SOFREP Daily: US Defense Contractors in Ukraine, Putin Backs China on Taiwan, Sudan Accuses Militia of Massacre

Here’s your defense and global affairs briefing for Saturday, November 9, covering the latest military developments and strategic shifts worldwide.

US Sends Contractors to Maintain Weapons in Ukraine

In its final months, the Biden administration has greenlighted a policy shift that allows US defense contractors to assist with maintaining and repairing weapons provided to Ukraine.

This move, Reuters reported Friday, aims to support Kyiv’s ongoing battle against Russia by ensuring US-supplied equipment is quickly repaired and ready for use.

The contractors will be stationed away from the front lines and won’t be involved in combat.

This change comes as Ukraine struggles with damaged equipment and the increasing complexity of newer systems like F-16s and Patriot missiles.

American military contractors will now be able to deploy into Ukraine to help the Ukrainian Air Force maintain its fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons.

This comes after a the US lifted a de facto ban, per CNN. pic.twitter.com/7kKZJjB0yy

— OSINTtechnical (@Osinttechnical) November 8, 2024

US officials hope this will help keep Kyiv’s military in fighting shape as Russian forces gain ground. However, there’s still uncertainty about how long this policy shift will last, especially with a new administration set to take office soon.

Putin Backs China on Taiwan, Calls Partnership a Force for Good

Russian President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed his support for China on Thursday, calling it “Russia’s ally” and backing Beijing’s stance on Taiwan.

While the two countries haven’t declared a formal military alliance, their “no limits” partnership agreement, signed in 2022, has solidified their growing cooperation.

According to a report by Reuters, Putin emphasized that China’s actions regarding Taiwan are not aggressive, instead accusing the island country of provoking tensions in a bid to gain external support.

Putin expressed that Russia fully supports China on the Taiwan issue, viewing Beijing’s policy as reasonable, especially given their extensive trade and security cooperation.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s foreign ministry criticized both Russia and China for their actions, particularly Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has sparked global condemnation and sanctions.

The ministry argues that Russia and China together pose a significant threat to global peace.

Despite this, Putin downplayed concerns about their joint military drills, comparing them to similar exercises held by the US with Japan, and insisted these drills were purely for ensuring security, not aggression.

Europe’s Defense Budget Soars, Yet Troops Remain in Short Supply

Europe has upped its defense spending since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but it still faces major gaps in its defense capabilities, especially when it comes to military manpower.

A new report from the International Institute for Security Studies (IISS) highlights that, while defense spending has increased by nearly 50 percent since 2014, Europe’s armed forces are still overly reliant on US support.

Political decisions over the years have left Europe’s arsenal weakened, but recent efforts to boost production—especially in air defense and artillery—are showing results.

Despite more investment in local weapons and ammunition, Europe is struggling with a shortage of military personnel, as recruitment numbers fall short of what’s needed to maintain a strong defense.

EU Boosts Egypt’s Defense with $21 Million Aid Package

The European Council has approved a 20 million euro ($21 million) aid package to help strengthen Egypt’s military in the face of rising security threats.

This move, as announced by the Council earlier this week, is part of the broader European Union (EU)-Egypt partnership, which has been growing stronger as both sides focus on boosting stability, defense, and territorial control.

The EU sees Egypt as a key ally in maintaining peace and security in the Mediterranean and surrounding regions. However, there are concerns from groups like Amnesty International about potential human rights issues, particularly regarding migration and border control practices.

This funding is part of the EU’s broader European Peace Facility (EPF), launched in March 2021, to support international security through military partnerships.

US Southern Command Welcomes First African American Leader After Historic Tenure

Gen. Laura Richardson recently wrapped up her groundbreaking tenure as the first woman to lead US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).

During her time in charge, she faced numerous challenges, including rising security threats from China, Russia, and Iran, as well as the ongoing gang violence in Haiti and tensions between Guyana and Venezuela.

Under her leadership, SOUTHCOM deepened relationships with nations in the region, conducted joint military exercises, and played a key role in addressing issues like illegal migration and transnational terrorism.

After 38 years of service, Richardson handed over command to Navy Adm. Alvin Holsey, who made history as the first African American to lead SOUTHCOM.

Both leaders received high praise for their leadership and dedication, especially in efforts to stabilize Haiti and strengthen regional security.

Sudan Accuses Militia of Massacre, Killing 120 Civilians

In Sudan, the foreign ministry accused paramilitary forces late Thursday of causing a massacre in Al-Jazira state, killing at least 120 civilians over two days.

The Janjaweed militia, linked to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), is blamed for the deaths which occurred in the town of Hilaliya.

Victims were killed by gunfire or food poisoning, and many others suffered due to lack of medical care.

The RSF is also accused of looting homes and holding people captive, demanding large sums for their release.

The violence has escalated since a key RSF commander defected to the regular army, leading to increased attacks on civilians.

#BREAKING #SUDAN #AlJAZIRA

🔴 SUDAN :📹 MASSACRE BY RAPID SUPPORT FORCES (RSF) IN THE FARMING VILLAGE OF AL SIREIHA
IN EASTERN AL JAZIRA STATE

At least 124 civilians were massacred.
The attacks come after the RSF’s most senior commander in Al Jazira defected to the army. pic.twitter.com/ZsEly6XIGD

— LW World News 🌍 (@LoveWorld_Peopl) October 27, 2024

With the conflict now in its second year, the death toll has reached tens of thousands, and millions have been displaced, some fleeing to neighboring countries.

Lebanon Sees More Casualties as Israeli Airstrikes Hit Tyre

On Friday, Israeli airstrikes on the southern Lebanese city of Tyre killed at least three people and injured 30 more.

The strikes targeted three buildings, causing heavy damage to nearby apartment blocks.

The Lebanese health ministry stated that no evacuation warning was issued by Israel ahead of the attack. This escalation is part of the broader conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, which has intensified since late September.

The violence between Israel and Hezbollah has been ongoing for over a year, but the situation escalated sharply after Israel broadened its focus from Gaza to securing its northern border.

Earlier this week, Israeli strikes killed 40 people in Baalbek and the Bekaa Valley, as well as hitting Beirut’s southern suburbs.

Hezbollah has responded with missile attacks on Israeli military bases.

Diplomatic efforts, including a failed US ceasefire proposal, have not been successful in halting the violence.

Efforts by Lebanese rescuers continue as they search through the rubble for survivors after previous Israeli strikes caused widespread devastation.

Hezbollah’s secretary-general, Naim Qassem, suggested Wednesday that “indirect negotiations” could be possible if Israel stops its attacks, but tensions remain high, with both sides increasing military actions.

Israeli Airstrikes Target Aleppo and Idlib in Early Saturday Attack

Israeli airstrikes hit Syria’s Aleppo and Idlib countryside early Saturday, injuring soldiers and causing material damage.

The strikes targeted military sites, with reports from Syrian state media and a British-based war monitor confirming the attack, but no specific details on the damage or injuries were provided.

#Syria calls #BenjaminNetanyahu out after #IDF strikes Aleppo, Idlib | Watch pic.twitter.com/Tmykp9PwQD

— The Times Of India (@timesofindia) November 9, 2024

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights suggested that Iranian Revolutionary Guard units and pro-Iranian factions were present in the area.

Israel has carried out numerous airstrikes in Syria since the civil war began in 2011, primarily targeting army positions and Iran-backed forces like Hezbollah.

These strikes have increased recently as Israel continues to focus on limiting Iran’s influence in the region, especially amid rising tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon.

EDGE Group, Brazilian Navy Team Up to Tackle Drone Threats

Emirati defense contractor EDGE Group recently partnered with the Brazilian Navy to develop advanced anti-drone systems for naval defense.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the Euronaval defense exhibition in Paris outlines plans for creating autonomous surface and aerial defense systems tailored to the Brazilian Navy’s needs.

This collaboration builds on their previous work together, including the development of the MANSUP anti-ship missile system.

Admiral Edgar Luiz Siqueira Barbosa, Director General of Naval Material for the Brazilian Navy, provides key insights into our strategic partnership focused on the joint development of advanced counter-drone systems for naval applications, underscoring our collaborative… pic.twitter.com/fXRDF2Q4U7

— EDGE (@_edgegroup) November 6, 2024

EDGE’s CEO, Hamad Al Marar, emphasized the growing importance of counter-drone technology, noting that the new systems will enhance the Navy’s ability to detect, track, and neutralize modern threats.

Both parties aim to not only meet Brazil’s defense needs but also potentially serve other international markets.