Thomas (Tom) Henkey, CEM’s Post

Former Russian Army Commander Held in Pre-Trial Detention In a surprising development, the ex-commander of the Russian Army has been left in pre-trial detention. This situation underscores the ongoing complexities and tensions within the region. The commander’s statement, "It's been worse," offers a stark reminder of the challenges faced in such high-stakes environments. The unfolding events are a critical watchpoint for those interested in geopolitical dynamics and military affairs. #Geopolitics #MilitaryAffairs #InternationalRelations #CurrentEvents #LeadershipChallenges

Incredibly important and valuable journalistic work done here. For the profession that valorizes honor, integrity, and selfless service (and purports to train on them), we should expect transparency and accountability as the norm, not the exception, even if it shows the world our own mistakes and bad actors. There are many practical ways to get after the systemic appearance of bias and naked self-interest that comes with “investigating our own bad behavior” …there’s a lot more work to be done and the DoD knows it. The proof? See DoD Directive 3000.17 on “civilian harm mitigation and response” (which in theory is even more responsive and sensitive to preventing and accounting for civilian harm caused by military force than the law of war requires)…but it’s relatively new, and its implementation by the Combatant Commands and lower HQs is uncertain. If the policies and procedures it requires now were in place in 2001-2023, this New Yorker research wouldn’t have been necessary.

Canada's military justice system is broken. And it's not just affecting individuals—it's putting our national security at risk. When senior officers like Lieutenant-General Steve Whelan are wrongly accused and publicly humiliated, the damage extends far beyond reputation—it weakens our defense's very foundation. This isn't just about one officer's case. It's about a flawed system where rushed investigations and public pressure precede fairness and truth. The result? Acquitted officers with tarnished careers, lost trust in leadership, and a vulnerable military weakened by the removal of experienced leaders. Systems that prioritize appearances over substance create long-term damage. Whether in business, government, or military, shortcuts in process and fairness undermine trust and effectiveness. We need to restore integrity, consistency, and due process to protect those who protect us. Canada's military justice system needs more than surface-level reforms. We can retain the leaders who keep our nation secure with meaningful change. P.S. What role should accountability and fairness play in reforming broken systems?

Canada's military justice system is broken. And it's not just affecting individuals—it's putting our national security at risk. When senior officers like Lieutenant-General Steve Whelan are wrongly accused and publicly humiliated, the damage extends far beyond reputation—it weakens our defense's very foundation. This isn't just about one officer's case. It's about a flawed system where rushed investigations and public pressure precede fairness and truth. The result? Acquitted officers with tarnished careers, lost trust in leadership, and a vulnerable military weakened by the removal of experienced leaders. Systems that prioritize appearances over substance create long-term damage. Whether in business, government, or military, shortcuts in process and fairness undermine trust and effectiveness. We need to restore integrity, consistency, and due process to protect those who protect us. Canada's military justice system needs more than surface-level reforms. We can retain the leaders who keep our nation secure with meaningful change. P.S. What role should accountability and fairness play in reforming broken systems?

Russia to ‘Tweak’ Laws on Criminal Pardons to Increase Recruit Numbers Proposed changes to Russia’s current laws will see military contracts and pardons offered to suspected or convicted criminals who are at any stage of the criminal process.

𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐒𝐎𝐂 𝟑 𝐀𝐜𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐝: 𝐀 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐃𝐞𝐜𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐚 𝟔-𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐥 𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 The MARSOC 3, which includes two Marine Raiders and a Navy chief, have had their drinking convictions dismissed, bringing an end to a lengthy and tumultuous legal saga. This decision follows years of challenges stemming from the 2019 death of a contractor in Iraq, a case that raised significant concerns about the integrity of military justice. Originally, the MARSOC 3 were convicted for violating a lawful order regarding drinking while deployed. However, the court ultimately determined that unlawful command influence had tainted the proceedings, casting doubt on the fairness of the initial trial. The dismissal not only clears their records but also restores their rights, allowing them to pursue civilian careers without the burden of felony convictions that could have restricted their opportunities. This case highlights critical issues within military justice, particularly regarding the influence of command on legal proceedings and the fundamental rights of service members. The ruling serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of due process and fair treatment within the military system, emphasizing that service members deserve a justice process free from undue influence. As we reflect on this landmark decision, it is crucial to consider the broader implications for military justice and the protection of service members' rights. The MARSOC 3 can now move forward with their lives and careers, and this case has the potential to influence future military legal practices. Feel free to share your thoughts and engage with this important topic. Let's drive the conversation forward! Please select 💡 if you thought this post made a great point, offered a new idea, or shared helpful insights or advice. Let’s connect! #MARSOC #MilitaryJustice #LegalReform #MarineRaiders #ServiceMembers #DueProcess #Leadership #Accountability

Protective intelligence is the foundation of any protection program. Great work by the IC in neutralizing this Iranian assassination plot. We should expect to see more plots unfold, as revenge for the Soleimani hit. I've followed Iran since 1981, and the IRGC won't let this one go. #protection #iran #terrorism

Düsseldorf ! Always Düsseldorf. Even in Hogans Hero’s the spies were in Düsseldorf ! Surely we could have tightened up NATO security by now ? There are bad actors active in every Western nation seeking industrial, economic, technological or military secrets. https://lnkd.in/geUyNyTf We must always act on the assumption that our networks are already penetrated, our systems compromised and our devices hacked. https://lnkd.in/gq_-yrbz Security protocols, procedures and measures are there for a reason. We must all conduct ourselves accordingly.

An Australian soldier and her husband have been charged with espionage for Russia. The couple has been in Australia for over a decade and became citizens several years ago. Kira Korolev, a 40-year-old army private, held a security clearance in her role as an information systems technician in the army and allegedly obtained Australian Defence Force (ADF) material to share with Moscow. Although no major compromise of military secrets has been identified, this case marks the first use of Australia's stricter foreign interference laws introduced in 2018. This incident highlights the importance of comprehensive insider risk management strategies to prevent unauthorized access and protect sensitive information. Organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in identifying and mitigating potential threats from within. Read more: https://lnkd.in/gBcTKdjb #insiderriskmanagement #espionage #foreignthreat #IRM

Human beings' first mission and responsibility is to live and let others live, in a secure environment; to include members of the military, not to be killed (to become, i.e., a martyr) or kill others anyway. Unless an absolute case of self-defence, or, legal duty to perform a vital function by a government agent, killing is murder, a crime against humanity. Killing is not a method of dispute settlement. Disputes can be resolved, challenges can be overcome only by properly understanding the problem, via listening to persons / institutions of interest, all a good faith effort to try to see the other side of the coin, to see the whole picture, based on facts. https://lnkd.in/dVXnbxXx