ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - August 21, 2024

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - August 21, 2024

ZeroFox physical security experts collect, curate, and analyze information derived from open and proprietary sources for comprehensive context of the circumstances surrounding global events. Here is today’s daily roundup of major developments.

Brief Highlights

• New Defense Pact Agreed Between Indonesia and Australia
• Ukrainian Authorities Order Evacuation of Pokrovsk
• Azerbaijan Applies to Join BRICS

New Defense Pact Agreed Between Indonesia and Australia

Australia and Indonesia announced the conclusion of a new defense agreement between the countries on August 20, 2024, without providing substantial details or an opportunity for press questions. The two nations already had an existing treaty, but the new one is understood to be an upgrade that will increase military visits and exercises. Cooperation between Indonesia and Australia has been a focus for both countries, as they work to counteract growing Chinese influence in the seas of Southeast Asia.

Ukrainian Authorities Order Evacuation of Pokrovsk

Ukrainian authorities have ordered the evacuation of families living with children in the city of Pokrovsk and surrounding areas. The order comes as Russian forces have steadily advanced towards the key transit hub of Pokrovsk over the past several weeks. The head of Pokrovsk's military government, Serhii Dobriak, said residents had at most two weeks to flee before Russian troops reached the city.

Azerbaijan Applies to Join BRICS

One day after Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit, Azerbaijan announced it formally applied to join BRICS. Azerbaijan's Ambassador to Russia, Polad Bülbüloğlu, explained Russia and Azerbaijan had long discussed opportunities to expand cooperation and consider Azerbaijan's application to BRICS a step in this direction. Media reports also indicate that Azeri and Russian officials discussed opportunities to increase cooperation in the oil and gas sector during Putin's visit.