U.S. and Russia Explore Energy Deals in Ukraine Peace Talks: U.S. and Russian officials discussed potential energy deals alongside negotiations aimed at achieving peace in Ukraine. The proposals included the possibility of Exxon Mobil rejoining Russia’s Sakhalin-1 project, Russia purchasing U.S. equipment for sanctioned LNG projects, and the U.S. buying nuclear-powered icebreakers from Russia. These incentives were reportedly designed to encourage Moscow to agree to a peace settlement and for Washington to ease sanctions on Russia’s energy sector. The discussions took place during U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff’s recent visit to Moscow, where he met with President Vladimir Putin. 

Pakistan Evacuates Thousands After India Releases Dam Water: Pakistan evacuated more than 100,000 people from Punjab province after India released water from overflowing dams into cross-border rivers, raising flood risks in low-lying areas. New Delhi had warned Islamabad a day earlier, marking the first public diplomatic contact between the two countries in months. Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority said thousands were moved from Kasur and Bahawalnagar districts and urged residents to avoid rivers and follow official alerts. The evacuations come as heavy monsoon rains continue to cause widespread flooding across both India and Pakistan. 

Demonstrations Erupt in Indonesia Against Parliament Housing Allowance: On Monday, thousands of students clashed with riot police during demonstrations over parliamentary housing allowances, viewed as excessive considering public economic struggles in Jakarta. Police dispersed crowds with tear gas as demonstrators attempted to march on Parliament, responding with stones, bottles, and fires. Authorities deployed more than 1,200 officers and closed surrounding roads, leading to severe traffic congestion. No injuries were initially reported. 

Australia Cuts Ties with Iran Over Arson Attacks: Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced Tuesday that his government will cut diplomatic ties with Iran after intelligence concluded Tehran directed two antisemitic arson attacks in Sydney and Melbourne last year. The Australian Security Intelligence Organization said Iran was behind fires targeting a kosher food business in October and a synagogue in December. Authorities have arrested suspects in both incidents, which occurred amid a broader rise in antisemitic activity in Australia following the Israel-Hamas war. Albanese condemned the attacks as hostile acts by a foreign government aimed at undermining social cohesion. 

China’s Xi to Host SCO Summit: Chinese President Xi Jinping will host more than 20 world leaders at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin from August 31 to September 1, highlighting Global South cooperation. Attendees will include Russian President Vladimir Putin as well as leaders from Central Asia, the Middle East, South Asia, and Southeast Asia. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s participation marks his first visit to China in over seven years, amid efforts to ease border tensions following deadly clashes in 2020. 

This week’s Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up examines some of the most pressing intelligence and national security stories shaping the global landscape.

We begin in New Zealand, where the country’s intelligence services have named China as its most active security threat and convicted a soldier in its first espionage case. In the UK, the government has backed down from its controversial demand for Apple to provide user data, while in the United States, Tulsi Gabbard has revoked 37 intelligence security clearances, raising questions about oversight and trust in the intelligence community.

Here in Canada, the government has announced the creation of its first foreign interference watchdog and registry, while the RCMP have charged a Montreal minor with terrorism offences linked to online radicalization. And across Europe, Russia continues to escalate its sabotage campaigns, targeting critical infrastructure as part of its broader hybrid warfare strategy.

As always, the goal of this podcast is to go beyond the headlines, providing context, analysis, and insight based on more than two decades of intelligence and law enforcement experience.

You can listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/VgOWy6JGX1Y

Canada has finally announced the creation of a foreign interference watchdog and a public registry that will force individuals working on behalf of foreign governments to disclose their activities. On paper, this is exactly what Canadians have been asking for.

But there’s a serious credibility problem. The current Public Safety Minister, Gary Anandasangaree, has already recused himself from investigations concerning the Tamil Tigers — a listed terrorist entity. That raises an uncomfortable question: what happens when Canada identifies foreign agents from Sri Lanka? Would he have to recuse himself again?

Foreign adversaries thrive on hesitation and doubt. If the person leading Canada’s first real push against foreign interference is already seen as compromised, then even the best policies risk being dismissed as window dressing.

In my latest Substack article, I examine why this watchdog could be the right policy — but with the wrong messenger at the helm.

Full article here: https://open.substack.com/pub/neilbisson1/p/canadas-new-foreign-interference?r=5yk9bo&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Do you think Canadians can trust this new watchdog to deliver results, or has credibility already been lost before it even begins?

18 Arrested at Microsoft HQ Protests Over Israel Ties: Police arrested 18 people at Microsoft’s Redmond, Washington headquarters during worker-led protests demanding the company cut ties with Israel on Wednesday. Demonstrators splattered red paint on a company sign and refused to leave after being told they were trespassing, according to police. The protests follow reports that the Israeli military used Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform for surveillance, prompting the company to commission a new independent review by law firm Covington & Burling. Microsoft said it will uphold human rights standards while addressing unlawful actions, but activist employees argue its technology enables harm against Palestinians. 

Russia Launches Major Drone and Missile Attack on Ukraine: Russia launched one of its largest aerial attacks of the year on Ukraine, firing 574 drones and 40 missiles overnight, the Ukrainian Air Force reported Thursday. The strikes, which mainly targeted western regions where foreign military aid is stored, killed at least one person and injured 15 others. Officials said it was Russia’s third-largest drone attack this year and noted that many such strikes have hit civilian areas. The assault came as U.S.-led diplomatic efforts to broker peace continue, though Ukraine and European leaders accuse Moscow of stalling negotiations. 

Taiwan Plans 20% Defense Budget Increase for 2026: Taiwan will increase defense spending by 20% in 2026 to T$949.5 billion ($31.27 billion), pushing expenditures to 3.32% of GDP, the highest level since 2009. The boost aims to strengthen Taiwan’s military capabilities amid growing pressure from China, which claims the island as its territory, a stance Taipei rejects. The move also responds to U.S. calls for Taiwan to invest more in its own defense, similar to Washington’s pressure on European allies. Premier Cho Jung-tai said the budget demonstrates Taiwan’s resolve to safeguard sovereignty and contribute to regional stability. 
 

California Under High Fire Danger: Southern California faces high fire danger Thursday afternoon through Saturday. Unseasonably hot and unstable air, warmer than usual overnight periods, and very dry vegetation will make new ignitions easier while enhancing potential for rapid fire spread and extreme fire behavior. Any large fires that do develop will have the potential to make localized wind patterns more erratic, thereby making the fires more difficult to contain. As mentioned by the National Interagency Fire Center, this is some of the higher fire potential southern California has observed this summer. Fire Weather Alerts and Extreme Heat Watches/Warnings are in effect. 
 

Erin’s Storm Surge Hits North Carolina: Coastal North Carolina is still feeling major impacts of Hurricane Erin, despite the center passing over 200 miles offshore. The Department of Transportation reports NC 12 remains closed at the Marc Basnight Bridge as Hurricane Erin causes extensive overwash and dune breaches. Sections at Pea Island, Buxton North End, Hatteras, and Ocracoke are shut due to deep sand, water, and debris, while Rodanthe has significant overwash on secondary sections The next high tide is expected Thursday evening, with additional flooding likely. 

The latest in "The Back Brief," our (very) irregular feature at The High Side in which Jack Murphy reviews some of the latest national security-themed books, including controversial releases about how drug trafficking has corrupted Delta Force, and the CIA's successes and failures in
the 21st century: https://thehighside.substack.com/p/the-back-brief-the-airborne-mafia

I was recently featured on True Spies Debrief in a subscriber-only episode, following my earlier appearance on Cover of Darkness. In this conversation with Joe Foley, we explored the past, present, and future of Canadian intelligence — and why the system is at a crossroads.

Some of the topics we covered include:

My 18 years inside CSIS, working across counterterrorism, counter-espionage, and counter-proliferation.

The legacy of the McDonald Commission and how it reshaped Canadian intelligence by creating CSIS as a civilian service.

Why Canada’s reliance on allies like the US and UK has left us with serious gaps in foreign human intelligence collection.

The limitations of Section 16 of the CSIS Act, which prevents CSIS from proactively collecting intelligence abroad.

Why I believe Canada needs a dedicated foreign HUMINT service, similar to MI6 or ASIS, to strengthen our sovereignty, economy, and global influence.

The episode is part of True Spies Debrief, which is subscriber-only, but I believe it’s well worth the investment for those interested in intelligence, espionage, and national security.

A big thank you to True Spies and Joe Foley for the opportunity to dive into this important discussion.

You can listen here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/members-episode-true-spies-debrief-neil-bisson-on-canadian/id1508522747?i=1000715736317

I’d be very interested to hear perspectives from this community: Do you think Canada should establish a dedicated foreign intelligence service, or continue relying on the current model and our Five Eyes partners?

Category 4 Hurricane Erin Threatens U.S. East Coast: Hurricane Erin strengthened to a Category 4 storm Monday with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph (215 kph), the U.S. National Hurricane Center said. The storm was located north-northeast of Grand Turk Island on Monday morning and is forecast to bring dangerous surf and rip currents along the U.S. East Coast this week. Tropical Storm Warnings and Watches were issued for parts of the Bahamas, while Erin’s hurricane- and tropical-storm-force winds extended hundreds of miles outward. Dare County, North Carolina, declared an emergency and ordered evacuations on Hatteras Island as forecasters warned of flooding, high surf, and potential road washouts. 

U.S. Pauses Gaza Visitor Visas for Review: The U.S. State Department has paused the issuance of visitor visas for people from Gaza while it reviews how a small number of medical-humanitarian visas were recently granted. Officials said the decision follows inquiries from members of Congress after videos surfaced showing children from Gaza arriving in the U.S. for treatment. According to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the visas were issued primarily to children accompanied by adults. He said the review will focus on the vetting process and the role of organizations involved in facilitating the visas.  

Israel Sees Mass Protests Over Hostage Deal: Tens of thousands of Israelis staged nationwide protests on Sunday demanding a hostage deal and an end to the war in Gaza, escalating frustration over the government’s handling of the conflict. Demonstrators blocked highways, shut businesses, and clashed with police as anger grows at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to negotiate with Hamas, despite concerns for the 50 remaining hostages, about 20 of whom are believed alive. Netanyahu has vowed to press ahead with a new offensive in densely populated areas of Gaza, deepening fears of further bloodshed as international criticism mounts. 

Air Canada Flights Halted: Air Canada’s fleet remained grounded Monday after flight attendants rejected a government-backed order to return to work and pressed the airline to resume negotiations. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing 10,000 cabin crew, argued that binding arbitration would weaken pressure on the airline and called the order unconstitutional. Attendants are seeking higher wages and compensation for ground duties such as boarding, an issue that has drawn public attention online. Air Canada, which normally carries 130,000 passengers daily, said the union was illegally defying the labor board and delayed its restart plans until Monday evening. 

Putin Open to Ukraine Security Guarantees: Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed for the first time to consider allowing the U.S. and European allies to provide Ukraine with a NATO-style security guarantee, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said. Witkoff, who joined Friday’s summit between Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump in Alaska, called the move “game-changing,” though details remain unclear. The shift could give Ukraine crucial protection while sidestepping Russia’s long-standing opposition to its NATO membership. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and European leaders will meet Trump in Washington on Monday to explore the proposal and potential steps toward ending the war. 

Bolivia Election Heads to First Runoff Since 1982: Bolivia’s presidential election will proceed to a runoff for the first time since the nation’s return to democracy in 1982. Preliminary results show centrist Senator Rodrigo Paz leading with 32.8% of the vote, while former President Jorge “Tuto” Quiroga placed second with 26.4%. Neither candidate reached the required threshold to secure an outright win. The runoff, scheduled for October 19, comes as voters weigh concerns about economic stability and political transition. 

After a few weeks away, Global Intelligence Weekly Wrap-Up is back with a packed episode covering major developments in global security, geopolitics, and cyber threats.

Here’s what’s in this week’s briefing:

• Finland charges a Russian-linked tanker crew over Baltic Sea undersea cable sabotage.
• Norway’s spy chief accuses Russian hackers of taking control of a dam in a cyber-enabled sabotage operation.
• In Australia, a Chinese national faces foreign interference charges tied to covert surveillance of a banned religious group.
• A typhoon delays the national security trial of Hong Kong pro-democracy figure Jimmy Lai.
• The Trump administration uses tariffs as a national security tool, alongside a controversial AI chip deal allowing Nvidia to sell to China.
• CSIS warns of escalating Iranian threats against critics and dissidents in Canada.
• Lebanon’s president rejects external interference and pushes for Hezbollah disarmament.
• Canada’s House of Commons investigates a significant data breach, potentially linked to foreign actors.

This episode is especially relevant for those in intelligence, politics, private security, and cyber — connecting the dots between physical sabotage, cyber intrusions, and state-sponsored influence campaigns.

Full episode here: https://youtu.be/aEH8ul6YVO8

I recently contributed to a CTV News investigation into a violent online group called 764. They are not officially listed as a terrorist entity, yet their actions show how serious harm to Canada and Canadians can happen without any formal designation.

764 operates across platforms like Discord and Telegram, targeting vulnerable youth and coercing them into acts of violence or self-harm. These incidents are then shared online to amplify their influence and intimidation.

This is part of what I see as the changing face of internet terrorism. There are no uniforms, borders, or training camps—just digital networks reaching directly into Canadian homes. It’s a form of radicalization and psychological manipulation that doesn’t look like traditional terrorism, but can be just as dangerous.

Questions for discussion:

Do you consider groups like 764 to be terrorist organizations? Why or why not?

Should they be designated and treated the same way as traditional terrorist groups?

Is this the next evolution of online terrorism, and are we prepared to address it?

Full CTV News story: https://www.ctvnews.ca/calgary/article/written-on-the-wall-with-blood-alberta-teen-targeted-by-violent-online-group-764/

Three Killed in Target Parking Lot Shooting in Austin: On Monday, a suspect opened fire in the parking lot of a Target store in Austin, Texas, killing three people. Police reported that the suspect fled in a stolen vehicle, crashed, then stole another vehicle before being apprehended about 20 miles away, where officers used a Taser to detain the suspect. Austin police stated the motive is still under investigation and confirmed the suspect has a mental health history. Two people died at the scene and a third died at the hospital, while a fourth person was treated for a minor medical issue unrelated to the shooting. 

Trump Federalizes D.C. Police, Deploys National Guard: President Trump has taken control of Washington, D.C.’s police force and deployed the National Guard, citing what he claims is rampant crime and disorder, despite official data showing violent crime at a 30-year low. The unprecedented federalization of the Metropolitan Police will last 30 days unless extended by Congress, and places the force under Attorney General Pam Bondi’s authority. Critics, including D.C.’s mayor, Democrats, and civil rights leaders, condemned the move as a political power grab and an attack on the city’s autonomy. Trump vowed aggressive policing against gangs, homeless encampments, and juvenile offenders, while hinting he might send in the military if needed. Opponents argue the action is motivated by politics rather than public safety, warning it could inflame tensions in the city. 

Explosion at U.S. Steel Plant Near Pittsburgh: An explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works plant near Pittsburgh on Monday killed two people and injured at least 10 others, officials said. One worker was rescued alive from the wreckage hours after the blast, which occurred around 10:51 am and caused significant damage to the facility. Authorities reported that the initial explosion was followed by several smaller blasts and sent thick black smoke into the air over the Mon Valley. County officials urged residents to avoid the area to allow emergency crews to respond. 

U.S. and China Extend Tariff Truce for 90 Days: The United States and China have agreed to extend their tariff truce for 90 days, delaying planned triple-digit duties on each other’s goods. U.S. President Donald Trump announced Monday that he signed an executive order postponing the higher tariffs until November 10, with all other terms of the agreement unchanged. China’s Commerce Ministry issued a matching suspension and also delayed adding certain U.S. firms to trade and investment restriction lists. The extension provides a window for continued trade talks and allows U.S. retailers to import goods such as electronics, apparel, and toys at lower tariff rates ahead of the holiday season. 

Ukraine Retakes Two Villages in Sumy: Ukraine’s military reported on Tuesday that it has retaken the villages of Stepne and Novokostiantynivka in the eastern Sumy region, adding to recent small gains along the Russian border. The announcement comes ahead of peace talks between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin scheduled for Friday. Trump said both Kyiv and Moscow will need to cede territory to reach a settlement, and the talks will test Moscow’s willingness to negotiate. 

London Police Arrest 532 Protesters: London police reported that 532 people were arrested Saturday in connection with actions supporting Palestine Action, a group recently banned as a terrorist organization in the U.K. Authorities said many participants sought to test enforcement of the ban. Of those detained, 522 were arrested for supporting a proscribed organization, while 10 faced other charges, including assault and obstructing police. On Sunday, a separate march in central London called for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. 

Shooting at Atlanta CDC Headquarters: A 30-year-old man opened fire near the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) headquarters in Atlanta on Friday, killing a DeKalb County police officer and firing dozens of rounds. Authorities said the shooter attempted to enter the CDC building but was stopped by guards, then drove to a nearby pharmacy and continued shooting. The gunman was armed with five firearms, including at least one long gun. He was found dead by police at the scene. It is unclear if he shot himself or was shot by police. Investigators say he was distressed over personal matters and had expressed strong views related to the COVID-19 vaccine. 

Rain Triggers Flooding Across Wisconsin: Heavy rainfall and flash flooding inundated West Allis near Milwaukee on Sunday, forcing the cancellation of the Wisconsin State Fair. The National Weather Service issued flood watches and warnings across parts of Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Illinois, and Wisconsin, forecasting continued severe weather into Monday. Milwaukee saw some of the heaviest impacts, with up to 14 inches of rain, river flooding in Milwaukee and Waukesha counties, stranded vehicles, and power outages affecting nearly 18,000 customers. In Wauwatosa, the overflowing Menomonee River submerged a popular playground. 

U.S. Brands Face Boycotts in India: U.S.-based multinational companies including McDonald’s, Coca-Cola, Amazon, and Apple are facing boycott calls in India amid rising anti-American sentiment over U.S. tariffs on Indian goods. The movement, fueled by business leaders and supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urges consumers to prioritize “Made in India” products and reduce reliance on foreign brands. While there is no evidence yet of declining sales, the campaign reflects growing nationalist sentiment and comes after U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian exports, straining U.S.-India relations. Modi has also called for greater self-reliance, emphasizing that Indian companies should focus more on domestic needs while continuing to serve global markets. 

Netanyahu Defends Gaza Offensive: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended an expanded military offensive in Gaza, stating Israel must "finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas." The operation now targets Hamas strongholds in Gaza City as well as central camps and Muwasi, which house over half a million displaced people. Netanyahu announced plans for “safe zones,” though such areas have previously been struck. Heavy bombardment in Gaza City coincided with the reported death of Al Jazeera journalist Anas al-Sharif and four others in an airstrike near Shifa Hospital. 

U.S.-Brokered Armenia-Azerbaijan Deal: Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders signed a U.S.-brokered agreement in Washington on Friday, marking a significant diplomatic step toward ending decades of conflict, though not a formal peace treaty. The deal, reached in the presence of U.S. President Donald Trump, includes plans for a new transit corridor and reflects shifting regional power following Azerbaijan’s 2023 military victory in Nagorno-Karabakh. Public reaction in both countries was mixed, with some expressing optimism for peace and economic benefits, while others voiced skepticism over unresolved disputes and perceived imbalances in the agreement. 

Haiti Declares State of Emergency Amid Gang Violence: Haiti’s government has declared a three-month state of emergency in the West, Artibonite, and Center departments to address rising gang violence and an ongoing agricultural and food crisis. The affected region, a key rice-producing area, has experienced attacks from gangs targeting farmers and destroying communities. According to the United Nations, over 1,000 people have been killed, more than 200 injured, and 620 kidnapped in the region between October 2024 and June 2025. Gang violence has displaced over 239,000 people, forcing many to flee through dangerous routes like crossing the country’s largest river. 

Central California Wildfire Forces Evacuations: The Gifford Fire in Central California has burned over 72,000 acres across Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, prompting evacuation orders and threatening more than 450 structures. As of Monday night, containment stood at just 5% with over 1,000 firefighters deployed amid difficult terrain and poor visibility. At least three people have been injured, including a motorist who was overrun by flames. Officials warn that hot, dry conditions and gusty winds may accelerate the fire’s spread in the coming days. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

Brazil Supreme Court Places Bolsonaro Under House Arrest: Brazil’s Supreme Court placed former President Jair Bolsonaro under house arrest on Monday ahead of his trial for allegedly plotting a coup to overturn the 2022 election, citing repeated violations of court orders. The arrest follows U.S. sanctions against Justice Alexandre de Moraes, who issued the order, prompting further diplomatic strain as President Trump imposed new tariffs on Brazilian goods and threatened additional penalties. Bolsonaro’s allies denounced the move as politically motivated, while the court emphasized its commitment to rule of law.  Police in Brasília blocked access to key locations Monday night, including the Esplanade of the Ministries and Bolsonaro’s residence, to prevent supporters from demonstrating in the area.  

Israel Considers Full Military Takeover of Gaza: Israel’s cabinet may authorize a full military takeover of Gaza for the first time in 20 years, amid reports Prime Minister Netanyahu is considering expanded operations following the collapse of ceasefire talks with Hamas. The move would reverse Israel’s 2005 withdrawal from Gaza and comes despite military resistance to long-term occupation and mounting international pressure over humanitarian conditions and civilian casualties in the enclave.  

Pakistan Cracks Down Ahead of Pro-Imran Khan Protests: Pakistani police arrested at least 120 activists from Imran Khan’s opposition party ahead of planned demonstrations marking the second anniversary of his imprisonment, with many detentions in Lahore where the largest demonstration was expected. Despite the crackdown and earlier convictions of party members over 2023 protests, Khan's party vowed to proceed with demonstrations, denouncing the arrests as politically motivated. The government dismissed these claims, labeling the party as disruptive, while Khan called for peaceful protests to restore democracy. 

Bangladesh Marks Anniversary: Thousands are gathering in Dhaka on Tuesday to mark the first anniversary of the uprising that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, with events culminating in the unveiling of the “July Declaration” by interim leader Muhammad Yunus. The declaration, supported by key political parties including the BNP, commemorates the student-led movement that led to Hasina’s flight and calls for unity ahead of a potential early election. 

Flash Floods Leave Dozens Missing in Northern India: More than 50 people are missing after flash floods swept through a village in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, with imagery showing residences and roads destroyed by surging waters from the mountains. Authorities warned of rising water levels in the Harshil area and urged residents to avoid rivers.  

Severe Rainstorm Halts Services in Hong Kong and Pearl River Delta: Torrential rain and intense lightning storms impacted Hong Kong and southern China’s Pearl River Delta on Tuesday, prompting the closure of clinics, schools, courts, and some transport services amid widespread flooding and a rare “black” rainstorm warning. The deluge, part of a broader pattern of extreme weather affecting the region, follows deadly floods in Guangdong over the weekend and has strained critical infrastructure across the Greater Bay Area.  

Montana Manhunt Following Fatal Bar Shooting: Authorities in Montana are continuing a large-scale search for a suspect described as "armed and extremely dangerous," after four people were shot and killed at the Owl Bar in Anaconda on Friday morning. The suspect remains at large, prompting officials to shut down parts of the surrounding forest and advise residents to stay alert. Multiple federal, state, and local agencies are involved in the manhunt, which includes aerial surveillance. 

Boeing Defense Workers Launch Strike: Over 3,000 Boeing defense workers in Missouri and Illinois plan to strike Monday after rejecting the company’s latest contract offer, citing concerns over pay, schedules, and pensions. The walkout, led by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, marks the first strike at Boeing's defense division since 1996 and comes as the company struggles with safety crises and low production. Boeing argued its offer included a 40% average wage increase.  

Russia Lifts Tsunami Warning: Russia lifted a tsunami warning for the Kamchatka Peninsula on Sunday after an earthquake struck near the Kuril Islands, though authorities had initially urged people to stay away from the shore. On the same day, Kamchatka’s Krasheninnikov Volcano erupted for the first time in 600 years. The eruption sent ash up to 6,000 meters into the air and prompted an orange aviation alert. Both events are likely linked to a powerful earthquake in Russia's Far East last week, which triggered regional tsunami warnings and volcanic activity across the peninsula. 

Drone Strike Disrupts Transport Infrastructure in Volgograd: A Ukrainian drone strike overnight damaged a power line and sparked a fire at a railway station in Russia’s Volgograd region, delaying several trains and temporarily halting flights at the regional airport, according to local authorities. Russia’s defense ministry claimed its forces downed 61 drones nationwide, including six over Volgograd, and described the attack as a strike on energy and transport infrastructure. Ukraine has not commented, however the region has been a repeated target of strikes aimed at disrupting infrastructure critical to Russia’s war operations.  

Renewed Clashes in Syria: New incidents of violence were reported in Syria overnight, with clashes in the north between government-affiliated forces and Kurdish-led SDF units, and in the south between government troops and Druze militias in Sweida, undermining recent ceasefire efforts. The fighting highlights challenges faced by interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa’s government in asserting control following the ouster of Bashar Assad, amid ethnic and sectarian tensions and fragile political alliances. Additionally, Israeli forces carried out operations in the southern Quneitra province, escalating regional tensions and complicating ongoing U.S.-mediated security talks between Israel and Syria. 

South Taiwan Hit by Historic Rainfall: Four people have died and over 5,900 have been evacuated in southern Taiwan after the region received more than a year’s worth of rainfall in one week, triggering landslides and flooding that affected agricultural areas. Authorities report three missing and 77 injured since late July, as persistent storms following Typhoon Danas have disrupted communities, with more than 2.6 meters of rain recorded in parts of the south. Premier Cho Jung-tai announced plans for a special relief budget, while rescue efforts continue in Kaohsiung and Pingtung counties, where over 2,000 residents remain displaced.  

Beijing Braces for New Downpours: Beijing evacuated over 70,000 residents by Monday amid warnings of up to 200mm of rain in six hours, a week after the city’s deadliest flooding since 2012 left at least 44 dead. Authorities issued a citywide high alert, shut down parts of the Great Wall and underground businesses. The risk of flash floods and landslides remains extremely high.  

As the title suggests, I am a half Chinese American whose father is a American and my mother is naturalized American. For context I am a rising sophomore who is studying biology pre-med at Stonybrook university but plans on pursuing a career in intelligence, ideally as a CIA case officer. I am still on the pre-med track due to family pressures but completely plan on a intelligence career. I have a 3.9 gpa and plan on graduating with around a 3.7 gpa due to the difficulty of pre med classes. I currently speak fluent mandarin with the ability to understand Sichuan dialects of the language due to annual trips to meet family in the region. I am planning to take the hsk and getting a 6 along with that, I am currently studying Korean and expect to be fluent by my senior year. Then I will be able to take the topik exams and pass those. I also am doing a study abroad my second semester of next year to Korea and i am going to study there at Seoul national for a semester. I also am applying to the CIA undergraduate stem program which I hope can provide me a foot into the door into the agency along with a secret clarence.

THE CONS

While the things I stated above I think make me a competitive applicant for a program like the CIA PTP program, I have some significant downs sides as well to my application. I am not a liberal arts major and this could be a positive or a negative, but I cannot change my major since I am forced to go the pre-med route so my parents will pay for undergraduate education. Along with this, I have minor Ashma which is extremely mild and only minorly prolongs sicknesses and therefore prevented my hopes of joining the military. I amble to exercise to the same level as others and this doesn't limit it very much at all. I also have a peanut allergy which I am currently treating with oral immunotherapy and so I am able to eat small amounts, enough for me to realize I'm eating them and stop eating them before I gat any symptomes. I have never been hospitalized by either one of these health issues. I heard off of a internview with a ex cia case officer that a person who had undergone heart surgery when they were little was able to become a case officer but that was due to nepotism and waiver, so while this gives me hope, these issues still scare me since they dont affect my daily life and often forget I have them yet they still impact my career coices significantly. Lastly my biggest issue is that since birth I have gone on annual month long trips to china in which I meet family. They have not stopped but if I'm able to get a internship for next summer, I should be able to make a excuse to not go. None of my family is connect to the government or intelligance. In fact, on my grandfather's side, his family where put into economic ruin because my grandfather's father was politician who opposed the current government. While this upside is minor it may be able to help. I have gone 16 times and before I graduate i may be forced to go more times if I don't have a good excuse. The reason I cannot escape these trips is because my family is paying for my education and strongly disapprove of a government career due to lack of pay. So I must continue their ideas since they are paying for my university. I understand that getting a security clarence will be much longer if possible at all and this worries me

CONCLUSION

I'm making this post because I'm quite honestly very worried because I finally have found a career path in which I truly want to follow not a artificial want created by my parents but due to my background I might not be able to get it. I am writing this post because I first wanted to incite discussion in the comments on things I can do to strengthen my application to overule my downsides along with possible ideas to strengthen said resume while acting as a pre-med. I have already had the conversation with my parents about my desire to switch fields and that was when I was threatened to be cut off so this is a must. I understand that I have pretty serious downsides and so discussing it and having multiple heads even if it is only one more head to help me will be much appreciated. Also, if there is anyone who have ideas/connections or other possibly helpful things that you don't want to publicly share, my pm are always open. In the end I don't want anyone to feel pressured to respond or feel sorry for my predicament. If no one responds that's ok too because this post is a memento to me and possibly others like me who are in similar predicament that I won't give up trying to achieve my dreams and nether should they. Any help or ideas are appreciated and thank you for reading.

New from Jack Murphy and Sean D. Naylor in The High Side, the inside story of how the CIA created its own elite Afghan espionage team focused on recruiting sources close to the al-Qaida senior leadership (especially "the Z-man." Ayman al-Zawahiri) and how that team met a dozen times or more with one of the killers of Daniel Pearl.

Gary Anandasangaree was recently appointed Canada’s Minister of Public Safety — a role that oversees CSIS, the RCMP, CBSA, and the broader national security apparatus.

At face value, the appointment reflects Canada’s multicultural values. But there are deeper, less publicized concerns worth examining.

In my latest article, I explore:

The political history of his father, V. Anandasangaree, a senior figure in the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), a party that shared ideological space with the LTTE before that group became one of the world’s most notorious terrorist organizations.

The Minister’s past letters of support for a man identified by CBSA as a loyalist and fundraiser for the LTTE.

The Minister’s recent public recusal from Tamil-related immigration files — and what he didn’t disclose about his family’s political associations.

The broader implications this has for morale within CSIS and CBSA, where many continue to work tirelessly against terrorism, propaganda networks, and foreign interference.

This isn’t about ethnicity or guilt by association. It’s about transparency and whether Canadians are getting the full story — especially when the individual in question holds one of the most sensitive positions in government.

You can read the full analysis here:

https://open.substack.com/pub/neilbisson1/p/should-canadians-be-concerned-about?r=5yk9bo&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Curious to hear what others think. Does a minister’s political lineage and past advocacy matter in a portfolio like this?

Gary Anandasangaree was recently appointed Canada’s Minister of Public Safety — a role that oversees CSIS, the RCMP, CBSA, and the broader national security apparatus.

At face value, the appointment reflects Canada’s multicultural values. But there are deeper, less publicized concerns worth examining.

In my latest article, I explore:

The political history of his father, V. Anandasangaree, a senior figure in the Tamil United Liberation Front (TULF), a party that shared ideological space with the LTTE before that group became one of the world’s most notorious terrorist organizations.

The Minister’s past letters of support for a man identified by CBSA as a loyalist and fundraiser for the LTTE.

The Minister’s recent public recusal from Tamil-related immigration files — and what he didn’t disclose about his family’s political associations.

The broader implications this has for morale within CSIS and CBSA, where many continue to work tirelessly against terrorism, propaganda networks, and foreign interference.

This isn’t about ethnicity or guilt by association. It’s about transparency and whether Canadians are getting the full story — especially when the individual in question holds one of the most sensitive positions in government.

You can read the full analysis here:

https://open.substack.com/pub/neilbisson1/p/should-canadians-be-concerned-about?r=5yk9bo&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true

Curious to hear what others think. Does a minister’s political lineage and past advocacy matter in a portfolio like this?

- Traverse City Walmart Stabbing Injures 11: Eleven people were injured, six critically, in a random stabbing attack at a Walmart in Traverse City, Michigan, on Saturday. The 42-year-old suspect, acting alone, was quickly apprehended with help from citizens. Authorities say the attack began near the checkout area with a folding knife-style weapon, and victims received immediate assistance from bystanders before being treated at a local hospital. Law enforcement, including the FBI and Michigan State Police, are investigating the incident.  

- Russian Airstrike Hits Kyiv Residential Building: An overnight Russian airstrike on Kyiv injured eight residents when a blast damaged multiple floors of a residential building in the Darnytskyi district. Four victims were hospitalized. Air raid alerts spanned most of Ukraine, prompting Polish forces to scramble jets due to potential threats near the NATO border. The full scale of the attack remains unclear, with additional strikes reported in Kropyvnytskyi and no official comment from Russia. 

- Passenger Train Derailment in Southwestern Germany: A passenger train derailed in southwestern Germany on Sunday, killing three people and injuring several others. The incident occurred between Riedlingen and Munderkingen with around 100 passengers aboard. Two carriages left the tracks and rolled onto their sides.  

- Israel Launches Daily Gaza Ceasefires: Israel has initiated daily 10-hour pauses in military operations across parts of Gaza to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries, following global pressure over worsening starvation conditions. The IDF stated the pauses, from 10:00 to 20:00, cover El-Mawasi, Deir al-Balah, and northern Gaza City, but reports indicate continued insecurity, including airstrikes during designated pause times. Aid agencies and the UN stress that air drops, resumed over the weekend by Israel, Jordan, and the UAE, are inadequate and unsafe substitutes for overland aid, urging Israel to expedite truck deliveries through Gaza crossings. 

- Floods and Landslides in China: Heavy rains and swollen waterways across China have triggered severe flooding and landslides, killing at least four people and displacing thousands. More intense rainfall is forecast in the coming days, and authorities issued flood alerts for at least 41 rivers and multiple provinces. Provinces impacted include Beijing and Hebei, where villages were inundated, and infrastructure was damaged. Emergency funds have been allocated for repairs and relief. 

- Bangkok Market Shooting Leaves Six Dead: At least six people, including a gunman, were killed in a shooting at a market in Bangkok on Monday, with police confirming the attacker took his own life after killing five security guards. Authorities are investigating the motive and identity of the shooter and emphasized that no tourists were harmed in the incident. The shooting occurred in a market primarily selling agricultural produce. 

- Thailand and Cambodia Hold Ceasefire Talks: Ceasefire talks began Monday in Malaysia between Thai and Cambodian leaders to address escalating border clashes that have killed at least 35 people and displaced over 260,000. Despite ongoing gunfire along the frontier, both sides presented peace terms during negotiations hosted by Malaysia and attended by U.S. and Chinese observers, amid warnings of halted trade deals and international appeals for calm. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that both sides agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire to end the hostilities.