Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party has released a draft version of a revised national constitution. The new document removes World War II-imposed restrictions that have kept Japanese forces in a purely self-defense role. Under the new guidance, they would officially be free to join international peacekeeping ventures. (Read our story here about Japan’s wake-up call from its Cold War strategic slumber.)
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.