"Pentagon Halts Training with Rights-Abusing Foreign Militaries"
The Pentagon planned to conduct joint training exercises with militaries from countries involved in coups or accused of human rights violations, but reversed course after facing scrutiny. The plans, disclosed to Congress, included partnerships with countries prohibited from receiving American security assistance. The Defense Department has since stated that at least six of the abusive militaries are no longer slated to participate in the exercises, but it remains unclear whether other countries facing similar restrictions will also be excluded. The about-face came after criticism from members of Biden's own party, who urged the administration to change course immediately. The Pentagon's practices have raised concerns about the U.S. partnering with countries accused of human rights abuses and undemocratic behavior.