Russian bounties on US troops and a sharp rise in COVID numbers ― The Briefing for 7.3.20

Did a Russian intelligence unit offer bounties to Taliban fighters for killing U.S. troops in Afghanistan? A startling rise in COVID-19 infections among service members and veterans takes hold, some good news on aviation mishap rates and the latest on the American troop moves in Germany ― Military Times and Defense News take a look at some of the biggest stories of the week of July 3, 2020.

We also cover large-scale exercises returning to Europe, as well as an effort by prostitutes near the Navy’s Middle East headquarters on the hunt for human intelligence. All that and more on this week’s Briefing for 7.3.2020.

In Other News

As the VA secretary departs, focus remains on outreach, trust

VA care and benefits have seen signifcant growth in recent years, a trend that the outgoing secretary hopes will continue.

Advocates fear dismantling of DOD’s extremism prevention, DEI programs

Trump’s choice for defense secretary said DEI programs eroded the military's values and described anti-extremism policies as a "purge."

Opinion

Why the military’s approach to its suicide epidemic is failing

In this opinion piece, the chairman of Boulder Crest Foundation argues that current military suicide prevention efforts are falling short.

VA acknowledges significant errors in budget shortfall predictions

Department leaders had warned of funding gaps of up to $18 billion but now believe those estimates were too high.

Women in combat ‘proficient,’ SecDef says, dismissing calls for change

Austin praised women in the military and said they should not be removed from front-line fighting posts.

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