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Edition of October 12, 2018
U.S. Navy Admiral James Foggo, the commander of NATO’s Allied Joint Force Command based in Italy, will command NATO’s upcoming Exercise Trident Juncture in Norway. Adm. Foggo said in a briefing at the Pentagon that the alliance will demonstrate its capabilities in its largest exercise since 2002. 45,000 personnel from 29 NATO countries will participate.
The United States Department of Agriculture announced a $181 million investment in 88 projects to build community infrastructure and facilities in 27 states. Assistant to the Secretary for Rural Development Anne Hazlett said that infrastructure “is a foundation for quality of life and economic opportunity in small towns across.”
Finally, the State Department is supporting efforts to restore cultural sites in Egypt, Iraq, Syria, and Sri Lanka. Knox Thames, State Department Special Adviser for Religious Minorities, said the United States appreciates “the contributions of other cultures and other civilizations to world history.”
Edition of October 05, 2018
The United States, Canada, and Mexico agreed on a landmark trade deal that will benefit American farmers and workers and make trade between the three nations fairer. President Donald J. Trump hailed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) “historic news for our nation and indeed for the world.”
In Europe, Defense Secretary James N. Mattis met French President Emmanuel Macron and Armed Forces Minister Florence Parly to reaffirm the long-standing defense relationship of both countries. Chief Pentagon spokesperson Dana W. White said Secretary Mattis thanked France for their leadership and contributions in the fight against terrorism in the Levant and Sahel and reaffirmed that “both nations agreed NATO remains the cornerstone of European military security.”
Finally, the United States indicted seven officers of Russia’s military intelligence agency GRU for international hacking and related influence and disinformation operations. The charges were announced at a press conference by Assistant Attorney General for National Security John D. Demers, United States Attorney for the Western District of Pennsylvania Scott W. Brady, FBI Deputy Assistant Director for Cyber Division, Eric Welling, and Director General Mark Flynn for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Edition of September 28, 2018
In New York, President Donald J. Trump addressed the 73rd session of the General Assembly of the United Nations. He told delegates that the United States will seek “peace without fear, hope without despair, and security without apology.”
In his speech, President Trump highlighted that he believes “strongly in energy security for ourselves and for our allies.” The United States have become the largest energy producer in the world, with American crude oil production surpassing Russia in the first time for two decades. The United States therefore “stands ready to export our abundant, affordable supply of oil, clean coal, and natural gas,” the President said in New York.
In other news, NASA is turning its eyes again to the age-old question whether humanity is alone in the universe. Beyond simply for biosignatures, NASA is exploring ways to locate “technosignatures,”which would allow scientists to infer whether life advanced enough to create technology exists beyond our solar system.
Edition of September 21, 2019
President Trump Strengthens National Biodefense | Protecting Elections Against Foreign Interference | USAID Helps Build Stronger Democratic Societies in Eastern Europe
President Donald J. Trump announced a new direction for the defense against biological threats. The newly released National Biodefense Strategy, together with a National Security Presidential Memorandum, will provide the new basis for protecting Americans effectively and efficiently.
President Trump has also made clear that the United States will not tolerate interference in its elections. Executive order 13848 imposes mandatory sanctions on foreign governments and individuals who interfere in U.S. elections and provide disinformation in the media and online.
At the same time, supporting a strong and vibrant civil society has been at the heart of USAID’s work in Eastern Europe and Eurasia for more than 25 years. Erin McCarthy takes a look at USAID’s transformative efforts in Ukraine, Georgia, and Serbia.
Edition of September 14, 2018
On Tuesday, the world commemorated the 17th anniversary of the devastating terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. In New York City, rural Pennsylvania, and in Virginia, three memorials are especially poignant reminders of the lives lost that day.
Stephen Biegun, the newly appointed U.S. Special Representative for North Korea, travels to South Korea, China, and Japan fromSeptember 10 to September 15 to meet his counterparts and advance diplomatic efforts to achieve the “final, fully verified denuclearization of North Korea.”
NASA is pressing ahead on Gateway, the agency’s lunar outpost that will support human an robotic exploration operations in deep space, including Mars. NASA is seeking a partnership with private partners to develop components for Gateway.
Edition of September 07, 2018
The United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Canada issued a joint statement condemning the Salisbury attack. UK investigators concluded that members of the Russian military intelligence service carried out the attack using a chemical nerve agent.
In a press conference in New York City, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley made it clear that the United States will focus on UN Security Council reform during its presidency in September.
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis met with their Indian counterparts in New Delhi to discuss the strategic partnership between the United States and India.
USAID’s Megan Hill had the opportunity to review the effectiveness of conservation enterprises, which provide income for the local population and protect the environment at the same time.
Edition of August 31, 2018
The Embassy’s flag is flying at half-staff this week to honor the life of Senator John S. McCain, who passed away August 25 after battling brain cancer. In the words of U.S. Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis, “we have lost a man who steadfastly represented the best ideals of our country.” Senator McCain will be honored at a memorial service at Washington National Cathedral on Saturday, September 1.
On the first Monday in September, the United States honors the contributions of the American workforce to the prosperity of the nation. Find out here how typical Americans celebrate this day.
In India, USAID and the Department of State have helped to bring solar power to the country’s biggest railway station in New Delhi.
Finally, NASA’s Earth-observing research satellites have assisted humanitarian workers in Yemen by identifying potential outbreaks of life-threatening cholera and directing their efforts.
Edition of August 17, 2018
As we approach the U.S. midterm elections on November 6, we encourage all American citizens in the UK to register to vote and apply for an absentee ballot – find out more details here!
Four trillion dollars. That’s how much foreign businesses invested in the United States in 2017 – a new record. And the UK is the top investor in the U.S., which means more jobs and prosperity for both our countries.
Not only is business booming in America, entrepreneurs like Palestinian-American Ahmad Ashkar are making a global impact by helping refugees at the same time. We are inspired by Ahmed’s falafel business in Washington, DC, that donates meals for refugees for every meal sold. Creative solutions like this embody the American spirit!
Looking for a delicious meal this weekend? The New York Times’ Robert Draper recently experienced the restaurant revolution in London and provides a glowing review of the UK’s foodie scene.
Edition of August 10, 2018
This week President Donald J. Trump announced the reimposition of sanctions on Iran and said the United States is “fully committed to enforcing all our sanctions.” The administration is working with all parties to deny Iran all paths to a nuclear weapon.
In Bogota, a presidential delegation witnessed the inauguration of Colombia’s new president, Iván Duque Márquez, which “seals the emergence of Colombia as a strong democratic partner for the United States.”
In Washington, Secretary of Labor Alexander Acosta presented the Department of Labor’s July 2018 Employment Situation report. Since the President’s election, 3.9 million jobs have been created.
Edition of August 05, 2018
This week in Honolulu, Vice President Mike Pence welcomed home the flag-draped remains of 55 U.S. servicemen who served in the Korean War.
In Washington, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo outlined his vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific region at the Indo-Pacific Business Forum, hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Finally, NASA and its commercial partners Boeing and SpaceX are making significant progress to launch astronauts into space from American soil for the first time since the space shuttle’s retirement in 2011.
Edition of July 27, 2018
In Washington, President Donald J. Trump declared America “open for business” and said American-made products are a “global status of unrivaled excellence.” The President also made a “Pledge to America’s Workers” to create a national strategy to provide affordable and relevant training.
Meanwhile in California, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told a gathering of Iranian Americans at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library that he shared their hope to “one day see Iranians in Iran enjoying the same quality of life that Iranians in America enjoy.”
Finally, President Trump has delivered a big win on trade, reaching a deal with EU Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker to open a new phase in U.S.-EU trade relations in which both sides win and work together for global prosperity.
Edition of July 20, 2018
Happy Friday! President Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump made their way to the United Kingdom last week to meet with Prime Minister Theresa May and Her Majesty the Queen after President Trump convinced European allies in Brussels to increase their commitment to NATO.
In a stunning example of public-private partnership, a team from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory and American companies IBM and Nvidia Corporation built Summit, the world’s fastest supercomputer, at a federal laboratory in Tennessee.
And, on this day 49 years ago, NASA astronaut Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon after President Kennedy announced that the United States would put a man on the moon before the end of the decade.
Edition of June 28, 2018
Fourth of July at the White House – U.S. Committed to Mid-East Peace – Next Generation of Scientist
President Donald J Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are gearing up to host the Fourth of July Celebration at the White House.
In other news, the White House Senior Advisor Jared Kushner and Special Reprsentative for International Negotiations Jason Greenblatt meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and regional tour demonstrates US commitment to peace in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, USAID attended the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) as a Special Award Organization to recognize students with innovative projects that could advance USAID’s ability to meet current and future development challenges. Over the last five years, USAID has provided honorable mention and monetary awards to 61 students.
Edition of June 21, 2018
Embassy Documentary – Iran Sanctions – Far East
The Embassy’s exclusive, behind-the-scenes documentary series “Inside the American Embassy” will air on Channel 4 starting Monday, June 25, at 10:00 p.m. – don’t miss it!
President Trump’s re-imposed sanctions on Iran are having an immediate impact as foreign companies are pulling back from doing business there.
In other news, the Pentagon said Operation Ulchi Freedom Guardian would not take place, while Washington and Pyongyang continue to discuss denuclearization following President Trump’s historic meeting with Kim Jong Un in Singapore last Tuesday.
Meanwhile, ten years ago the United States led the international community in recognizing via the UN Security Council that wartime rape is not just a human rights issue but a public health and security issue we cannot afford to ignore. The United States reaffirmed its committment towards this cause during the fourth International Day to Eliminate Sexual Violence.
Edition of June 07, 2018
Trump-Abe meet – Carbon Capture – Good news on Job Numbers
President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Abe met yesterday to discuss topics ranging from trade to North Korea ahead of the G7 summit in Canada.
The 240th Composite Supply Company is keeping it “so fresh and so clean clean” in Poland that ‘Outkast’ (Atlanta-based Hip Hop group) would be proud.
Did you know that carbon dioxide emissions can serve a useful purpose? The process of carbon capture is reducing dangerous pollution and increasing global oil production.
Edition of May 31, 2018
Memorial Day – Winfield House website – International Religious Freedom Report
President Trump honors fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice on Memorial Day.
After two years in the making we are proud to announce the launch of the Winfield House website that provides 3 D views of representational rooms and highlights the collection inside as well as shares the history of the house.
Finally, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo puts religious freedom at the heart of U.S. human rights agenda
Edition of May 25, 2018
Manchester One Year On – Job availability – China cuts car tariffs
In a recent Gallup poll 67% of Americans are feeling positive about job prospects under President Trump which is the highest percentage 17 years of Gallup polling.
US and China moves towards détente with China’s cuts to car tariffs.
Secretary of State Mike Pompep communicated his commitment to fight Russian meddling in 2018 congressional midterm US elections.
The United States provides the biggest international donation in the fight against Ebola in Congo.
Lastly, as an American child Mister Rogers taught us so much about friendship, honesty, and love but he also engaged kids about gun violence.
Edition of May 18, 2018
North Korea Summit – U.S. Embassy in Israel transition – President Trump’s Ramadan message – U.S. Armed Services Day
China has urged its ally North Korea to proceed with an historic summit between its leader, Kim Jong Un, and U.S. President Donald Trump.
In recognition of the historic transition of the U.S. Embassy in Israel’s official move from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, we take a look back at the 70 year friendship in photos.
President Trump delivered a heartfelt message to American Muslims to commemorate the holy month of Ramadan which is determined by the sighting of the new moon which began May 15, 2018.
Lastly, in honor of U.S. Armed Services Day this Saturday, we want to wish America’s oldest man and WWII veteran Richard Overton a happy birthday who turned 112 and shared some advice for life.
Edition of May 11, 2018
Ambassador Johnson Lays A Wreath on Islay for WW1 – President Trump Ends Flawed Iran Nuclear Deal – First Lady Melania Trump’s Initiative for Children
We kicked off the week with First Lady Melania Trump announcing her initiative BE BEST focused on three pillars: promoting well-being, managing social media use, and tackling opioid abuse to build a brighter future for our children and the nation.
President Trump ended U.S. participation in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) or commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal.
The President also proudly welcomed home three Americans released after capitivity by North Korea ahead of the June 12 summit between him and the North Korean Presdent Kim Jong Un.
Finally, check out this analysis of the sucesses and challenges of the Administration’s by, with, and through model to partner with local forces to achieve our national security objectives.
Edition of May 4, 2018
President Trump to Visit UK on July 13 – Ambassador Johnson Answers Your Questions Live on Twitter Next Week – 100-Year-Old American Flag Returns to Scotland
Happy Friday! The Eagle Express is back – every Friday morning, we’ll be bringing you the latest updates on U.S. foreign policy, interesting articles on global events by key thinkers and commentators, and news on what’s happening at the U.S. Embassy.
We hope you enjoy the content – please keep in touch and let us know what kind of articles and information you’d like to see.
This week, President Trump made his first visit to the State Department to officiate the swearing-in ceremony for the 70th Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who wants the State Department to get its “swagger back.”
After next week’s confirmation hearing before the Senate Intelligence Committee, career CIA officer Gina Haspel could make history by becoming the first female CIA director.
Courtesy of the Smithsonian, Old Glory has proudly returned home to the Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland in celebration of the honor, respect and fortitude its inhabitants displayed toward American servicemen 100 years ago during World War I.
The White House honors everyday Americans who acted in extraordinary ways. Although we are 125 days away from action on the gridiron, it doesn’t mean we can’t be excited and inspired by one-handed American football linebacker Shaquem Griffin.
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