Defense news — August 31, 2026

5 publications

1. SocietyNorth AmericaDefenseCounterterrorism

   Aug 31, 2026, 12:55 UTC

   

   Over 137,000 Disappearances in Colombia's Armed Conflict Since 1921

   At least 137,000 people have disappeared due to Colombia's armed conflict since 1921, with 48.5% of cases occurring in the 2000s. The first recorded victim was Tobias Borda Cepeda in 1921. Valle del Cauca, Antioquia, and Meta have the most cases. The International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances was commemorated on Sunday.

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2. SocietyMiddle EastDefenseWhite-collar

   Aug 31, 2026, 11:35 UTC

   South Korean Crime Syndicates Expand in Philippines After Crackdown on Chinese Online Gambling

   South Korean crime syndicates are taking advantage of regulatory gaps in the Philippines, building a parallel illegal gambling industry worth tens of billions of dollars after the government cracked down on Chinese online gambling companies (POGOs) suspected of human trafficking and fraud. Recent high-profile arrests have revealed the extent of this secret black market, with South Korean women like Kim Young-ae controlling multiple illegal online gambling websites and making billions in illegal profits. Experts warn that although the Marcos Jr. government ordered a ban on POGOs, the South Korean gambling black market remains active and deeply entrenched.

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3. PoliticsWarDefense

   Aug 31, 2026, 09:58 UTC

   

   German Chancellor Merz Prioritizes Defense Spending Over Parental Benefits

   German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has sparked controversy by stating that defense spending is more important than parental benefits. In interviews and public statements, Merz argued that a strong military is crucial for Germany's security and freedom, even if it means reducing social spending. He criticized the state of the Bundeswehr and promised to increase military spending and create affordable weapons with Kyiv. This stance has been met with criticism from some who argue that social welfare should not be sacrificed for military expansion.

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4. PoliticsMiddle EastNorth AmericaDefense

   Aug 31, 2026, 09:38 UTC

   

   Greece, Israel Sign €3.1 Billion Deal for 'Achilles' Shield' Air Defense Network

   Greece and Israel have signed a €3.1 billion deal to create the 'Achilles' Shield', a multi-layered air defense network combining Israeli systems Spyder, Barak MX, and David’s Sling with Greece’s existing defenses. The AI-enabled network will counter drones, aircraft, and ballistic missiles, with delivery planned within 35 months and 25% Greek industrial participation.

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5. SocietyRegulatorsMiddle EastHealthcareDefense

   Aug 31, 2026, 00:54 UTC

   Mining Entrepreneur Kidnapped, Four Killed in Peru

   A mining entrepreneur, Jenss Marty Lara Tantaquilla, was kidnapped in Peru's Trujillo city early Sunday morning. His four companions, including two women, were killed when attackers dressed as police officers intercepted their vehicle. The entrepreneur was previously arrested in 2020 during an operation against illegal mining. Police suspect involvement of major criminal gangs 'Los Pulpos' or 'La Jauría'. Authorities are investigating, and the regional government demands action from President Keiko Fujimori and Attorney General Tomás Gálvez.

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