Iran
Iran agrees to discuss nuclear proposal in Moscow-EU officials
Justyna Pawlak, Reuters – June 11, 2012
European Union officials said on Monday that Iran has agreed to discuss a proposal from six world powers to curb its production of high-grade uranium at a meeting in Moscow next week in an apparent de-escalation of tensions ahead of the talks. The development follows more than two weeks of wrangling between Iranian diplomats and Western negotiators over preparations for the closely-watched round of nuclear talks which had cast some doubts over what can be achieved in Moscow.
China Is Excluded From Waivers for Oil Trade With Iran
Mark Landler, New York Times – June 11, 2012
Less than three weeks before stringent American sanctions intended to reduce Iran’s oil exports take effect, the Obama administration announced on Monday that it would exempt seven major importers of Iranian oil — but not China — from the measures because these countries had “significantly reduced” their oil purchases from Iran.
Tensions over Iran nuclear plan ease
James Blitz, Financial Times – June 12, 2012
Iran has indicated for the first time in several weeks that it is prepared to discuss a proposal by world powers to scale back its nuclear programme. The move gives fresh impetus to a meeting between diplomats in Moscow on Monday.
North Korea
US military in S.Korea seeks more weaponry
AFP – June 12, 2012
The US military in South Korea has asked the Pentagon to provide more attack helicopters and strengthen missile defence systems, its chief said Tuesday, amid threats by North Korea against the South. “In order to enhance war-fighting capabilities, I have asked for prioritisation to receive an additional attack and reconnaissance squadron to bring our combat aviation brigade to full strength,” General James Thurman told a forum.
Defense Spending
Senate takes final crack at DOD budget plan
Carlo Munoz, The Hill – June 11, 2012
A pair of Senate defense hearings scheduled for this week will likely close out the congressional hearing season for the Pentagon’s fiscal 2013 spending proposal.
