The USFK commander has proposed reducing the current 28,500 troops in Korea to deploy advanced weapons like F-35 fighter jets under "strategic flexibility." This alignes with the US Department of Defense's broader plan to use USFK for deterrence against North Korea and counter China. Brunson warned that Beijing's attempts to turn the Yellow Sea into an "internal sea" could infringe on Korea's sovereignty, suggesting that USFK's role in containing China also serves Korea's interests.
President Volodymyr Zelensky and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson discussed Ukraine's military aviation, with a focus on strengthening cooperation between the two countries in the face of ongoing tensions in Eastern Europe. The talks also touched upon Sweden's potential involvement in providing military aid to Ukraine, as part of its efforts to support NATO member states.
EU leaders have agreed that Ukraine's involvement is crucial for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for active diplomacy, support to Ukraine, and pressure on Russia to end its illegal war. The EU and its member states welcome US President Donald Trump's efforts to stop the killing in Ukraine and achieve peace and security for the country, but their proposed terms differ from Russian President Vladimir Putin's plan, which seeks significant territorial concessions. European leaders urge US President Donald Trump to put more pressure on Russia to end the war in Ukraine, with a meeting between Trump and Putin planned to discuss a peace deal in Alaska.
India is negotiating trade pacts with several countries, including the US, under Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. Several countries are keen to engage with India on the trade front, as the world recognizes the country's strengths.
Bolton Warns Trump on Tariffs and Indian Relations
8.9.25
Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton has warned President Donald Trump that his 50% tariffs on India could push New Delhi closer to Russia and China, contrary to the intention of hurting Russia. Bolton criticized Trump's "leniency" towards China for similar sanctions and "heavy-handed" tariffs on India, saying this could jeopardize decades of efforts to keep India away from Russia and China. He also expressed concern that if China secures a better trade deal with the US, it could lead to resentment in India, which has been paused by Trump due to its larger trade surplus with the US.
The US government's efforts to restrict Russia's access to global finance may have unintended consequences, as secondary sanctions could impact non-US entities that currently avoid dealing with Russian financial systems due to existing restrictions. For instance, if a European bank is prohibited from working with Russian banks, it may be forced to cut ties with Russian companies, potentially disrupting international trade and commerce.
India Diversifies Defence Portfolio Amid Russia's Decline
8.9.25
The US and India have strengthened their defence cooperation, with regular joint exercises and intelligence sharing across all domains. In response to Russia's declining influence as a primary arms supplier, India has diversified its defence portfolio, turning to the US, France, and Israel for advanced capabilities. Despite this shift, structural dependence on Russian-origin platforms remains, particularly in areas like air defence and armoured vehicles. Indian officials have expressed no interest in acquiring Russia's new S-500 long-range surface-to-air missile system. Energy trade has also become a point of contention, with India expanding its imports of discounted Russian crude since the Ukraine conflict began, but now facing pressure to reduce these imports if equivalent terms can be secured elsewhere.
India and the US have agreed for the US to re-evaluate its policy on supplying advanced military equipment, including fifth-generation fighter jets like the F-35 and submarine systems, following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump in February 2025.
Japan Funds Laos Infrastructure Development Projects
8.9.25
Japan's Ambassador to Laos, Koizumi Tsutomu, emphasized Japan's commitment to supporting Laos' infrastructure development through notable projects such as the Second Mekong Friendship Bridge, the Pakse Bridge, and the Sekong Bridge, which have significantly improved connectivity in the region. Additionally, upgrades to Wattay International Airport and improvements to National Road No. 13 are also part of Japan's efforts to enhance Laos' infrastructure, further solidifying its long-standing support for the country's development.