The President's Daily Brief July 18th, 2025: Russia Threatens 'Preemptive Strikes' Against NATO & US Intel Suggests Iran Strikes Only Destroyed One Nuclear Site
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Jul 18, 2025 Tensions escalate as Russian leaders threaten preemptive strikes over U.S. military support for Ukraine. New intelligence reveals that only one of Iran's nuclear sites was destroyed, raising fears of renewed enrichment. China complicates U.S. plans for a key port deal near the Panama Canal, potentially disrupting strategic trade routes. Meanwhile, the U.S. takes action against a violent Venezuelan gang to curb drug and human trafficking operations. The geopolitical landscape is shifting rapidly, with significant implications for global security.
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Russia Threatens Preemptive Strikes
- Russian officials threaten the U.S. and NATO with preemptive strikes over arms shipments to Ukraine.
- Putin is unlikely to comply within the 50-day deadline and responds poorly to threats.
Iran's Nuclear Sites Only Partly Damaged
- Last month's strikes fully destroyed only Iran's Fordow nuclear site, leaving Natanz and Isfahan partially intact.
- Iran could resume uranium enrichment at the other sites within months, risking renewed conflict.
China Pressures Panama Canal Port Deal
- China pressures a $23 billion port deal to gain a stake via Costco near the Panama Canal.
- Any Chinese involvement risks escalating U.S.-China tensions over vital trade routes.