ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - September 23, 2024

ZeroFox Physical Security Intelligence Daily Brief - September 23, 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

• EU Announces EUR 35 Billion for Ukraine from Russian Assets
• Morocco Arrests over 150 People on Illegal Migration Charges
• Haiti Forms Electoral Council to Hold First Elections Since 2016

EU Announces EUR 35 Billion for Ukraine from Russian Assets

The EU announced plans to raise EUR 35 billion (approx. USD 39 billion) from frozen Russian assets in EU banks to aid Ukraine. The pledge represents the EU's share of a total EUR 50 billion (approx. USD 54 billion) Western states have promised to Ukraine from Russian assets frozen in its banks. The EU's proposal is significantly different from earlier suggestions that it was going to loan Ukraine EUR 20 billion (approx. USD 21 billion). The latest changes no longer rest on unanimous approval from EU states and instead only require a qualified majority of EU states approval. Hungary had been blocking the initial proposal but will no longer be able to veto the latest proposal. Expect a Russian response when the loan is formally approved. This could include targeting western assets held in Russia, but more likely a military response that threatens Western economies.

Morocco Arrests over 150 People on Illegal Migration Charges

The Moroccan government arrested 152 people on illegal migration charges after they allegedly attempted to cross into Ceuta, an autonomous city located in Spain. Officials stated that 3,000 people attempted to storm the border cross into Spain in recent days, as Ceuta and Melilla are one of the only land crossings linking Africa to Europe. Morocco frequently struggles with tackling waves of migrants attempting to cross into Europe. Authorities have enhanced security measures and increased patrols along the border crossing to thwart future migration.

Haiti Forms Electoral Council to Hold First Elections Since 2016

Haiti's transitional government formally approved an electoral council to organize elections by February 2026, the first since 2016. Haiti has been unable to hold elections as gangs have gained control of large swathes of the country. Meanwhile, all elected officials had their terms in office expire. Haiti formed a transitional government led by interim Prime Minister Garry Conille in May 2024, which allowed the arrival of international troops to regain control of the country while elections were organized. The international police forces, led by Kenya, have managed to regain control of some state institutions but have largely avoided confronting the gangs, who have expanded further across the country since. Expect significant clashes in the coming months as Haiti prepares for new elections.