In Geopolitics Today: Thursday, June 1st
SpaceX to Provide Satellite Internet to Ukrainian Military, Moldova Hosts Second EPC Summit, and other stories.
Colombia Accuses US Coal Miner Of Funding Paramilitary Group
Drummond Co Inc, Colombia's largest producer of thermal coal, is facing legal trouble as the current head of its Colombian operations, Jose Miguel Linares, and his predecessor, Augusto Jimenez, are set to stand trial for allegedly financing a right-wing paramilitary group. The Colombian attorney general's office claims there is "abundant proof" that Linares and Jimenez conspired to fund the United Self-Defense Forces of Colombia (AUC) between 1996 and 2001. The accusations state that the executives increased the value of a food provision contract to obtain additional resources for illegal purposes, aimed at protecting Drummond's mining assets in areas where the paramilitary group operated.
Drummond has strongly denied the accusations, dismissing them as the product of a "cartel of false witnesses." The company asserts that the allegations lack credible evidence and are based on false declarations from convicted criminals who receive payments for testimony. Despite the legal challenges, Drummond's Colombian unit recently announced plans to become a net-zero company by 2050, emphasizing its commitment to reducing emissions and transitioning to more sustainable practices. The company aims to switch from gas to electricity at one of its mines, convert its light vehicle fleet from gasoline to gas, and offset any remaining carbon dioxide emissions.
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SpaceX to Provide Satellite Internet to Ukrainian Military
Elon Musk's SpaceX has secured a contract with the US Department of Defense to provide satellite internet services to the Ukrainian military. The agreement comes as Musk set aside his earlier concerns over how his company's Starlink terminals were being used in conflict zones. While the exact number of terminals to be purchased by the Department of Defense remains undisclosed, hundreds of terminals are being destroyed each month in the ongoing conflict. The funding for the contract is expected to come from the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which aims to support the modernization of the Ukrainian military as it confronts Russian forces.
The Starlink terminals, which connect small antennas to 35cm-high terminals, have proved crucial in maintaining communications and enabling data-intensive drone surveillance for the Ukrainian military. Additionally, they have provided internet access to civilians in newly liberated areas where traditional telecom services may have been disrupted. Despite initial concerns expressed by Musk regarding the cost and complexity of continuing service, the contract signifies a shift as SpaceX and Starlink assume a vital role in supporting Ukraine's overall communications network. The contract underscores the growing significance of satellite communications in conflict zones and highlights the potential for space-based technologies to contribute to military operations and civilian infrastructure.
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Philippines Hosts Successful ASEAN Naval Exercise AMNEX-2
The Philippines has hosted the second iteration of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)'s Multilateral Naval Exercise (AMNEX), bringing together navies from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability among ASEAN member states in countering non-traditional security threats like piracy, terrorism, and transnational crimes. By hosting these events, the Philippines showcased its commitment to fostering cooperation and promoting rules-based maritime operations, solidifying its role as a middle power.
The AMNEX-2 took place amid a number of foreign policy challenges for the Philippines, including disputes in the South China Sea, tensions in the Taiwan Strait, China-US competition, and the war in Ukraine. The exercise demonstrated the significance of naval diplomacy and the modernization of the Philippine Navy's defence capabilities in safeguarding national interests and promoting cooperation with ASEAN neighbours. While challenges and tensions between member states persist, exercises like AMNEX-2 contribute to enhancing naval doctrines, monitoring regional capabilities, and preparing for potential risks and threats at sea.
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United States and Guatemala Launch Migration Processing Program
The United States and Guatemala have announced the establishment of new migration processing centres in Guatemala as part of Washington's efforts to deter migrants and refugees from attempting to enter the US through the southern border. The six-month pilot program will utilize "Secure Mobility Offices" to manage irregular migration and provide avenues for temporary work permits, family reunifications, and other means of entry to the US.
The US government has stated that it aims to deter irregular migration while providing legal pathways for individuals to seek protection. The US-Guatemala Secure Mobility Offices program aims to offer a lawful pathway to the United States. The cooperation between the US and Guatemala also extends to border security and addressing the root causes of irregular migration. However, valid concerns have been raised about the logistical strain on Guatemala and the potential influx of applicants once the centres open, as Guatemala serves as both a country of origin and a transit point for migrants heading to the US.
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Moldova Hosts Second EPC Summit
Moldova recently hosted the second summit of the European Political Community (EPC), which brought together nearly 50 European heads of state and government. The summit served as a platform to discuss Moldova's aspirations to join the European Union and garner international support for Moldova’s pro-EU government. The European Union announced a range of political and economic initiatives, including a doubling of macro-financial assistance to 295 million euros and the implementation of a support package totalling 1.6 billion euros.
Pro-Russian political forces in Moldova continue to present a challenge to the EU, driven by economic grievances and a significant level of pro-Russian sentiment. The country has witnessed protests against President Sandu and her ruling party due to inflation and economic difficulties, all of which has been exacerbated by increased activity by outside powers. The EU's plan aims to address Moldova’s immediate needs, such as providing funding for energy and the country’s military. Additionally, sanctions have been imposed on individuals involved in capturing and corrupting Moldova's political and economic institutions, including leaders of the pro-Russian movement.