Coronavirus Testing Is About to Begin

defenseone.com · by Alexis C. Madrigal

I hope this pans out.  We need massive rapid (and accurate and reliable) testing.

9. What's Next for the U.S.-Japan 'Special Relationship'

National Review Online · by Arthur L. Herman · August 27, 2020

We need to sustain our cornerstone alliance in Northeast Asia.

10. Top general says no role for military in presidential vote

AP · by Lolita C. Baldor · August 28, 2020

There is (or should be) no role for the US military in the political process.

11. Philippine human rights workers are being systematically killed in a growing war on dissent

Los Angeles Times · by David Pierson · August 27, 2020

Just a terrible situation.  Duterte needs international condemnation and pressure.

12. The Army Now Has the Most 4-Star Generals on Duty Since World War II

military.com · by Matthew Cox · August 28, 2020

The article does not mention General Abrams in Korea or General Clarke at USSOCOM.

13. Silver Stars awarded to two Green Berets and a pararescueman for close-quarters Taliban battle

Stars and Stripes· by Chad Garland · August 27, 2020

We may have a lot of Army 4 star generals, but these are the men (of the Army and the AirForce) at the top of the spear.

14. Jolo back to normal, but braces for terrorist attacks, says mayor

manilastandard.net· by Macon Ramos-Araneta

15.  How Many of Maria Ressa's Warnings Will We Ignore?

Wired · by Steven Levy

We need to pay attention to Maria Ressa (and we need to keep her out of jail in the Philippines).

16. Pentagon poised to award Medal of Honor to Alwyn Cashe, who died after saving fellow soldiers in Iraq

The Washington Post · by  Dan Lamothe · August 28, 2020

Finally.  This should not have taken this long.

17. Belarusian Officials Shut Down Internet With Technology Made by U.S. Firm

Bloomberg · by Ryan Gallagher · August 28, 2020

18. The Myth of SOF Leadership and the Need for Urgency | SOF News

sof.news · by Eliann Carr and David Hargett · August 29, 2020

19. Report - SOF Civil Affairs in Great Power Competition | SOF News

sof.news · by Travis Clemens · August 27, 2020

The two SOF trinities: irregular warfare, unconventional warfare and support of political warfare and the comparative advantage of SOF; governance, influence, and support to indigenous forces and populations.  Civil Affairs forces play a key role.

The report can be downloaded at this link.

20. Leadership questions mount at GWU, where officials plan layoffs, salary cuts

The Washington Post

Is GWU the canary in the coal mine?  Is our university system heading for a train wreck.? What kind of "forcing function" with the pandemic have on shaping the future of the college education system?

21. Algorithms, AI alone can't help Facebook tackle online extremism. It needs people too

theprint.in · August 28, 2020

----------------

My father was a soldier. He was a frogman in the special forces in Denmark before I was born, and always the reality of that inspired me. My mom is very left-wing, classic socialist, and she always talked about the solders as almost crazy, violent, sick people, and I want to confront that because its very judgmental, and I'm not sure it's true."

- Tobias Lindholm

"Huey Long once said, 'Fascism will come to America in the name of anti-fascism.' I'm afraid, based on my own experience, that will fascism will come to America in the name of national security."

- Jim Garrison (Playboy Interview, October, 1967)

“I am concerned for the security of our great Nation; not so much because of any threat from without, but because of the insidious forces working from within."

- Douglas MacArthur