Early Bird Brief

Impending deadline for vets to enroll for toxic exposure benefits

A new Department of Veterans Affairs campaign encourages vets to apply to receive military toxic exposure payouts.

Uncertainty remains after a mercenary revolt in Russia

The leader of the Wagner mercenary group released an audio statement after a short-lived insurrection aimed to oust Russia's defense minister.

How old Army admin systems mangled the names of fallen Latino soldiers

Today, senior Army Times reporter Davis Winkie joins the podcast to discuss an investigation into old Army databases -- and how names were structurally misspelled in the process. 

Defense News reporter held in India as Modi visits Biden

A Defense News correspondent has been in Indian custody for a month on charges of espionage, as President Joe Biden hosts the Indian prime minister for a state visit.

Pentagon accounting error means more money for Ukraine aid

The Pentagon says it overestimated the value of the weapons it has sent to Ukraine over the past two years.

China holds out on US military communications

After top level talks, China and the U.S. agree to stabilize ties, but reach no agreement on restoring communications between the two militaries.

Founder of Craigslist donates millions to military families

Today, Capitol Hill Bureau Chief Leo Shane III sits down with Craigslist founder Craig Newmark to discuss his $100 million donation to military families. 

Atomic group visits Ukraine nuclear plant

United Nations officials from its atomic watchdog group visited an atomic power plant in Ukraine – the largest in Europe.

House budget bill bans abortion assistance, diversity work

House Republicans unveiled their defense budget bill yesterday, which takes aim at a number of diversity and inclusion policies.

US troops injured in helicopter accident in Syria

Today, the cause of a helicopter mishap that wounded service members in Syria is under investigation.