My Comment: This video has gone viral. Watch and laugh.
Monday, February 28, 2011
U.S. Prepares Military Options On Libya
U.S. Readies Military Options On Libya -- New York TimesWASHINGTON — The Defense Department has begun repositioning Navy warships to support possible action against Libya, as it accelerates planning on a range of options if asked by President Obama to intervene in the conflict there, officials said.
The Navy currently has an aircraft carrier strike group and an amphibious landing vessel, with Marines and helicopters, in the Red Sea.
Read more ....
Update #1: Libya unrest: US repositioning forces in region -- BBC
Update #2: U.S dispatches aircraft carrier to waters near Libya -- McClatchy News
My Comment: The U.S. does not have the ground forces to make a difference in Libya .... but in the skies ... the U.S. can become a dominant player. But .... I doubt that the political will exists in White House to pursue an interventionist policy in Libya .... which in my opinion is a good thing.
But if Qaddafi should use chemical weapons or weapons of mass destruction .... then all bets are off.
The Ongoing Saga Of CIA Agent Raymond Davis In Pakistan
Pakistan Tried To Trade CIA Contractor for 'Lady al Qaeda' -- ABC News
U.S. Nixed Deal To Swap Raymond Davis for Aafia Siddiqui.
The government of Pakistan offered to trade a CIA contractor currently jailed in that country for a Pakistani neuroscientist suspected by U.S. intelligence to be an al Qaeda operative.
According to a senior American administration official and a Pakistani official involved in the negotiations to free CIA contractor Raymond Davis, the Pakistani government proposed trading Davis for Aafia Siddiqui, an MIT-educated Pakistani neuroscientist currently serving 86 years in federal prison for attempted murder.
Read more ....
More News On CIA Agent Raymond Davis
Davis Spy Crisis: Top U.S., Pakistan Spooks in Talks -- Time Magazine
Forty-five arrested for having links with Davis -- DAWN
Spy war threatens Pakistan-US ties -- DAWN
This CIA agent is no diplomat -- Craig Murray, The Guardian
Our Man in Pakistan -- Christopher Hitchens, Slate
Keeping Quiet About Davis -- Amy Davidson, New Yorker
My Comment: This case exemplifies the dysfunctional U.S - Pakistan relationship. There will be a solution to this impasse .... but only when the furor within the Pakistan public has dissipated.
Commentaries, Opinions, And Editorials -- February 28, 2011
ANALYSIS-After The Crisis, A Worldwide Rise In Unrest? -- Reuters
In authoritarian states, protesters want more freedom
* Financial adjustments bring anger in Western economies
* Vicious cycle of inflation and unrest
LONDON, Feb 28 (Reuters) - With the Middle East in turmoil, other authoritarian states jumpy and post-crisis economic pain prompting protest in western Europe and elsewhere, some suspect a systemic rise in worldwide unrest might just be beginning.
Instability in the already volatile oil-producing Middle East could produce a feedback loop where unrest pushes up energy prices, fuelling inflation and deepening discontent both in the region and around the world.
In most countries, the so-called "misery index" -- an aggregation of unemployment and inflation long seen as a warning of protest and instability -- is pushing higher.
Read more ....
Commentaries, Opinions, And Editorials
Oil Shock, 2011 -- Gordon Chang, Forbes
Cyberspace Wars -- Joseph Nye Jr., New York Times
Arab revolutions, China and oil -- Gwynne Dyer, Korea Times
Kim Will Never Give Up His Nukes -- Jack David & Melanie Kirkpatrick, Real Clear World
The 'Israel First' Myth -- James Taranto, Wall Street Journal
GI ingenuity is why we can fight and win -- James Jay Carafano, Washington Examiner
Iran’s Economy in the Shadow of Regional Upheaval -- Suzanne Maloney, USIP
A false choice between Iran and the US for Arab states -- Tony Karon, The National
Russia: The Never-Ending Civil War -- Alexei Bayer, Moscow Times
Rumsfeld’s Rebuttal -- Victor Davis Hanson, City Journal
Analysts Warn Conflict in Libya Could be Lengthy -- Voice of America
Libya's information walls come tumbling down -- Blake Hounshell, Foreign Policy
In 'Free Libya': Hey, Who, Exactly, Is in Charge Here? -- Andrew Lee Butters and Abigail Hauslohner, Time Magazine
Libya's revolution headquarters -- Al Jazeera
Libya After Gaddafi -- Dirk Vandewalle, Yahoo News/The Daily Beast
Keeping up with the Gaddafis -- Al Jazeera
World News Briefs -- February 28, 2011 (Evening Edition)
World Raises Pressure On Libya, Battles For Key Towns -- Yahoo News/Reuters
TRIPOLI (Reuters) – The United States and other foreign governments discussed military options for dealing with Libya on Monday as Muammar Gaddafi scoffed at the threat to his government from a spreading popular uprising.
With government forces massing to try to take back strategic coastal cities from rebels, the United States said it was moving U.S. naval and air forces closer to Libya.
Read more ....
MIDDLE EAST
Bahraini protesters move to parliament building.
Outside Yemen's capital, anger and grievances run deep.
Iraqi PM Maliki pledges reform after 'Day of Rage'.
Obama welcomes Bahrain cabinet reshuffle.
Oman protests intensify as Sultan struggles to appease demonstrators. Oman protesters stage third day of unrest.
Iran naval mission 'not aggressive': admiral.
ASIA
Quake-hit New Zealand braces for more than 240 deaths.
China tamps down Middle East-inspired protests before they can gain momentum. China mobilizes against activists.
North Korea threatens 'firing attacks' on South over leaflets about Mideast turmoil.
US, South Korea begin military drill amid North Korean war threats.
New Zealand quake damages may cost as much as $15.1 billion.
AFRICA
Libya: West ready to use force against Col Gaddafi amid chemical weapon fears. Opposition declares new Libya government as Qaddafi hangs on. Rebels in Libya's east say they're not ready to take Tripoli. U.S. fears Tripoli may deploy gas as chaos mounts.
Egypt bans Mubarak from travel, freezes assets.
Tunisians celebrate prime minister's resignation after round-the-clock protests.
DR Congo: Six killed in 'coup bid' against Kabila.
Somali pirates seize cargo ship with 23 crew.
Belarus has broken arms embargo by sending attack helicopters to Ivory Coast, says UN chief. UN warns Belarus about supplying helicopters to Ivory Coast.
Attack kills four in central Nigeria: military.
Three killed in Tunisia clashes: government.
EUROPE
Russia aims to reform corrupt police.
Nicolas Sarkozy sacks foreign minister after Tunisia row. Sarkozy names Juppe Foreign Minister to stem critics of Mideast response.
Ireland parties talk coalition, seek bailout changes.
Fraud and bribery trials return to add to Berlusconi's woes. Silvio Berlusconi: Italy PM's tax fraud trial resumes.
AMERICAS
Fidel Castro expected to resign as Cuba party chief.
US Treasury blocks record $30bn of Libya assets.
Libya: Col Gaddafi's son 'in hiding on Venezuelan island'.
Mexico arrests two more in US agent Jaime Zapata murder.
Report: Massive landslide hits Bolivian capital.
Chile earthquake anniversary puts President Piñera in the hotseat.
TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
As regimes fall in Arab world, Al Qaeda sees history fly by.
Afghan intel links Jalalabad bank attack, other suicide attacks to Pakistan.
Anxiety on all sides of upcoming House hearing on radicalization of U.S. Muslims.
Next wave of Al Qaeda coming from within U.S.?
Al-Qaida's No. 2 incites Tunisians, Egyptians.
ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS
Google confirms missing email problem in Gmail.
Oil rises $1 as Oman protests fan supply concern.
3M chief warns Obama over business regulation.
Madoff to NY magazine: Government a Ponzi scheme.
Civil War In Libya -- News Updates February 28, 2011
Gadhafi Clamps Down On Protesters In Libya's Capital -- USA Today
BENGHAZI, Libya — Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi maintained a crackdown in the capital Monday as anti-government protesters appeared in the streets of Tripoli and fighting against Gadhafi forces broke out in other cities.
In Tripoli, a few hundred protesters marched in the Tajoura district after burying one of the victims of a deadly crackdown last week, said Ahmad Hamadi, a resident of Tripoli. Pro-government forces dispersed the protesters, and no casualties were reported.
Read more ....
More News On The Civil War In Libya
Pro-Gadhafi forces close in on rebel-held cities -- Yahoo News/AP
World raises pressure on Libya, battles for key towns -- Yahoo News/Reuters
Pro-Gadhafi Forces Attempt Raids on East -- Wall Street Journal
Reports: Gadhafi forces attack 2 cities -- UPI
Libya Wages Counterattack on Rebels, and Battles Rage -- New York Times
Libyan police 'shoot down' protesters in Tripoli -- RIA Novosti
Security Forces Stop Protests in Libyan Capital -- Voice of America
More skirmishes in Libya as U.S., Europe ratchet up pressure -- Washington Post
Zawiyah: 30 miles from Tripoli, the city on the frontline of Libya's revolt -- The Guardian
Gaddafi rivals close in on Tripoli -- Al Jazeera
Libyan militias prepare to join forces before assault on Tripoli -- The Guardian
Libyans 'ready to die for me', says Kadhafi -- Yahoo News/AFP
Libya protests: Gaddafi says 'all my people love me' -- BBC
Libya's Gaddafi: 'My people love me' -- BBC
Gaddafi: My people will die to protect me -- Ynet News
Qaddafi: My people "would die for me" -- CBS News
Pressure Grows On Libya's Qaddafi To Quit -- Radio Free Europe
U.S. hits Libya with sanctions, shuts embassy -- Reuters
US to impose sanctions on Libya -- Al Jazeera
Libya sanctions: China's new role at the UN -- Christian Science Monitor
Security Council Calls for War Crimes Inquiry in Libya -- New York Times
Refugees flee Libya amid bloodshed -- L.A. Times
Oil Flows as Rebels Gain -- Wall Street Journal
US deploys naval and air forces to Libya -- The National
'Voice of Free Libya' battles Qaddafi – on air -- Christian Science Monitor
Libya's revolution headquarters -- Al Jazeera
Libya After Gaddafi -- Dirk Vandewalle, Yahoo News/The Daily Beast
Keeping up with the Gaddafis -- Al Jazeera
Attempted Coup Thwarted In DR Congo
DR Congo Thwarts Coup Attempt -- CRIEnglishAn unknown group of armed men on Sunday attacked the residence of the president of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo), Joseph Kabila. The raid soon fell in disarray with seven assailants killed.
Officials told Xinhua that the residence situated in Gombe district in the capital Kinshasa was attacked at 1:30 p.m. local time (1230 GMT).
The assault prompted a return of fire from the presidential guards, who killed at least seven attackers, injured several others and arrested some more.
Xinhua was told that after 30 minutes of heavy fighting, one of the presidential guards was seriously injured.
Read more ....
More News On A Coup Attempt In The DR Congo
DR Congo attack was launched by 'about 100 fighters' -- AFP
Up to 10 killed in raid on DR Congo leader's home -- AFP
DRC president's residence attacked -- CNN
Congolese Soldiers Repel Attack on Presidential Residence -- Bloomberg
Gunmen attack President Kabila's residence -- RFI
DRC official: Investigation to Follow Presidential Residence Attack -- Voice of America
Congo coup attempt?: Gunmen launch a bungled assault on the president's house -- Global Post
The Propaganda Wars Continue Between North & South Korea
Photo: Balloons carrying propaganda leaflets are floated into North Korea from Imjingak in Paju, Gyeonggi Province near the demilitarized zone on Feb. 16, North Korean leader Kim Jong-il's 70th birthday. Propaganda Wars: South Korea Tries 'Balloon Diplomacy' With Northern Neighbors -- Time Magazine
As part of its ongoing campaign to win over North Koreans, South Korea has once again turned to "balloon diplomacy," sending gas-filled balloons skyward with messages and goodies in tow. Although the exact content of the messages is not known, they are believed to reference recent anti-government protests in Egypt and Libya.
According to Reuters, the campaign is aimed at inciting North Koreans to think about "change." It's not quite “Yes We Can,” but perhaps it's a start? Maybe, though few seem optimistic that the Hermit Kingdom will rise up against its Dear Leader, Kim Jong Il.
Read more ....
More News On The Conflict Between North & South Korea
North Korea threatens military action over South's campaign -- Reuters
North Korea threatens Seoul with 'sea of fire' -- ABC News (Australia)
North Korea threatens 'firing attacks' on South over leaflets about Mideast turmoil -- Washington Post
N. Korea Threatens South on Balloon Propaganda -- New York Times
South Korea Prods North by Dropping Leaflets Telling of Mideast Protests -- Bloomberg
UPDATE 1-S.Korea leaflets tell North of Egypt, but change unlikely -- Reuters
North Korea, South Korea standoff heats up as war games begin -- Christian Science Monitor
SKorea, US begin drills amid NKorea threat -- ABC News
US, South Korea Begin Military Drill Amid North Korean War Threats -- Voice of America
Travel Ban, Asset Freeze On Former Egyptian President Mubarak
Egypt Freezes Mubarak Assets, Forbids Travel -- Christian Science MonitorEgypt today ordered a freeze on all assets belonging to former President Hosni Mubarak and his family, weeks after asking that foreign assets also be frozen.
Egypt's public prosecutor today requested a freeze on the assets of former President Hosni Mubarak, his wife, two sons, and their wives. The freeze is a response to suspicions that Mr. Mubarak accrued substantial wealth while president, potentially diverted from the Egyptian government, that he is now storing abroad.
Read more ....
More News On Egyptian President Mubarak
Egypt Issues Travel Ban, Asset Freeze on Mubarak -- Voice of America
Hosni Mubarak barred from leaving Egypt -- The Guardian
Egypt closes net on Mubarak's cash -- Sydney Morning Herald
Egypt imposes travel ban on Mubarak -- Al Jazeera
Egypt's attorney general forbids Mubarak from leaving country -- CNN
Hosni Mubarak: Egypt's former leader given travel ban -- BBC
Egypt Prosecutor Orders Mubarak Asset Sequestration -- Bloomberg
Egypt closes net on Mubarak clan's hidden fortune -- AFP
Mubarak banned from leaving Egypt, assets frozen -- NDTV
My Comment: They are not going to put him on trial .... he is simply too old. But his money .... hmmmm .... that is another story.
Ivory Coast Violence Continues To Escalate
Ivory Coast Violence Escalates As Mediation Efforts Stall -- Christian Science MonitorA resurgence of violence in Ivory Coast this weekend put a hold on African Union mediation efforts, but African leaders continue to resist international efforts to intervene further.
An African Union team of five heads of state, charged with resolving the political crisis in Ivory Coast, seems to be extending its stay in the country beyond Tuesday as violence between the two well-armed sides increases and the chances of peaceful negotiation rapidly diminish.
Read more ....
More News On The Ivory Coast
Belarus breaks Ivory Coast arms embargo - UN chief -- BBC
UN Accuses Belarus of Arming Ivory Coast Military in Violation of Embargo -- Voice of America
UN: Belarus sent attack helicopters to Ivory Coast -- AP
U.N. charge on Ivorian arms smuggling is denied -- Reuters
UN can't confirm I.Coast got Belarus choppers-envoys -- Reuters
Civilians Flee Fighting in Ivory Coast's Commercial Capital -- Voice of America
Fighting in Ivory Coast Disrupts National TV Broadcasts -- Voice of America
UN chief warns of civil war in Ivory Coast -- AFP
My Comment: This conflict is heading into a civil war .... and both sides now know that.
Unrest in Oman -- News Updates February 28, 2011
Protests In Oman Spread -- New York Times
BEIRUT, Lebanon — Demonstrators blocked roads and clashed with police on Monday in Oman, the normally quiet oil-rich country along the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, as three-day-old protests calling for political reforms and better living conditions spread to Muscat, the capital.
In the northeast port city of Sohar, where the protests originated, demonstrators blocked roads to the port, Oman’s second biggest, and an industrial area that includes a refinery and an aluminum factory, according to two witnesses in Sohar and news agencies. They also set a supermarket on fire and clashed with the police. Protesters have also been camped out for three days in the city’s main square, called Kurra Ardiyah Roundabout, despite efforts by police and army to push them out, a resident in Sohar said by e-mail.
Read more ....
More News On The Unrest In Oman
2 dead as protesters, police clash in Oman, witnesses say -- CNN
Oman protesters unmoved by sultan's offer -- CNN
Oman concessions fail to stop protest -- UPI
Oman police tear gas protesters -- Financial Times
Oman protests intensify as Sultan struggles to appease demonstrators -- Christian Science Monitor
Oman protests do not halt oil product shipments -- Reuters
Omanis Protest for 3rd Day in Key Industrial Town -- Voice of America
Looting reported amid Oman protests -- Al Jazeera
Oman Youth Protests Enter a Third Night as Sultan Promises to Create Jobs -- Bloomberg
Oman protests: More unrest despite sultan's reform vow -- BBC
Oman's Second-Largest Port Blocked By Protesters -- RTT News
My Comment: Who is next?
The Last Surviving U.S. Veteran Of World War I Has Died
Frank Buckles, Last World War I Doughboy, Is Dead At 110 -- New York Times
Frank Buckles, who drove an Army ambulance in France in 1918 and came to symbolize a generation of embattled young Americans as the last of the World War I doughboys, died on Sunday at his home in Charles Town, W. Va. He was 110.
His death was announced by a family spokesman, David DeJonge, The Associated Press said.
He was only a corporal and he never got closer than 30 or so miles from the Western Front trenches, but Mr. Buckles became something of a national treasure as the last living link to the two million men who served in the American Expeditionary Forces in France in “the war to end all wars.”
Read more ....
More News On The Passing Of Frank Buckles
Frank Buckles, America's last WWI veteran, dies aged 110 -- BBC
Frank Buckles, last American veteran of World War I, dies at 110 -- L.A. Times
Frank Buckles: What the last doughboy wanted for other veterans -- Christian Science Monitor
Last U.S. veteran of World War One dies at 110 -- Reuters
America's last World War I veteran dies -- AFP
Frank Buckles, Last Remaining American World War I Vet, Dies at 110 -- Time Magazine
America's last surviving veteran of World War I dies aged 110 years old -- The Daily Mail
My comment: Truly the end of an era.
Afghanistan War News Updates -- February 28, 2011
US Repositions Troops in Eastern Afghanistan -- New York Times
KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) — The U.S. military will start carrying out more counterterrorism missions against insurgents in eastern Afghanistan and work more closely with Pakistani forces in operations against insurgents along the porous and rugged frontier, the U.S. general commanding the region said.
Maj. Gen. John Campbell, commander of NATO coalition forces in eastern Afghanistan, said he has been repositioning some of his troops since last August to make them more effective in the region that borders Pakistan. The area has seen an upsurge in violence and is a main route for insurgents infiltrating into Afghanistan from safe havens in Pakistan's lawless tribal regions.
Read more ....
More News On Afghanistan
Four Nato troops killed in country-wide Afghan attacks -- BBC
Afghan attacks kill four NATO soldiers -- AFP
Afghan attacks kill four soldiers -- Press Association
Blasts kill 10 in Afghanistan -- L.A. Times
Afghan, coalition forces detain Taliban leader in Kandahar -- Dvids
Afghan gov't: NATO op killed 65 civilians -- AP
Afghan gov't investigators: 65 civilians killed in NATO operation earlier this month -- Canadian Press
Afghan probe accuses NATO of killing 65 civilians -- AFP
Afghan Team Says NATO Killed Civilians in Strikes -- New York Times
Afghan Probe Links NATO Strikes to 65 Civilian Deaths -- Voice of America
Afghan Legislators Pick Leader: Compromise Choice Ends a Stalemate -- Wall Street Journal
Tourist from Toronto captured by Taliban in Afghanistan -- Toronto Star
Reaching Afghanistan's hidden war widows in Helmand -- BBC
Taliban claim to have captured Canadian -- CBC
Restrepo bears witness to Afghanistan war -- ABC News (Australia)
To Know You Is To Kill You -- Strategy Page
Some counter-spin on Afghanistan -- Stephen M. Walt, Foreign Policy
How the Taliban Lost Its Swagger -- Newsweek
World News Briefs -- February 28, 2011
Rebel Libyan Military Leaders Prepare Tripoli Attack -- Euronews
Military and diplomatic defections from Colonel Gaddafi’s regime have multiplied as Libya’s revolution gathers momentum.
One dissident army leader spoke to euronews from the rebel-held city of Tobruk.
Read more ....
MIDDLE EAST
Iraqi PM Maliki pledges reform after 'Day of Rage'.
Obama welcomes Bahrain cabinet reshuffle.
Oman protests intensify as Sultan struggles to appease demonstrators. Oman protesters stage third day of unrest.
Iran naval mission 'not aggressive': admiral.
ASIA
China tamps down Middle East-inspired protests before they can gain momentum. China mobilizes against activists.
North Korea threatens 'firing attacks' on South over leaflets about Mideast turmoil.
US, South Korea begin military drill amid North Korean war threats.
New Zealand quake damages may cost as much as $15.1 billion.
AFRICA
Opposition declares new Libya government as Qaddafi hangs on. Rebels in Libya's east say they're not ready to take Tripoli. U.S. fears Tripoli may deploy gas as chaos mounts.
DR Congo: Six killed in 'coup bid' against Kabila.
Somali pirates seize cargo ship with 23 crew.
Belarus has broken arms embargo by sending attack helicopters to Ivory Coast, says UN chief. UN warns Belarus about supplying helicopters to Ivory Coast.
Attack kills four in central Nigeria: military.
Three killed in Tunisia clashes: government.
EUROPE
Nicolas Sarkozy sacks foreign minister after Tunisia row. Sarkozy names Juppe Foreign Minister to stem critics of Mideast response.
Ireland parties talk coalition, seek bailout changes.
Fraud and bribery trials return to add to Berlusconi's woes. Silvio Berlusconi: Italy PM's tax fraud trial resumes.
AMERICAS
Libya: Col Gaddafi's son 'in hiding on Venezuelan island'.
Mexico arrests two more in US agent Jaime Zapata murder.
Report: Massive landslide hits Bolivian capital.
Chile earthquake anniversary puts President Piñera in the hotseat.
TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
Afghan intel links Jalalabad bank attack, other suicide attacks to Pakistan.
Anxiety on all sides of upcoming House hearing on radicalization of U.S. Muslims.
Next wave of Al Qaeda coming from within U.S.?
Al-Qaida's No. 2 incites Tunisians, Egyptians.
ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS
Oil rises $1 as Oman protests fan supply concern.
3M chief warns Obama over business regulation.
Madoff to NY magazine: Government a Ponzi scheme.
Military And intelligence News Briefs -- February 28, 2011
Obama Defense Secretary Warns Against U.S. Armies In Asia, Middle East, Africa -- USA Today
The White House is not taking the military option off the table with regard to Libya, but it sure sounds like Defense Secretary Robert Gates is, at least in terms of land forces.
"In my opinion, any future defense secretary who advises the president to again send a big American land army into Asia or into the Middle East or Africa should 'have his head examined,' as General MacArthur so delicately put it," Gates told an audience of West Point cadets last week.
Read more ....
MILITARY AND INTELLIGENCE NEWS BRIEFS
No nuclear limit: China -- The Age
Russia could 'lose $4 bn' in Libya arms deals -- Space War
Russia Vows to Sell Missiles to Syria -- Defense News
Libya arms embargo halts boom for defence contractors -- Defence Talk
S. Korea, U.S. Start War Games Amid Threat From North -- Defense News
U.S. Budget Hearings: The Week Ahead -- DoD Buzz
Construction Begins on Navy's Newest Aircraft Carrier -- U.S. Navy
Joint Strike Fighter acing tests, pilots report -- U.S. Air Force
U.S. trims its nuclear arsenal while upgrading production -- Kansas City
Pentagon to Bolster Commandos' Counter-WMD Focus -- Global Security Newswire
New website promotes military info sharing -- TMCNet
Military prepares mental health help for Marines and sailors returning from Afghanistan -- L.A. Times
‘Illegal Psyop’ Neither Illegal Nor Psyop, General’s Lawyer Ruled -- The Danger Room
Cheetah military robot can outrun human beings -- TG Daily
Morale: The Battle For Beer Money -- Strategy Page
Synthetic marijuana widely used at Naval Academy, some midshipmen say -- Washington Post
Frank Buckles, Last US WWI Vet, Dies at 110 -- Military.com
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Editor's Note
For this weekend posting will be light. A business colleague and friend of mine suffered a terrible family tragedy on Tuesday, and I will be with his family this weekend.
I will be back late Sunday night, and regular blogging will return Monday morning.
I will be back late Sunday night, and regular blogging will return Monday morning.
U.S. Secretary Of Defense Gates Warns About Future Wars
WEST POINT VISIT - Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates walks with Army Lt. Gen. David Huntoon, West Point superintendent, at the U.S. Military Academy, West Point, N.Y., Feb. 25, 2011. DOD photo by Cherie Cullen Gates: Never Fight A Land War In Asia -- Wall Street Journal
The U.S. Army must be prepared for a wide range of future wars, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Friday. But don’t count on fighting a land war in Asia—or the Middle East or Africa for that matter.
Mr. Gates said the U.S. will need swift-moving expeditionary and special-operation forces to respond to disasters, counter terrorism or conduct stability operations.
But a state-on-state land war with tanks and artillery? Don’t count on it.
Read more ....
More News On Secretary Of Defense Gates Remarks
Speech Delivered by Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates - Transcript
In one of final addresses to Army, Gates describes vision for military's future -- Washington Post
Gates's warning: Avoid land war in Asia, Middle East, and Africa -- Christian Science Monitor
Gates warns against future land wars like Iraq, Afghanistan -- L.A. Times
Warning Against Wars Like Iraq and Afghanistan -- New York Times
Defense secretary warns against fighting more ground wars -- CNN
Gates warns against Iraq, Afghanistan-style wars -- AFP
Gates Tells US Army to Take New Approach -- Voice of America
Gates says U.S. Army must become more nimble -- Reuters
Gates: Army must train and structure itself for future conflicts that will be more complex -- Canadian Press
Gates Challenges Cadets to Change Army Culture -- U.S. Department of Defense
My Comment: The best sentence that I have read from Secretary of Gates address is the following ....
.... "In my opinion, any future defense secretary who advises the President to again send a big American land army into Asia or into the Middle East or Africa should have his head examined, as General MacArthur so delicately put it."
Indeed.
But I know that our leaders and those who vote them in will soon forget what Secretary Gates said in his speech yesterday.
More Waste Revealed From The Wars In Iraq And Afghanistan
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, center, Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, left, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Robert F. Hale, undersecretary of defense (comptroller) testify at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on the department's 2012 budget request in Washington, D.C., Feb. 17, 2011. DOD photo by U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad J. McNeeleyReport: Billions Lost On Contracts In Iraq And Afghanistan -- CNN
Washington (CNN) -- A new report blasts the U.S. government for wasting tens of billions of dollars in Iraq and Afghanistan by relying too much on contractors and doing too little to monitor their performance.
The interim report from the Commission on Wartime Contracting in Iraq and Afghanistan points out that contractors in the war zones sometimes have exceeded the number of military personnel. Numbering 200,000, contractors now roughly match the military force.
Read more ....
More News On Waste In Iraq And Afghanistan
Study says US wasted billions in Iraq, Afghanistan -- AFP
US wasted billions in Iraq and Afghanistan, says report -- RFI
Wartime contracting commission details years of waste -- Government Executive
US oversight of war-zone contractors labeled weak -- Bloomerbg Businessweek
Commission Concerned with Contingency Contracting -- Project on Government Oversight
My Comment: With so much money 'sloshing around' .... who has any motivation to stop these wars and conflicts?
Picture Of The Day
Australia off the right wing of a KC-135 fuel tanker from the 185th Aerial Refueling Wing based in Sioux City, Iowa, Feb. 22, 2011. Both wing units are participating in a joint flight exercise, “Sentry Down Under,” with F-18s from the Royal Australian Air Force Base, Williamtown, Australia. U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Linda E. KephartIvory Coast Erupts Into Civil War
Fighting Spreads as Ivory Coast Draws Closer to Return to Civil War -- Voice of AmericaIvory Coast is moving closer to a return to civil war with rebels claiming to have captured new territory in the west and supporters of the incumbent president calling for attacks against foreigners and U.N. peacekeepers.
Incumbent president Laurent Gbagbo's youth leader says Gbagbo supporters should chase foreigners from their neighborhoods and block the movement of United Nations peacekeepers who he says are backing rebels allied with the U.N.-certified winner of the presidential election, Alassane Ouattara.
Read more ....
More News On The Unrest In The Ivory Coast
Clashes spread across Cote d'Ivoire -- Al Jazeera
Violence escalates in Ivory Coast -- CNN
Gun battles raging in Ivory Coast -- The Telegraph
More 'heavy-weapon fire' in I. Coast's Abidjan -- Yahoo News/AFP
Ivorian army pledges to restore order to Abidjan -- Reuters
Fears that Ivory Coast is slipping back into civil war -- BBC
Ivory Coast: Rebels take western town Zouan-Hounien -- BBC
Civilians flee Ivory Coast fighting -- The Telegraph
Ivory Coast leader calls for hunt on foreigners -- Yahoo News/AP
Ivory Coast youth leader threatens foreigners -- FOX News
UN chief warns of civil war in Ivory Coast amid new clashes -- Yahoo News/AFP
Commentaries, Opinions, And Editorials -- February 26, 2011
Gaddafi's Last Stand -- Bobby Gosh, Time Magazine
Leave it to Libya's Muammar Gaddafi to show the world how a tyrant goes down: with bluster, belligerence and blood. Not for him, the quiet escape of Tunisia's Zine el Abidine Ben Ali or the noisy — but broadly peaceful — exit of Egypt's Hosni Mubarak. When the Arab youth uprising that has toppled despots on either side of his North African nation arrived on his doorstep, Gaddafi gave notice that the region's longest-surviving dictatorship would not succumb to revolutionary rap songs, Facebook pages and nonviolent demonstrations; he dispatched tanks and jet fighters to pound and strafe protesters. Hundreds were killed — the exact toll is impossible to know, since the regime shut out the world's media and shut down most communications.
Read more ....
Commentaries, Opinions, And Editorials
How Qaddafi started losing Libya -- Dan Murphy, Christian Science Monitor
Benghazi the nerve centre as Libya protest turns to revolution -- Martin Chulov, the Guardian
Who'll control Libya's oil economy if Gadhafi falls? -- Kevin G. Hall, McClatchy News
How Qaddafi started losing Libya -- Dan Murphy, Christian Science Monitor
The business of doing business in Gadhafi’s oil kingdom -- Dug Sanders, Globe And Mail
Libya's War of the Colonels: Col. Gaddafi Meet Col. Hussein -- Abigil Hauslohner, Time Magazine
No help for Libya from President Obama -- Washington Post editorial
The Wave Continues: The people of the Middle East really want to choose their leaders. -- Reuel Marc Gerecht, Weekly Standard
Arab democracy and the return of the Mediterranean world -- Robert Kaplan, Washington Post
Is North Korea Next? -- Lee Byong-Chul, The Diplomat
Back to civil war in Ivory Coast? -- Elizabeth Dickinson, Foreign Policy
Southern Sudan's struggle -- L.A. Times editorial
Maoists Make India Kneel Again -- Siddharth Srivastava, Asia Sentinel
What will US do with 15 Somali pirates after fatal hijacking? -- Bob Shrerer, Christian Science Monitor
Revolution In Libya -- News Updates February 26, 2011
Gaddafi's Last Stand: Embattled Leader Threatens To 'Burn All Of Libya' If Protesters Do Not Cease In Their Bid To Overthrow Him -- The Daily Mail
* Former Libyan diplomat warns thousands will die in the next 24 hours
* Prospect of setting up a no-fly zone to prevent Gaddafi bombing protesters
* Thousands defy shoot-on-sight warning at Green Square protest
* U.S. imposes sanctions on Libya and cuts diplomatic ties
Libyan leader Colonel Gaddafi has threatened to 'burn all of Libya' if the citizens do not cease protests against him.
In a surprise televised appearance, Gaddafi warned he was ready to unleash further bloodshed and urged his followers: 'Prepare to defend Libya.'
He told loyalists in Tripoli's Green Square that 'we will defeat any outside attempt to overturn our country', and bizarrely added: 'Libyan people love me.'
He was attempting to stage a dramatic last attempt to cling on to power as tens of thousands of protesters took to the streets of Libya.
Read more ....
More News On The Unrest In Libya
Libya live report -- Yahoo News/AFP
Libya protests: live -- The Telegraph
Libya in crisis – live coverage -- The Guardian
Gaddafi forces abandon parts of Tripoli -- Reuters
Terror in Tripoli as Kadhafi set for battle -- Yahoo News/AFP
Gaddafi forces fire on protesters in Tripoli; defiant leader urges thousands of supporters to take up arms -- Washington Post
Kadafi using civilian supporters to clear away Libyan protesters -- L.A. Times
Gaddafi's last stand: Libyan leader rallies his few remaining supporters in Tripoli as Cameron warns: 'World is watching' -- The Daily Mail
Gadhafi's isolation grows as rebels hold key Libyan cities -- McClatchy News
Libya: UN chief calls for bloodshed to end as Gaddafi vows to fight on -- The Telegraph
Libya's UN ambassador denounces Gaddafi -- The Telegraph
Libya: Gaddafi in spotlight at UN Security Council -- BBC
UN Considers Sanctions on Gadhafi -- Voice of America
Security Council meets to consider Libya sanctions -- Yahoo News/AP
Gaddafi secretly transfers £3bn to Mayfair-based fund as European leaders say 'brutality and intimidation will not be tolerated' -- Daily Mail
France Warns Money Managers Over Links With Qaddafi Assets -- Bloomberg
West to Isolate Gadhafi -- Wall Street Journal
Obama orders freeze on assets of Gadhafi, his family -- McClatchy News
U.S. ratchets up pressure on Gaddafi -- Washington Post
U.S. Hits Libya With Sanctions, Shuts Embassy -- New York Times/Reuters
Who depends the most on Libyan oil? -- Foreign Policy
Gadhafi's long rule may be a mystery, but ending isn't -- McClatchy News
Exposed: Gaddafi Inc. -- Michael Burleigh, The Telegraph
Expert: Sanctions could strengthen Qaddafi -- CBS News
Libya's War of the Colonels: Col. Gaddafi Meet Col. Hussein -- Time Magazine
Afghanistan War News Updates -- February 26, 2011
Hat Tip: Bring The Heat. Bring The Stupid
Suicide Bomb Attack Continues Afghan Trend -- New York Times
KABUL, Afghanistan — A playing field in a remote area of northwest Afghanistan where a crowd had gathered was the most recent target for a suicide bomber who detonated himself on Saturday, in the seventh suicide attack in Afghanistan in less than a month.
The attack in Faryab Province killed at least 3 people and wounded 30, said the provincial governor, Abdul Haq Shafaq. The crowd had gathered for a game of buzkashi, which involves men on horseback trying to grab a dead goat from each other. He said the attacker was a 17-year-old boy. It was unclear how officials could judge his age.
“By targeting civilians, our enemies are now losing their honor among people,” Mr. Shafaq said.
Read more ....
More News On Afghanistan
Civilians killed in Afghan attacks -- Al Jazeera
Bomber kills at least 4 in northwest Afghanistan -- Yahoo News/AP
Suicide bomb kills spectators at sports field -- ABC Nwes (Australia)
Three rockets fired into heart of Kabul: official -- AFP
Forces tech their toll on Taliban -- The Sun
Afghan probe says Nato killed dozens of Kunar civilians -- BBC
Afghan officials say NATO killed 62 civilians -- AFP
Taliban prepare for summer offensive -- The International News
Pakistani Insurgents Destroy Oil Tankers For NATO Troops -- Radio Free Europe
Low pay, big risks for fuel haulers in Afghan war -- Washington Post/AP
US military pulls out of key eastern Afghan valley -- AFP
US forces pulling out of Pech valley in Afghanistan -- DAWN
US begins withdrawing forces from Kunar's Pech Valley -- Threat Matrix
U.S. leaving Afghan valley once thought key -- CBS News
U.S. pulling forces out of Pech Valley -- Stars And Stripes
Ten years after the destruction of Buddhist relics in Afghanistan -- Deutsche Welle
Jailed Christian convert is freed in Afghanistan -- FOX News
Jailed Christian convert is freed in Afghanistan -- AP
Ageless Afghanistan -- Jean MacKenzie, Global Post
The Islamic Republic of Talibanistan -- Saleem H. Ali, Foreign Policy
World News Briefs -- February 26, 2011
Libyan Protesters Brace for Violence in Tripoli -- Voice of America
Opposition protesters in Libya could be facing increased pressure Saturday to end their efforts to oust leader Moammar Gadhafi. Gadhafi Friday offered to arm civilian supporters across the country in an effort to quash dissent.
On Friday, thousands of opposition protesters staged a new push to oust Gadhafi. Protesters amassed in cities including Benghazi, where anti-Gadhafi forces appear to be in control.
Read more ....
MIDDLE EAST
Attack shuts Iraq's largest oil refinery, kills 1.
23 killed in Iraq's 'Day of Rage' protests.
In setback, Iran to unload fuel from nuclear plant.
Major Yemen tribes join protesters. Five more die after protests in Yemen city of Aden.
Yemen's day of rage: thousand demonstrate in Sana'a.
ASIA
Shanghai tightens security ahead of China ‘Jasmine’ rallies.
Afghan probe says Nato killed dozens of Kunar civilians.
Tensions rise between U.S., Pakistan spy agencies. CIA director calls ISI chief over Raymond Davis issue.
China calls for renewed fight against Dalai Lama.
New Zealand rescuers find only dead in quake city, toll 145. Christchurch earthquake leaves third of city buildings facing demolition.
AFRICA
Gaddafi forces fire on protesters in Tripoli; defiant leader urges thousands of supporters to take up arms. Libya: Tripoli residents say civilians being armed. Libyan leader, protesters defiant as world leaders seek resolution.
Tunisians proud at sparking Arab rebellions.
Egypt army apologises for beating protesters. Egyptian military apologizes for using force on protesters.
Fighting spreads as Ivory Coast draws closer to return to civil war. Fears that Ivory Coast is slipping back into civil war. Gun battles raging in Ivory Coast.
Uganda police to crush opposition protests against poll outcome.
EUROPE
Ireland's Fine Gael gets 36.1 percent of vote: exit poll. Irish voters reject Government, but accept austerity program. Irish voters shun government and Europe.
Report: Man blows himself up at Moscow supermarket.
Militants attack southern Russia city.
Bosnia's top envoy, EU renew call for government formation.
Thousands of war vets rally in Croatian capital.
AMERICAS
Violent deaths in Mexico activist's family know no end.
Obama urges Congress to avoid US budget gridlock.
US growth revised lower as state spending cuts bite.
Zelaya backers eye party for 2013 vote in Honduras.
TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR
Obama signs temporary extension of Patriot Act.
Obama defends Ashcroft in Supreme Court terror case.
Iraqi troops kill al Qaeda's 'war minister' in Anbar: report.
ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS
Companies concerned about rising fuel costs.
Analysis: Mideast faces higher debt costs but won't default.
How Mideast turmoil affects oil prices. Six questions answered.
Who depends the most on Libyan oil?
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