Early Bird Brief

The top national security stories of 2023

A look back on some of the major stories of the year, from U.S.-China relations to the wars in Ukraine and Israel.

What will the 2024 election mean for US troops at the southern border?

The 2024 general election may shape the future of U.S.-Mexico military policy.

After attacks, Red Sea will have international protection coalition

Sec. Austin announced Operation Prosperity Guardian earlier this week. 

Austin visits Middle East as US warship responds to Red Sea drone attacks

The USS Carney reportedly responded to a distress call from a commercial vessel that said it was attacked days after the U.S. destroyer took out a wave of drones.

Repeal of laws excluding women led the Navy’s top officer to her job

Today, Navy Times reporter Diana Stancy joined host Jonathan Lehrfeld about how law changes nearly 30 years ago allowed for the first female officer to lead the Navy. 

Defense bill heads to Biden for final approval

Earlier this week, both the House and Senate passed the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act. 

Navy ship shoots down another drone in Middle East

The Navy ship U.S.S. Mason shot down another drone in the Middle East, just days after it responded to a distress call from a Norwegian-flagged ship. 

Coast Guard Academy sexual assaults threaten national security, lawmakers say

Coast Guard whistleblowers testified before Senators about the sexual assault report that shook the service earlier this summer. 

Army receives first long-range Precision Strike Missiles

Last Friday, Jen Judson sat down with CSIS analyst Tom Karako to talk about the latest in missile defense news. 

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy issues plea for support during Washington visit

Zelenskyy’s visit is part of a push by the Biden administration to persuade lawmakers to pass a supplemental funding bill, as officials warn that the money for Ukraine is running out.