Military

China’s Double Wedge Against Efforts to Foster Vietnam-US Relations
Just as Beijing seeks to coerce Hanoi in the South China Sea, it warns about Washington’s intentions closer to home.

Myanmar Junta Scaling up Air War on Resistance
The frequency and consistency with which the airstrikes are hitting civilian targets has charities, rights groups and analysts convinced they’re expressly in the junta’s crosshairs. “Every single hospital up here and every clinic has been bombed in Karenni, and many in Karen state and Chin as well,” said Eubank, a former U.S. Special Forces officer.

US, Chinese Warships’ Near Miss in Taiwan Strait Hints at Ongoing Troubled Diplomatic Waters, Despite Chatter About Talks
It was the second near miss in the space of just a few weeks. In late May, a Chinese plane crossed in front of an American surveillance aircraft above the South China Sea.

China Hosts Rare Counterterrorism Talks With Iran, Pakistan
China has boosted economic collaboration with Iran. The countries signed a 25-year strategic partnership agreement in March 2021. However, according to Iranian officials, the document contained no specific commitments on investment or security.

China’s Strong-Arming Won’t Work in Marcos’ Philippines
China lost sight that the Philippines — like many ASEAN countries — is a post-colonial state, sensitive to the raw ambition of superpowers to dominate and bend them against their will. Beijing overlooked the determination of many domestic actors in these countries to defend their national interest.

US Warns ‘Alarming Increase’ in Aggressive Chinese Intercepts
A senior defense official said since 2021, the PRC has declined or failed to respond to more than a dozen requests from the Department of Defense for key leader engagements, along with multiple requests for standing dialogues and nearly 10 working-level engagements. “Frankly, it’s just the latest in a litany of excuses.”

Swedish Prime Minister Says Tensions in Taiwan Strait Affect Europe
In October, the prime minister voiced concerns about China’s military threats to Taiwan in his inaugural address to the parliament.