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Seoul, South Korea   For the first time in decades, a nuclear-capable US Navy ballistic missile submarine, by  has made a port call in South Korea. This move comes just days after North Korea test-fired what it claimed was a solid-fueled intercontinental ballistic missile. The presence of the Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine in the South Korean port city of Busan was announced by the country’s Defense Ministry on Tuesday afternoon. It came as Kurt Campbell, coordinator for the Indo-Pacific at the US National Security Council, was at the inaugural meeting in Seoul of the Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG). The NCG is a joint US and South Korean panel set up by the countries’ leaders at a summit in Washington in April. The arrival of the submarine follows a period of heightened tensions on the peninsula. North Korea has conducted tests of what it claimed to be an advanced long-range missile. Kim Yo Jong’s Warning   Kim Yo Jong, sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and a senior official in her own right, said in a statement Monday the deployment of a US ballistic missile submarine to the peninsula would damage already fractured lines of communication between the two sides. Statement warns US’s extended deterrence & alliance may push DPRK away from negotiating table. It views these actions as threatening and counterproductive to dialogue. “The reality before the DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) is not dialogue repeatedly touted by the US,” said Kim. NCG discussed nuclear use against DPRK & US sub’s first entry into Korean Peninsula waters in 40 years, revealed. Additionally, it threatened to shoot down US military reconnaissance aircraft engaged in what it labeled “hostile espionage” activities near its territory.   Sub can carry up 80 warheads   Known colloquially as “boomers,” each of the Ohio-class subs can carry a maximum of 20 Trident II ballistic missiles. According to the Nuclear Threat Initiative, each Trident missile can carry four nuclear warheads. This means each US ballistic missile submarine could potentially have around 80 nuclear warheads onboard. Port call agreed upon by US President Biden & South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol during their April meeting in the US. It highlighted the shared commitment to regional security and cooperation. The “Washington Declaration” encompassed measures aimed at deterring Pyongyang from attacking its southern neighbor. These actions aimed to dissuade any potential aggression. US-ROK Alliance Summary   Biden: Mutual defense treaty ironclad. We’re committed to extend deterrence, including nuclear threat & deterrent. The establishment of the NCG came out of that Biden-Yoon meeting. In a joint statement on Tuesday the two allies said the NCG would enhance “combined deterrence and response posture.” With the support of  US & ROK’s collective strength ensures peace & stability on the Korean Peninsula & Indo-Pacific region. It highlighted the shared commitment to regional security and cooperation. In the inaugural NCG meeting, the US reaffirms and strengthens its commitment to extend deterrence to ROK, backed by the full range of US capabilities, including nuclear options Little military value   “US Navy sub in South Korean port = symbolic, analysts say. In fact, it would reduce the military value of the sub. US & South Korea reduce sub’s stealthiness, says Carl Schuster, former US Pacific Command director. Trident missiles: 4,600-mile range, capable of targeting North Korea from vast Pacific, Indian, or Arctic oceans. “In April, Blake Herzinger said US submarines don’t need to be near Korea to reach potential targets.” One of the keys to nuclear deterrence is uncertainty. US ballistic missile sub lurks deep in ocean, within striking range of Pyongyang, thousands of miles away. However, it would be near impossible for North Korea to spot. One arriving in South Korea on a port visit must arrange it 24 to 48 hours in advance. This visibility gives North Korea an advantage,” Schuster said. “If Kim Jong Un was looking to do a surprise strike, we’ve given him the submarine’s location and time it will be there,” Schuster said. He expressed concern over the potential risks. Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2023/07/18/asia/us-navy-ballistic-missile-submarine-south-korea-intl-hnk-ml/index.html

UN Warning: Extreme Heat – A Growing Health Risk   Amidst the dangerous and rapidly growing health risk of extreme heat worldwide, the United Nations’ World Meteorological Organization emphasizes the importance of “Heat waves are amongst the deadliest natural hazards, with hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year,” John Nairn, the organization’s senior extreme heat adviser, said Tuesday in a news conference. Furthermore, extreme heat impacts economies and livelihoods. Heatwaves can disrupt industries, such as agriculture and tourism, causing economic losses and job displacements. In the agricultural sector, crop failures and livestock losses due to extreme heat can result in food shortages and price spikes. Tourism-dependent regions may suffer decreased visitor numbers and revenue as extreme heat makes outdoor activities less appealing. collaborate with local businesses and industries to develop heat-adaptation strategies and emergency response plans, safeguarding economic interests and livelihoods during heatwaves. Extreme Heat and Climate Challenges In addition to immediate health risks, extreme heat exacerbates climate change-related challenges, including wildfires, droughts, and food and water scarcity. It can lead to reduced agricultural productivity, impacting food security and economic stability. Addressing these complex issues requires a comprehensive approach, with security services playing a crucial part in disaster preparedness and response. As the global climate continues to change, proactive and adaptive measures become increasingly essential in safeguarding our communities from the escalating risks of extreme heat. “Heat is a rapidly growing health risk due to increased rapid urbanization, the increasing extreme temperatures and an aging population,” he said while speaking to reporters in Geneva.” Security Service Combat Heat & Climate Health Risks   Nairn emphasized the implications of extreme heat on health, including the fact that repeated high nighttime temperatures are “particularly dangerous” and could lead to “increased cases of heart attacks and death,” because the body is unable to recover from sustained heat throughout the day. Nairn also talked about the reasons why this extreme weather is happening. According to John Nairn, extreme weather patterns are no longer the norm, and they are consequences of climate change. Play a crucial role in addressing these ongoing challenges. “It is global warming and is going to continue for some time,” Nairn added. John Nairn highlighted extreme heat’s health implications, especially high nighttime temperatures leading to increased heart attacks and death. Therefore, he linked these extreme weather patterns to climate change, stating global warming’s continuous impact that  are crucial in addressing these ongoing challenges. These services can play a critical role in monitoring and responding to heatwaves, ensuring public safety during heat emergencies, and providing timely support to those in need. Source: https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/global-heat-wave-weather-temperatures-07-18-23/index.html

Security Challenges – Corps Commanders Conference Rawalpindi Corps Commanders address the impact of TTP sanctuaries & access to advanced weapons on Pakistan’s security. Strategic responses needed to counter cross-border terrorism effectively. Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir chaired the 258th Corps Commanders Conference at the GHQ on Monday. The forum expressed rich tribute to the valiant soldiers who persistently offer supreme sacrifices in the defense of their motherland against the threat of terrorism. The Corps Commanders’ Conference remains a vital platform for strategic planning and decision-making, fostering synergy among various stakeholders to address multi-dimensional challenges effectively. The unified dedication of military leadership, and government agencies ensures the safeguarding of the nation’s interests. Therefore, as the country continues to face evolving threats, the forum’s in-depth discussions and policy initiatives play a crucial role in shaping a resilient and secure future for the nation. Internal Security & Operational Preparedness Additionally, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) provided detailed briefings to the participants about the prevailing internal security environment. The discussions highlighted the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens amidst evolving security threats. The forum also underscored the role of  beyond in implementing disaster preparedness and response plans, emphasizing the importance of their swift and efficient actions during emergencies. During the forum’s detailed deliberation on the operational preparedness and training aspects of the Army, the COAS emphasized the significance of objective training in maintaining professionalism. Played a vital role in ensuring readiness and proficiency.  The forum also received an update on the government’s economic revival plan and the Army’s role in uplifting the agriculture, IT, mining, mineral, and defense production sectors under the Special Investment Facilitation Council. Economic Revival & Sustainable Growth The participants pledged full support to the Government of Pakistan’s strategic initiatives for economic revival. They commit to providing technical and management assistance for the overall welfare of the people. The forum discussed the importance of incorporating green practices and promoting renewable energy solutions to reduce the carbon footprint and combat climate change. Therefore, they underscored the need for inclusive policies that empower marginalized communities and promote social equity. Moreover, the participants highlighted the role of security services in facilitating economic growth by ensuring a safe and secure environment for investment and business operations. They emphasized the importance of law enforcement in maintaining law and order, protecting property rights, and fostering a conducive atmosphere for economic activities. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1091506-army-airs-dismay-at-sanctuaries-of-terrorists-in-neighbouring-country

Deadly Monsoon Rains in South Korea Respond to landslides and floods caused by torrential monsoon rains in South Korea, leaving seven dead and three missing. Thousands evacuated due to an overflowing dam.The local media reports suggest a rise in the death toll as heavy rainfall under intense monsoon lashed the country for the third consecutive day, causing massive destruction due to flooding in both urban and rural areas. The Goesan Dam began overflowing from the downpour, submerging low-lying villages nearby. The interior ministry issued evacuation orders this morning to over 6,400 residents in the central county. The seven people killed since Friday died in rain-related landslides and building collapse, it added. Two of the three people reported missing were swept away when a river overflowed in North Gyeongsang province, the ministry said. Moreover, the intense downpours caused power cuts across 4,000 households, with the landslides damaging residential areas, and destroying vegetation and infrastructure, Foreign Policy reported. The government issued a high-alert warning for more flooding to come this weekend as experts forecast as much as 100 millimetres of more showers. Train Services Suspended, Landslide Incident The Korea Railroad Corporation suspended all regular train services nationwide as of 2:00 pm (0500 GMT). However, KTX bullet trains continued to operate, with possible schedule adjustments. The ministry reported that slower operation might delay the bullet trains following a train derailment late on Friday. A landslide threw earth and sand over tracks in North Chungcheong province. During the incident, an engineer was injured, but no passengers were on board. South Korean Prime Minister Han Duck-soo urged officials to respond to river overflows and landslides “preemptively”, and requested support for rescue operations from the ministry of defence. Devastating climate change impacts the world as harsh weather and catastrophic monsoon rains affect different regions globally. Asia alone has reportedly witnessed over 100 deaths this month. The scientists say there is a bigger chance of heavier downpours across the globe due to climate change triggered by global warming, “because a warmer atmosphere holds more water”, a report published by BBC stated. Last week, the World Meteorological Organization declared the onset of El Niño — a weather event where sea surface temperatures in the tropical eastern Pacific rise to at least 0.5°C above the long-term average — for the first time in seven years. This set the stage for a surge in global temperatures, as well as disruptive weather and climate patterns, the organisation said. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1090744-south-korea-devastating-monsoon-rains-landslides-kill-seven

Ukraine’s Grain Export Deal: Implications and Challenges Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin, in discussions with  has agreed to allow Ukraine to extend its grain export, potentially alleviating the ongoing global food crisis. Erdogan expressed confidence in extending deal with Putin, emphasizing their discussions’ agreement. The accord, set to expire next week, has significant implications for addressing food shortages worldwide. “We are preparing to welcome Putin in August, and we agree on the extension of the Black Sea grain corridor,” Erdogan noted. He emphasized the alignment between the two leaders on the matter. Moreover, observers view the agreement as vital for Ukraine’s grain exports and offering relief to food-scarce nations. However, the Kremlin has remained silent on the issue, refraining from making any official statements. It has emphasized that the extension of the deal would only be considered if certain conditions set by Russia are met. Black Sea Grain Initiative Challenges This ambiguity adds a layer of uncertainty to the situation, as the specific requirements for the deal’s extension remain undisclosed. Fulfilling conditions is crucial for the fate of Black Sea grain agreement and its impact on the global food crisis. UN & Turkey played key role brokering Black Sea Grain Initiative (July 2022) uniting Russia, Ukraine, and other stakeholders. Consequently, initiative tackled the global food crisis, worsened by Moscow’s invasion and blockade of Ukrainian ports. However, tensions have emerged in the ongoing discussions for renewing the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Putin consistently warns about potential non-renewal, citing export obstacles as the main reason behind his stance on the agreement. The extension of the Black Sea grain export deal has far-reaching consequences, as it plays a vital role in addressing the global food crisis. However, accord enables Ukraine to export grain to countries with food shortages, aiding in global food crisis. Grain Flow Boost & Extension Efforts Erdogan & Putin seek to boost grain flow from Ukraine, aiding Africa, Middle East & beyond, extending the agreement. The announcement by Erdogan comes at a critical juncture, as the deal’s expiration looms in the near future. Therefore, the agreement eased impact of Russia’s Ukraine invasion (Feb 2022), curbing grain exports disruptions and global food price hikes. Erdogan’s statement stresses shared Turkey-Russia commitment to extend Black Sea grain corridor, details undisclosed. However, president Putin’s August visit to Turkey adds significance to discussions on extending the deal. Extended grain export deal, with security companies in Lahore firms’ help, welcomed by international community, aiding grain-import reliant nations. Additionally, the development offers hope for impoverished nations, stabilizing grain prices and ensuring food availability. Source: https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/1090546-erdogan-claims-putin-agreed-to-allow-ukraine-to-export-grain

Census and Delimitation Challenges in Pakistan ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning and Improvement Ahsan Iqbal, with the support of a said that if the elections are to be held during the stipulated time, then it could only be possible based on the last census carried out in 2017. Consequently, the federal minister made these remarks on Geo Information’s show “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath” when Shahzeb Khanzada asked about the legal issues arising due to the delay in notifying the digital census, which concluded on May 15. The provisional census results indicate the population has reached 250 million. Seats in the National Assembly must be allocated based on population as per the last official census (Article 51, Constitution). However, notified results by CCI leave insufficient time for ECP’s four-month delimitation process. Election preparations face challenges. Coalition govt lacks two-thirds majority in NA for constitutional amendment on seat adjustments. Ahsan Iqbal told the anchorperson that the census results were scheduled to be notified by April 30. Nevertheless, the minister mentioned that the provinces requested several extensions to the ultimate date because discrepancies were identified during the enumeration process. Therefore, the provinces sought additional time to address and rectify the issues to ensure accurate and reliable census results. Census, Delimitation, and Elections in Pakistan The committee of demographers recommended investigating areas with undercounts or overcounts in population. They sought assistance from SUPARCO for this purpose. However, the final census revealed an irregular increase in population in some areas. Therefore, they had to ensure the results’ genuineness as they were to be presented in CCI. Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that even if the census is finalized immediately, it won’t be possible before July 30. Hence, after the new census, delimitation will proceed, and the ECP will make the final decision on the election date. Timely census & delimitation are crucial for on-time elections & fair representation in the National Assembly. Additionally, Federal minister, after rejecting Punjab and KPK polls, reveals CCI’s decision for fresh census-based elections. “If elections are to be held, they must be conducted based on the previous census. It isn’t possible to release the census results based on the new election schedule.” Therefore, the minister stated that a constitutional amendment requires a two-thirds majority. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, backed by a  confirms a transition to caretaker setup after the term ends. Moreover, he opposes poll delay, warning of prolonged uncertainty and an economic crisis. Source: https://thepakistancorner.com/elections-to-be-held-on-basis-of-2017-census-planning-minister/

Peshawar Police Station Attack Foiled   Yesterday, a coordinated attack on a police station in Matani, Peshawar, was confronted by the security service. The assailants employed a combination of small arms and heavy weaponry, employing a two-pronged attack strategy. However, following a fierce exchange of gunfire lasting approximately 25 minutes, the attackers eventually retreated from the premises. At present, the security service has not received any reports of casualties or property damage resulting from the incident.

Europe’s Intense Heatwave: Security Alert in Islamabad   As a heatwave continues to sweep across parts of Europe, must closely monitor the situation. Next few days: Potential record-breaking temperatures over 40C (104F) in parts of Spain, France, Greece, Croatia, and Turkey. They could reach 48C in parts of Italy, becoming “potentially the hottest temperatures ever recorded in Europe”, says the European Space Agency. A red alert warning is in place for 10 cities, including Florence and Rome. Last month was the hottest June on record, according to the EU’s climate monitoring service Copernicus. Extreme weather resulting from warming climate is “unfortunately becoming the new normal”, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has warned. Periods of intense heat occur within natural weather patterns, but scientists say that globally they are becoming more frequent, more intense and are lasting longer due to global warming. Why this summer has been so hot A simple guide to climate change Is climate change causing droughts, heatwaves, wildfires and floods? In pictures: Cerberus heatwave hits parts of Europe Tourists Impacted by Heatwave in Europe   Tourists in Europe have been impacted by the heatwave. In Athens, the Greek Red Cross has deployed teams to the Acropolis to look after visitors – saying many get nauseous and dizzy due to the heat. “That is why with the leaflets we try to inform them where in the municipality of Athens there are places with air condition in order to go inside,” said Marina Stamatis, a representative for the organization. Earlier this week, a man in his forties died from the heat after collapsing in northern Italy – while several visitors to the country have collapsed from heatstroke, including a British man outside the Colosseum in Rome. People have been advised to drink at least two litres of water a day and to avoid coffee and alcohol, which are dehydrating. Spain’s Sweltering Temperatures   Australian tourists Maria and Gloria in Rome “really surprised” by the heat, avoiding midday outings, they told BBC. Italian tourists Andrea Romano and Michele La Penna told the BBC their hometown of Potenza, in the Apennine mountains, has “more humane temperatures” than Rome. “We need to start doing something about climate change. We need to be more responsible. The damage is already done. We need to do something about it. But not only the government. It all starts from people. Each of us needs to do something: use less plastic, don’t use the AC, use electric cars,” said Andrea. Therefore, italian Meteorological Society names heatwave “Cerberus” after Dante’s Inferno monster. Expect more extreme conditions in the coming days. Spain has been sweltering in temperatures of up to 45C (113F). The Andalusian regional government has started a telephone assistance service for people affected by the heat. Therefore, european Space Agency warns of potential record-breaking temperatures, reaching 48C in Sicily and Sardinia, possibly the hottest in Europe. Moreover, the UK’s national weather service, the Met Office, earlier said it expected temperatures to peak on Friday. BBC Weather says large swathes of southern Europe could see temperatures in the low to mid 40s – and possibly higher. Italian forecasters warn of “Charon” heatwave, raising temps to 43C in Rome and possibly 47C in Sardinia, after Cerberus subsides. A record-smashing summer around the world It isn’t just Europe that is hot. Summer Temperature Records   Summer sets temperature records in Canada, US, India, China, and Asia, with scorching heat waves breaking previous highs. Record-high sea temperatures in the Atlantic coincide with the lowest extent of Antarctic sea ice ever recorded. And it is going to get hotter. Therefore, a weather pattern called El Niño is developing in the tropical Pacific. It tends to drive up temperatures by around 0.2C on average. Therefore, approaching perilous 1.5C threshold: 1.1C rise from climate change and other factors push global temperatures higher. Let’s set things in a historic context to give us some perspective. However, security companies in Islamabad should be informed that the first week of July is reckoned to have been the hottest week since records began. But scientists can use the bubbles of air trapped in ancient Antarctic ice to estimate temperatures going back more than a million years. That data suggests that that last week was the hottest week for some 125,000 years. Therefore, in the Eemian era, Thames hosted hippos, while sea levels were estimated 5m (16.4ft) higher, according to experts’ findings. A new study says 61,672 people died in Europe as a result of the heat last year. ISGlobal Institute in Barcelona: Italy – 18,010 deaths, Spain – 11,324 deaths, and Germany – 8,173 deaths attributed to heat. Heatwave Frequency & Climate Change   The fear is that the heat could cause many more deaths this summer. However, should be aware that cities in Spain with the highest risk of heat-related deaths, as per ISGlobal’s research, include Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, Málaga, Murcia, Palma de Mallorca, and Bilbao. Temperatures rising higher than expected for the time of year cause a heatwave, leading to a period of hot weather. Therefore, experts say periods of exceptionally hot weather are becoming more frequent and climate change means it is now normal to experience record-breaking temperatures. Additionally, at present, there is no indication that the heat in southern Europe will reach the UK any time soon. BBC Weather’s Darren Bett predicts that the UK will experience cooler, Atlantic air throughout next week. The UK is experiencing a July that has been slightly wetter than normal, with temperatures that feel rather low. Moreover, the weather in the UK in June was the warmest on record by a considerable margin. Take note: Met Office attributes UK’s warmest June to “climate change’s fingerprint.” Source : https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-66197368

Ukrainian Civilians Detained in Russia and Occupied Territories   In the bitter cold,  Ukrainian civilians woke early, and queued for the toilet, as armed captors loaded them into the livestock trailer. They spent the next 12 hours or more digging trenches on the front lines for Russian soldiers. The captors forced many to wear overlarge Russian military uniforms, potentially making them targets. Meanwhile, a former city administrator trudged around in boots five sizes too big. By the end of the day, their hands curled into icy claws. In Zaporizhzhia’s occupied region, civilians dug mass graves for fellow prisoners who couldn’t survive. One man who refused to dig was shot on the spot — yet another body for the grave. Thousands of Ukrainian civilians are being detained across Russia and the occupied Ukrainian territories. They are held in centers ranging from brand-new wings in Russian prisons to clammy basements. Most, including have no status under Russian law. Russia is planning to hold possibly thousands more. Russian document shows plans for 25 prison colonies, 6 detention centers in occupied Ukraine by 2026. The document’s date is January. In addition, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree in May allowing Russia to send people from territories with martial law, which includes all of occupied Ukraine, to those without, such as Russia. Russian Torture and Detention of Ukrainian Civilians   This makes it easier to deport Ukrainians who resist Russian occupation deep into Russia indefinitely, which has happened in multiple cases documented by the AP. Many civilians are picked up for alleged transgressions as minor as speaking Ukrainian or simply being a young man in an occupied region and are often held without charge. Others are charged as terrorists, combatants, or people who “resist the special military operation.” Hundreds are used for slave labor by Russia’s military, for digging trenches and other fortifications, as well as mass graves. Torture is routine, including repeated electrical shocks, beatings that crack skulls and fractured ribs, and simulated suffocation. Many former prisoners told the AP they witnessed deaths. A United Nations report from late June documented 77 summary executions of civilian captives and the death of one man due to torture. Russia does not acknowledge holding civilians at all, let alone its reasons for doing so. But the prisoners serve as future bargaining chips in exchange for Russian soldiers, and the U.N. has said there is evidence of civilians being used as human shields near the front lines. Human Rights Abuses and Torture   The AP spoke with dozens of people, including 20 former detainees, along with ex-prisoners of war, the families of more than a dozen civilians in detention, two Ukrainian intelligence officials, and a government negotiator. Their accounts, as well as satellite imagery, social media, government documents, and copies of letters delivered by the Red Cross, confirm a widescale Russian system of detention and abuse of civilians that stands in direct violation of the Geneva Conventions. Some civilians were held for days or weeks, while others have vanished for well over a year. Nearly everyone freed said they experienced or witnessed torture, and most described being shifted from one place to another without explanation. “It’s a business of human trafficking,” said Olena Yahupova, the city administrator who was forced to dig trenches for the Russians in Zaporizhzhia. “If we don’t talk about it and keep silent, then tomorrow anyone can be there — my neighbor, acquaintance, child.” INVISIBLE PRISONERS   The new building in the compound of Prison Colony No. 2 is at least two stories tall, separated from the main prison by a thick wall. Satellite imagery shows this new facility in Rostov region, Russia, since the war began in Feb 2022, says AP. Hundreds of detained Ukrainian civilians are believed to be housed in this facility, per captives, families, activists, and lawyers. Two exiled Russian human rights advocates said it is heavily guarded by soldiers and armored vehicles. Over 40 detention facilities in Russia & Belarus, and 63 sites in occupied Ukraine hold civilians, incl. Rostov building. Data from former captives, Ukrainian Media Initiative, & Gulagu.net formed the AP map’s information. The recent U.N. report counted a total of 37 facilities in Russia and Belarus and 125 in occupied Ukraine. Some also hold Russian prisoners accused or convicted of a variety of crimes. Other, more makeshift locations are near the front lines, and the AP documented two locations where former prisoners say Ukrainians were forced to dig trenches. The shadowy nature of the system makes it difficult to know exactly how many civilians are being detained. Ukraine’s government has been able to confirm the legal details of a little over 1,000 who are facing charges. Ukraine’s Detained Civilians   At least 4,000 civilians are held in Russia and at least as many are scattered around the occupied territories, according to Vladimir Osechkin, an exiled Russian human rights activist who talks to informants within Russian prisons and founded Gulagu.net to document abuses. Ovechkin showed AP a Russian prison document from 2022 saying that 119 people ‘‘opposed to the special military operation’’ in Ukraine were moved by plane to the main prison colony in the Russian region of Voronezh. Many Ukrainians later freed by Russia also described unexplained plane transfers. In all, Ukraine’s government believes around 10,000 civilians could be detained, according to Ukrainian negotiator Oleksandr Kononeko, based on reports from loved ones, as well as post-release interviews with some civilians and the hundreds of Ukrainian soldiers returned in prisoner exchanges. Ukraine said in June that about 150 civilians have been freed to Ukrainian-controlled territory, and the Russians deny holding others. “They say, ‘We don’t have these people, it’s you who is lying,’” Kononeko said. The detention of two men from the Kherson region in August 2022 offers a glimpse at how hard it is for families to track down loved ones in Russian custody. Detention and Uncertainty   Artem Baranov, and Yevhen Pryshliak, who worked at a local asphalt plant with his father, had

Cartel Bombs Kill 6 in Mexico – Lahore Security Guards   MEXICO CITY — A drug cartel set off seven bombs in western Mexico, killing four officers, and two civilians. The governor of Jalisco state said the explosions were “a trap” set by the cartel to kill law enforcement personnel. Luis Méndez, the chief prosecutor of Jalisco state, said the blasts in Tlajomulco left craters, destroyed four vehicles, and wounded 14 people. It appeared to be the first time that a Mexican cartel killed law enforcement personnel with improvised explosive devices or IEDs and was the latest example of the increasingly open, military-style challenge posed by the country’s drug cartels. Méndez said the two dead civilians were in a vehicle that happened to be passing the spot when the IEDs detonated in Tlajomulco, near the state capital of Guadalajara. The possibility of remote detonation was suggested, indicating that the blast occurred precisely as intended. Among the 18 wounded, 12 were civilians, including three children aged 9, 13, and 14, with some in critical condition. Experts had to defuse an eighth IED that did not detonate, and warned the area was still dangerous, Méndez said. Enrique Alfaro, the governor of Jalisco state, said an anonymous caller who gave a volunteer search group a tip about a clandestine burial site near the roadway set “a trap” for the officers. Mexico’s Missing Persons Crisis   For years, police have been unable to locate the more than 110,000 missing people in Mexico, but they accompany volunteer search groups that look for such hidden graves. The volunteers, usually the mothers of missing people, often get anonymous tips about where their relatives may be buried. Jalisco Gov. Enrique Alfaro said a total of eight “improvised explosive devices” were planted on the roadway. Alfaro calls the attack a brutal terror act, blaming an unnamed drug cartel for the deaths. He said he was temporarily suspending police escorts for volunteer searches for the safety of the civilians. No search volunteers were in the blown-up convoy, said Hector Flores, a leader of a search group in Jalisco. Cartel’s unprecedented act exposes their capabilities – Alfaro. “This attack also represents an open challenge to the Mexican government on all levels.” Alfaro didn’t name suspects, but the Jalisco cartel is skilled in using IEDs and bomb-dropping drones. IEDs also wounded 10 soldiers in the neighboring state of Michoacan in 2022 and killed a civilian. Cartel Attacks and IEDs in Mexico   A car bomb killed a National Guard officer in Guanajuato, as another cartel carried out the attack. Protesters in Guerrero, allied with a drug gang, battled security forces on Monday. They seized a police armored truck and smashed the state legislature building gates. Guadalajara experiences bloody cartel battles; Jalisco cartel blamed for previous IED use in Mexico. In February 2022, in the Michoacan township of Aguililla, a roadside mine damaged an army vehicle and injured 10 soldiers. A few days later, another IED killed a farmer when he drove over the device in his pickup truck. The farmer’s son was wounded in the blast, which was fueled by a device containing ammonium nitrate. Special squads of Mexican army troops equipped with metal detectors and bomb suits were later deployed to the area. Dozens of such devices were found along rural roads and fields in the area around the township of Aguililla. IEDs: Radio/telephone detonation, pressure-triggered (stepping on them), and vial-activated (chemical combination). Cartel Conflict and Searcher Struggles   Years of conflict: Jalisco cartel vs. Viagras gang (United Cartels) battling for control in the area. However, those battles have featured the use of trenches, pillboxes, homemade armored cars, and drones modified to drop small bombs. However, the cartels’ bomb-carrying drones have caused more terror in Michoacan. While initially crude and dangerous to load and operate — and still worrisomely indiscriminate — drone warfare has improved; it’s not unusual to see a metal barn or shed roofs opened like tin cans from the impact of drone explosions. Tuesday’s IED attack on Tlajomulco hurt search groups as they rely on anonymous tips to locate mass graves. Searchers suspect cartel informants provide tips on victims’ burial sites, adding to their anguish. Searchers work with cartels under an uneasy truce, seeking closure, not prosecution for family kidnappings. Moreover, they say they only want to find the remains, to end their uncertainty, and give their relatives a decent burial. However, six volunteer search activists have been killed in Mexico since 2021. Motives in killings unclear. Cartels intimidate searchers investigating active grave sites. Source: https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/roadway-bomb-planted-drug-cartel-kills-3-police-101164435