<p>The Russian military has reportedly withdrawn a regional task force from neighbouring Belarus. This withdrawal has drawn attention from Ukrainian border authorities and independent Belarusian war monitors, shedding light on the evolving dynamics in the region.</p>

<h2><strong>Background: Lukashenko's deployment</strong></h2>

<p>The backdrop to this withdrawal lies in Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's announcement in October 2022. Lukashenko had asserted the need for a joint regional group of military forces, citing concerns over Ukraine's alleged preparations for an attack on his country. This move set the stage for heightened tensions in Eastern Europe.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's perspective</strong></h2>

<p>Recent statements from the State Border Service of Ukraine indicate that "almost all" of Russia's forces in Belarus have undergone a rotation, signaling a notable shift in the military landscape. According to spokesperson Andrii Demchenko, there have been no additions to the Russian troop presence in Belarus. Consequently, Ukraine perceives the current Russian troop numbers in Belarus as not constituting an immediate threat of a northward invasion into Ukraine.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelensky-says-russian-leader-vladimir-putin-killed-wagner-chief-prigozhin-633865"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian leader Vladimir Putin killed Wagner chief Prigozhin</a></p>

<h2><strong>The withdrawal timeline</strong></h2>

<p>The withdrawal process appears to have unfolded in stages. Russian personnel reportedly completed their exit from Belarus in early July, with the entire aviation group following suit in early August. This information comes from the Belarusian war monitoring project, Belarussky Hajun, which has been closely tracking these developments. Notably, this monitoring effort has listed 11 attack and transport helicopters, along with nine fighter jets, among the assets that have returned to their home airfields in Russia.</p>

<h2><strong>The Wagner mercenary outfit</strong></h2>

<p>A potentially significant factor in the regional dynamics is the presence of around 2,500 fighters affiliated with the Wagner mercenary outfit. These mercenaries had agreed to be stationed in Belarus following a failed mutiny during the summer. While other Russian forces have reportedly withdrawn, these fighters appear to remain stationed in Belarus. This situation has been reported by Russia's investigative outlet, iStories.</p>

<p>Notably, Russia's defence ministry has maintained silence regarding the reported withdrawal of its troops from Belarus. This lack of official comment adds an air of mystery to the situation, leaving room for speculation about the motives and implications of the withdrawal.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;G20 Summit 2023: Russia-Ukraine war could be discussed</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Lukashenko's role and accusations</strong></h2>

<p>Alexander Lukashenko, a longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has faced accusations of facilitating Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. These allegations stem from the belief that he allowed Russian forces to assemble and launch attacks from Belarusian territory. Despite this, Belarus officially remains a non-belligerent in the ongoing conflict.</p>

<p>In a parallel development, Belarus has found itself targeted by Western sanctions, mirroring the measures aimed at Russia over its assault on Ukraine. These sanctions underscore the interconnectedness of the two nations' actions in the regional geopolitical landscape.</p>

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The Russian military has reportedly withdrawn a regional task force from neighbouring Belarus. This withdrawal has drawn attention from Ukrainian border authorities and independent Belarusian war monitors, shedding light on the evolving dynamics in the region.

The Russian military has reportedly withdrawn a regional task force from neighbouring Belarus. This withdrawal has drawn attention from Ukrainian border authorities and independent Belarusian war monitors, shedding light on the evolving dynamics in the region. Background: Lukashenko's deployment The backdrop to this withdrawal lies in Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's announcement in October 2022. Lukashenko had asserted the need for a joint regional group of military forces, citing concerns over Ukraine's alleged preparations for an attack on his country. This move set the stage for heightened tensions in Eastern Europe. Ukraine's perspective Recent statements from the State Border Service of Ukraine indicate that "almost all" of Russia's forces in Belarus have undergone a rotation, signaling a notable shift in the military landscape. According to spokesperson Andrii Demchenko, there have been no additions to the Russian troop presence in Belarus. Consequently, Ukraine perceives the current Russian troop numbers in Belarus as not constituting an immediate threat of a northward invasion into Ukraine. Also read | Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says Russian leader Vladimir Putin killed Wagner chief Prigozhin The withdrawal timeline The withdrawal process appears to have unfolded in stages. Russian personnel reportedly completed their exit from Belarus in early July, with the entire aviation group following suit in early August. This information comes from the Belarusian war monitoring project, Belarussky Hajun, which has been closely tracking these developments. Notably, this monitoring effort has listed 11 attack and transport helicopters, along with nine fighter jets, among the assets that have returned to their home airfields in Russia. The Wagner mercenary outfit A potentially significant factor in the regional dynamics is the presence of around 2,500 fighters affiliated with the Wagner mercenary outfit. These mercenaries had agreed to be stationed in Belarus following a failed mutiny during the summer. While other Russian forces have reportedly withdrawn, these fighters appear to remain stationed in Belarus. This situation has been reported by Russia's investigative outlet, iStories. Notably, Russia's defence ministry has maintained silence regarding the reported withdrawal of its troops from Belarus. This lack of official comment adds an air of mystery to the situation, leaving room for speculation about the motives and implications of the withdrawal. Also watch | G20 Summit 2023: Russia-Ukraine war could be discussed Lukashenko's role and accusations Alexander Lukashenko, a longtime ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has faced accusations of facilitating Moscow's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. These allegations stem from the belief that he allowed Russian forces to assemble and launch attacks from Belarusian territory. Despite this, Belarus officially remains a non-belligerent in the ongoing conflict. In a parallel development, Belarus has found itself targeted by Western sanctions, mirroring the measures aimed at Russia over its assault on Ukraine. These sanctions underscore the interconnectedness of the two nations' actions in the regional geopolitical landscape. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia announces swift withdrawal of military forces from ally Belarus

The Pentagon has announced a new initiative to use drone technology. According to the Wall Street Journal report, the US Department of Defense is considering the development of a vast network of artificial intelligence power technology drones and autonomous systems. These will be developed within the next 2 years to counter threats from China.

US military plans to build up force of thousands of combat drones

Military coups in the African region are spreading like wildfire, becoming a cause of serious concern for governments across countries. Political leaders are now springing into action, making significant changes to their defence structure, and preparing for the worst. Take a look at this story for more details.

Governments of African countries get proactive to avoid a military coup

A report has claimed that Chinese nationals, sometimes posing as tourists, have been spying on US military bases and other sensitive sites in recent years.

Are Chinese nationals posing as tourists to spy on US military bases?

The judges of the country's constitutional court administered the oath of office to Gabonese General Brice Oligui Nguema on Monday, September 4, in a televised ceremony. Nguema was the mastermind of the coup that removed President Ali Bongo. This occurs just days after the military of the 2.3 million-person nation, led by Oligui, seized control.

Gabon: General Oligui to remain transitional president for unspecified period

An army spokesman reported that Gabon has reopened its borders three days after they had been shut during the military revolution that resulted in the removal of President Ali Bongo.

Gabon reopens borders three days after military coup

<p>The coup leaders of Niger barred NGOs, UN agencies and international organisations from working in military "operation zones", said the interior ministry on Thursday (August 31).<br />
<br />
The ministry, without specifying the affected regions, broadcasted the statement on national radio which read, "Due to the current security situation and operational commitment of the Nigerien armed forces, the ministry informs international organisations, national and international NGOs and UN agencies present in Niger that all activities and or movements in the zones of operations are temporarily suspended.”</p>

<h2><strong>Nigerian president proposes nine-month transition in Niger</strong></h2>

<p>Nigerian President Bola Tinubu proposed that the neighbouring state of Niger can transition back to democracy for a period of nine months, similar to the nine-month period through which his country was in the late 1990s.<br />
<br />
Sanctions were imposed on Niger by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a coup by the troops on July 26. The country was threatened with military intervention by the bloc as a last resort if civilian rule was not restored after talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-after-niger-this-is-why-coup-in-gabon-is-receiving-public-support-630612">Explained | After Niger, this is why coup in Gabon is receiving public support</a></p>

<p>In a statement, the bloc on Thursday emphasised that it wanted Bazoum to be back in power right away. "The military authorities in Niger must restore constitutional order immediately by liberating and reinstating... President Mohamed Bazoum," it stated.<br />
<br />
The new military leaders of Niger have dug in stating that they needed a maximum three-year transition period for restoring constitutional order and have asked police to expel France's envoy as tensions continue to increase with a key partner in the anit-jihadist fight of Niger.<br />
<br />
Tinubu stated that civilian rule had returned in Nigeria after a nine-month transition period in 1999 which was instituted by former military head of state General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who was also leading delegations to meet the Niger junta.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Niger coup marks one month as citizen support balloons</strong></p>

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<p>"The president sees no reason why such cannot be replicated in Niger if Niger's military authorities are sincere," the statement read. For the first time, an ECOWAS official publicly talked about a possible transition period for military rulers of Niger.<br />
<br />
In his statement, Tinubu stated that they would not get any relief from sanctions imposed by ECOWAS until "positive adjustments" were made by the regime. "The soldiers' action is unacceptable. The earlier they make positive adjustments, the quicker we will dial back the sanctions to alleviate the sufferings we are seeing in Niger," it stated.&nbsp;</p>

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The coup leaders of Niger barred NGOs, UN agencies and international organisations from working in military "operation zones", said the interior ministry on Thursday (August 31).

The coup leaders of Niger barred NGOs, UN agencies and international organisations from working in military "operation zones", said the interior ministry on Thursday (August 31). The ministry, without specifying the affected regions, broadcasted the statement on national radio which read, "Due to the current security situation and operational commitment of the Nigerien armed forces, the ministry informs international organisations, national and international NGOs and UN agencies present in Niger that all activities and or movements in the zones of operations are temporarily suspended.” Nigerian president proposes nine-month transition in Niger Nigerian President Bola Tinubu proposed that the neighbouring state of Niger can transition back to democracy for a period of nine months, similar to the nine-month period through which his country was in the late 1990s. Sanctions were imposed on Niger by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) after President Mohamed Bazoum was ousted in a coup by the troops on July 26. The country was threatened with military intervention by the bloc as a last resort if civilian rule was not restored after talks. ALSO READ | Explained | After Niger, this is why coup in Gabon is receiving public support In a statement, the bloc on Thursday emphasised that it wanted Bazoum to be back in power right away. "The military authorities in Niger must restore constitutional order immediately by liberating and reinstating... President Mohamed Bazoum," it stated. The new military leaders of Niger have dug in stating that they needed a maximum three-year transition period for restoring constitutional order and have asked police to expel France's envoy as tensions continue to increase with a key partner in the anit-jihadist fight of Niger. Tinubu stated that civilian rule had returned in Nigeria after a nine-month transition period in 1999 which was instituted by former military head of state General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who was also leading delegations to meet the Niger junta. WATCH | Niger coup marks one month as citizen support balloons "The president sees no reason why such cannot be replicated in Niger if Niger's military authorities are sincere," the statement read. For the first time, an ECOWAS official publicly talked about a possible transition period for military rulers of Niger. In his statement, Tinubu stated that they would not get any relief from sanctions imposed by ECOWAS until "positive adjustments" were made by the regime. "The soldiers' action is unacceptable. The earlier they make positive adjustments, the quicker we will dial back the sanctions to alleviate the sufferings we are seeing in Niger," it stated. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Niger bans NGOs, UN agencies from working in military 'operation zones'

After being overthrown in a coup by the army and placed under house arrest, President Ali Bongo of Gabon has made an appeal for assistance. He urged followers to "raise your voice" as he addressed the crowd on Wednesday from what he claimed to be his home. Army officers had earlier announced their coup on television.

Coup in Gabon: Army seizes power from Ali Bongo, puts him in house arrest

The military takeover in Gabon is the 8th in West and Central Africa since 2020 and in the latest the mutinous soldiers in Gabon proclaimed their guard chief as the country's leader this after placing the just re-elected president Ali Bongo under house arrest.

Gabon officers declare military coup

The 3M co. has agreed to pay $6 billion to settle hundreds of thousands of cases claiming it provided faulty earplugs to the US military, resulting in hearing loss for soldiers in the field. The firm said in a statement on Tuesday that the payment conditions include $5 billion in cash and $1 billion in 3m common stock.

3M agrees to pay $6 bn in military earplug settlement

<p>Reports have emerged that Chinese military forces have initiated significant underground construction activities in Aksai Chin, located to the east of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), a region which India claims to be the nation's integral part.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These activities involve the creation of tunnels and shafts into a hillside along a narrow river valley. Multiple fortified shelters and bunkers are being built to house soldiers and keep the weaponry hidden. Satellite imagery from space tech company, Maxar, reportedly exposed the presence of around 11 hidden shafts carved into the rock surfaces on both sides of the river valley.</p>

<p>Experts quoted by various media outlets have meticulously analysed these images and are of the opinion that these extensive construction activities, over the past several months, seem to reflect China's strategic maneuvering to counterbalance India's perceived military advantage in the region. The construction of fortified shelters and bunkers likely represents a tactical move by China to ensure its preparedness against potential Indian airstrikes and extended-range artillery attacks, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It is worth noting that this is not the first time China's activities have come to the fore. Earlier, a UK-based think tank in its report said Beijing is indulging in these activities to facilitate smooth troop deployment near the Indian border.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report from Chatham House, which is based on an extensive study of satellite images taken in the six months since October 2022, states that Chinese PLA has built a network of outposts, camps, and expanded roads on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since the start of a military standoff with India in May 2020.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-makes-exception-for-singapore-agrees-to-export-non-basmati-rice-630347">India makes exception for Singapore, agrees to export non-basmati rice</a></p>

<p>These latest developments where the tunnels are seen in the satellite images signal China's ambitions for dominance in the region.&nbsp;China's intent appears to be mitigating the existing upper hand held by the Indian Air Force in Aksai Chin. This approach is also believed to be a response to India's bolstered offensive capabilities since the Galwan clash.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chandrayaan-3-mission-pragyan-rover-finds-sulphur-on-moons-south-pole-region-hunt-on-for-hydrogen-630305">Chandrayaan-3 mission: Pragyan rover finds sulphur on Moon's south pole region, hunt on for hydrogen</a></p>

<p>"By establishing underground facilities and developing subterranean infrastructure in such proximity to the border, Chinese strategists seem to be aiming to counterbalance the current advantage held by the Indian Air Force in Aksai Chin," a leading satellite imagery expert with The Intel Lab, Damien Symon, told NDTV.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Radioactive Rotis: Brits never treated Indians as human beings</strong></p>

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<p>Sameer Joshi, the CEO of NewSpace Research &amp; Technologies, a leading Indian drone start-up, told NDTV, "In the years since the Galwan clash, the Indian Army has effectively scaled up its offensive fire vectors, especially long-range tube and rocket artillery."&nbsp;</p>

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Reports have emerged that Chinese military forces have initiated significant underground construction activities in Aksai Chin, located to the east of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), a region which India claims to be the nation's integral part.

Reports have emerged that Chinese military forces have initiated significant underground construction activities in Aksai Chin, located to the east of the Line of Actual Control (LAC), a region which India claims to be the nation's integral part. These activities involve the creation of tunnels and shafts into a hillside along a narrow river valley. Multiple fortified shelters and bunkers are being built to house soldiers and keep the weaponry hidden. Satellite imagery from space tech company, Maxar, reportedly exposed the presence of around 11 hidden shafts carved into the rock surfaces on both sides of the river valley. Experts quoted by various media outlets have meticulously analysed these images and are of the opinion that these extensive construction activities, over the past several months, seem to reflect China's strategic maneuvering to counterbalance India's perceived military advantage in the region. The construction of fortified shelters and bunkers likely represents a tactical move by China to ensure its preparedness against potential Indian airstrikes and extended-range artillery attacks, media reports said. It is worth noting that this is not the first time China's activities have come to the fore. Earlier, a UK-based think tank in its report said Beijing is indulging in these activities to facilitate smooth troop deployment near the Indian border. The report from Chatham House, which is based on an extensive study of satellite images taken in the six months since October 2022, states that Chinese PLA has built a network of outposts, camps, and expanded roads on the Chinese side of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) since the start of a military standoff with India in May 2020. Also Read | India makes exception for Singapore, agrees to export non-basmati rice These latest developments where the tunnels are seen in the satellite images signal China's ambitions for dominance in the region. China's intent appears to be mitigating the existing upper hand held by the Indian Air Force in Aksai Chin. This approach is also believed to be a response to India's bolstered offensive capabilities since the Galwan clash. Also Read | Chandrayaan-3 mission: Pragyan rover finds sulphur on Moon's south pole region, hunt on for hydrogen "By establishing underground facilities and developing subterranean infrastructure in such proximity to the border, Chinese strategists seem to be aiming to counterbalance the current advantage held by the Indian Air Force in Aksai Chin," a leading satellite imagery expert with The Intel Lab, Damien Symon, told NDTV. Watch | Gravitas: Radioactive Rotis: Brits never treated Indians as human beings × Sameer Joshi, the CEO of NewSpace Research & Technologies, a leading Indian drone start-up, told NDTV, "In the years since the Galwan clash, the Indian Army has effectively scaled up its offensive fire vectors, especially long-range tube and rocket artillery." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Chinese PLA carves out bunkers in Aksai Chin to counter India's offensive capabilities post-Galwan

In West Africa, countries under military coup are claiming good governance. In Niger too, locals have shown support to the military takeover. Perpetrators of the coup also claim that they are responding to people's demands. Our report tells you more about Burkina Faso, Mali and now Niger - all countries that seem to have embraced military rule.

Niger, Burkina Faso & Guinea Embrace coups

Here, we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe: China has launched military drills around Taiwan Beijing has described the drills as a serious warning against Taiwan's Independence.

China launches military drills around Taiwan

<p>West African military chiefs said on Friday they were ready for an armed intervention in Niger after a coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last month, but a diplomatic mission was possible over the weekend to keep talks open.</p>

<p>The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has agreed to activate a "standby force" as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger after generals toppled and detained Bazoum on July 26.</p>

<p>ECOWAS defence chiefs met this week in the Ghanaian capital Accra to fine-tune details of a potential military operation to restore Bazoum if ongoing negotiations with coup leaders fail.</p>

<p>"We are ready to go any time the order is given," said Abdel-Fatau Musah, an ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs and security.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigers-new-prime-minister-says-no-harm-will-come-to-captive-president-mohamed-bazoum-626880">Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum</a></p>

<p>"The D-Day is also decided."</p>

<p>But the leaders also say they still favour dialogue and that ECOWAS could send a diplomatic mission to Niger on Saturday.</p>

<p>"Tomorrow there is the possibility of an ECOWAS mission going into Niger to continue to pursue the peaceful path to restoration of constitutional order," he said.</p>

<p>"We are ready to resolve the issue peacefully but it takes two to tango."</p>

<p>ECOWAS leaders say they have to act after Niger became the fourth West African nation since 2020 to suffer a coup, following Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaros-legal-troubles-deepen-as-quote-authorises-probe-into-his-finances-626878">Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances</a></p>

<p>The Sahel region is struggling with growing jihadist insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and Islamic State. Frustration over the violence has in part prompted the military takeovers.</p>

<p>ECOWAS troops have intervened in other emergencies since 1990, including civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Ivory Coast, Benin and Nigeria are expected to contribute troops to a Niger mission.</p>

<h2><strong>'Grave consequences'</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Bazoum, whose 2021 election was a landmark in Niger's troubled history, has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup, with growing international concern over his conditions in detention.</p>

<p>ECOWAS chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Friday threatened Niamey with "grave consequences" if the new regime allows Bazoum's health to worsen under house arrest, an EU official said.</p>

<p>During a call to EU chief Charles Michel, Tinubu noted: "President Bazoum's detention conditions are deteriorating."</p>

<p>"Any further deterioration to his well-being status will have grave consequences."</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Michel had renewed the European Union's "full support and backing of ECOWAS' decisions, as well as firm condemnation of the unacceptable coup de force in Niger".</p>

<p>Niger's military-appointed prime minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, told The New York Times that the coup leaders would do Bazoum no harm.</p>

<p>"Nothing will happen to him, because we don't have a tradition of violence in Niger," the most senior civilian in the new regime told the newspaper in an interview from Dakar.</p>

<h2><strong>Militarily risky</strong></h2>

<p>Details of the Niger operation have not been released and analysts say any intervention would be politically and militarily risky, especially for regional player Nigeria.</p>

<p>Nigeria is already struggling to contain violence from several armed groups at home, and leaders in the country's north have warned about spillover from Niger across the border if there is an intervention.</p>

<p>Niger's coup leaders have warned against any military strikes and defiantly threatened to charge Bazoum with treason. But they have also said they are open to talks.</p>

<p>The military-ruled governments in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso have also said an intervention in Niger would be seen as a declaration of war against them.</p>

<p>ECOWAS has already applied trade and financial sanctions on Niger while France, Germany and the United States have suspended aid programmes.</p>

<p>Germany's foreign ministry has also said it wants the EU to impose sanctions on the coup leaders, saying that Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had held talks with her French and US counterparts.</p>

<p>UN rights chief Volker Turk slammed the generals who seized power on "a whim", plunging Niger further into misery and stranding thousands of migrants.</p>

<p>"The very notion of freedoms in Niger is at stake," he said. "Rule-by-gun has no place in today's world."</p>

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West African military chiefs said on Friday they were ready for an armed intervention in Niger after a coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last month, but a diplomatic mission was possible over the weekend to keep talks open.

West African military chiefs said on Friday they were ready for an armed intervention in Niger after a coup ousted President Mohamed Bazoum last month, but a diplomatic mission was possible over the weekend to keep talks open. The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has agreed to activate a "standby force" as a last resort to restore democracy in Niger after generals toppled and detained Bazoum on July 26. ECOWAS defence chiefs met this week in the Ghanaian capital Accra to fine-tune details of a potential military operation to restore Bazoum if ongoing negotiations with coup leaders fail. "We are ready to go any time the order is given," said Abdel-Fatau Musah, an ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs and security. Also Read | Niger's new Prime Minister says no harm will come to captive President Mohamed Bazoum "The D-Day is also decided." But the leaders also say they still favour dialogue and that ECOWAS could send a diplomatic mission to Niger on Saturday. "Tomorrow there is the possibility of an ECOWAS mission going into Niger to continue to pursue the peaceful path to restoration of constitutional order," he said. "We are ready to resolve the issue peacefully but it takes two to tango." ECOWAS leaders say they have to act after Niger became the fourth West African nation since 2020 to suffer a coup, following Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea. Also Read | Brazil: Bolsonaro's legal troubles mount as SC Justice authorises probe into his finances The Sahel region is struggling with growing jihadist insurgencies linked to Al-Qaeda and Islamic State. Frustration over the violence has in part prompted the military takeovers. ECOWAS troops have intervened in other emergencies since 1990, including civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Ivory Coast, Benin and Nigeria are expected to contribute troops to a Niger mission. 'Grave consequences' Bazoum, whose 2021 election was a landmark in Niger's troubled history, has been held with his family at the president's official residence since the coup, with growing international concern over his conditions in detention. ECOWAS chair and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Friday threatened Niamey with "grave consequences" if the new regime allows Bazoum's health to worsen under house arrest, an EU official said. During a call to EU chief Charles Michel, Tinubu noted: "President Bazoum's detention conditions are deteriorating." "Any further deterioration to his well-being status will have grave consequences." Watch | Has China's growth story hit a roadblock? × Michel had renewed the European Union's "full support and backing of ECOWAS' decisions, as well as firm condemnation of the unacceptable coup de force in Niger". Niger's military-appointed prime minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, told The New York Times that the coup leaders would do Bazoum no harm. "Nothing will happen to him, because we don't have a tradition of violence in Niger," the most senior civilian in the new regime told the newspaper in an interview from Dakar. Militarily risky Details of the Niger operation have not been released and analysts say any intervention would be politically and militarily risky, especially for regional player Nigeria. Nigeria is already struggling to contain violence from several armed groups at home, and leaders in the country's north have warned about spillover from Niger across the border if there is an intervention. Niger's coup leaders have warned against any military strikes and defiantly threatened to charge Bazoum with treason. But they have also said they are open to talks. The military-ruled governments in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso have also said an intervention in Niger would be seen as a declaration of war against them. ECOWAS has already applied trade and financial sanctions on Niger while France, Germany and the United States have suspended aid programmes. Germany's foreign ministry has also said it wants the EU to impose sanctions on the coup leaders, saying that Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock had held talks with her French and US counterparts. UN rights chief Volker Turk slammed the generals who seized power on "a whim", plunging Niger further into misery and stranding thousands of migrants. "The very notion of freedoms in Niger is at stake," he said. "Rule-by-gun has no place in today's world." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

West Africa military chiefs ready for intervention in Niger; ECOWAS to send diplomatic mission

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for an increase in missile production to help secure "overwhelming military power" and be ready for war, state media KCNA said on Monday, as South Korea and the United States gear up for annual military drills.

North Korea's Kim orders making more missiles ahead of S.Korea, US drills

<p>Military experts in China claim to have made a massive breakthrough in laser weapon technology by developing a new cooling mechanism that allows high-energy lasers to function "infinitely" without wasting heat buildup, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentioned that the scientists at the National University of Defence Technology, in Changsha, Hunan province, said that the new cooling technology totally removes the hazardous heat generated by high-energy laser operation.&nbsp;The scientists further said that the problem has been a significant technical hurdle for laser weapon development.</p>

<p>They also stated that the weapons can now generate laser beams for as long as they wish, without interruption or loss in performance, thanks to new technology.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deadly-bacteria-found-on-bibby-stockholm-uk-evacuates-controversial-barge-624672">Deadly bacteria found on Bibby Stockholm, UK evacuates controversial barge</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>As quoted by SCMP, the team led by laser weapon scientist Yuan Shengfu, said in a paper published on August 4 in Acta Optica Sinica: "This is a huge breakthrough in improving the performance of high-energy laser systems."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Acta Optica Sinica is a Chinese-language peer-reviewed journal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The team further said: "High-quality beams can be produced not only in the first second but also maintained indefinitely."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report mentions that the cooling system removes heat from inside the laser weapon while limiting turbulence and vibration and enhancing mirror cleaning through improved structures and optimal gas flow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The researchers said that it has the potential to significantly change the face of battle by extending engagement times, increasing range and damage, and reducing logistics and costs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-fires-chiefs-of-local-military-recruitment-centres-amid-corruption-allegations-624657">Ukraine fires chiefs of local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Yuan and his colleagues said: "Since the invention of the first ruby laser in 1960, people have been enthusiastic about transitioning from kinetic energy to laser energy for the rapid projection of energy at the speed of light, dreaming of laser beams to become ‘death rays’ that can instantly kill targets."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Unfortunately, 60 years have passed and while various types of lasers have been developed, the application of high-energy laser systems has not been successful," they added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Laser weapon development has accelerated in the face of increasing arms competition between the West and China. As a result, the appearance of this weapon may pose new challenges to missile sensors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An old report by Eurasian Times mentioned laser guns, which may fire a beam to divert a homing missile, can be found on a variety of high-end military vehicles, including Air Force One and Apache attack helicopters.&nbsp;</p>

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Military experts in China claim to have made a massive breakthrough in laser weapon technology by developing a new cooling mechanism that allows high-energy lasers to function "infinitely" without wasting heat buildup, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported.

Military experts in China claim to have made a massive breakthrough in laser weapon technology by developing a new cooling mechanism that allows high-energy lasers to function "infinitely" without wasting heat buildup, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported. The report mentioned that the scientists at the National University of Defence Technology, in Changsha, Hunan province, said that the new cooling technology totally removes the hazardous heat generated by high-energy laser operation. The scientists further said that the problem has been a significant technical hurdle for laser weapon development. They also stated that the weapons can now generate laser beams for as long as they wish, without interruption or loss in performance, thanks to new technology. Also read: Deadly bacteria found on Bibby Stockholm, UK evacuates controversial barge As quoted by SCMP, the team led by laser weapon scientist Yuan Shengfu, said in a paper published on August 4 in Acta Optica Sinica: "This is a huge breakthrough in improving the performance of high-energy laser systems." Acta Optica Sinica is a Chinese-language peer-reviewed journal. The team further said: "High-quality beams can be produced not only in the first second but also maintained indefinitely." The report mentions that the cooling system removes heat from inside the laser weapon while limiting turbulence and vibration and enhancing mirror cleaning through improved structures and optimal gas flow. The researchers said that it has the potential to significantly change the face of battle by extending engagement times, increasing range and damage, and reducing logistics and costs. Also read: Ukraine fires chiefs of local military recruitment centres amid corruption allegations Yuan and his colleagues said: "Since the invention of the first ruby laser in 1960, people have been enthusiastic about transitioning from kinetic energy to laser energy for the rapid projection of energy at the speed of light, dreaming of laser beams to become ‘death rays’ that can instantly kill targets." "Unfortunately, 60 years have passed and while various types of lasers have been developed, the application of high-energy laser systems has not been successful," they added. Laser weapon development has accelerated in the face of increasing arms competition between the West and China. As a result, the appearance of this weapon may pose new challenges to missile sensors. An old report by Eurasian Times mentioned laser guns, which may fire a beam to divert a homing missile, can be found on a variety of high-end military vehicles, including Air Force One and Apache attack helicopters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chinese military scientists achieved 'huge breakthrough' in laser weapon tech: Report

The outgoing Pakistan prime minister Shehbaz Sharif has admitted that he could not have run the government without support from the military. He also claimed that former prime minister Imran Khan had relied heavily on the military too.

Shehbaz Sharif admits to Pakistan military support to civilian govt

This isn't the first time when ECOWAS gave an ultimatum to coup leaders. However, military coup leaders in Niger refuse to back down to ECOWAS threats. Tensions are rising as the Sahel awaits military intervention by ECOWAS.

Is ECOWAS hesitant over military intervention in Niger?

Chinese military schools have long been a hub for African leaders from the current presidents of Eritrea and Zimbabwe, 10 Defence Chiefs, eight Defence ministers to Army Chiefs all the big names are Testament to China has become a major destination for African professional military education.

China attracts thousands of African officers for training

<p>The&nbsp;Niger&nbsp;military&nbsp;junta&nbsp;that seized power last week and ousted democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum said on Monday the toppled government had authorised France to carry out strikes at the presidency to try to free Bazoum.</p>

<p>The military&nbsp;junta, which has confined Bazoum to the presidential palace since Wednesday, has previously warned against foreign attempts to extract him, saying it would result in bloodshed and chaos.</p>

<p>The military's comments were made by army Colonel Amadou Abdramane, one of the coup plotters, on state television. He said that the authorisation was signed by&nbsp;Niger&nbsp;Foreign Affairs Minister Hassoumi Massoudou, acting as prime minister.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-suspends-development-aid-and-budgetary-support-to-niger-620679">&nbsp;France suspends development aid and budgetary support to Niger</a></strong></p>

<p>Massoudou could not be reached for comment. France has condemned the coup and urged that Bazoum be reinstated but has not announced any intention to intervene militarily. Paris did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Monday.</p>

<p>The coup in&nbsp;Niger&nbsp;followed military takeovers in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso over the last two years, all of which have come amid a wave of anti-French sentiment.</p>

<p>France has had troops in the region for a decade helping to fight an Islamist insurgency, but some locals say they want the former colonial ruler to stop intervening in their affairs.</p>

<p>Niger&nbsp;has been a key ally in Western campaigns against insurgents linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in the Sahel, and there are concerns the coup could open the door to greater Russian influence in the region, and also allow the insurgency to spread.</p>

<p>Supporters of the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;burned French flags and attacked the French embassy in&nbsp;Niger's capital Niamey on Sunday, drawing tear gas from police. The&nbsp;junta&nbsp;accused France in another statement of shooting at protesters, injuring six.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-european-union-intensify-pressure-on-niger-coup-leaders-620608">African Union, EU intensify pressure on Niger coup leaders</a></strong></p>

<p>French President Emmanuel Macron said any attacks on French interests in&nbsp;Niger&nbsp;would be met with a "swift and uncompromising response."</p>

<p>West African regional bloc ECOWAS has imposed sanctions and said it could authorize the use of force if&nbsp;Niger's coup leaders fail to reinstate ousted president Bazoum within a week.</p>

<p>Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby flew to&nbsp;Niger&nbsp;over the weekend to help mediate the crisis, and posted pictures on social media showing him meeting with Bazoum and separately with coup leader Abdourahamane Tiani, whom the&nbsp;junta&nbsp;has declared head of state.</p>

<p>Deby said they had discussions to explore ways "to find a peaceful solution."</p>

<p>Deby seized power in 2021 after the death of his father Idriss Deby, the long-ruling former president, but he has remained a close ally of France.</p>

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The Niger military junta that seized power last week and ousted democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum said on Monday the toppled government had authorised France to carry out strikes at the presidency to try to free Bazoum.

The Niger military junta that seized power last week and ousted democratically elected president Mohamed Bazoum said on Monday the toppled government had authorised France to carry out strikes at the presidency to try to free Bazoum. The military junta, which has confined Bazoum to the presidential palace since Wednesday, has previously warned against foreign attempts to extract him, saying it would result in bloodshed and chaos. The military's comments were made by army Colonel Amadou Abdramane, one of the coup plotters, on state television. He said that the authorisation was signed by Niger Foreign Affairs Minister Hassoumi Massoudou, acting as prime minister. Also read | France suspends development aid and budgetary support to Niger Massoudou could not be reached for comment. France has condemned the coup and urged that Bazoum be reinstated but has not announced any intention to intervene militarily. Paris did not immediately respond to requests for comment on Monday. The coup in Niger followed military takeovers in neighbouring Mali and Burkina Faso over the last two years, all of which have come amid a wave of anti-French sentiment. France has had troops in the region for a decade helping to fight an Islamist insurgency, but some locals say they want the former colonial ruler to stop intervening in their affairs. Niger has been a key ally in Western campaigns against insurgents linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State in the Sahel, and there are concerns the coup could open the door to greater Russian influence in the region, and also allow the insurgency to spread. Supporters of the junta burned French flags and attacked the French embassy in Niger's capital Niamey on Sunday, drawing tear gas from police. The junta accused France in another statement of shooting at protesters, injuring six. Also read | African Union, EU intensify pressure on Niger coup leaders French President Emmanuel Macron said any attacks on French interests in Niger would be met with a "swift and uncompromising response." West African regional bloc ECOWAS has imposed sanctions and said it could authorize the use of force if Niger's coup leaders fail to reinstate ousted president Bazoum within a week. Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Deby flew to Niger over the weekend to help mediate the crisis, and posted pictures on social media showing him meeting with Bazoum and separately with coup leader Abdourahamane Tiani, whom the junta has declared head of state. Deby said they had discussions to explore ways "to find a peaceful solution." Deby seized power in 2021 after the death of his father Idriss Deby, the long-ruling former president, but he has remained a close ally of France. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

France attempts to free Bazoum post military coup in Niger

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) helicopter crash off the coast of Queensland on Saturday left at least four persons presumed dead, according to the defence minister. The chopper was participating in the twice-yearly Talisman Sabre military drills between the United States and Australia.

Australia: Four feared dead following military helicopter crash

<p>A military helicopter reportedly went down in the ocean off Hamilton Island. The crash occurred around 11 pm while the aircraft,&nbsp;carrying four individuals, was engaged in exercises with the Australian and US military.</p>

<p>Police said later that the debris from downed Australian military helicopter was later found.</p>

<p>The helicopter was partaking in Exercise Talisman Sabre. Recovery efforts have commenced, but it remains unclear whether the helicopter belonged to the Australian or American forces.</p>

<p>"As we speak to you now, the four aircrew are yet to be found," Defence Minister Richard Marles said after a nearly 12 hour overnight search, which is set to continue Saturday.</p>

<p>"The families of the four aircrew have been notified of this incident and our hopes and thoughts are very much with the aircrew and their families," he added.</p>

<h2><strong>Defence officials halt joint exercise involving international troops</strong></h2>

<p>Defence authorities declared a temporary halt to the Talisman Sabre exercise, involving troops from Japan, France, Germany, and South Korea. The exercise, spanning two weeks, aimed to assess extensive logistics, land combat, amphibious landings, and air operations. Concurrently, Australia is undertaking a substantial restructuring of its military forces, focusing on enhancing long-range strike capabilities to maintain distance from potential adversaries like China.</p>

<p>The current situation regarding casualties or injuries remains uncertain. Defence Minister Richard Marles and Chief of Defence Force Angus Campbell are expected to hold a media briefing at 8:30 am.</p>

<p><em>(More information to follow)</em></p>

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A military helicopter reportedly went down in the ocean off Hamilton Island. The crash occurred around 11 pm while the aircraft, carrying four individuals, was engaged in exercises with the Australian and US military.

A military helicopter reportedly went down in the ocean off Hamilton Island. The crash occurred around 11 pm while the aircraft, carrying four individuals, was engaged in exercises with the Australian and US military. Police said later that the debris from downed Australian military helicopter was later found. The helicopter was partaking in Exercise Talisman Sabre. Recovery efforts have commenced, but it remains unclear whether the helicopter belonged to the Australian or American forces. "As we speak to you now, the four aircrew are yet to be found," Defence Minister Richard Marles said after a nearly 12 hour overnight search, which is set to continue Saturday. "The families of the four aircrew have been notified of this incident and our hopes and thoughts are very much with the aircrew and their families," he added. Defence officials halt joint exercise involving international troops Defence authorities declared a temporary halt to the Talisman Sabre exercise, involving troops from Japan, France, Germany, and South Korea. The exercise, spanning two weeks, aimed to assess extensive logistics, land combat, amphibious landings, and air operations. Concurrently, Australia is undertaking a substantial restructuring of its military forces, focusing on enhancing long-range strike capabilities to maintain distance from potential adversaries like China. The current situation regarding casualties or injuries remains uncertain. Defence Minister Richard Marles and Chief of Defence Force Angus Campbell are expected to hold a media briefing at 8:30 am. (More information to follow) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Australia: Four missing after military helicopter crash in Queensland, debris found

Taiwan conducted anti-landing exercises on Wednesday (July 26) on the strategically located Penghu islands, where a major air base is located, as part of the annual "Han Kuang" exercises.

Taiwan holds live fire exercises with tanks, artillery as military drills continue

The UK is about to make plans to increase its military's combat readiness public. The European country plans to spend $3.3 billion to replace stocks and ammunition that have been reduced by the conflict in Ukraine. The battle has revealed flaws in the British military, such as diminishing munitions stocks and a lack of industrial capability required to quickly scale up production.

United Kingdom seeks to improve combat readiness of its military

The UK is all set to announce plans to improve the combat readiness of its military. While the European nation intends to spend 3.3 billion dollars on replenishing Munitions and stockpiles that have been depleted by the war in Ukraine. Well, the war- now has exposed weaknesses in the British military including dwindling reserves or Munitions and a lack of industrial capacity needed to ramp up production quickly.

Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military

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<p>In what comes as another embarrassing moment for the Pentagon and the US government, millions of military emails were directed to the West African nation of Mali, over the course of a decade, despite multiple warnings - exposing highly sensitive information to a Russian ally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The error happened due to a small confusion arising due to domain naming and the culprit is a missing letter, 'I'. Instead of typing ".MIL", the suffix to all military email addresses, the officers typed ".ML" which is the country identifier for Mali. The mistake was overlooked and resulted in a steady flow of sensitive emails being sent to ".ML" domain inboxes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to various media reports, the messages shared range from tax returns to medical reports to diplomatic documents to official travel arrangements for top officers to highly sensitive passwords.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>No attention was paid to warnings&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Experts said even if the data was unclassified, the sustained access meant that intelligence could be generated by joining the dots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>What's more concerning in the entire fiasco is that the US government received multiple warnings for the breach and yet did nothing to sort the issue.</p>

<p>The first instance of such a data leak was reported almost a decade ago by Johannes Zuurbier, a Dutch internet entrepreneur who had the contract to manage Mali’s country domain, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper reported.</p>

<p>The risk of data landing in the wrong hands was exacerbated when Zuubier’s contract expired and the domain reverted to the Malian government</p>

<p>The Amsterdam-based entrepreneur approached US officials repeatedly, including through a defence attaché in Mali, a senior adviser to the US national cyber security service, and even White House officials.</p>

<p>“This risk is real and could be exploited by adversaries of the US," he wrote in a letter to the US government officials.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since January this year, Zuurbier claims to have collected close to 117,000 misdirected messages that were sent to the wrong domain, by the time his contract expired.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One email that was misdirected to Mali this year included the travel plans for General James McConville, the chief of staff of the US Army, and his delegation for a then-forthcoming visit to Indonesia in May.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/leaked-pentagon-documents-provide-snapshot-of-us-intelligence-officials-watching-china-582213" target="_blank"><strong>Watch | Leaked Pentagon documents provide snapshot of US intelligence officials watching China</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Pentagon releases statement</strong></h2>

<p>After the controversy snowballed, the Department of Defence released a statement saying it was looking into the matter.</p>

<p>“The Department of Defence is aware of this issue and takes all unauthorised disclosures of controlled national security information or controlled unclassified information seriously,” the Pentagon said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lt. Commander Tim Gorman, a spokesman for the Pentagon added that mails sent directly from the .mil domain to Malian addresses “are blocked before they leave the .mil domain and the sender is notified that they must validate the email addresses of the intended recipients”.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-us-military-information-sent-to-russian-ally-mali-for-years-due-to-typo-report-616709" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Thousands of US military emails mistakenly sent to Russian ally Mali due to ‘typo’</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Previous instances of Pentagon suffering info leak</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, this is not the first instance when the Pentagon has been caught in stormy waters for the leak of sensitive documents. Earlier this year, a 21-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guardsman named Jack Teixeira was caught after the largest classified intelligence leaks in US history.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Teixeira allegedly leaked the sensitive documents in a chatroom for gamers, Thug Shaker Central, on Discord, an instant messaging platform, primarily used by the gaming community. According to reports, Teixeira leaked highly sensitive information, including details about troop movement in Russia’s war with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Teixeira said in the chat group that he was able to access the documents because he worked on a “military base". The accused was referring to the 102nd Intelligence Wing at Otis Air National Guard Base where he was assigned the task to manage and troubleshoot computers and communications systems for the Air Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jack-teixeira-the-young-charismatic-air-national-guardsman-suspected-of-leaking-secret-us-documents-582242" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | Who is Jack Teixeira, the 'young, charismatic' Air National guardsman arrested in US documents leak case?</strong></a></p>

<p>Incidentally, Teixeira had been leaking the classified documents for several months but it was only earlier this year that the US authorities became aware of such a breach. After US media carried the reports, a manhunt was launched to nab the mole.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mailbox leak after misconfiguration</strong></h2>

<p>Similarly, in February, reports claimed that for full two weeks, an exposed server belonging to the defence department spilt internal military emails to the open internet before being fixed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The said server was hosted by tech giant Microsft on&nbsp;Azure government cloud for Department of Defence customers. These servers are physically separated from the commercial customers and as such can&nbsp;be used to&nbsp;share sensitive but unclassified government data.</p>

<p>The exposed&nbsp;mailbox server carried three terabytes of internal military emails, belonging to the US Special Operations Command, or USSOCOM, the US military unit tasked with conducting special military operations. Investigations found that a misconfiguration had left the server without any password, allowing anyone with internet access to peer through the sensitive mailbox data, just by knowing the IP address.&nbsp;</p>

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In what comes as another embarrassing moment for the Pentagon and the US government, millions of military emails were directed to the West African nation of Mali, over the course of a decade, despite multiple warnings - exposing highly sensitive information to a Russian ally.

In what comes as another embarrassing moment for the Pentagon and the US government, millions of military emails were directed to the West African nation of Mali, over the course of a decade, despite multiple warnings - exposing highly sensitive information to a Russian ally. The error happened due to a small confusion arising due to domain naming and the culprit is a missing letter, 'I'. Instead of typing ".MIL", the suffix to all military email addresses, the officers typed ".ML" which is the country identifier for Mali. The mistake was overlooked and resulted in a steady flow of sensitive emails being sent to ".ML" domain inboxes. According to various media reports, the messages shared range from tax returns to medical reports to diplomatic documents to official travel arrangements for top officers to highly sensitive passwords. No attention was paid to warnings Experts said even if the data was unclassified, the sustained access meant that intelligence could be generated by joining the dots. What's more concerning in the entire fiasco is that the US government received multiple warnings for the breach and yet did nothing to sort the issue. The first instance of such a data leak was reported almost a decade ago by Johannes Zuurbier, a Dutch internet entrepreneur who had the contract to manage Mali’s country domain, the Financial Times (FT) newspaper reported. The risk of data landing in the wrong hands was exacerbated when Zuubier’s contract expired and the domain reverted to the Malian government The Amsterdam-based entrepreneur approached US officials repeatedly, including through a defence attaché in Mali, a senior adviser to the US national cyber security service, and even White House officials. “This risk is real and could be exploited by adversaries of the US," he wrote in a letter to the US government officials. Since January this year, Zuurbier claims to have collected close to 117,000 misdirected messages that were sent to the wrong domain, by the time his contract expired. One email that was misdirected to Mali this year included the travel plans for General James McConville, the chief of staff of the US Army, and his delegation for a then-forthcoming visit to Indonesia in May. Watch | Leaked Pentagon documents provide snapshot of US intelligence officials watching China × Pentagon releases statement After the controversy snowballed, the Department of Defence released a statement saying it was looking into the matter. “The Department of Defence is aware of this issue and takes all unauthorised disclosures of controlled national security information or controlled unclassified information seriously,” the Pentagon said. Lt. Commander Tim Gorman, a spokesman for the Pentagon added that mails sent directly from the .mil domain to Malian addresses “are blocked before they leave the .mil domain and the sender is notified that they must validate the email addresses of the intended recipients”. Also read | Thousands of US military emails mistakenly sent to Russian ally Mali due to ‘typo’ Previous instances of Pentagon suffering info leak Notably, this is not the first instance when the Pentagon has been caught in stormy waters for the leak of sensitive documents. Earlier this year, a 21-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guardsman named Jack Teixeira was caught after the largest classified intelligence leaks in US history. Teixeira allegedly leaked the sensitive documents in a chatroom for gamers, Thug Shaker Central, on Discord, an instant messaging platform, primarily used by the gaming community. According to reports, Teixeira leaked highly sensitive information, including details about troop movement in Russia’s war with Ukraine. Teixeira said in the chat group that he was able to access the documents because he worked on a “military base". The accused was referring to the 102nd Intelligence Wing at Otis Air National Guard Base where he was assigned the task to manage and troubleshoot computers and communications systems for the Air Force. Also read | Who is Jack Teixeira, the 'young, charismatic' Air National guardsman arrested in US documents leak case? Incidentally, Teixeira had been leaking the classified documents for several months but it was only earlier this year that the US authorities became aware of such a breach. After US media carried the reports, a manhunt was launched to nab the mole. Mailbox leak after misconfiguration Similarly, in February, reports claimed that for full two weeks, an exposed server belonging to the defence department spilt internal military emails to the open internet before being fixed. The said server was hosted by tech giant Microsft on Azure government cloud for Department of Defence customers. These servers are physically separated from the commercial customers and as such can be used to share sensitive but unclassified government data. The exposed mailbox server carried three terabytes of internal military emails, belonging to the US Special Operations Command, or USSOCOM, the US military unit tasked with conducting special military operations. Investigations found that a misconfiguration had left the server without any password, allowing anyone with internet access to peer through the sensitive mailbox data, just by knowing the IP address. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained: The funny yet shocking story of leaked Pentagon mails to Mali

At the 258 core commanders conference in Rawalpindi on Monday, Pakistan's top military officers discussed internal security issues as the nation continued to experience unending economic hardships and political unrest.

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Which are the strongest militaries in the world? A study shows the list of 145 countries and their military capabilities. U.S, Russia, China and India have topped the list.

Gravitas: Which are the strongest military forces in the world?

India is strengthening its military muscle. Enlocking a multi-billion-dollar defence deal with US. India is shifting its focus towards the West. One of the highlights of PM Modi's recent visit to the U.S. was New Delhi's multi-billion-dollar defence deal. The recent deal is not primarily aimed at shifting reliance on Russian defence equipment or aligning with the West. Instead, analysts emphasise that India’s focus is on developing its own domestic weapons industry.

Why US military deals are not enough to wean India off Russian arms yet

<p>India has the fourth&nbsp;strongest military force in the world, Global Firepower—a data website that tracks global defence-related information—said as it released its 2023 Military Strength list.</p>

<p>The United States has been ranked first, while Russia and China are placed second and third, respectively.</p>

<p>The list, which looks into the strengths of 143 countries’ forces, has also included the nations which have the weakest military force in the world.</p>

<p>The data looks at more than 60 individual factors “ranging from the quantity of military units and financial standing to logistical capabilities and geography" to determine a nation's PwrIndex.</p>

<p>The PwrIndex gives scores to countries based on their conventional fighting capability. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“The smaller the PwrIndex value, the more powerful a nation's conventional fighting capability is," GFP says.</p>

<p>Hence, a perfect PwrIndex value would be 0.000, which the GFP says is realistically unattainable.</p>

<p>“Our unique, in-house formula allows for smaller (and) more technologically-advanced nations to compete with larger (and) lesser-developed powers… special modifiers, in the form of bonuses and penalties, are applied to further refine the list which is compiled annually. Trends do not necessarily indicate a declining power as changes to the GFP formula can also account for this," it says.</p>

<h2><strong>Here are the world's top 10 ranked nations with the most powerful militaries</strong></h2>

<ol>
	<li>United States (PwrIndex value= 0.0712)</li>
	<li>Russia (0.0714)</li>
	<li>China (0.0722)</li>
	<li>India (0.1025)</li>
	<li>United Kingdom (0.1435)</li>
	<li>South Korea (0.1505)</li>
	<li>Pakistan (0.1694)</li>
	<li>Japan (0.1711)</li>
	<li>France (0.1848)</li>
	<li>Italy (0.1973)</li>
</ol>

<h2><strong>Here are the world’s 10 nations with the least powerful militaries </strong></h2>

<ol>
	<li>Bhutan</li>
	<li>Benin</li>
	<li>Moldova</li>
	<li>Somalia</li>
	<li>Liberia</li>
	<li>Suriname</li>
	<li>Belize</li>
	<li>Central African Republic</li>
	<li>Iceland</li>
	<li>Sierra Leone</li>
</ol>

<p>The report further notes that the top four countries have retained their spots compared to the last year.&nbsp;Whereas, the UK has moved up from eighth place last year to fifth this year. South Korea remains in sixth place as it was last year.</p>

<p>Pakistan entered the top 10 in seventh place, and Japan and France ranked fifth and seventh last year, dropped&nbsp;to eighth and ninth this year.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>


India has the fourth strongest military force in the world, Global Firepower—a data website that tracks global defence-related information—said as it released its 2023 Military Strength list.

India has the fourth strongest military force in the world, Global Firepower—a data website that tracks global defence-related information—said as it released its 2023 Military Strength list. The United States has been ranked first, while Russia and China are placed second and third, respectively. The list, which looks into the strengths of 143 countries’ forces, has also included the nations which have the weakest military force in the world. The data looks at more than 60 individual factors “ranging from the quantity of military units and financial standing to logistical capabilities and geography" to determine a nation's PwrIndex. The PwrIndex gives scores to countries based on their conventional fighting capability. “The smaller the PwrIndex value, the more powerful a nation's conventional fighting capability is," GFP says. Hence, a perfect PwrIndex value would be 0.000, which the GFP says is realistically unattainable. “Our unique, in-house formula allows for smaller (and) more technologically-advanced nations to compete with larger (and) lesser-developed powers… special modifiers, in the form of bonuses and penalties, are applied to further refine the list which is compiled annually. Trends do not necessarily indicate a declining power as changes to the GFP formula can also account for this," it says. Here are the world's top 10 ranked nations with the most powerful militaries United States (PwrIndex value= 0.0712) Russia (0.0714) China (0.0722) India (0.1025) United Kingdom (0.1435) South Korea (0.1505) Pakistan (0.1694) Japan (0.1711) France (0.1848) Italy (0.1973) Here are the world’s 10 nations with the least powerful militaries Bhutan Benin Moldova Somalia Liberia Suriname Belize Central African Republic Iceland Sierra Leone The report further notes that the top four countries have retained their spots compared to the last year. Whereas, the UK has moved up from eighth place last year to fifth this year. South Korea remains in sixth place as it was last year. Pakistan entered the top 10 in seventh place, and Japan and France ranked fifth and seventh last year, dropped to eighth and ninth this year. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Do you know which countries have world’s strongest military? This is where India stands

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