Intergovernmental relations theme
Looks a bit like the European leaders would need to have an idea of how selling Patriot ammunition to Ukraine could help Iran give in to U.S. pressure?
Reports: CIA director on a secret visit to Russia. CIA chief John Ratcliffe reportedly traveled to Russia, according to CBS. He is said to have attended meetings in Moscow, but what about is unclear. See the report on SVT News.
The US cancels military exercise with South Korea – worries about war increase. Recently, South Korea's largest joint military exercise with the US was significantly shortened. Now, this fall's important landing exercise Ssangyong is also being canceled, an exercise that has been held annually since 2012. The US cites a lack of resources and needs in the Middle East. The decision is seen as yet another sign that the US is reprioritizing. Costs are highlighted, as well as dissatisfaction with South Korea not wanting to support American efforts related to Iran. Watch the segment on SVT News.
Burnham plans meeting with Trump. UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham says that he and other European leaders plan to discuss Ukraine's access to some of the US's stockpile of Patriot systems with President Donald Trump in September. – When I leave here today, I am completely clear on what I need to do over the next few weeks, Burnham tells Bloomberg during his ongoing visit to Ukraine.
According to Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Ukraine is seeking 300 Patriot systems before winter. He has previously said that if Kyiv could buy five percent of the US Patriot stockpile, the country would get through the winter, and if Ukraine had 10 percent, the country could destroy all of Russia's ballistic missiles. Watch the segment on SVT News.