Biden Pardons Given in His Last Days may be Considered ‘Void’ Declares Trump 

President Donald Trump announced early on Monday that he would “void” the pardons issued by President Joe Biden during his final days in office, claiming they were illegitimate because they were signed using an autopen. Trump argued that Biden did not personally sign or approve these pardons, including those for members of the January 6th Committee and individuals linked to the Biden family. Trump further stated that the people involved in these pardons might have committed a crime, as Biden was unaware of them. The claim comes after the Heritage Foundation’s Oversight Project revealed that several pardons, including those for figures like Dr. Anthony Fauci and General Mark Milley, were signed with the same autopen signature, raising concerns about the legality of such actions. Kyle Brosnan of the Oversight Project expressed alarm over the use of an autopen for presidential pardons, emphasizing that the constitutional authority for pardons rests solely with the president. The controversy has sparked debates over Biden’s mental fitness and the extent of his control over presidential duties.

JFK Assassination Files to be Released Today by the Trump Administration 

President Donald Trump announced that approximately 80,000 pages of federal government files related to the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy (JFK) would be released to the public on Tuesday afternoon. Trump, speaking at the John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center, stated that the release was long-awaited, and that he had instructed officials, including Tulsi Gabbard, to ensure no redactions. Trump reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promise to release these documents, which detail the 1963 assassination in Dallas. The files were declassified earlier through an executive order Trump signed in January, also covering records related to the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert F. Kennedy. Trump’s announcement follows a rally in August 2024 where he pledged to create a commission to investigate presidential assassination attempts, honoring Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the son of the late senator. RFK Jr. has publicly speculated about CIA involvement in his uncle’s death, further fueling interest in the newly declassified documents.

Leftist Judge Orders Planes Deporting Gang Members to Turn Around Mid-Flight 

A U.S. District judge, James Boasberg, appointed by former President Barack Obama, ruled on Saturday that President Donald Trump’s order designating violent Venezuelan prison gang members as foreign terrorists was illegal. Boasberg issued a temporary hold on Trump's use of the 1798 Alien Enemies Act, blocking the deportation of gang members and ordering that any planes in transit with these individuals be returned to the United States. Boasberg justified his decision, stating that a brief delay in deportation would not harm the government, and the gang members would remain in federal custody. Attorney General Pam Bondi and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt criticized the ruling, with Bondi arguing that it jeopardized American safety, while Leavitt defended Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act, stressing his commitment to protecting Americans. The ruling sparked outrage from some, including The Federalist’s Mollie Hemingway, who condemned Boasberg’s decision as dangerous and questioned the judge’s actions. The case highlights ongoing tensions over immigration policy and national security.

Southern Border Being Patrolled by Air Force U-2 Spy Plane 

The U.S. Air Force is deploying U-2 Dragon Lady spy planes along the southern border as part of a large-scale intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) effort under President Donald Trump's border security initiative. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin confirmed on March 14 that U-2s, RC-135 Rivet Joint signals intelligence aircraft, and drones are conducting missions to support U.S. Northern Command's border operations. The U-2, capable of flying above 70,000 feet, gathers high-resolution imagery, signals intelligence (SIGINT), and measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT). RC-135 flights along the border began in early February, and Navy P-8s equipped with advanced radar are also conducting intelligence-gathering missions. Around 40 Air Force intelligence analysts recently joined the border mission, increasing the total troop deployment to 9,600, including 590 engineers from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Intelligence is coordinated through the Joint Intelligence Task Force-Southern Border, headquartered at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, with operations extending to Joint Reserve Intelligence Centers in California, Arizona, Texas, and Florida.

Drone Radar Units Being Deployed to Southern Border 

The U.S. Army has deployed ground-based radars, including the AN/TPQ-53 and AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel systems, along the U.S.-Mexican border to help detect and track drones used by Mexican drug cartels. The 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, New York, is training with the radars in Arizona as part of the broader border security mission launched by President Donald Trump in January. The Sentinel radar can detect drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles, while the Q-53, typically used for tracking artillery fire, can also identify and follow low-flying drones. The deployment aims to counter the growing use of cartel drones for surveillance, smuggling, and attacks on rival gangs and government forces. U.S. officials fear the violence could spill across the border, including potential cartel-led drone strikes on U.S. soil. NORTHCOM and the Department of Homeland Security are collaborating with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to enhance surveillance. According to Gen. Gregory Guillot, drone incursions across the border already number in the thousands annually, posing a significant security challenge.

Destroyer USS Gravely Now Part of the Mission to Secure the Southern Border 

The Pentagon announced on Monday that it is deploying the USS Gravely, a U.S. Navy destroyer, to the Gulf of America as part of a mission to secure the southern border. Chief Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell emphasized that controlling territorial waters is crucial for U.S. sovereignty, complementing efforts to protect the land border. The USS Gravely will work under U.S. Northern Command’s authority to combat drug trafficking and illicit goods, closely coordinating with the U.S. Coast Guard. Parnell stressed the importance of border security, citing ongoing efforts to secure the southern border against criminal activities such as human smuggling and drug trafficking. The U.S. has deployed nearly 10,000 troops to the border, including a Stryker Brigade Combat Team. Despite a 93% reduction in illegal crossings, Parnell vowed to ensure full operational control. The deployment marks a significant step in U.S. defense strategy, with the Gulf of Mexico officially renamed the Gulf of America by President Trump during his second administration, further highlighting the mission’s importance.

State Farm Gets Approval for 22% Rate Hike in California 

California Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara recently announced a provisional 22% rate hike for State Farm, reflecting the severe financial strain caused by wildfires and other risks in the state. This decision, prompted by more than $1 billion in claims from the January LA wildfires, follows warnings from State Farm that its California subsidiary, State Farm General, would need the increase to cover expected $7.6 billion in wildfire losses. The company has already exhausted its capital in handling claims, leading to higher rates for homeowners and renters. With more than 8,700 claims filed by February 1, State Farm, a major insurer in California, is also facing the challenge of dropping thousands of policies in high-risk areas, including over 2,000 in Los Angeles. This trend, shared by other insurers like Allstate and Farmers Insurance, is forcing many homeowners to turn to the state-backed California FAIR Plan for minimal coverage. Lara emphasized the need for certainty in the market, as consumers face escalating premiums or limited insurance options. 

Government Shutdown Averted as Trump Signs Funding Bill 

President Donald Trump signed the government funding bill into law on Saturday, preventing a potential shutdown and securing a win for himself and Republicans. The bill, H.R. 1968, funds the government through September 30. With funding set to expire at midnight on Saturday, the measure passed the House of Representatives on Wednesday by a 217-213 vote, with Republicans united behind it, except for Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY). One Democrat, Rep. Jared Golden (ME), joined Republicans to support the bill. Tensions escalated when Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) initially indicated that Democrats might block the bill, but later agreed to help the GOP secure enough votes. Trump blamed Democrats for a potential shutdown, claiming they would harm the country. The Senate voted Friday to end debate on the bill with a 62-38 vote, including nine Democrats and one independent joining Republicans. The bill then passed 54-46, reaching Trump’s desk for signing. Trump praised Schumer for his support, emphasizing the importance of bipartisan cooperation.

Houthis See Third Day of Sustained US Strikes, Killing Dozens 

The U.S. military has conducted three consecutive days of large-scale airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, killing “dozens” of militants and destroying command centers, weapons manufacturing sites, and drone infrastructure. The strikes, ordered by President Donald Trump, began Saturday and aim to degrade the Houthis’ ability to threaten maritime shipping. Joint Staff Director for Operations Lt. Gen. Alex Grynkewich confirmed that multiple headquarters, command and control nodes, and UAV sites were hit, with several senior Houthi drone technicians killed. Despite Houthi claims of around 50 civilian deaths, Grynkewich stated there was no evidence of civilian casualties. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the campaign will be “unrelenting” until Houthi maritime threats cease but indicated it is designed to have a limited duration. While not confirming ground operations, Parnell did not rule them out, citing operational security. The strikes were triggered by Houthi threats to resume attacks on Israeli-linked vessels in the Red Sea, citing the blockade of humanitarian aid to Gaza as justification. Trump vowed “decisive and powerful” military action.

ISIS Second-In-Command Taken Out by US-Iraqi Forces 

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and Iraqi forces killed ISIS’s second-in-command, Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rifai, known as “Abu Khadijah,” in an airstrike in Al Anbar Province, Iraq, on March 13. Abu Khadijah, the emir of ISIS’s top decision-making body, oversaw global operations, logistics, and planning, and controlled a significant portion of the group’s finances. Following the strike, CENTCOM and Iraqi forces secured the site, confirming the deaths of both Abu Khadijah and another ISIS operative. Both terrorists were wearing unexploded suicide vests and carrying multiple weapons. Abu Khadijah’s identity was verified through DNA collected during a previous raid in which he narrowly escaped. CENTCOM Commander Gen. Michael Erik Kurilla called Abu Khadijah “one of the most important ISIS members in the entire global organization” and vowed to continue targeting ISIS leaders. The strike is part of ongoing U.S. and Iraqi efforts to dismantle ISIS and prevent its resurgence, protecting U.S., allied, and partner forces in the region and beyond.

France F5 Rafale Fighters Armed with Hypersonic Nuclear Missiles to be Based near Germany 

France will station Rafale F5 fighter jets armed with ASN4G hypersonic nuclear cruise missiles at Luxeuil Air Base near the German border, expanding its nuclear deterrence program. President Emmanuel Macron announced a $1.6 billion modernization plan to prepare the base for next-generation nuclear capabilities. The upgraded base will host two squadrons of Rafale F5s (40 jets), expected to be operational by 2035, with the first squadron arriving in 2032. The F5 variant will feature enhanced electronic warfare, improved connectivity, and a ‘loyal wingman’ drone capability, alongside stealth upgrades like conformal fuel tanks and radar-cross-section reduction kits. The ASN4G missile, developed by MBDA with ONERA, will replace the ASMPA missile, exceeding Mach 5 with a range over 1,000 km (621 miles). France currently operates three nuclear-capable airbases—Saint-Dizier, Istres, and Avord—but is reintroducing Luxeuil to bolster its independent nuclear deterrent. Macron also announced plans to increase Rafale orders to replace Mirage jets transferred to Ukraine, amid growing European discussions on strategic autonomy and nuclear-sharing.

EU Seeks to Jumpstart Defense Capabilities After Being Rocked by Trump 

The EU is advancing plans to bolster its defense capabilities amid growing concerns over Russia and the potential loss of U.S. security guarantees under President Donald Trump. On March 20, the European Commission will unveil a white paper outlining a roadmap, dubbed "Readiness 2030," aimed at creating a credible deterrence capability by 2030. The proposals include easing fiscal rules to enable €650 billion in defense spending over four years and offering up to €150 billion in EU-backed loans for joint procurement, with 65% of weapon content sourced from Europe. Brussels aims to mobilize up to €800 billion ($875 billion) in total investments. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that "if Europe wants to avoid war, Europe must get ready for war," urging member states to ramp up rearmament efforts. The initiative comes as countries like Poland and the Baltics already exceed NATO's 2% GDP spending threshold, while Germany approved a major defense package. The EU aims to reduce reliance on U.S. protection and strengthen its defense industry through collective procurement and investment strategies.

Anti-Personnel Mines Deployed on Russian and Belarusian Borders by Poland 

Poland plans to deploy anti-personnel mines along its borders with Russia and Belarus as part of the Eastern Shield program, Deputy Defense Minister Paweł Bejda announced. The move follows a joint decision by Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia to withdraw from the Ottawa Treaty, which bans anti-personnel mines. Bejda cited the deteriorating border security situation as the reason, confirming that while Poland currently lacks such mines, it can manufacture them domestically. He indicated plans to order several hundred thousand, potentially up to a million mines, produced by Polish Armed Forces factories. Estonia’s Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna defended the withdrawal, arguing that it is wrong to “forbid ourselves to use weapons that Russia is ready to use against us.” Although withdrawing from the treaty, the Baltic states and Poland pledged to adhere to international humanitarian law regarding warfare methods and civilian protection. On March 7, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed plans to exit treaties banning both anti-personnel mines and cluster munitions, marking a significant shift in regional defense policy. 

$2.2BN Ukraine Aid Package Announced by France 

France announced a $2.2 billion military aid package for Ukraine, supplying MILAN anti-tank missiles, MICA air-to-air missiles for Mirage 2000 jets, Mistral air defense missiles, VAB armored personnel carriers, and AMX-10RC reconnaissance vehicles. The package also includes remotely controlled ammunition and expanded defense industry cooperation, enabling Ukraine to domestically produce military equipment with French firms. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy praised France’s continued support, highlighting the Mirage 2000’s effectiveness in intercepting Russian drones and missiles. On March 7, a French-supplied Mirage 2000-5F destroyed a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile during a large-scale attack. Zelenskyy confirmed ongoing talks with French President Emmanuel Macron about increasing Mirage deliveries and boosting joint defense production. Macron reiterated that Russia’s "desire for war" persists despite ceasefire negotiations. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, speaking in Warsaw, warned that any Russian attack on Poland or another NATO ally would trigger a "devastating" response. His comments addressed concerns that a U.S.-Russia peace deal could allow Moscow to rebuild and threaten neighboring nations. 

Security Chief Claims Poland Only has Two Weeks of Ammo for a Potential War 

Poland's National Security Bureau head, Dariusz Lukowski, stated that the country has enough ammunition to hold off a potential Russian attack for up to two weeks until allied forces arrive. Poland, sharing a 144-mile border with Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave, has been ramping up arms production to strengthen its defensive capacity. While some munitions may only last for five days of combat, Lukowski believes Poland can maintain defense operations for one to two weeks, depending on the nature of the conflict. The most critical shortage is in ammunition for older weapon systems, production of which has ceased. Poland has also been supplying weapons to Ukraine, but this is being done cautiously, with efforts to replenish its stockpiles. Poland's defense strategy includes the $2.6 billion "Eastern Shield" project, focused on bolstering the eastern border, potentially using anti-personnel landmines. While Russia denies aggressive intentions toward NATO, Moscow dismisses Western claims of a Russian threat as “nonsense,” accusing Europe of using such fears to justify increased military spending. 

16th MQ-9 Reaper Downed Houthis Claim; USAF Shoot Down Houthis Drone with Laser-Guided Rockets 

Yemen’s Houthi rebels claim to have shot down another U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Dhamar Governorate, which, if confirmed, would mark the 16th such incident since 2023. The U.S. has not verified the claim, and no visual evidence has been provided. The estimated total cost of all downed MQ-9s exceeds $500 million. Meanwhile, the U.S. Air Force used laser-guided APKWS II rockets in an air-to-air role for the first time, launching them from F-16s to intercept Houthi one-way attack drones. CENTCOM released footage of the rockets destroying Houthi drones but did not specify the location or time. The APKWS II, part of the FALCO program, offers a cost-effective counter-drone solution, costing $15,000–$20,000 compared to AIM-9X missiles ($450,000) and AIM-120s ($1 million). The Houthis also launched a ballistic missile, the Palestine-2, toward Israel, which was intercepted by the Israeli Air Force. U.S. and coalition forces have destroyed over 325 Houthi drones since January 2024, with APKWS II becoming a key tool in Red Sea counter-drone operations.

US Target Houthis Key Leader Strongholds in Yemen 

The U.S. launched significant airstrikes across Yemen, targeting key Houthi positions in Saada province and the Red Sea port city of Hodeidah. Yemeni sources report over 10 strikes on sites in Saada, including weapons storage and training facilities. The operation, which marks the largest U.S. military action in the Middle East since President Donald Trump’s inauguration, was a response to Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping. The Houthis, aligned with Iran, have escalated attacks on shipping lanes since late 2023, claiming solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza. In retaliation, the U.S. has focused on intercepting missiles and targeting Houthi military infrastructure. Houthi leaders, including Abdul Malik al-Houthi, have moved their operations into hiding, cutting off communications to evade detection. Despite these efforts, U.S. strikes continue, forcing further displacement. The Houthis vowed to escalate their attacks, citing their right to self-defense against U.S. actions. Additionally, they threatened further strikes on Israeli targets unless attacks on Gaza cease. 

Israel’s Ben Gurion Airport Targeted in New Missile Attack Claims Houthis 

The Yemeni Houthi group claimed on Tuesday that it launched two hypersonic ballistic missiles at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel, marking the fifth such attack in recent days amid rising regional tensions over Israeli actions in Gaza. The group also stated it targeted "hostile" U.S. warships in the Red Sea, though no details were provided. While Israel did not immediately comment on the Houthi claim, the Israeli military reported intercepting a missile fired from Yemen before it entered Israeli airspace. However, local media indicated the missile was shot down inside Israeli territory, with shrapnel falling within the country. Since late 2023, the Houthi group has been targeting Israeli-linked vessels in the Red and Arabian seas, Bab al-Mandab Strait, and Gulf of Aden, citing solidarity with Gaza. The attacks paused during a January ceasefire between Israel and Hamas but resumed threats after Israel blocked humanitarian aid to Gaza in early March. 

Tensions Elevated as US Warships Reposition, Iran Warns US Against Attacks 

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that no nation would "dare" attack Iran, emphasizing the country's military capabilities as a deterrent against external aggression. His comments come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East and increased U.S. naval deployments in the region. Araghchi highlighted Iran's military preparedness and the readiness of its armed forces, emergency services, and civilian capabilities, asserting that these factors prevent any foreign attack. He also reiterated Iran's refusal to engage in direct talks with the U.S., although he acknowledged the possibility of indirect negotiations through intermediaries. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy Commander Alireza Tangsiri stressed Iran’s readiness for conflict, highlighting the integration of artificial intelligence into its military operations. These developments coincide with the U.S. sending additional military assets to the region, including two aircraft carrier strike groups, in response to ongoing conflicts involving Iran-backed groups like the Houthis. Both countries continue to reinforce their respective stances, ensuring regional tensions remain high. 

Underground ‘Missile City’ Video Released by Iran 

A new video released by Iranian state media features military leaders Maj. Gen. Mohammad Hossein Bagheri and Amir Ali Hajizadeh touring a weapons-filled underground facility, showcasing advanced missile systems, including the Kheybar Shekans, Ghadr-Hs, Sejjils, and Haj Qassems. These weapons, used in previous attacks, are stored in vast tunnels and caverns without sufficient protective measures like blast doors or separated revetments, exposing a major vulnerability. If the facility were breached, the resulting chain reaction of explosions could be catastrophic. This video is part of Iran's broader deterrence messaging amid growing tensions with the U.S., which has built up military forces in the Middle East, including sending B-2 Spirit bombers to Diego Garcia. The U.S. military is capable of targeting such underground facilities with bunker-buster weapons. Despite their hardened exterior, these facilities have been vulnerable to attacks, as evidenced by Israel’s operations targeting underground Iranian sites in Syria and Lebanon. The video aims to demonstrate Iran’s ability to withstand an attack, while highlighting its potential vulnerabilities.

New F-16s Arrive in Ukraine Confirms Zelenskyy 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the arrival of a new batch of F-16 fighter jets during a Zoom briefing. Despite Russian media claims of shooting down an F-16 in the Sumy region, Zelenskyy dismissed the reports, with Ukrainian Air Force spokesperson Yurii Ihnat describing them as propaganda. Ihnat emphasized that F-16 pilots continue to carry out successful operations against Russian forces daily. In 2023, Ukraine, in collaboration with its allies, formed an aviation coalition to provide the country with F-16s, with the goal of acquiring at least 128 aircraft. The first F-16s, delivered in 2024 by the Netherlands and Denmark, have arrived, though the exact number remains unclear. Belgium is set to provide 30 F-16s by 2028. Ukrainian pilots are currently undergoing training on the new jets in several countries, including the United States. This move is part of Ukraine's ongoing efforts to bolster its air force and enhance its military capabilities in the ongoing conflict with Russia. 

Despite Russia Accepting Temporary Ceasefire Terms, Ukraine Continues Attacks

Despite Russia’s acceptance of a U.S.-brokered temporary ceasefire, Ukraine launched multiple drone strikes on Russian energy facilities, according to Moscow’s defense ministry. On March 24, Ukrainian drones targeted the Kropotkinskaya oil pumping station in Krasnodar, part of the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC). Debris from intercepted drones fell near the Kavkazskaya railway station. This follows previous strikes on the same facility on February 17 and a March 19 attack on another CPC site in Kavkazskaya stanitsa. On March 22, Ukrainian drones hit the Valuyki gas metering station in Belgorod, damaging equipment, and on March 23, Russian forces repelled an attempted drone strike on Crimea’s Glebovskiy gas-condensate field. Moscow claims these attacks contradict Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s ceasefire commitments. Meanwhile, Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Moscow has refrained from targeting Ukraine’s energy sector under the deal with President Donald Trump. In parallel, Trump proposed U.S. operational control over Ukraine’s nuclear plants and announced an upcoming rare earth minerals agreement with Kyiv, while ceasefire talks continue in Saudi Arabia. 

Kremlin Says Ukraine Still Striking Russian Energy Targets as Naval Ceasefire Not Yet in Place 

Less than 24 hours after Ukraine and Russia agreed to a partial ceasefire, which included halting attacks on energy infrastructure and pausing Black Sea hostilities, accusations of violations have already surfaced. Russia insists that the naval ceasefire will only be implemented after the U.S. lifts sanctions on its food and fertilizer trade, while Ukraine is accused by Russia of continuing to target energy facilities, such as the Glebovskoye gas storage in Crimea. In turn, Ukraine accuses Russia of violating the agreements, particularly after drone strikes damaged Ukrainian infrastructure, including in Kryvyi Rih and Sumy. The two sides also disagree on the scope and details of the Black Sea ceasefire, with Russia emphasizing safe navigation and the prohibition of using commercial vessels for military purposes. Ukraine, however, contends that Russian warships operating outside the eastern Black Sea would breach the deal. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about Russia’s commitment to peace and called for further sanctions, highlighting Moscow’s demand for banking sanctions to be lifted before the ceasefire can take effect. 

Russian Ground Targets Struck by Ukrainian F-16s Using Guided Bombs 

The Ukrainian Air Force has begun using F-16 fighter jets to strike Russian ground targets with high-precision guided bombs, including the U.S.-made Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) and JDAM-ER. A Ukrainian F-16 pilot, in the first public interview of its kind, highlighted the aircraft’s effectiveness in combat missions and the team’s adaptation to Western technology. Recent images showed Ukrainian F-16s equipped with BRU-61 pylons carrying eight GBU-39/B SDBs, each weighing 130 kg with a range of up to 110 km, enabling precision strikes. The pilot emphasized the bomb’s accuracy, stating, “If we want, our bomb can fly into someone’s window.” To maximize effectiveness, pilots operate near enemy positions, exposing them to Russian aircraft and air defense threats. The F-16s are also armed with AIM-120C, AIM-9M, and AIM-9X air-to-air missiles for aerial combat. Ukraine recently received additional F-16s through international military assistance, while France is expected to supply Mirage fighters and MICA missiles, further strengthening Ukraine’s aerial capabilities. 

USSF General Says China Demonstrated Ability to ‘Satellite Dogfight’ 

A top Space Force general, Vice Chief of Space Operations Gen. Michael Guetlein, revealed that commercial systems have observed Chinese satellites practicing "dogfighting" maneuvers in low Earth orbit. These maneuvers, which involve satellites engaging in complex movements around each other, are part of China's efforts to refine its space operations tactics. The exercise, conducted in 2024, involved three Shiyan-24C experimental satellites and two Shijian-605 spacecraft, which are believed to have signals intelligence missions. The demonstration highlights China's ability to perform advanced rendezvous and proximity operations, where satellites not only maneuver around objects but also inspect them. Guetlein emphasized that this activity, alongside similar Russian operations, indicates the narrowing gap in space capabilities between the U.S. and its adversaries. He warned that the U.S. must adapt its approach to space to maintain an advantage, as the growing space capabilities of near-peer competitors pose a significant challenge. Guetlein underscored the Space Force's mission to secure space superiority, ensuring the U.S. can maintain operational dominance in the space domain. 

Intel Report Suggests China is Largest Military Threat to US 

A US intelligence report released Tuesday identified China as the top global threat to American interests, citing Beijing's growing military and cyber capabilities. The Annual Threat Assessment highlights China’s "coercive pressure" on Taiwan and its extensive cyber operations targeting US entities as key indicators of its increasing threat to national security. According to the report, China poses the most significant military challenge to the US, with advanced capabilities like hypersonic weapons, stealth aircraft, and nuclear arsenals. Despite this, China is described as more cautious than Russia, Iran, and North Korea in its approach, avoiding overtly aggressive actions. US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard emphasized that China is the "most capable strategic competitor," leveraging military, space, and cyber assets to strengthen its global influence. The assessment also warns of China’s efforts to weaken the US internally and internationally, aiming to counter perceived efforts to undermine the Chinese Communist Party’s global standing. The report also addresses threats from Russia, North Korea, Iran, and transnational criminal organizations.

Iran Given Deadline by Trump to Halt Nuclear Ambitions 

President Donald Trump has given Iran a two-month deadline to accept a nuclear deal that halts its nuclear weapon ambitions, warning that if no agreement is reached, the U.S. military will intervene. Trump conveyed this ultimatum through a letter sent to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which was delivered via intermediaries, including UAE President Mohammed Bin Zayed. Khamenei rejected the proposal, accusing the U.S. of attempting to deceive the world and indicating that negotiations with Trump’s administration were impossible. Iran, which had previously held unsuccessful talks with the Biden administration, has amassed significant stockpiles of 60% enriched uranium, which can be further enriched to the 90% needed for nuclear weapons. While Trump has stated he prefers a diplomatic solution, he warned that failure to negotiate would lead to military action, which he suggested would be disastrous for Iran. The Foundation for the Defense of Democracies has reported that Iran’s uranium stockpile is enough for roughly seven nuclear weapons. Trump emphasized the urgency of reaching a deal before military action becomes inevitable.

French MEP Calls for US to Return Statue of Liberty Claiming US No Longer Stands for Its Values

Far-left French MEP Raphaël Glucksmann sparked controversy by calling on the United States to return the Statue of Liberty, arguing that America no longer values the freedoms it represents. Speaking to 1,500 activists at his Place Publique party congress, Glucksmann criticized American political actions, particularly during the Trump administration, alleging that it undermined liberty and scientific freedom. He suggested that if the U.S. no longer appreciated the statue’s significance, it would be better suited in France. The statue, designed by Auguste Bartholdi and gifted by France in 1886, has symbolized American democracy and freedom. Glucksmann also criticized Trump’s stance on Ukraine and the rise of far-right movements globally, linking them to figures like Trump, Vladimir Putin, and Marine Le Pen. In a call for “democratic resistance,” Glucksmann invited American researchers dissatisfied with U.S. policies to France. His party also aims to counter right-wing ideologies, promoting French values of “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.” White House spokesperson Caroline Leavitt responded by emphasizing America's role in liberating France during WWII.