Science & Tech
Biden Urges Putin to Give up Russian Ransomware Gangsters, Threatens Unspecified 'Consequences'
The President is talking tougher on Russian criminal cyber gangs, but still isn’t naming specific penalties.
Policy
Afghans Own Whatever Comes Next, Biden Says
Rejecting critics, President Joe Biden said the United States isn’t responsible for Taliban gains, civilian deaths, or worsening women’s rights after American troops leave.
Policy
Fighter Jets Leave Afghanistan as US Departs Bagram
Withdrawal from the mammoth base comes as officials continue to seek access elsewhere in the region.
Policy
DoD Makes Recommendations to Close ‘Troubling Gap’ in Sexual Assault Response
Improving victim care, focusing on prevention and removing prosecution from the chain of command are some top priorities of the 300-page report.
Policy
‘Black Hawk Down’ Veterans to Receive 58 Silver Stars
The Army just upgraded combat medals given to 60 special operators of the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, right as Pentagon officials decide whether to return to Somalia.
Policy
Lawmaker Wants to Grill Officers on Critical Race Theory Before Approving Promotions
It’s the latest step Sen. Tom Cotton has proposed to stop “culture wars” within the military.
Policy
House Panel Proposes $1M to Start Renaming Bases That Honor Confederates
The renaming commission plans to finalize the list in fall 2022.
Policy
Swiss Pick F-35 to Replace Old Fighter Jets
The Lightning II beat out the Boeing Super Hornet, Dassault Rafale, and Eurofighter Typhoon.
Policy
Air Strikes Renew Battle Over War Authorizations
Some lawmakers are using Sunday’s strikes in Iraq and Syria to push for keeping a two-decade-old statute, but law experts say their arguments don’t hold water.
Policy
Experts Assess the Unexplained in Government’s Recent UFO Report
Officials briefed Nextgov on notable inclusions—and what might come next.
Threats
Afghanistan is ‘Not a Winnable War,’ White House Says as Taliban Storms Country
President Ghani leaves Washington empty handed, as Biden rejects Republican calls to reverse U.S. troop withdrawal.
Policy
White House, Pentagon Finalizing Plans to Get Thousands of Interpreters out of Afghanistan
No decision yet on where and how Afghans and their families will be housed and fed as they await U.S. visas.
Policy
Austin, Milley Push Back on Lawmakers’ ‘Critical Race Theory’ Accusations
Republicans ask why West Point cadets learn about ‘White Rage,’ in pointed exchanges with nation’s first Black defense secretary.
Policy
Uncertainty About Post-Withdrawal Plans Clouds Biden’s Upcoming Meeting with Afghanistan’s Ghani
Still, experts say, the White House meeting will be an overdue show of support for the Afghan government.
Policy
The Marine Corps Is Redesigning Infantry Battalions for the Future
Recommendations for a nimbler unit organization with fewer grunts and more tech will go to the commandant next year.
Policy