Search Results for keywords:"national security"

The President issued Executive Order 14166, delaying the enforcement of the "Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act" as it applies to TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance Ltd., for 75 days. This delay aims to allow the administration time to assess the national security risks and consider possible solutions without abruptly shutting down the app used by millions of Americans. During this period, the Attorney General is instructed not to enforce the Act, and no penalties will be imposed for any noncompliance related to the Act. Additionally, the Attorney General will ensure that states or private parties do not attempt to enforce the Act during this time, maintaining the exclusive authority of the Executive Branch.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Department of Commerce is amending the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) with new rules to enhance national security by regulating the export of advanced computing integrated circuits (ICs). The Interim Final Rule (IFR) introduces new due diligence measures to help foundries and semiconductor companies comply with U.S. export laws, especially concerning ICs sold to countries like China. It updates existing semiconductor export controls and sets reporting requirements, license exceptions, and a framework for realizing transparency between IC designers and manufacturers. Public comments on the rule are invited until March 14, 2025.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has submitted a plan to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for reviewing a proposal to collect information under the Paperwork Reduction Act. This proposal involves the National Language Service Corps, which recruits U.S. citizens willing to volunteer their language skills for national security work in situations where other resources aren't available. The information collection request is for an extension, and it includes forms DD 2932, 2933, and 2934. Comments on this proposal can be submitted until February 10, 2025, via www.reginfo.gov.

In a proclamation dated March 14, 2025, President Donald J. Trump addresses the activities of Tren de Aragua (TdA), a foreign terrorist organization involved in illegal activities such as drug trafficking and violent crimes, which is infiltrating the United States. The proclamation authorizes the use of the Alien Enemies Act to apprehend, detain, and remove TdA members in the U.S. who are not naturalized or lawful permanent residents. The proclamation directs government agencies to collaborate and enforce these measures, emphasizing that TdA poses a significant threat to the safety and security of the United States. The directives apply across all U.S. territories, and any property linked to hostile activities by TdA is subject to seizure.

The U.S. Department of Energy is implementing a new rule that exempts certain records from the Privacy Act of 1974 because those records contain classified information. This new system, known as DOE-85, involves research, technology, and economic security reviews and aims to manage risks related to national security and foreign policy. The rule is effective January 16, 2025, and is tailored to protect classified information while allowing DOE to coordinate effectively with other agencies. Despite public concerns, the DOE maintains that these exemptions are necessary and do not violate laws like the Freedom of Information Act.

The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has announced a proposed sale of up to 386 Hellfire Air-to-Ground Missiles and related support services to the Government of the Netherlands. This sale aims to enhance the Netherlands' defense capabilities, supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening a NATO ally. Lockheed Martin in Orlando, FL, will be the main contractor, and the sale will not affect the U.S.'s own defense readiness. The sale is valued at approximately $150 million and includes technical assistance and program support.

The Department of Defense has announced the removal of two companies, IDG Capital Partners Co., Ltd. and Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc. China, from the list of "Chinese military companies." This decision was made by the Deputy Secretary of Defense based on updated information under the guidelines of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021. This removal is referenced in a previous Federal Register notice published on April 2, 2024.

The State Department has designated Sultan Yusuf Hasan al-'Arif, also known by several aliases, as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist. This action is taken under Executive Order 13224, which targets leaders of terrorist groups like al-Qa'ida. As a result, Sultan al-'Arif's property and interests within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked. The Secretary of State, Michael R. Pompeo, determined that providing prior notice to al-'Arif could undermine the effectiveness of these measures, as it might allow for the rapid transfer of funds.

The Department of Defense has issued a notice regarding a proposed arms sale to Romania, which involves the purchase of 263 Javelin missiles and 26 Javelin launch units, among other support equipment and services, valued at $80 million. This sale aims to boost Romania's defense capabilities as a NATO ally and align with U.S. foreign policy and national security interests. The sale includes sensitive technology, but Romania has been deemed capable of safeguarding this technology adequately. The prime contractors for this sale are Raytheon and Lockheed Martin.

The memorandum, issued by the President, orders a freeze on hiring federal civilian employees across the executive branch, effective January 20, 2025. It exempts positions related to military personnel, immigration enforcement, national security, public safety, and areas like Social Security and Medicare services. The Office of Personnel Management is allowed to grant exceptions when necessary. The order includes plans to develop strategies for workforce reduction and efficiency within 90 days, and prohibits using outside contracts to bypass the hiring freeze.