Here are the latest U.S. military news briefs from the past 24 hours:

1. Challenges for Ukrainian Forces: Ukrainian soldiers in the southern Zaporizhzhia region have expressed concerns over the worsening battlefield situation due to delays in U.S. aid, putting Ukraine on the defensive against Russia. Shortages of soldiers, leadership changes, and a critical lack of ammunition have contributed to the vulnerability of the Ukrainian army, with some units resorting to makeshift bombs due to artillery shortages. The U.S. has provided over $47 billion in military support to Ukraine since the conflict began, but new aid packages are currently stalled in Congress.
2. U.S. Strikes Against Houthi Forces in Yemen: The U.S. military conducted five self-defense strikes in areas of Yemen controlled by the Iranian-backed Houthi militia. These strikes included actions against an unmanned underwater vessel, marking the first observed use of such technology by the Houthis since attacks in the Red Sea region began in October. These measures aim to protect freedom of navigation and enhance security for U.S. Navy and merchant vessels in the region​​.
3. Commissioning of USS John L. Canley: The USS John L. Canley, an expeditionary sea base, was recently commissioned in Coronado, Calif. The vessel honors Sgt. Maj. John L. Canley, a decorated Marine who displayed exceptional bravery during the Vietnam War. The ship, built to support a wide range of military missions, includes capabilities for airborne mine countermeasures, special operations, and unmanned aviation systems.

These briefs underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Ukrainian forces, the U.S. military’s efforts to maintain maritime security in the face of Houthi aggression, and the commissioning of a new vessel that enhances the Navy’s operational capabilities.