Here we go again-Ukraine once again [Archive] - Page 36

Skybird

12-17-22, 06:41 AM

Deutsche Welle (German edition):
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Ukraine: How much does the war cost?

Europe and the USA are now helping Ukraine with many billions of euros. Exactly how much military aid the country is receiving is difficult to calculate. Economists at the Kiel Institute for the World Economy try anyway.

André Frank and his team at the Kiel Institute for the World Economy (ifw) in Kiel, northern Germany, dig through a mountain of publicly available information every week about Western aid to Ukraine. In their so far unique "Ukraine Support Tracker," they try to independently calculate the actual aid in military equipment, humanitarian services and financial aid to the country under attack by Russia.

The biggest challenge for the economists here is to calculate the financial share of military aid in the total Western Ukraine aid spending of 100 billion euros now given and pledged.

It is not an easy task: The official data from the U.S. or the U.K. on military aid are incomplete. This also applies to the publications of the German government, which regularly updates a list of military equipment that is supplied. "At first glance, this looks very transparent because the numbers of units are included," says iwf economist André Frank in an interview with DW. "But we want to give the deliveries to Ukraine a monetary value," in other words, map what the aid actually costs.

This is particularly difficult for Germany, because in the past ten months of war Berlin has handed over military equipment from Bundeswehr stocks that had long since been decommissioned or written off - and therefore has no currently valid price valuation. For example, the Gepard anti-aircraft tank, which dates back to the Cold War.

In the meantime, Germany has delivered 30 of this system, which helps the Ukrainian army defend itself against Russian missile attacks. And is of great military value there, Kiev says.

The economists from Kiel are therefore constantly developing a long "price list" of military equipment and other aid supplies in order to be able to calculate the aid financially in the end. After intensive consultations, they value a Gepard at 1.2 million U.S. dollars. The situation is similar for the Polish T-72 tanks, which were originally produced in the Soviet Union and given to Kiev by Warsaw. Here, the researchers calculate a unit value of $1.6 million.

Another example is the delivery of sleeping bags, says iwf economist Frank. Part of it, he said, was helping humanitarian causes, while another contingent was intended exclusively for Ukrainian servicemen and women on the front line.

For Germany, the "Ukraine Support Tracker" now indicates previous military aid and further pledges of 2.3 billion euros, while the German government's list from early December indicates an amount of 1.9 billion euros. According to the report, both figures are lower than the aid provided. "We assume that German military aid is even higher than the value we are currently spending," Frank said, describing his working group's conservative accounting. For example, the German government would not disclose the amount of munitions supplied for the state-of-the-art Iris-T missile defense system.

The device has apparently been protecting the region around Ukraine's capital, Kiev, from Russian missile attacks since fall. This can be inferred from social media posts from Ukrainian government circles about successfully launched Russian missiles. Operational details of the Ukrainian army Kiev does not disclose. Since fall, the Russian army has been targeting the Ukrainian energy system with massive shelling every week. One Iris-T missile costs $616,000 on the world market. "Depending on how many missiles there are, that can obviously add up to a lot," says ifw researcher Frank. "But that's just it again, the official data we have from Germany doesn't even give us a chance to estimate a total value." How many defensive missiles the Ukrainian air defense has fired with Iris-T so far, how many will be resupplied - is unclear. "There is no way for us to properly determine that with the officially available sources."

The situation is similar with the so-called ring exchange: that is, when eastern NATO countries such as Slovakia or Slovenia hand over old Soviet tanks to Ukraine and receive military equipment from Germany in return. "We do not categorize the complete ring swap as aid from Germany to Ukraine because it does not directly benefit Ukraine," says iwf researcher Frank.

And yet the Kiel economists are convinced that their calculations are very close to the realities of this war, even with the latest update from early December. The approach of working with a separate "price list" for the military equipment supplied facilitates comparability, he said. "Even if we overestimate military aid for individual weapons and other goods," Frank said, "that's made up for elsewhere." In terms of bilateral delivery of military equipment, the U.S. remains by far the most important supporter of Ukraine with 23 billion euros at the top, followed by the U.K. with 4.1 billion euros followed by the 2.3 billion euros of calculated military aid from Germany.

It is easier to get an overview of the large totals of Ukraine's aid: that is, all the contributions of Western Ukraine-supporting states for humanitarian aid, financial aid, and military equipment combined. With their decision to help Ukraine with an additional 18 billion euros starting in January, EU states and institutions are moving past the United States in aid to Ukraine. Europe will then support Kiev with a total of 52 billion euros compared to 48 billion euros from the U.S. for "military, financial and humanitarian aid," the Kiel economists write in their statement on the current "Ukraine Support Tracker," which maps aid given and announced through Nov. 20 of this year.

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If you wonder about the costs for the Gerpard and T-72, do not forget the Gepard is old and already phased out, these were no service units in Germany, but stood in parking lots of the industry, while the Polish T-72 are heavily modernised variants with quite some NATO electronics kit aboard (T-72M1 and T-72M1R). They are quite superior to original Russian T-72s of every branch, have NATO thermal displays and I think also new fire control systems, next it got digital comms, much improved additional armour on the turret, and reactive armour all along, also got improved engines. These are no Russian T-72, but much better ones. Against Western tanks it might not make too much a difference, but against Russian T-72 it should. Tank against tank: who sees the enemy first and shoot faster, wins. Other Polish versions (which they did not trabnsfer, however) introduced IR signature-reducing foil on the tank.

However, basic structural design flaws of the T-72 core design unavoidably remain, damage containment and survivability do not compare to modern Abrams, Leopards, Challengers. You do not want to get hit in a T-72, no matter what modernisation it has seen.

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 07:06 AM

Putin's ‘Noah's Ark' escape plot exposed as despot prepares to be toppled

President Putin may be planning an escape from Russia, should the country fall to Ukraine, according to various sources. It comes as after Putin's annual press conference was been cancelled, and his yearly "conversation with the people" - a Q&A session that can last for more than four hours.

Both events, which are broadcast live by state television, are vital elements of the Kremlin's portrayal of Putin as an all-powerful, father of the nation figure.

Yekaterina Schulmann, a Russian political scientist, said: "This all looks somewhat suspicious," Yekaterina Schulmann, a Russian political scientist, said.

"These events are all necessary for a sense of stability. People are already in a desperate state of mind." The failures of the Russian army in Ukraine has meant that the Kremlin has begun preparing safe havens for Putin in case Russia suffers a humiliating defeat and he is forced to flee the country, his former speechwriter has said.

Abbas Gallyamov, who is now a political analyst, cited a Kremlin source who said that Putin would escape to Argentina or Venezuela, if there was a serious threat that he could be toppled. The plan is believed to be codenamed "Noah's Ark".

"Putin's entourage has not ruled out that he will lose the war, be stripped of power, and have to urgently evacuate somewhere," Gallyamov wrote on Telegram.

Igor Sechin, the head of Rosneft, a state oil company, is said to be overseeing the arrangements for a possible escape to Venezuela.

He is one of Putin's closest allies and is thought to have a close relationship with Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan leader. Little is known of the alleged plan to evacuate Putin to Argentina, if his regime collapses.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-s-noah-s-ark-escape-plot-exposed-as-despot-prepares-to-be-toppled/ar-AA15lyct?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=73621560ffee4f21b1f4efc7f128c535

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 07:09 AM

Russian and Belarus troops on brink of civil war as tensions explode over ethnic insults

Amajor conflict between Belarusian and Russian troops is threatening to break out due to "uncontrolled tensions" between the soldiers of both armies. Recent weeks have seen increased speculation that Vladimir Putin intends to launch another strike on Kyiv from Belarus. The Russian military has been steadily transferring troops to its neighbour, as it continues to build up its presence in the country.

The Ukrainian Resistance Centre said on November 25 that 12,000 Russian soldiers were stationed in Belarus.

Ukraine's military intelligence, the GUR, also claimed in September that Lukashenko was preparing to accommodate as many as 20,000 mobilised Russian conscripts.

Russian troops are currently being put through their paces by Belarusian military instructors at the 230th Combined Arms Obuz-Lesnovsky Training Ground in Brest.

They are also receiving instruction at military bases located near Mozyr, Gomel, and Mogilev.

However, tensions are reported to be rising between the Russians and their Belarusian hosts and are threatening to boil over into a major conflict.

Sources indicate Russian soldiers have infuriated their Belarusian counterparts by using ethnically charged insults towards them.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/russian-and-belarus-troops-on-brink-of-civil-war-as-tensions-explode-over-ethnic-insults/ar-AA15nNI3?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=837ea675438e465c996fb94486fbc2e2

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 07:12 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duZr8V60Poo

Skybird

12-17-22, 07:15 AM

[...] should the country fall to Ukraine [...]

Hä...? Have I missed something? Even with Western tanks that bite would be some numbers too big for Ukraine.

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 07:16 AM

Total combat losses of Russian Federation since beginning of war - about 97,690 people (+420 per day), 2,985 tanks, 1,947 artillery systems, 5,958 armored vehicles. INFOGRAPHICS

The losses of the Russian occupiers as of the morning of December 17 are approximately 97,690 people.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the press center of the General Staff.

As noted, the total combat losses of the enemy from 24.02 to 17.12 are approximately:

personnel - about 97,690 (+420) people were liquidated,
tanks - 2985 (+5) units,
armored fighting vehicles - 5958 (+6) units,
artillery systems - 1,947 (+1) units,
MLRS - 410 (+0) units,
air defense equipment - 211 (+0) units,
aircraft - 281 (+0) units,
helicopters - 264 (+0) units,
UAV of the operational-tactical level - 1648 (+0),
cruise missiles - 653 (+61),
ships/boats - 16 (+0) units,
automotive equipment and tank trucks - 4577 (+14) units,
special equipment -174 (+2). Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387583

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 07:20 AM

To stop war in Ukraine, we need to talk to Putin, - Scholz

In order to end the Russian war in Ukraine, it is necessary to talk to the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said this in an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung, Censor.NET informs with reference to Ukrinform.

Despite the not-very-promising prospects for success, Scholz wants to keep the channel of communication with the Kremlin open.

"Our goal is for Russia to stop its war of aggression and for Ukraine to protect its integrity," Scholz said, adding that for this "it will be necessary to talk: whether it will be done over the phone, over a video link or a long table, remains to be found out."

According to the German chancellor, Russia must admit that it cannot continue like this. It is necessary to stop the war and withdraw the Russian troops from the territory of Ukraine. In this way, an opportunity for mutual understanding will be created.

"Putin, stop this war," Scholz once again appealed to the Russian president. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387610

We are preparing for possible offensive from Belarus at end of February, - commander of OC "South", Kovalchuk

Ukraine is preparing for the fact that Russia may again try to invade from the north. Perhaps this will happen around the "anniversary" of her first failed attempt to "take Kyiv" in February.

This was stated by the commander of the OC "South", Major General Andrii Kovalchuk in an interview with the British channel Sky News, Censor.NET informs with reference to RBC-Ukraine.

Thus, answering a journalist's question about whether the Russian military might again try to invade Ukraine from the north, east, or south, perhaps even on February 24, the anniversary of the start of a full-scale war, he stated that the Ukrainian military is calculating such scenarios.

"Yes, we foresee such options, such scenarios. We are preparing for it. We live with the thought that they will come again. This is our task," Kovalchuk said.

At the same time, he did not rule out the possibility of a repeated invasion of Russian troops through Belarus to the northern border of Ukraine, as a route for the invaders to attack the capital.

"We are considering a possible offensive by Belarus at the end of February, maybe later... We are preparing for it. We are investigating. We are looking at where they are accumulating forces and resources," Kovalchuk said.

According to him, "it will no longer be the case that the Russians will simply come in," as was the case on February 24 of this year.

The general also stressed that the Ukrainian Armed Forces will be ready even to fight against millions of Russians, if the head of the Kremlin, Vladimir Putin, resorts to full mobilization.

However, for this, Ukraine will need even stronger support from the Western allies. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387612

Hodges doubts ability of Russian Federation to attack again in February

Russia is unlikely to be able to resort to a new offensive in February next year, there are doubts about its ability to gather the necessary and well-prepared number of forces for this.

The former commander of the US forces in Europe, retired general Ben Hodges, announced this on Twitter, Censor.NET informs.

"I doubt that Russia will be able to assemble forces of this size at this time, at least not of any quality. Exaggerating the potential for new Russian offensives fuels those looking for reasons not to continue supporting Ukraine," Hodges wrote. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387607

Skybird

12-17-22, 10:55 AM

Frankfurter Rundschau had this very good interview with the commander of the so-called Mozart group ( I had not heard of them before):
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Andy Milburn, commander of the so-called Mozart Group, talks about training Ukrainian forces in an exclusive interview. And he makes clear what Kiev needs in the fight against Russia. Andy Milburn served 31 years in the U.S. Marines. He spent the last ten years of his service in the Special Operations Command. He commanded the Joint Special Operations Task Force in Iraq from 2016 and became deputy commander of the Special Operations Command Center. This command was responsible for all special operations in the Middle East, primarily targeting the Islamic State.
Since retiring from the Army in 2019, Milburn has served as a military affairs advisor, with a focus on special operations. Today, he is the head of the Mozart Group.

>>> Andy Milburn, you are commander of the so-called Mozart Group. What brought you to Ukraine?

Initially, I went to Ukraine as a freelance journalist. That was in the first week of March. Very quickly I realized that I was needed more urgently in another place. A colonel friend of mine in the Ukrainian special forces asked me for support. At that time Russia started the siege of Kiev.

>>>You were in Kiev yourself at that time. What was the biggest challenge?

At the beginning of the Russian invasion, the defense was essentially in the hands of civilians. Many don't know this, but the territorial defense units were recruited from the civilian population. It was not the Ukrainian military that stopped the Russian soldiers and tanks and drove them out in the end, it was ordinary people. Two weeks earlier they were students or employees.

The Ukrainian military not only faced the Russian attack, but also had to get the territorial defense units ready to fight. They had to start from scratch and first learn how to use weapons. This applied to standard equipment as well as to special systems such as anti-tank weapons. The latter played a crucial role in the defense of Kiev. But there was not much time to learn all this.
Ukraine war

>>> What does it look like today?

The time for training is still very short. The majority of recruits are untrained by Western standards. So not poorly or inadequately trained, but really untrained. They are brave, but just very fresh. The brigade commanders are aware of this, but they can't take their people off the front lines for any length of time. Russia is constantly attacking. There have been recent successes in Kherson and Kharkiv, but the unpalatable truth is that troops from Russia continue to advance.

>>> Then, to fill the gap in training opportunities, the so-called Mozart Group was formed?

Yes. I formed a training group with a small team of former Marines and people from the Army, all special forces. With this group, we started training civilians for their deployment in territorial defense. For some of the training, we had only five days. That is an absurdly short period of time. We trained in group sizes between 120 and 150 people. After that, the units received the Mozart patch, got into their private civilian cars and drove to Butsha to fight Russian soldiers. That was around the end of March.

>>> What were the biggest difficulties at that time?

We faced a whole series of challenges. Russian forces were blanketing Kiev with rockets and artillery fire. We were building firing ranges and training areas. The prospective territorial defense units had to learn how to shoot, move in urban terrain and communicate in the field. But every time we set up such a training area, Russia got wind of it, either through collaborators or their own reconnaissance. The result was artillery fire on our site. It was a very difficult situation.
The Ukraine war in pictures - destruction, resistance and hope
Russia's war against Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. In November, Ukrainian forces were able to liberate the city of Kherson. But for the local people the situation is still catastrophic. There is neither electricity nor running water. Here they are struggling to distribute aid in the center of the city.

>>> What happened after the liberation of Kiev in early April?

After the troops were driven out of the capital, we moved on to the north. We trained in Butscha shortly after the place was liberated. There, we became the first international eyewitnesses to the massacres of civilians that later made worldwide headlines. This sight encouraged us to continue. Of course, we knew beforehand that the Russian soldiers were doing bad things, but none of us expected such a level of cruelty. Also, before the massacres were discovered, no one assumed that this violence was so institutionalized. That was also the time when our group got its name.

>>> The Mozart Group is often mentioned in the same breath as the infamous Wagner Group. You have already emphasized several times in the past that the comparison is inaccurate. Where is the difference?

We are not mercenaries. We don't go to war for money like the private armies of Blackwater or the Wagner Group do. We are mature, retired professionals, most of whom are in their thirties or forties. We don't carry weapons and we don't participate in combat.
In Ukraine, our focus is on two things. We are training Ukrainian soldiers near the front lines and evacuating civilians who are still in the cities. We also bring humanitarian supplies to these regions.

>>> There are many NGOs active in the Ukraine war. At what point does their job end, where does yours begin?

All other NGOs operate at most to the furthest point that can be hit by Russian artillery, currently in Kramatorsk in the Donbass, for example. With our aid supplies, we provide between 20 and 25 percent of the population that is still in towns on the front lines. Currently in Bachmut, among other places. People in these regions are seeking shelter in basements. They lack water, food, electricity and heating. These areas are under constant artillery fire. We are the only organization that goes to these areas to distribute relief supplies to the people and evacuate them if they want to. We have been doing that since the beginning of the war.

>>> What does your training program look like today?

We have constantly adapted and expanded our training. We now have three teams based in Kiev, in the Donbass and near the southern front line. In the Donbass, we train, among others, the First Presidential Brigade, as well as the 58th and 93rd Brigades. These are the units that are bearing the brunt of the fighting. Since the beginning of the offensive in the Donbass, these units have suffered between 70 and 80 percent casualties in their ranks.

>>> What else does the so-called Mozart Group currently do in addition to its two main tasks?

We have recently started offering civilian training in Eastern Europe. Primarily for reporters and journalists, but also for aid organizations. This is not weapons training, but help to minimize risks. We also offer escort services for members of the press and civilian organizations near the front lines, also unarmed. For security reasons, this requires a background check, so further information about these trainings is only released upon request. We do this work, on the one hand, to generate money for other missions, as we are otherwise purely donor-funded. On the other hand, it is important to us that journalists are on site. We are convinced that the press is the watchdog of every democracy. The world should see what is happening in Ukraine.

>>> You have spoken of an institutionalization of atrocities, such as in Butscha. What does that mean in the Ukraine war?

The Russian attacks on civilian targets are not what we mean by collateral damage. They don't happen by accident. It is part of Russian policy and it is part of military strategy. This applies to the massacres in Butcha as well as to the air and artillery strikes against civilian targets. In Mariupol, some 20,000 civilians were killed, according to conservative estimates. Entire settlements were simply destroyed. There are reports of institutionalized torture. These are not exclusively acts of soldiers who have lost their minds; this is part of an institutional approach to warfare. The massive attacks on energy infrastructure just before winter are also part of this warfare.

>>> The West is providing support to Ukraine. Among other things, in the form of training programs. What is needed most urgently at the moment?

What is needed in Ukraine is training right on the ground. We are an organization that has only been able to fill gaps at this point. Institutionalized training is needed. We could do this on behalf of Western governments, for example, or together with NATO. With sufficient funding, each brigade on the front lines could be assigned a training team. That would make a real difference.

>>> The West is also supplying weapons to Ukraine. Is the support sufficient?

NATO and the West must finally get serious about helping Ukraine win this war. That doesn't mean sending troops to Ukraine. But the arms deliveries we have seen so far, for example a handful of HIMARS systems, are just a drop in the bucket. Ukraine's Western partners need to start literally flooding the country with these systems. In addition, Ukraine needs long-range missiles and long-range drones. I think it's good that the U.S. now wants to supply Patriot missiles, but it needs a lot more of them. They don't have to be the most expensive high-end systems, but there need to be enough to cover the entire front line and Ukraine's infrastructure facilities.

>>> Germany has also supplied weapons systems to Ukraine. In the discussion about this, Chancellor Olaf Scholz has repeatedly pointed out that the Ukrainian armed forces are used to Soviet systems and therefore a ring exchange is necessary. Is this argumentation conclusive from your point of view?

It is ridiculous. Ukrainians are very technologically adept. They are extremely adaptable in combat and this is not because of their pre-war military. It's because of the flood of young men and women who learn very quickly.

>>> Andy Milburn, their organization, the Mozart Group is currently operating in Bachmut. The city is one of the hot spots of the war. Just a few days ago, they were operating there themselves. What is the situation on the ground?

The assessment of Western military commentators on the attempted conquest of the Donbass is that Russia is pursuing a strategically irrelevant goal. These people have not understood the political level of war.
As Clausewitz said: War is a continuation of politics by other means. Here, the military-strategic goal recedes into the background. All Vladimir Putin wants is to secure the Donbass for himself. Meanwhile, only three major cities remain in the region. Kramatorsk, Pokrovsk and Bachmut. Bachmut is coming or rather is in the meantime in the Russian front line.

Russia's strategy is based on putting a city under heavy continuous fire until they are sure that all Ukrainian defenders have left the area. We have already seen this in other major cities in the Donbass, and now this is exactly what is happening in Bachmut. You notice how heavy the attacks are as soon as you enter the city. You can see smoke lying over the city, you can hear artillery strikes and feel explosions throughout your body. I got heart palpitations and shortness of breath every time. I can't imagine living like that. Fortunately, we just go in and out. People on the ground often don't have that choice.

>>> How is your group protected when you go into town?

Almost not at all. We go into the city in normal vehicles. The only protection we have is our personal gear, but it offers little protection. We have had to learn when it is time to take cover and when we are on the edge of the effective danger zone. It's a constant danger, we drive with the windows down and have to be constantly alert.

>>> What does the work look like once they make it into the city?

We usually drop off humanitarian supplies at the fire station. There is a group of very brave firefighters that we work with. They distribute the relief supplies to the civilian population. Some of them have already been wounded, some of them have lost their lives, but the group continues anyway. That's incredibly brave and insanely noble.

>>> What happens next?

We go to the most dangerous part of the city, to the eastern quarters. This part can only be reached via a pontoon bridge, because the actual bridge was destroyed. As soon as you reach the eastern part of the city, you are virtually right on the battlefield. When we were last there three days ago, machine gun fire could be heard from three directions. Russian soldiers are already in that area, fighting at close range, plus drone attacks and artillery strikes. If it's cloudy or raining, that gives us some protection from the drones. But we have to get in there either way, so we'll go even if the skies are clear.

>>> What's your target on the east side of town?

There are still civilians there as well, and we're providing them with supplies. We try to persuade them to come along, but many are afraid to. It's a poignant sight to see whole families just trying to move on.
Every time these people leave their basements to get water, they risk being killed. That is why we bring them water. Water, along with heat, fire, candles, light and food, is what is needed most. By now we have built up such a close relationship with these people that we would love to just drag them into the car every time to drive them out of this hell, but of course we can't do that.

>>> What does that do to you, to see these people like that, without being able to get them out of there?

It is heartbreaking. People always welcome us warmly and offer us soup. I have seen many theaters of war. I have seen the battle of Fallujah, when we fought directly against Al-Qaeda in the house-to-house combat. So I am not unfamiliar with that kind of fear. But here it is different. It feels like an evil place. No matter how many times you do it, you don't get used to the tragedies of these people. It's horrible to know that most of these people will die, including the children. This emotional burden is heavy on the shoulders of our people.
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Jimbuna

12-17-22, 12:47 PM

Putin meets generals as Russian missiles pound cities

By Matt Murphy
BBC News

Russian President Vladimir Putin has met his military chiefs on the same day his forces launched another wave of missiles at Ukraine's infrastructure.

Mr Putin spent most of Friday at the headquarters of the "special military operation" discussing ideas for what Russia's next move should be.

It comes as some Ukrainian military officials claimed Russia was planning an offensive, perhaps early next year.

Russian attacks on Ukraine's power grid have plunged millions into darkness.

Footage from Friday's meeting showed Mr Putin flanked by Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Armed Forces Chief Valeriy Gerasimov.

"We will listen to the commanders in each operational direction, and I would like to hear your proposals on our immediate and medium-term actions," the Kremlin leader was seen telling military officials on state TV.

Gen Gerasimov's presence ends rumours circulating online that he had been dismissed from his position. The 67-year-old has been the target of intensive criticism from hawkish commentators, who have accused him of being too cautious.

Air Force general Sergei Surovikin - who was appointed as Russia's commander in Ukraine in October - was also present at the meeting, photos released by state media showed.

Ukrainian forces have made a series of major advances in recent months, including retaking Kherson - the only major city captured by Russian forces so far.

And the collapse of Moscow's forces in eastern Ukraine earlier this year saw military bosses come in for sustained criticism from pro-Kremlin media figures.

The meeting followed claims by the commander of Ukraine's military, Gen Valerii Zaluzhnyi, that Moscow could seek to launch a new offensive in early 2023. He warned that Russia was preparing around 200,000 troops for the attack.

"I have no doubt they will have another go at Kyiv," he added. "I know how many combat units I have right now, how many combat units I have to create by the end of the year - and, most importantly, not to touch them in any way now. No matter how hard it is."

He added that the attack could originate "in the direction of Kyiv" and may be launched from Belarus.

In February, Russian troops advanced towards the Ukrainian capital Kyiv after crossing the border from Belarus.

While the country's leader Alexander Lukashenko has repeatedly denied that his forces will join in the invasion, thousands of Russian troops are currently in the country taking part in what Moscow's defence ministry called "intensive combat training".

Mr Putin will visit his Belarusian counterpart in Minsk on Monday.

But analysts have questioned Russia's ability to launch a new offensive on the Ukrainian capital, and White House spokesperson John Kirby said that US intelligence officials "aren't seeing any indication that there's an imminent move on Kyiv".

Senior US defence officials told Reuters news agency that Russia had been forced to use decades-old ammunition with high failure rates as it burns through its supplies.

They added that "the rate of fire that Russia has been using its artillery and rocket ammunition" could see them run out of reliable munitions by early 2023.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian workers have spent much of Saturday trying to restore power supplies after a wave of Russian strikes hit the country's energy grid on Friday.

Part of Kyiv remained without power, but mayor Vitali Klitschko said the city's metro system had restarted and the water supply had been restored.

He also posted photos on Telegram of a large Christmas tree that has been adapted to meet the constraints of a wartime winter. The tree will be lit with energy-saving bulbs run off a generator, he said.

Power has been restored in the country's second city of Kharkiv, authorities said, after it was left without electricity for hours following Friday's wave of strikes that targeted energy stations across the country.

Russia has launched more than 1,000 missiles and Iranian-made attack drones since the wave of strikes on power infrastructure began on 10 October. International leaders - including French President Emmanuel Macron - have said the strikes amount to a war crime.

The UK's Ministry of Defence says there had been an "uptick" in Russia's campaign of long-range strikes against Ukraine's critical infrastructure in recent days.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64013052

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 12:58 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNZr5HGiKdU

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 01:35 PM

Biden administration is asking US Congress to provide Ukraine with another $38 billion, - Sullivan

The administration of US President Joe Biden has asked Congress to provide Ukraine with another $38 billion.

This was announced by Jake Sullivan, the adviser to the US president on national security, in an interview with the Voice of America, Censor.NET reports.

According to Sullivan, the Biden administration is doing everything so that Ukraine can protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

For this purpose, a request was sent to Congress to provide another $38 billion for military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine.

"We know that our job is to continue our military support to Ukraine so that they are in the best possible position on the battlefield if and when diplomacy matures - at the negotiating table," the White House adviser said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387640

At meeting with Bennett, Putin admitted that Ukrainians turned out to be stronger than he was told - New York Times

In March, during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin said that the Ukrainians turned out to be stronger "than they told me."

This was reported by The New York Times with reference to two people familiar with the content of the conversation, Censor.NET reports with reference to LigaBusinessInform.

"It will probably be much more difficult than we thought. But the war is on their territory, not on ours. We are a big country, and we have patience," Putin said.

According to the publication's sources, during a meeting with US representatives last month, the Russians wanted to convey a harsh message to President Joe Biden: no matter how many Russian soldiers are killed or wounded on the battlefield, Russia will not back down.

One of the NATO members, the newspaper writes, warned the allies that Putin is ready to accept the death or injury of up to 300,000 Russian servicemen, which is about three times more than his probable losses at this time. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387655

Germany’s condition regarding transfer of tanks to Ukraine will also apply next year, - Scholz

Germany will not unilaterally transfer Western-style tanks to Ukraine, and this condition will remain in place next year.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told about this in an interview with Süddeutsche Zeitung, Censor.NET writes with reference to "European Truth".

Scholz assured that Germany is one of the strongest supporters of Ukraine and supplies modern weapons, such as the Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzer, multiple rocket launchers, Gepard anti-aircraft guns and the latest Iris-T air defense systems.

"In all of this, we adhere to three clear principles: First, we support Ukraine to the best of our ability. Second, we prevent a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia. And, third, there will be no unilateral actions by Germany. This is a criterion of our decisive but cautious policy - and it will be in force next year as well. My impression is that the vast majority of Germans consider this to be the right thing," Scholz said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387657

One NATO country admits Putin is ready to lose up to 300,000 soldiers - The New York Times

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to lose up to 300,000 Russian soldiers in the war against Ukraine, a NATO country claims.

This is stated in an investigation of The New York Times about Putin's war in Ukraine, reports Censor.NЕТ with reference to "European truth".

A team of reporters explored one of the central questions of the war in Ukraine: why Russia has handled its invasion so poorly.

According to the article, last month a senior Russian official told CIA Director William Burns that Russia would not surrender, no matter how many of its soldiers were killed or wounded.

"People who know Mr. Putin say he is willing to sacrifice countless lives and treasures for as long as it takes, and in a rare face-to-face meeting with the Americans last month, the Russians wanted to convey a stark message to President Biden: no matter how many Russian soldiers are killed or wounded on the battlefield, Russia will not surrender," the newspaper writes.

"One NATO member warns allies that Putin may accept the death or injury of up to 300,000 Russian troops - about three times more than the likely losses to date," the publication says.

The publication notes that from the first days of the invasion, Putin privately admitted that the war did not go according to plan. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387668

Jimbuna

12-17-22, 01:45 PM

Rishi Sunak orders audit of Ukraine war progress, source says

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has asked for an assessment of the progress of the war in Ukraine, BBC Newsnight has learnt.

Senior figures fear the PM may be taking an overly cautious approach as the war enters a key phase.

One Whitehall source likened the exercise to a "Goldman Sachs dashboard" examination of the war and how UK military supplies are used.

Downing Street insists that Mr Sunak is strongly supportive of Ukraine.

In a tweet, Mr Sunak said the UK was with Ukraine "all the way" during a visit to the country last month, his first overseas trip as prime minister.

A Downing Street source added that it was not true that Sunak was being overly cautious and that "the UK government's support for Ukraine is unwavering".

But the request has raised alarm bells in some corners of Whitehall as military chiefs say weapons supplies to Ukraine may prove decisive in the winter months ahead.

The Whitehall source said: "Wars aren't won [by dashboards]. Wars are won on instinct. At the start of this it was Boris (Johnson) sitting down and saying: 'Let's just go for this.' So Rishi needs to channel his inner Boris on foreign policy though not of course on anything else."

The source said the audit, known as a data-driven assessment, is designed to assess the progress of the war and the significance of the UK's military contributions to Ukraine. The source said: "This is about looking at what we have put in, what we have got out."

The UK has been one of the biggest suppliers of military aid to Ukraine since Russian President Vladimir Putin's forces invaded the country in February.

BBC Newsnight has been told that Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine, is aware of the debate within the UK and is encouraging Mr Sunak to maintain strong military support for his country.

"President Zelensky has sensed what is going on," the source said. "So he has been talking to Rishi. He is trying to inspire him, saying the UK are the great liberators, the great fighters. We need you. Rise to that."

The proposed assessment of the war comes at a crucial point in the conflict. Key figures in Whitehall believe that Ukraine and Russia have fought themselves to a standstill.

The only way, they say, for one side to pull ahead is by substantially increasing their supply of weaponry. Russia has effectively run out of supplies. Ukraine can only resupply weapons with the help of the US and the main military powers in Europe, led by the UK.

Whitehall sources say that Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the chief of the defence staff, delivered that message in diplomatic terms in a lecture this week.

Sir Tony made clear the Russian military "cupboard is bare" and he appeared to issue a rallying cry for continued support for Ukraine.

The chief of the defence staff told the Royal United Services Institute: "Extraordinary times call for an extraordinary response. This explains why Russia is losing. And the free world is winning… Providing we maintain our cohesion and resolve, the real victory within our grasp is much more significant."

Ukraine also made an appeal this week for more weaponry. General Valery Zaluzhny, the head of the Ukrainian armed forces, told the Economist: "I know that I can beat this enemy. But I need resources. I need 300 tanks, 600-700 ifvs [infantry fighting vehicles], 500 Howitzers."

The US Congress gave the Pentagon approval in principle earlier this month to buy substantial weaponry for Ukraine. But the Economist reported that this may not arrive in time for a spring offensive next year.

Some in Whitehall see this approach as a sign of the innate caution on Ukraine by US President Joe Biden who is understood to be concerned about provoking a wider global conflict. There are some fears in Whitehall that Mr Sunak may end up encouraging Mr Biden's caution.

The source told Newsnight: "We have stiffened the US resolve at all levels - pressure from us but always friendly. We don't want Rishi to reinforce Biden's caution. We want him to pushing in the way Boris did."
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-64006121

Skybird

12-17-22, 04:15 PM

Russian President Vladimir Putin is ready to lose up to 300,000 Russian soldiers in the war against Ukraine, a NATO country claims.

Its not as if Russia already had not had a very serious demographic problem since long before the war. :doh: Loosing another third of a million young men who will not found families, is nothing Russia needs to be concerned about. :o Not to mention those hundreds of thousands who have fled the country. :timeout:

Well, the less Russian babies made, the better for the Rest of the world.

War demographics. Gunnar Heinsohn. By now you remember that name, don't you. :03: :salute: Xi is already slobbering.

Dargo

12-17-22, 04:42 PM

Its not as if Russia already had not had a very serious demographic problem since long before the war. :doh: Loosing another third of a million young men who will not found families, is nothing Russia needs to be concerned about. :o Not to mention those hundreds of thousands who have fled the country. :timeout:

Well, the less Russian babies made, the better for the Rest of the world.

War demographics. Gunnar Heinsohn. By now you remember that name, don't you. :03: :salute: Xi is already slobbering.Russia desperately needs migrant workers from Central Asia, both to prop up its economy and to serve in the military for the war in Ukraine. This week, visa requirements for migrant workers from neighboring countries were relaxed. And those who sign up for the Russian army can get a Russian passport within a year. Previously, that took five years. Russia employs millions of migrant workers from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. Precise figures are not available because some of the migrant workers are illegal. These often young men are very welcome in the Russian military, which needs new recruits with the high death rates in Ukraine and the viscous offensive.

Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan have called on their citizens in Russia not to participate in the war against Ukraine. The countries are threatening criminal charges if the migrant workers do serve in the Russian military. Uzbekistan's highest spiritual body has banned Muslims from fighting "in someone else's war." Russia needs the migrant workers not only for the military. With hundreds of thousands of civilians mobilized, there are labor shortages in Russian industry. The country has therefore lifted migration quotas so that more migrant workers can be recruited for industries such as construction and agriculture.

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 05:30 AM

Russia changes missile strike tactics due ‘to concerns about vulnerability of Crimea’

Russia has changed the launch site of its uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) strikes due to concerns about the “vulnerability of Crimea”, UK defence chiefs have said.

In its latest situation update, the Ministry of Defence said Russia has increased long-range strike on Ukraine’s infrastructure in the last few days.

UAVs have been used in these missile strikes and had been launched from within Russian-occupied Crimea, the MoD said.

“The waves of strikes have largely consisted of air and maritime launched cruise missiles, but have almost certainly also included Iranian-provided uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) being launched from Russia’s Krasnodar region,” the MoD said.

“The change of launch site is likely due to Russian concerns about the vulnerability of Crimea, while it is also convenient for resupply from the weapons’ likely arrival point in Russia, at Astrakhan.”

Earlier this year, a key bridge linking Russia to Crimea was severely damaged following an explosion. The bridge is set to be repaired by July 2023 but its loss has hampered supply routes.

A drone strike also targeted Russia’s navy headquarters in Crimea, although Ukraine did not claim credit for conducting the attack.

Due to Russian attacks on Kharkiv, Ukrainian officials said that 60 per cent of Kyiv had been left without power on Friday. A further 70 per cent of the city was without water.

Despite the damage, the head of the Ukrainian armed forces said they intercepted 60 of the 76 missiles launched with their air defence systems.

With Russia’s invasion stalling in recent months, the MoD said on Friday that Vladimir Putin’s army has taken up a strategy of entrenchment - a plan which has not been changed since the Second World War.

The briefing said: “As shown by imagery, in recent weeks, Russian forces have continued to expend considerable effort to construct extensive defensive positions along the front line.

“They have likely prioritised the northern sector around the town of Svatove.

“The Russian constructions follow traditional military plans for entrenchment, largely unchanged since the Second World War. Such constructions are likely to be vulnerable to modern, precision indirect strikes.

“The construction of major defensive lines is further illustration of Russia’s reversion to positional warfare that has been largely abandoned by most modern Western militaries in recent decades.”
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/newslondon/russia-changes-missile-strike-tactics-due-to-concerns-about-vulnerability-of-crimea/ar-AA15nUwt?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=26400c6a5dd341618dc21e94543232a1

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 05:37 AM

Russia to deploy musicians to front to boost morale

Russia says it will deploy musicians to the front lines of its war in Ukraine in a bid to boost morale.

The defence ministry announced the formation of the "front-line creative brigade" this week, saying it would include both vocalists and musicians.

The UK's ministry of defence highlighted the brigade's creation in an intelligence update on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu visited frontline troops in Ukraine, the government said.

In a statement posted to Telegram, the defence ministry said Mr Shoigu "flew around the areas of deployment of troops and checked the advanced positions of Russian units in the zone of the special military operation".

It added that he "spoke with troops on the frontline" and at a "command post" - but the BBC cannot confirm when the visit took place or whether Mr Shoigu visited Ukraine itself.

The reported visit comes as UK defence officials said low morale continues to be a "significant vulnerability across much of the Russian force".

The UK said the new creative brigade - which follows a recent campaign, urging the public to donate musical instruments to troops - is in keeping with the historic use of "military music and organised entertainment" to boost morale.

But they questioned whether the new brigade would actually distract troops, who have been primarily concerned about "very high casualty rates, poor leadership, pay problems, lack of equipment and ammunition, and lack of clarity about the war's objectives".

According to the Russian outlet RBC news, the brigade will consist of troops mobilised under President Vladimir Putin's recruitment drive, as well as "professional artists who voluntarily entered military service".

The new unit will be tasked with maintaining "a high moral, political and psychological state [among] the participants of the special military operation," the outlet cited the defence ministry as saying.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64016599

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 05:49 AM

"In Kyiv before lunch": The New York Times reveals occupiers’ ’timetable’ at beginning of invasion. DOCUMENT

Russian occupants at the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine planned to reach Kyiv in 18 hours.

This is stated by The New York Times, reports Censor.NЕТ with reference to RBC-Ukraine.

According to the newspaper, Russian soldiers became aware of the beginning of the invasion a few hours before they were sent to Ukraine. One of the Russian soldiers, who was in Belarus, says that the order was both simple and very optimistic - to follow the car ahead and get to Kyiv within 18 hours.

At the same time, the publication provides a timetable with a detailed schedule of the movement of Russian troops, where it can be seen that the first cars in the column of the aforementioned soldier had to leave Belarus and arrive on the outskirts of Kyiv at 14:55, that is, even faster than the command told him.

The occupier said that the schedule was not even close to being fulfilled, as the massive military equipment was so heavy that the convoy immediately got bogged down. And it took more than a day just to cross the border with Ukraine. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387679

Total combat losses of Russian Federation since beginning of war - about 98,280 people (+590 per day), 2,987 tanks, 1,948 artillery systems, 5,963 armored vehicles. INFOGRAPHICS

The losses of the Russian occupiers as of the morning of December 18 are approximately 98,280 people.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the press center of the General Staff.

The total combat losses of the enemy from 24.02 to 18.12 are approximately:

personnel - about 98,280 (+590) people were eliminated,
tanks - 2987 (+2) units,
armored combat vehicles - 5963 (+5) units,
artillery systems - 1,948 (+1) units,
MLRS - 410 (+0) units,
air defense equipment - 211 (+0) units,
aircraft - 281 (+0) units,
helicopters - 264 (+0) units,
UAVs of the operational-tactical level - 1649 (+1),
cruise missiles - 653 (+0),
warships/boats - 16 (+0) units,
automotive equipment and tank trucks - 4579 (+2) units,
special equipment - 174 (+0). Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387710

Skybird

12-18-22, 08:20 AM

Kiril Rogov, a political scientist who is critical of the Kremlin, argues that Russia managed to regain the initiative. His arguments are threefold:

1. Putin's threats of using nuclear weapons has successfull hindered Europe and the US to deliver heavy tanks and modern fighterbombers.

2. Russia has learned how to slowly annihilate the critical infrastructure (e-power, water, heating) in Ukraine, by striking in three waves per attack: decoys to learn abutu air defence positions, next wave of strikes against these very positions to supress them and destroy Western air defences, and then after silencing the air defence in place, striking the original target.

3. Putin managed to complete a first wave of recruitments, and while not everything went smooth and without probolems, all in all most ofthese men were more or less usefully integrated into the existing forces in Ukraine. Says Rogov.

Strategically Rogov I think may be right, strategically they indeed have learned how to try to adapt to the growing air defences in Ukraine and nevertheless slowly but surely annihilate the vital critical infrastructure, with every new wave the Ukriane struggles more to repair the damages, we see this in the times getting longer that it needs to bring systems back online. Its a slow process, but a constant process, and it runs in Russia's favour. The winter has not even fully arrived.

Tactically, on the other hand, on the battlefield on the ground its hard to claim the Russians have the initiative. Tactically the Ukrainians I see in the better position currently. But that too may change in spring, because the Russians simply have much bigger ressources and reserves in ammo and weapons. And even if they do so very slowly and in tiny baby steps and under incredible losses: they ADVANCE at for example Bachmut. And not forget: the Ukrainains also have high losses atg Bahcmut,. which might be the reaosn why Putin presses on to keep the Bachmut battle raging. He may do so by a rational of that three dead Russian soldiers for one dead Ukrainian soldier nevertheless are a good ratio: one that Russia can sustain but the Ukraine not. Ukriane has some of its currently best units at Bachmut, and these are bleeding.

Snow and ice falvours the Ukraine. Mud and rain favours the Russians, since mostly they are digging in and are in defensive posture. Now come some weeks and month when the Ukrainians must make hay while the day lasts: ice and frozen ground.

The hesitation in the West to deliver Ukraine weapons it needs to strike Russia and advance against their defensive lines, will cost Ukraine dearly. I wonder whether there is really a serious interest in seeing Ukraine "winning" soon, I think its more about extending the war and so keep the consummation of Russian ressources going on to weaken Russia for longer time both as a process and as a consequence. Ukraine's interests in fact may be much lower on Western governments agendas than we usally comfortably assume in public discussion. Lets not forget that our way of supporting Ukraine does not fudamentally help to prevent Russia from destroying it. The Russians could be driven out one day - and still having destroyed Ukraine more or less completely.

Politics. Dirty business from A to Z. There are no vegetarians in this arena. Not a single one.

August

12-18-22, 09:55 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fqHERDXVpk

mapuc

12-18-22, 01:27 PM

^^
Do you perhaps have a link ?

Markus

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 02:06 PM

"Ukraine must win this war": Head of European Parliament Metsola called for increased support for Ukraine

The head of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, called for additional financial and military support to Ukraine in the fight against Russian aggression.

As Censor.NET informs, the German publication Spiegel writes about it.

The head of the European Parliament noted that Ukraine needs increased and comprehensive support. Metsola also emphasized that more attention should be paid to financial and humanitarian aid.

"This war must be stopped immediately. And Ukraine must win this war. This means more weapons for Ukraine, more financial and humanitarian aid, more practical solidarity and more sanctions against Russia," said the head of the European Parliament.

She also said that she is proud of the support provided to Ukraine at the EU level. At the same time, Metsola emphasized that the European Union could do more.

It will be recalled that on December 15, the governments of the countries of the European Union agreed on the ninth package of sanctions against Russia due to its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The decision will be formalized in a written procedure on December 16.

Earlier, the head of the European Parliament said that EU countries should increase military and financial support for Ukraine in 2023. She emphasized that it is impossible to allow "fatigue" from the topic of the war against the Russian Federation. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387748

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 02:09 PM

It is important to begin the "reconquest" of Crimea in people’s minds, - Zelensky

The reconquest of Crimea began with the desire and readiness of the people.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky said this in an interview with French TV channels TF1 and LCI, Censor.NET reports with reference to Ukrinform.

"The operation itself has not yet begun. When it begins, you will hear about it. I believe that the recapture of Crimea began in people's minds. It is very important. In our inner desire. It is very important. In the strength of citizens, in unity in relation to this. Not just in the words "Crimea is Ukraine". We must be ready to go, because no one will just give it up. And therefore, the reconquest always begins with society, with desire and readiness. Therefore, I believe that there is a beginning," Zelensky said.

Regarding the dual attitude in the West to Ukraine's intentions to return Crimea, in particular the thesis of "not annoying" the Kremlin dictator, Putin's decision to use nuclear weapons at some point does not depend on whether the Ukrainian president or Ukrainian society wants to take Crimea.

"If Putin wants to use nuclear weapons, he will use them. Just as he promised Macron, Merkel - everyone, that there will be no full-scale invasion of Ukraine... You simply cannot trust people who say something and act as they decide they personally. ... He acts as is beneficial to him, not to the Russian Federation. ... Therefore, the use of any weapon depends only on the strength of the union of Ukraine with Europe, the United States, the whole world. And when he sees this strength, he will not use anything," Zelensky believes.

According to him, in case of weakening of support for Ukraine, Russia can use any weapon. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387753

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 02:13 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBzh_dBgOXM

mapuc

12-18-22, 02:13 PM

So "Ukraine must win this war" this guy from EU says.

This generate a question-How far will he and the other elected politician go ?

Markus

Jimbuna

12-18-22, 03:15 PM

Putin postponed his invasion in Ukraine three times - Intelligence Service of Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has postponed attack on Ukraine three times, most recently in mid-February.

As informs Censor.NЕТ, it was reported by RBK-Ukraine with a reference to Deputy Chief of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine Vadym Skibitskyi's interview.

According to Skibitskyi, Putin discussed the date of the invasion several times with Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov and Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu.

"The FSB insisted on the offensive, they were convinced that they have prepared enough for the invasion. They invested huge resources and pushed Gerasimov to attack," explains the deputy head of the DIU.

He says that eventually Gerasimov buckled under pressure and approved the operation, but underestimated the situation.

"The fact that Russian units were provided with food, ammunition and fuel for only three days shows how badly they miscalculated," Skibitsky added.

He also reminded that as a result of this underestimation, all the first targets of the Russian Federation failed, they were unable to capture Kyiv, as well as Sumy, Chernihiv or Kharkiv.

It should be reminded that the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Valeriy Zaluzhny in an interview with the British press spoke about the possibility of repeated Russian offensive in Ukraine. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387781

Jimbuna

12-19-22, 07:12 AM

Lukashenko and Putin will discuss "military issues", Belarus will not be forced to participate in war, - Peskov

Russian and Belarusian dictators Putin and Lukashenko will discuss "military issues".

As reported by Censor.NET with reference to the propaganda publication RIA Novosti, this was stated by Putin's spokesman Dmytro Peskov.

"Today, at the talks between Putin and Lukashenka, there will be an opportunity to talk about military issues in view of the turbulence," he noted.

At the same time, Peskov called the publications that Putin is going to Minsk to force Belarus to participate in the war against Ukraine "stupid and baseless fictions". Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387909

7 ships with 182,000 tons of agricultural products for Africa, Asia, and Europe left ports of Odesa in two days

As part of the "Grain Initiative", 7 ships with 182,000 tons of agricultural products for Africa, Asia, and Europe left the ports of Odesa in two days.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reported to the Facebook page of the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine.

"Among them are tankers BOSPHORUS ASIA (30.5) and PRINCESS MANISSA (20.5) with 51,000 tons of corn for Tunisia and Libya," the message reads.

Currently, 24 vessels are being processed in the ports of Odesa. 973 thousand tons of Ukrainian agricultural products are loaded onto them. 5 ships are moving along the "grain corridor" to load 104,400 tons of agricultural products.

Since August 1, 565 ships have left the ports of Odesa, which exported 14.2 million tons of Ukrainian food to the countries of Asia, Europe, and Africa. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387894

Jimbuna

12-19-22, 07:16 AM

Putin struggling with illness as rivals circle with ally Lavrov ‘drinking and depressed'

Vladimir Putin's health is once again in the spotlight after bizarre rumours suggesting he had to sit on a special cushion during crunch meetings with military advisers after an operation. Meanwhile, with the war on Ukraine approaching the ten-month mark, reports have suggested Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov is also ill, suffering from depression and drinking heavily.

A story carried on the General SVR Telegram channel claimed Putin had been forced to stay in the same position for long periods during lengthy meetings, leaning on a table, while sitting on the pillow after undergoing "proctological surgery" last Saturday.

Bizarrely, General SVR claims the 70-year-old needs "special underwear that retains liquids and odours".

The channel claims the operation was performed after Putin fell down the stairs at his official residence, although the Kremlin denies this.

A video shows him at the meeting of the security council, but reports suggested it had been "canned" and recorded earlier than the Kremlin admitted, given that senate speaker Valentina Matviyenko, 73, is shown wearing the same clothes in two separate sessions one day apart.

Rumours about Putin's health have dogged him for months, with Proekt Media, a team of investigative journalists, earlier this year claiming he was accompanied by several doctors, including a thyroid cancer surgeon, on multiple trips between 2016 to 2019.

As for Lavrov, a source within the Russian foreign ministry told gulagu.net the 72-year-old has noticeably reduced his public activity and is seen at work less frequently.

The insider claimed: "One of the versions is health problems. We all think he drinks because he's depressed."

Lavrov is believed to have had a heart scare at the recent G20 summit in Bali.

Simultaneously, there are suggestions that potential successors are beginning to plot his downfall, including Yevgeny Prigozhin, 61, the businessman who bankrolls the Wagner Group, sometimes referred to as Putin's private army.

Puck News reports some US government officials as "eyeing Prigozhin warily, wondering if, ten months into the war, the source of a potential coup has emerged."

Christo Grozev, Bellingcat's chief Russia investigator, said: "This is uncharted territory for Putin.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-struggling-with-illness-as-rivals-circle-with-ally-lavrov-drinking-and-depressed/ar-AA15qcfn?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=7c292f8bcc004a399620dd41943191c7

Skybird

12-19-22, 07:21 AM

It got reported the US urged Ukraine to not go after and kill Gerassimov, to "not escalate" the war.

Strange world. I would especially go after the crime godfathers at the top. How could it be justified to okay the killing of ten thousand "lower beings" - thats what cannon fodder obviously is - in order to save the one big shark in the pool? These manhaters and souleaters are doing what they are doing right because they are treated as being untouchable.

les green01

12-19-22, 11:02 AM

Jimbuna

12-19-22, 04:01 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3Sda8EAXeE

Jimbuna

12-19-22, 04:02 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXE3EwT3gXA

Jimbuna

12-19-22, 04:09 PM

Immediately, three of Putin’s planes flew into sky to disguise his way to Belarus. MAP

Vladimir Putin’s plane arrived in Minsk, before that 2 more planes took off from Moscow and St. Petersburg, probably to divert attention from the aircraft carrying the president of the aggressor country.

This was reported by "MotorolkoHelp", Censor.NET reports.

It is reported that Il-96-300PU with registration number RA-96022 entered the airspace of Belarus. The flight departed from St. Petersburg at 1:25 p.m. local time. Flight number - RSD111.

Probably, another Il-96-300PU with the number RA-96020 was taken off from Moscow's Vnukovo airport at 1:30 p.m. for the conspiracy. Flight number - RSD1/RSD001.

In addition, two of Putin's planes, RA-96022 and RA-96014, were rushed to St. Petersburg in the morning, the second one was also lifted into the sky after the takeoff of the plane with Putin.

At 14:30, Il-96-300PU with registration number RA-96022, which took off from St. Petersburg at 13:25, landed at Minsk National Airport. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387947

Danilov on Russia’s nuclear disarmament: We don’t give sharp objects to mentally ill people

The Kremlin is doing everything it can to destroy Ukraine, but in reality it is destroying the Russian Federation, which will eventually have to be stripped of its status as a nuclear power.

Oleksiy Danilov, secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, stated this in an interview with "Ukrainian Pravda", Censor.NET reports.

"The enemy can do anything, taking into account the fact that they risked the destruction of their country. And this is not our decision, it was they who decided to destroy the Russian Federation. And they themselves are actively engaged in this issue. We had only one question for them and request - detach from us, return to your territory. But that was once upon a time. Now they have to make all satisfactions, contributions, all reparations and so on. After that we can talk with them about something for the future," Danilov said.

He once again emphasized that Russia must be deprived of nuclear weapons.

"The Russian Federation must be deprived of nuclear weapons. We don't give people with a sick psyche, for example, sharp objects or matches. Such people are isolated from society," - believes the secretary of the NSDC. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3387952

Netherlands will provide military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine as long as it is needed - Minister of Defense Ollongren

The Netherlands will provide military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine as long as it is needed.

This was stated by the Minister of Defense of the Netherlands Kaisa Ollongren, Censor.NET informs with reference to Ukrinform.

"As we witness Putin waging this senseless war, depriving Ukrainians of heat and electricity, our message is that we will not leave Ukraine out in the cold. Political, military and humanitarian support will continue to flow to Ukraine as long as needed." Ollongren wrote on Twitter.

The Netherlands will also help Ukraine with heavy military equipment. Together with the USA and the Czech Republic, the Netherlands will supply Ukraine with 90 modernized and overhauled T-72 tanks. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388001

August

12-19-22, 06:37 PM

From Belarus without much love: Russia's exaggerated offensive aspirations

by Tom Rogan, National Security Writer & Online Editor (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/author/tom-rogan) |

December 19, 2022 02:39 PM

Concerns over a new multifront Russian offensive in Ukraine (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/ukraine) are legitimate but exaggerated.

While Ukrainian generals are warning of such an offensive, their statements are primarily motivated by a need to maintain Western materiel and political support for Kyiv. With Vladimir Putin (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/vladimir-putin) visiting Alexander Lukashenko in Belarus (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/belarus) on Monday, fears are also centering on the possibility of a new southward offensive from Belarus toward Kyiv. What should we make of this threat?

As the crow flies, Belarus is just 50 miles north of Kyiv. Yet that's only one piece of the puzzle. After all, Russia's battlefield challenges are even worse today than they were the first time they attempted such an incursion. (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/the-grim-state-of-russias-war-effort-is-finally-leaking-into-russian-media-and-social-media) Russian troops are poorly led and generally badly trained, terribly equipped, underarmed, and beset by profound morale problems. These are problems that you cannot solve by sending musicians (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64016599) to the front. And the coming winter will significantly exacerbate (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/a-brutal-winter-is-coming-for-russian-forces-in-ukraine) all of them.

This is why Russia almost certainly lacks the means of conducting a multifront offensive to secure large new areas of Ukraine or Kyiv. But this isn't to say that Ukraine can be overconfident. The Belarus front deserves attention.

As I noted (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/how-adding-belarus-front-russia-establishes-ukraine-war-plan-flexibility) one month before Putin began the war in February, Belarus was key to Russia because it offered a relatively short route to Kyiv. In that regard, Putin's trip to Minsk on Monday deserves scrutiny. The Russian president almost certainly demanded Lukashenko join the war against Ukraine. Until now, Lukashenko has limited his support to munition and equipment, care for wounded Russian soldiers, and his allowing of Belorussian territory to be used for Russian air and missile operations.
Still, Lukashenko is deeply hesitant to participate in Putin's war. The dictator has so far resisted significant pressure from Putin to join. Lukashenko recognizes the battlefield crisis facing Russia and wants to avoid further Western sanctions against his struggling country's economy.

Even if he is an odd character, Lukashenko is not stupid. He knows the war is unpopular in Belarus, and the Belorussian military is relatively small. If the Belorussian military enters the war and suffers major losses, Lukashenko risks losing his means of controlling his restive population. That opens the door to a successful new revolution. In turn, even as Putin ups the pressure, probably with personal threats, Lukashenko likely views joining the war as an equally existential risk.

Putin described the Monday meeting as "very productive," and Lukashenko made similar comments. But only on Friday did Lukashenko offer a strident rebuke of the suggestion that he would allow Belarus to become a formally subordinated vassal of Putin's greater union state agenda. Lukashenko observed that "despite all the difficulties, if the leadership of the Russian Federation wants to build relations with the sovereign and independent state of Belarus, if Russia perceives us as a sovereign and independent state ... we are ready to build such relationships. We must always proceed from the fact that we are a sovereign and independent state." This is not the language of a leader cowed by Putin.

Concerns over a new multifront Russian offensive in Ukraine (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/ukraine) are legitimate but exaggerated.
While Ukrainian generals are warning of such an offensive, their statements are primarily motivated by a need to maintain Western materiel and political support for Kyiv. With Vladimir Putin (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/vladimir-putin) visiting Alexander Lukashenko in Belarus (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/tag/belarus) on Monday, fears are also centering on the possibility of a new southward offensive from Belarus toward Kyiv. What should we make of this threat?

As the crow flies, Belarus is just 50 miles north of Kyiv. Yet that's only one piece of the puzzle. After all, Russia's battlefield challenges are even worse today than they were the first time they attempted such an incursion. (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/the-grim-state-of-russias-war-effort-is-finally-leaking-into-russian-media-and-social-media) Russian troops are poorly led and generally badly trained, terribly equipped, underarmed, and beset by profound morale problems. These are problems that you cannot solve by sending musicians (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64016599) to the front. And the coming winter will significantly exacerbate (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/a-brutal-winter-is-coming-for-russian-forces-in-ukraine) all of them.

This is why Russia almost certainly lacks the means of conducting a multifront offensive to secure large new areas of Ukraine or Kyiv. But this isn't to say that Ukraine can be overconfident. The Belarus front deserves attention.

As I noted (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/how-adding-belarus-front-russia-establishes-ukraine-war-plan-flexibility) one month before Putin began the war in February, Belarus was key to Russia because it offered a relatively short route to Kyiv. In that regard, Putin's trip to Minsk on Monday deserves scrutiny. The Russian president almost certainly demanded Lukashenko join the war against Ukraine. Until now, Lukashenko has limited his support to munition and equipment, care for wounded Russian soldiers, and his allowing of Belorussian territory to be used for Russian air and missile operations.
Still, Lukashenko is deeply hesitant to participate in Putin's war. The dictator has so far resisted significant pressure from Putin to join. Lukashenko recognizes the battlefield crisis facing Russia and wants to avoid further Western sanctions against his struggling country's economy.

Even if he is an odd character, Lukashenko is not stupid. He knows the war is unpopular in Belarus, and the Belorussian military is relatively small. If the Belorussian military enters the war and suffers major losses, Lukashenko risks losing his means of controlling his restive population. That opens the door to a successful new revolution. In turn, even as Putin ups the pressure, probably with personal threats, Lukashenko likely views joining the war as an equally existential risk.

Putin described the Monday meeting as "very productive," and Lukashenko made similar comments. But only on Friday did Lukashenko offer a strident rebuke of the suggestion that he would allow Belarus to become a formally subordinated vassal of Putin's greater union state agenda. Lukashenko observed that "despite all the difficulties, if the leadership of the Russian Federation wants to build relations with the sovereign and independent state of Belarus, if Russia perceives us as a sovereign and independent state ... we are ready to build such relationships. We must always proceed from the fact that we are a sovereign and independent state." This is not the language of a leader cowed by Putin.
Lukashenko's strategy toward Russia appears to remain centered in a calibrated effort to maintain critical economic ties with Russia by doing just enough to keep Putin from pushing him out of power. Lukashenko also likely still bets that Putin's deepening challenge in Ukraine and concern over a Western government taking power in Belarus mean that Russia won't risk overthrowing him.

That leaves us with the battlefield dynamics. Belarus still offers Russia a geographic opportunity to rush toward Kyiv. But Russian forces would be in an even worse position than they were in February were they to attempt such an attack.

It is doubtful that even a joint Russian-Belorussian southern offensive toward Kyiv could break through Ukrainian lines and sustain offensive momentum with adequate logistics and command support. Moreover, Russia's rapidly perishing stocks of ever-older artillery and missile munitions would mean that Ukraine might feasibly hold Russian forces outside Kyiv while launching simultaneous counteroffensives against attacking Russian forces in eastern and southeastern Ukraine. Considering their doctrinal sympathies, British Army advisers in Ukraine would likely suggest just that (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/guided-by-british-special-forces-ukraine-is-escalating-the-deep-battlespace-fight-against-russia). Considering the repeated inability of Russian forces to conduct organized retreats, Putin could quickly face a critical problem. He might even risk losing control over Crimea (https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/crimea-politics-and-why-russia-had-to-retreat-from-kherson), something that would directly threaten Putin's stability in Moscow.
Put simply, the potential of a new Russian offensive deserves attention but not exaggerated alarm.

https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/opinion/from-belarus-without-much-love-russias-exaggerated-offensive-aspirations

Skybird

12-19-22, 07:33 PM

Westfälische Nachrichten:
-------------------------------
The intelligence service of Moldova, which borders Ukraine, fears a Russian invasion next year. "The question is not whether the Russian Federation will carry out a new offensive against Moldovan territory, but when," intelligence chief Alexandru Musteata told state television. A period between January and April is possible, he said. By the "new" offensive, Musteata was referring to the stationing of Russian soldiers in Transnistria, a breakaway part of the country since the early 1990s, where they act as so-called peacekeepers.

According to information from his intelligence service, Russia intends to link Transnistria and Moldova. "Yes, we can clearly say that they intend to come here," Musteata said. Russian plans regarding the capital, Chisinau, are not yet apparent, he said. "But this is a real and very high risk."
-------------------------------

Commander Wallace

12-19-22, 09:19 PM

A Russian tank unit deliberately attacked another Russian position in Ukraine, report says, illustrating vicious rivalries within Putin's army

Alia Shoaib
Sun, December 18, 2022 at 11:17 AM EST

https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/PfyA48m9SYkzladkybJD_A--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTYwMjtjZj13ZWJw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/business_insider_articles_888/d8192482d79b3fe6153f6e4aaca1e9cf

An abandoned Russian military tank left in the Ukrainian city of Balakliia after Russian Forces withdrew from the Kharkiv region on September 15, 2022.Metin Aktas/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images

A Russian tank unit attacked another Russian position in Ukraine following an argument, the NYT said.
The incident demonstrates the vicious in-fighting that has plagued Vladimir Putin's military.
There has been open sparring among the leaders of different splinters of Russian forces.

A Russian tank commander deliberately attacked another Russian position in the Zaporizhzhia region of Ukraine this summer following a battlefield argument, a major new report said.
The incident, part of a sweeping investigation by The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2022/12/16/world/europe/russia-putin-war-failures-ukraine.html#divided-ranks), is
one of the clearest examples of the vicious in-fighting that has plagued President Vladimir Putin's military throughout the war.

A Russian drone operator who said he witnessed the episode told the paper that a Russian tank commander drove his T-90 tank toward a group of Russian national guard troops, fired at their checkpoint and blew it up."Those types of things happen there," the soldier said, adding that he has since fled Russia.

The national guard, or Rosgvardia, is not part of the Russian armed forces, and reports to Putin directly. That rift was one of several at play in the Russian war effort. Other power centers include the mercenary Wagner group, led by Putin ally Yevgeny Prigozhin, and the forces led by Ramzan Kadyrov, the warlord who leads

Russia's semi-autonomous region of Chechnya.
The Russian military appears to have limited coordination with any of them, officials said, according to the paper.
"There was no unified command, there was no single headquarters, there was no single concept and there was no unified planning of actions and command," retired Russian General Leonid Ivashov told the paper. "It was destined to be a defeat."

The friction between these factions has spilled out into the open at times, including when Kadyrov and other Putin allies criticized the Russian military's retreat (https://www.businessinsider.com/putin-allies-bash-russia-military-leaders-retreat-from-ukraine-city-2022-10?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=yahoo.com) from a city in Ukraine in October. Kadyrov said at the time that the "incompetent" general that should be "sent to the front to wash his shame off with blood," per The New York Times. (https://www.nytimes.com/2022/10/01/world/europe/lyman-russia-retreat-putin.html?smid=url-share)
Prigozhin echoed the sentiment, the paper said, commenting about Russian military generals: "Send all these pieces of garbage barefoot with machine guns straight to the front."

https://www.yahoo.com/news/russian-tank-unit-deliberately-attacked-161709325.html

Jimbuna

12-20-22, 06:35 AM

Ukraine: Putin warned it would take NATO just 'three days' to take out Russia

Vladimir Putin has been warned that NATO could take out Russia in just three days if the conflict between the two sides exploded to dangerous levels. If the Russian President was to attack a NATO member state, that particular country could invoke Article 5 of the alliance's charter, which states "an attack against one ally is considered an attack against all allies". Adam Kinzinger, the US representative for Illinois's 16th congressional district, responded to a Tweet questioning why NATO hasn't defeated Russia yet. He wrote: "I'm hoping this is a joke. NATO vs Russia would be like a real three day operation."
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/ukraine-putin-warned-it-would-take-nato-just-three-days-to-take-out-russia/ar-AA15rg9F?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=4f047ea29f474b49b8c3241c990833df

Jimbuna

12-20-22, 06:42 AM

Putin's Defence Minister sparks serious health fears after 'limping and hiding right hand'

Vladimir Putin's Defence Minister has been spotted "limping and hiding his right hand" - months after the Kremlin denied he had suffered a heart attack. Sergei Shoigu is regarded as one of the main driving forces behind Russia's war strategy in Ukraine and has been pictured alongside Putin on several occasions. But the Russian Defence Minister has sparked renewed health fears after he was seen limping in the Palace of Independence in Minsk, Belarus, with his right hand in his suit pocket.

Anton Gerashchenko, a Ukrainian official advisor and a former deputy minister at the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs, took to Twitter to share a 14-second clip of Shoigu.

He wrote in tweet alongside this video: "Shoigu arrived in Minsk limping and hiding his right hand. Slightly wounded?"

Some people responding to the short clip speculating the limp and hidden hand might be down to more serious health issues.

Twitter user "Jon Erland Madsen" (@Tvisyn) wrote: "When he disappeared the first day of the full scale invasion in February, his office said he was on sick leave with a heart condition.

"When he reappeared, he seemed to have speech problems. He might have had a stroke, partly paralyzing his right side."

"Moonfish" (@DoctorMoonfish) wrote: "He's sore enough that he hadn't adjusted his tie after sitting-up and buttoning his coat.

"Both hidden hand and weak leg are on same side of body (right). No abrasions on his face. I am more inclined to believe it evidences a stroke rather than a recent fall or other accident."

Fellow Twitter user "@Gazpacho_Marx" (@WinninghamMatt) commented: "Hand in the pocket is so that it won't swing erratically when he does the bad limp. Very common in stroke victims."

In April, speculation began circulating about after Shoigu went off the radar, with some suggesting he had suffered a heart attack.

Exiled business tycoon and Putin foe Leonid Nevzlin - a leading foe of Putin - claimed the Russian Defence Minister was "out of the game" after suffering a "massive heart attack".

He claimed at the time, citing his own sources in Moscow: "He is in intensive care, connected to devices."

It had also been reported that Putin had ordered Shoigu to operate from a nuclear bunker in the Urals, a mountain range running from north to south through western Russia.

The Russian Defence Minister was today joining Putin in Minsk where the President was made his first visit in three years to close ally and Belarus dictator, Alexander Lukashenko.

Putin, himself dodged by reported health issues over recent months, appeared to give a small jump as he came down the stairways from his plane before meeting the Belarusian President.

The trip to Minsk could be a sign of more military support for Russia's war effort in Ukraine, after Belarus provided the Kremlin's troops with a launching pad for the invasion of its eastern neighbour in February.

It has been widely speculated Belarus has Soviet-era weapons stockpiles that could be useful for Russia.

Putin sat beside Lukashenko before their talks, emphasising the allies' close military-technical ties, adding they not only mutual supplies of equipment, but also joint work in high-tech military industries.

Experts have speculated Russia might once again turn to Belarus for military support as it continues its war in Ukraine over the freezing winter.

The Institute for the Study of War think tank said: "The capacity of the Russian military, even reinforced by elements of the Belarusian armed forces, to prepare and conduct effective large-scale mechanized offensive operations in the next few months remains questionable."

It also concluded that "it is unlikely that Lukashenko will commit the Belarusian military (which would also have to be re-equipped) to the invasion of Ukraine."
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/putin-s-defence-minister-sparks-serious-health-fears-after-limping-and-hiding-right-hand/ar-AA15sDU6?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=00ef825547144b1f9faa14e92c2f8f6e

Jimbuna

12-20-22, 07:00 AM

This is no longer just a Russia-Ukraine war and the UK must be ready for Putin’s next move

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is right to call for a sober strategic assessment of the Ukraine conflict. If conducted honestly it will offer a reality check about Russia’s long-term intentions, what “success” in Ukraine may look like, and the limitations of our own defence.

Ever more Western commentaries claim the tide has turned in our favour. Putin is now on the back foot. His troops are demoralised and running out of ammunition. The dictator’s popularity in Moscow is on the slide. All may be true but it’s the wrong conclusion to assume the fighting may be over soon or could head towards a stalemate and that it’s time for talks.

Let’s dismiss the myth that Russia’s brief dabble with democracy following the collapse of the Soviet Union can be rekindled. Russia’s invasions of Georgia, Crimea and now Ukraine prove it has resorted to type. Expansionism is how the Motherland has long learnt to defend itself.

Peter the Great pushed the Swedes back in the North. Catherine the Great took on the Turks in the South. And Stalin took on the Nazis in the West. Today it’s the threat of Nato, EU and Western norms that Putin spins as the threat to Russia.

This is not just about Ukraine but a wider battle against the threat of European values, hence Putin is widening the conflict well beyond Ukraine’s borders, weaponising grain, oil and gas to harm all European economies. The economic mayhem and political discord here in the UK caused by war in Eastern Europe will not have gone unnoticed by Russia. A wily Russian president seeking to leverage this further might sabotage one of the UK’s vital incoming energy interconnectors from Scandinavia.

Ironically, leading politicians regularly blame Russia’s illegal invasion for our economic woes here but fail to make the case for putting the fire in Ukraine out – not just because it’s the right thing to do, but because it’s in our economic interests to do so.

We must acknowledge Russia’s wider intention is to promote a new era of insecurity for which we are currently unprepared. Britain has led the way in pioneering ever more complex military support from across Europe. It has allowed Ukraine to secure sweeping territorial gains. But to what end? The Government’s standard reply is that “it’s for Ukraine to determine”.

This is to outsource our foreign policy and leave Ukraine to do all the heavy lifting. Let’s agree – this is now a European war and it’s in our collective interests to close it down. We should unite around the short-term mission to liberate Ukraine and long-term goal to stand up to Russia’s imperialist objectives in any part of Europe.

For at this moment Moscow rightly judges that Europe will endure one cold winter in support of Ukraine and no more. Our Prime Minister needs to change this mindset by making the case, not just to stay the course, but to win at a time when some allies are already losing the stomach for the fight. That means upgrading our own security architecture.

We can be rightly proud of Britain’s military support for Ukraine, but it has depleted much of our ammunition and equipment stocks. The threats we face – along with demands to step in domestically in response to industrial action – cannot be managed on a peacetime budget with an ever-shrinking military work force which has not received a substantial pay rise in years.

Our world is getting more dangerous, not less. Ukraine eloquently illustrates that our economy is affected by growing insecurity. If we lack the hard power to help protect grain ships from departing Odesa the cost of living will increase here in the UK. Investing in defence means investing in protecting our economy.

As Putin prepares for a spring initiative with further mobilisation of troops, this is not the time to blink. The Prime Minister’s audit offers the perfect opportunity to upgrade and re-design our European foreign policy. We need, in short, to clarify our objective, strategy and tactics up to and beyond the Ukraine war.

If we are to respond properly to the beginning of this new Cold War we have to get serious. We simply have no option but to have a new “Strategic Defence Review” and be ready to finance the recommendations. Spending three per cent of our GDP on retooling our armed forces is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity.

The first duty of any British government is to protect national security. Russia is a long-term threat, Ukraine must win and we must rearm. Let our Prime Minister understand that the world has changed and recognise the long game we are in.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/this-is-no-longer-just-a-russia-ukraine-war-and-the-uk-must-be-ready-for-putin-s-next-move/ar-AA15rMOY?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=2956e5f574c14c5f811475a46fdc8ffa

Jimbuna

12-20-22, 07:10 AM

Total combat losses of Russian Federation since beginning of war - about 99,230 people (+430 per day), 266 helicopters, 2,995 tanks, 1,960 artillery systems, 5,974 armored vehicles. INFOGRAPHICS

Losses of the Russian occupiers as of the morning of December 20 are approximately 99,230 people.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the press center of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

As noted, the total combat losses of the enemy from 24/02 to 19/12 are approximately:

personnel - about 99,230 (+430) people were liquidated,
tanks - 2995 (+7) units,
armored combat vehicles - 5974 (+5) units,
artillery systems - 1,960 (+7) units,
MLRS - 410 (+0) units,
air defense equipment - 212 (+0) units,
aircraft - 281 (+0) units,
helicopters - 266 (+2) units,
UAVs of the operational-tactical level - 1680 (+23),
cruise missiles -653 (+0),
warships/boats - 16 (+0) units,
automotive equipment and tank trucks - 4599 (+7) units,
special equipment - 177 (+2). Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388074

Skybird

12-20-22, 08:31 AM

Skybird

12-20-22, 08:37 AM

Focus:
------------------
An explosion reportedly occurred on the Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhgorod gas pipeline west of the Russian city of Kazan. The pipeline carries gas from Russia via Ukraine to Europe.

Three people have died in the explosion of a gas pipeline in central Russia, local officials and the TASS news agency reported Tuesday. The destroyed pipeline transports gas from the Russian Arctic through Ukraine to Europe.

Local officials said via the messaging app Telegram that the flow of gas through the section of the Urengoy-Pomary-Uzhhorod pipeline was interrupted at 1:50 p.m. local time.

TASS quoted local emergency services as saying that three people had died and one had been injured.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Chuvash region said the pipeline exploded during planned maintenance work. The accident happened near the village of Kalinino, about 150 km west of the Volga city of Kazan. The resulting gas flare was extinguished, it said.

The pipeline, built in the 1980s, runs to Ukraine via the Sudzha metering point and is currently the main route for Russian gas to Europe.
----------------

Jimbuna

12-20-22, 09:31 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bfj2c5racUY

Skybird

12-20-22, 10:02 AM

I have the feeling, too, that the Ukrainian losses are heavier than what is vaguely described to be, if even being mentioned at all. We know that the Russians are firinbg sevcerlka times a smnany artikleklry shewlls form beginning on. This cnanot happen without causing effects as long as they do not shoot 180° at the opposite direction. Its also pretty clear that the weapons given to Ukraine, the Western systems I mean, are superior to Russian counterparts - but that they are just drops of water on a hot stone, due to their small numbers.

Just days ago i said that Ukraine may have - or may have had - the tactical initiative in the grond battle, but that Russia, as that Kremlin-critical politologist I quoted said, seems to have the (strategic) initiative back, and that its reserves in quantity, though not quality, are immense. And that Russia can have destroyed boig parts of Ukraine even if if being driven out of the country.

We do not understand or do not want to see that this already is a war were thew Werst has taklen sides and is deeply involve din it, whether we like it or not. Still we refuse to wake up to this reality and fight this war as would be needed, instead we are coincerned all day long to not provoke Russia more.

I do not see Ukraine loosing soon, but currently I see it loosing nevertheless in the long run. Either by gettign defated by Russia, or by paying a so big price for driving Russia out that it is effectively destroyed as a livable state and survivable entity.

Our acts in this war lack the needed determination. Poland and the Baltic states see it, understand it, but them alone cannot doo too much, even if, standardized by their economy and population size, do many factors as much than Europe or the US. They simply lack the total net weight.

And then there also is a lets call it formal dilemma. Ukraine is no NATO member, formally. Still I demand that we defend it and it is demanded by some that we fight over it as if it were a NATO member. This of course is a contradiction, it renders NATO membersup kind of pointless. If you must not be NAOT membe rin order to benefit form prteciton by NATO, then what poiunt is ther ean ylonge rin doiferebntiating between formal membership and non-membership? Its a dilemma and I have no reply to it, just pragmatic acting - acting to get engaged in this war, accepting the contradiction in this policy, and excusing it with further leading own survival interests and strategic interests that effect ourselves more than the Ukraine. We should niot be in this position, but unfortunately we are. We have no reasonable answer, and still must decide and do and live with it. Things are not perfect. Sometimes life just sucks.

Dargo

12-20-22, 10:38 AM

mapuc

12-20-22, 10:44 AM

^^ You comment made me remember a Danish article.

Russia has such large military resources that it is possible to attack civilian targets in Ukraine from the air with the current intensity for several more years

Putin has cancelled his annual press conference and also his annual message to the people of the Russian Federation.

In August he held a huge party in the Kremlin to celebrate the formal incorporation of a number of occupied Ukrainian regions into Russia. However, large parts of these regions have been retaken by Ukraine. So what is he going to say?

Yet the intensive air strikes, designed to systematically destroy Ukraine's infrastructure and make life unbearable for its people, continue day after day and night after night.

At the same time, even more destruction is threatened if Ukraine hits military targets on Russian territory. For the time being, one Russian shopping centre after another is burning down on a scale that suggests sabotage.

A Russian organisation, Russia's Freedom, recently claimed it was behind the sabotage of a railway line carrying military supplies for the war in Ukraine. And recently, Ukrainian drones hit Russian bombers at a base deep inside Russia. There have also been numerous Ukrainian attacks on military targets in Crimea in the past.

Now a well-known Ukrainian journalist, Dimitrij Gordon, predicts that "all of Russia will soon burn". This is necessary to make the Russian people understand the seriousness of the Kremlin's crimes in Ukraine. "Of course we must bomb Russian territory to destroy military targets - not the civilian population," he says.

He also imagines that the Lenin Mausoleum in Red Square by the Kremlin walls with the stuffed Lenin will be hit.

Since the Russians themselves have not been able to confront Lenin and his misdeeds, we must do it for them - he argues. Many Russians believe that as long as the remains of Lenin are kept and venerated in the centre of the Russian state, Russia will be corrupted by the evil spirit of the mass murderer.

Ukrainian Lieutenant General Mykhailo Zabrodskyi estimates that Russia has such large military stockpiles and resources that it is possible to attack civilian targets in Ukraine from the air with the current intensity for several years. From all parts of the Federation, from the Baltic to the Pacific, cruise missiles are being transported to the frontline against Ukraine. Ukraine still does not have weapons systems that can effectively protect it from these attacks.

Ukraine's top commander, General Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, would not rule out a new Russian offensive starting in Belarus to capture the capital Kyiv - perhaps in January. 300,000 new troops have been drafted in this autumn, but the question is how war-ready they are.

The experience so far is very disappointing for the Russians. The new recruits are poorly trained, poorly equipped and not at all motivated to go to war. They therefore drop like flies. The professional Wagner Corps of mercenaries, which now includes released criminals, fights better.

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)

I have my doubt about this..they are buying Drones and ballistic missiles from Iran and it wouldn't surprise me if they even buy war material from China and/or North Korea.

Markus

Dargo

12-20-22, 11:05 AM

^^ You comment made me remember a Danish article.

I have my doubt about this..they are buying Drones and ballistic missiles from Iran and it wouldn't surprise me if they even buy war material from China and/or North Korea.

MarkusThe Russian Ministry of Defense talks every day for half a year about how successfully the offensive against Bakhmut is going on... and guess it is still not taken. We have not seen any proof of Chinese and/or North Korean material used on the fronts.

Skybird

12-20-22, 11:38 AM

We only see (for months) Russian advances in meters when the Ukraine forces if in offensive retake kilometers of terrain Ukraine is dealing with this defense several times and could after the Russians fail to break through still lead two offensives with huge terrain win the rest is fog of war. Russia can deliver the meat to the fronts but still can not solve its supply and material problems, can not see in the future but still place my bet on Ukraine.
The Russians may advance at meters - but they also wear out Ukrainian units, and have destroyed 50% of the power infrastructure in Ukraine, done tremendous destruction to the economic infrastructure as well. Many bridges and factories are destroyed. Agricultural areas and fields are mined. Whole cities disappeared. We get told the Russians are stupid at Bachmuth and that they stick to a claimed worthless objective. Has anyone ever considered that maybe they know what they are doing when sticking to it - having the Ukrainians bleeding there like they bleed themnselves? Its a meat grinder apparently, and thats what the Russians keep it runnign for, I think. This new supreme commander of theirs unfortunately is not only as ruthless as was claimed, but also as competent as feared.

We better do not assess Russian gains only by meters won on the ground, this is no American football. They get their copmensations, I would say.

I stick to it: maybe Ukraine will finally drive the Russians out one day. But the costs for that could be that what then remains of Ukraine is not a functional state anymore. And no functional economy anymore. Also the fact that the aggressor never will be held responsibeo for compensatiuons tio tha damage he has done, can be seen as a form of victorious escape. No matter how all thsi ends: the ukrainians and the European donators are the ones who are left behind with the losses and burdens. Burdens in form of moeny for the Ukraine, burdens also in trades with Russia that are no moe there, siocne the Russians shift their trading to others who are willing to rade with them: at the costs of Europe that additonally dmages itself with its climate policies and its attempt to lecture and appease China at the same time. Yesterday Quatar has threatened to stop all gas deals with Europe - they can afford to do so, they can easily find other buyers. I must admit: a victory for Ukraine and for Europe - I think that would have a very different taste. I do not see us as winners even if the Russians must go home.

One thing is clear, however, there is a propaganda war raging, too, and the ukraine runs this part of the campaign much more refined and successful and skillful than Russia. Which only means that what Ukraine says must be taken with two, three and four grains of salt. I have no doubt that their situation and their losses, like the video above says, are much bleaker and more grim than we are made to believe by our media. I dont know how hiogh they are, but they cnanot be a slow as they imply or let the world beleive. I think that simply is not possible. Not after fighting of the intensity seen in many battles in Ukraine.

We must understand it: practically Europe already is at war with Russia, and is party in this war, so is America. It's just that everyone tiptoes around this admission because it describes the path to opening Pandorra's box. Nevertheless, we are still fooling ourselves.

mapuc

12-20-22, 01:25 PM

You scratch my back I scratch yours

Ben Wallace has warned that their military partnership “must be exposed”. The defence minister said Russia intends to supply Iran with “advanced military components”, a move which could “undermine security” both internationally and in the Middle East, as a token of gratitude for their supplying more than 300 deadly “kamikaze drones” to Putin.

https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1711919/Russia-Iran-weapons-supplies-war-in-Ukraine-Ben-Wallace

Markus

Skybird

12-21-22, 07:37 AM

Markus Kaim, born in 1968, is a senior fellow in the "Security Policy" research group at the Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik in Berlin, as well as a lecturer at the Institute for Political Science at the University of Zurich and a visiting lecturer at the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin. he writes in Der Spiegel:
---------------------------------

The Secret Fear of a Quick Peace

In hardly any other European country is an end to the Russian-Ukrainian war as longed for as in Germany. It is a very heterogeneous group that is urging the parties to the conflict to reach a quick negotiated settlement: Some argue the terrible consequences of the war for the Ukrainian population, which is suffering from the destruction of civilian infrastructure by Russian airstrikes.

Others point to the war's lasting destabilizing effect on Europe, migratory movements, high energy prices, and the conflict's risk of escalation. Finally, a third group hopes that a swift Ukrainian-Russian peace will allow them to return as quickly as possible to the state of economic and energy relations between Berlin and Moscow before February 24.

Only a cynic would turn a deaf ear to the cause of peace. But just as a war is bound to certain preconditions and has specific consequences, a peace is also subject to or produces comparable effects. Both states of aggregation have far-reaching consequences for the parties to the conflict, the parties indirectly involved and the global balance of power. From this perspective, it seems questionable whether Germany would be prepared at all for the desired quick peace between Moscow and Kiev.

The German strategic gap

A quick peace would strategically catch German policy on the wrong foot. It is indisputable that all the basic assumptions of Germany's Russia policy of the past 25 years have turned out to be wrong and that this field of German foreign policy became one of the first victims of the war: "Change through trade" or "European security can only be organized together with Russia" are just two of these diplomatic gems which, representative of many others, mark the complete defeat of German Russia policy.

At present, then, German policy can indicate what is no longer the basis of bilateral relations. A new Russia policy for the future, however, does not exist. That it will be guided by security policy priorities rather than energy policy priorities is so far only conjecture. Whether the National Security Strategy, which the German government will present in a few weeks, will be able to close this gap remains to be seen.

A quick peace in Ukraine, possibly only in the form of a fragile ceasefire, would be tempting in times of this strategic vacuum. The outcome of the war would then define the goals of Berlin's future Russia policy from a pragmatic point of view. Strategic foreign policy, however, works the other way around: its security policy goals should guide the German government in defining and implementing its future policy toward Ukraine and Russia even before the end of the war. Elsewhere, this is happening: the huge aid and reconstruction pledges to Kiev or Ukraine's EU candidate status are far-reaching geopolitical decisions for the future of Europe.

Germany as guarantor of European security

In early December, Chancellor Olaf Scholz outlined in a technical article that Germany aspires to become "a guarantor of European security, just as our allies expect us to be." He set the bar high by firing up the hopes of German allies and claiming political leadership of the West. After all, a "guarantor" is clearly more than a contributor; it provides guarantees for the performance of the European security architecture, it provides the necessary military and financial resources, and it bears the corresponding costs disproportionately.

A litmus test for this claim will be what contribution Germany is willing to make to securing Ukraine's territorial integrity and political sovereignty. The obvious option, namely NATO membership for Ukraine, was again put on the back burner by the German government at the last meeting of NATO foreign ministers. Nor does Berlin really like to commit itself to granting security guarantees to Kiev, even after ten months of war. Both Chancellor Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock have repeatedly expressed Germany's willingness to do so in principle. However, there is still a droning silence on the details.

A quick peace would deprive the German government of the possibility of this "strategic ambivalence" and force a concretization of the hitherto vague commitments. For the alternative is even more dangerous: a Ukraine threatened from the east, inadequately connected to the West, would remain a haven of instability. In this respect, too, a quick peace in Ukraine would be rather inconvenient for German foreign policy.

Germany and U.S. Security Policy

In the wake of Russia's attack on Ukraine, the United States has unhesitatingly fulfilled its security obligations in and for Europe and forcefully underscored its role as a protective power. Since February 2022, the Biden administration has supported Ukraine with massive arms deliveries, sworn the West to severe economic sanctions against Russia, and increased the number of U.S. troops in Europe by some 20,000 to more than 100,000. The U.S. Congress had provided aid to Ukraine totaling $68 billion through mid-November 2022 alone.

However, the Biden administration's security policy commitment in favor of Ukraine and Europe is ultimately only a snapshot, which one may be pleased about in Europe's capitals, but which one should not interpret as a permanent regular state or even use as a basis for one's own strategic planning. Even if the Biden administration's support for Ukraine does not diminish in the short term, Washington is unlikely to be able or willing to maintain the current level of diplomatic engagement, troop deployments and financial resources for European security in the long term.

This is because the U.S. political turn toward the Indo-Pacific region continues unabated. The main focus is on China's rise in power politics. As early as May 2022, U.S. Secretary of State Blinken clearly communicated U.S. prioritization to the Europeans: "Even as President Putin's war continues, we will remain focused on the most serious long-term challenge to the international order - and that comes from the People's Republic of China." The outbreak of a military conflict in Asia, in which China could attack Taiwan, would change U.S. priorities even more rapidly. The same thing happened with a quick peace in Ukraine, which would allow a reduction in U.S. involvement.

The German government would therefore urgently need to start thinking now about how to permanently recalibrate the transatlantic security relationship. More political responsibility, a stronger military commitment, and greater financial burdens over decades will be necessary to "successfully weather the geopolitical storms of our time" (Scholz).

A quick peace between Kiev and Moscow would also increase the pressure to act in this regard. Ten months after the proclamation of the turning point, it seems doubtful whether all those responsible in Berlin are aware of this.
-----------------
I think the idea of Germany as a guarantor of Ukrainian or European security is simply ridiculous, it is far too impotent militarily for that. And Babble-Olaf doesn't want to show leadership, he's too cowardly and turncoatish for that. He just wants to pretend and get the applause.

Jimbuna

12-21-22, 08:00 AM

Zelensky in Washington: Ukraine's leader heads to US for first foreign trip

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky says he is on his way to Washington, where he will meet US President Joe Biden on Wednesday.

It is his first foreign trip since Russia invaded in February.

Details of how and when he travelled are unlikely to be made public, given the security risks involved.

The White House confirmed it would supply Ukraine with a Patriot missile system, significantly increasing the country's air defence capability.

"On my way to the US to strengthen resilience and defense capabilities of Ukraine," Mr Zelensky wrote on Twitter.

He also said he would give a speech to Congress and hold a number of meetings.

The visit was, unsurprisingly, kept as a secret, with official confirmation coming only hours before it was due to start.

The US has been Ukraine's most important ally in the war, committing $50bn of humanitarian, financial and security assistance - far more than any other country.

Mr Zelensky has held regular phone calls with Western leaders since the start of the war. But by hosting him at the White House, President Biden will signal that Washington is committed to supporting the country for "as long as it takes", as has been repeatedly said.

Russia said the visit would lead to an "aggravation of the conflict".

"This does not bode well for Ukraine," Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said.

In its briefing ahead of Mr Zelensky's visit, the White House confirmed a new package of nearly $2bn (£1.6bn) of security assistance for Ukraine.

That includes a new Patriot missile system - a sophisticated air defence system that will help Ukraine to protect its cities from missiles and drones that Russia has fired at critical facilities.

The visit to Washington comes a day after President Zelensky, dressed in combat khaki, was in Bakhmut, a front-line city in eastern Ukraine that has seen some of the fiercest battles in this war.

He met troops and handed out awards to soldiers, the presidency said.

The visit was a significant show of defiance - and a demonstration of support for Ukrainian forces on the front line.

Soldiers gave Mr Zelensky a Ukrainian flag with their names signed on it and asked him to give it to President Biden and the US Congress, in a moment that was captured on camera.

President Zelensky has vowed to take back all territory that's under occupation, including areas invaded before February. Before the visit, in his traditional evening address, he said Ukraine would do "everything possible and impossible, expected and unexpected" to get "the results that all Ukrainians expect".

Also on Wednesday, the Kremlin says Russian President Vladimir Putin will set Russia's military goals for 2023 in an "important, voluminous speech".

Since Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February, the US military estimates that at least 100,000 Russian and 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or injured, along with some 40,000 civilian deaths.

The UN has recorded 7.8 million people as refugees from Ukraine across Europe, including Russia. However, the figure does not include those who have been forced to flee their homes but remain in Ukraine.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64047058

Jimbuna

12-21-22, 08:34 AM

US Congress is going to recognize Russian Federation as aggressor state. This is alternative to being recognized as sponsor of terrorism, - The Hill

The leadership of the US Congress is working on the rapid introduction of a bill that would condemn Russia as an aggressor state. There is no mention of recognizing the Russian Federation as a sponsor of terrorism.

This was reported by the American publication The Hill with reference to the text of the draft law, Censor.NET informs.

The leadership of the US Congress and the White House are working on the fastest possible introduction of a bill that condemns Russia as an aggressor state during the visit of President Volodymyr Zelensky to Washington on December 21.

Passage of the bill would give Biden new powers to impose sanctions on Russian officials, but a House Republican aide called it a "half-baked" response to Zelensky's calls for the U.S. to designate Russia a state sponsor of terrorism.

"Zelensky requested the status of a state sponsor of terrorism, and instead the Biden administration told them that it would not support it, but invented an alternative status that does not even exist in US national or international law - there is no legal basis for this.
This is an incomplete PR event that will not punish Russia and will not help the Ukrainian people," said an aide to the congressman familiar with the discussions.

The draft text states that the president has the right to designate any country as an aggressor state if it is involved in acts of aggression against Ukraine and to punish anyone involved in aggression.

Critics of the text say the sanctions are redundant because the Biden administration has imposed sanctions on Putin and many of his top officials and family members since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine in February.

Organizations based in the USA and supporting Ukraine issued a joint statement opposing the draft law. The statement was signed by the Ukrainian Committee of the American Congress, the United Baltic-American National Committee, and Razom for Ukraine.

"This is a destructive concept that undermines the ongoing efforts of Congress to support Ukraine. Currently, Russia is waging a merciless war and genocide against Ukraine and its people.
This appointment will not change the actions of the Russian Federation, seize its assets, or lead to meaningful prosecution of the Russian government, and simply relies on the discretion of the executive branch to determine when Russian aggression against Ukraine will end," the joint statement said.

The groups expressed fears that declaring the Russian Federation an aggressor state would ease sanctions and return frozen assets to war criminals as part of possible early negotiations with Russia.

"Although the US government, Congress, and President Biden have done a lot to support Ukraine, the proposal of the aggressor state is counterproductive and should not be adopted," they wrote.

Ukrainian officials acknowledged to The Hill that aggressor state status does not meet their requests to designate Russia as a terrorist state, but support the measure as a way to describe Russia as committing acts of terrorism and may generally support the introduction of a separate term if it provides additional tools to punish the aggressor states. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388313

Jimbuna

12-21-22, 08:48 AM

Putin faces either trial or ignominious death in bunker, - Maliuk

The fate of Russian dictator Vladimir Putin will be one of two options. He faces trial or an inglorious death in a bunker.

As Censor.NET informs, the head of the SSU, Vasyl Maliuk, made such a statement in an interview with Natalia Moseichuk for the "1+1" TV channel.

"(Putin) played around, sneaked in, exposed himself. He is a bunker grandfather. He really lives in his painful world and two options will befall him: either the dock in The Hague or an inglorious death somewhere in a bunker in Altai," said Maliuk.

When asked by a journalist whether the scenario is real that Putin and his entourage will end up on the dock, he replied that "the SSU has a unique treasure trove of evidence."

"Today, the Security Service formed a unique treasure trove of evidence for future international criminal courts, our investigation is working on this...And in the materials that we have already collected, Karin Khan (Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court - ed.), when he saw them, said - "aerobatics"," noted Maliuk.

In turn, the head of the SSU clarified that it is about evidence that was collected not only publicly.

"A very large-scale set of clandestine investigative technical measures was carried out. We have a lot of interesting audio files and more. Therefore, everything has its time," added Maliuk. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388340

Ukraine has full information about Iran’s supply of drones to Russian Federation, - Danilov

Ukraine has complete information on Iran’s supply of drones to the Russian Federation. If Iran dares to supply missiles to Russia, it will become another challenge for Ukraine.

As Censor.NET informs, the Secretary of the National Security Council Oleksiy Danilov said this in an interview with "Voice of America".

"We have a clear understanding, based on our intelligence and the intelligence of our partners, what is happening with Iran. We are more than sure that these are Iranian drones. They supplied them to the Russian Federation, unfortunately, this is still happening today. And for us, this is a big challenge. Moreover, we know for sure that the Russian Federation is negotiating with Iran about the supply of other weapons to the territory of Russia. On the one hand, we should be happy that the Russian Federation does not have the internal ability to win this war without the involvement of other countries, but with on the other hand, it will be an additional challenge for us if Iran dares to supply Russia with not only drones, but also missiles," Danilov emphasized.

He added that the Ukrainian military has already learned to repel drone attacks, but, unfortunately, there are also cases when they achieve their goal, and this is a challenge for our country.

As for the 50% destruction of the Ukrainian energy system, from which the civilian population suffers, then, according to Danilov, the Russian Federation as a terrorist country has chosen exactly this path of war.

"Unfortunately, they are not taking off the agenda the very simple issue they are asking is the destruction of us as a nation. I am more than sure that they are no different than Hitler who was in the last century. This is the same regime today, so is Hitler. If he exterminated the Jews, then this one says: "I want to exterminate the Ukrainians," Danilov noted. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388356

Dargo

12-21-22, 12:43 PM

Jimbuna

12-21-22, 03:01 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q9_80trUK2U

vanjast

12-21-22, 04:36 PM

mapuc

12-21-22, 04:52 PM

We are in a phase of major propaganda war.. for the hearts and minds of you.
Things to consider:-

1:- Ukraine is NOT a country, but a part of Russia (please check reliable sources)
2:- This is a planned destruction of 'old' USA/WEF/NWO Central Bank systems.
3:- MSM is controlled by those that want you to think what 'BS' they 'propagate'.

40 years ago I admitted to myself that my Gov/Media had lied to me.. ??
Are you willing to admit that ?????????

I can answer you on first point.

In the years around the collapse of the Soviet Union Ukraine reclaim independent and in 1991 the Ukrainian government held a referendum-where a Majority voted for independent from Russia(Soviet was no more) Russia even accepted the outcome of this referendum and the borders between these two country.

2. would you please be serious-WEF and all the other things you mention is nothing but conspiracy.

3. It's all about what one believe when it comes to this war-If you believe in Putin-Well then you believe msm is lying to us and WEF is going to take over the world by resetting the economy.

Markus

August

12-21-22, 05:34 PM

We are in a phase of major propaganda war.. for the hearts and minds of you.
Things to consider:-

1:- Ukraine is NOT a country, but a part of Russia (please check reliable sources)

It most certainly is a country. Even in the commie days it was a Republic, no different than Czechoslovakia, Poland, Belarus, The Baltic States and every other SSR, not part of Russia.

Learn your history, stop believing fascist russian propaganda.

Commander Wallace

12-21-22, 05:43 PM

Dargo

12-21-22, 05:51 PM

Rockstar

12-21-22, 08:24 PM

We are in a phase of major propaganda war.. for the hearts and minds of you.
Things to consider:-

1:- Ukraine is NOT a country, but a part of Russia (please check reliable sources)
2:- This is a planned destruction of 'old' USA/WEF/NWO Central Bank systems.
3:- MSM is controlled by those that want you to think what 'BS' they 'propagate'.

40 years ago I admitted to myself that my Gov/Media had lied to me.. ??
Are you willing to admit that ?????????

So, by that way of thinking like Ukraine. Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Abkhazia, Georgia, Armenia, Turkmenistan aren’t countries either but instead as Putin claims just wayward provinces? News flash the age of the Tsars and the Russian/Soviet empire is dead.

August

12-21-22, 08:49 PM

So, by that way of thinking like Ukraine. Poland, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Abkhazia, Georgia, Armenia, Turkmenistan aren’t countries either but instead as Putin claims just wayward provinces?

I'm betting that he's just a Russian bot here to stir up trouble but like I said above, it was the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, not the Union of Soviet Socialist Russian States or whatever. The other republics did not belong to Russia, any more than France belongs to Germany because both are members of the European Union.

In both cases if you dissolve the Union, the Countries remain countries, independent countries.

BTW you said Turkmenistan twice. :03:

Otto Harkaman

12-21-22, 09:48 PM

MaDef

12-21-22, 11:20 PM

Reece

12-21-22, 11:26 PM

:har: :sign_yeah:

Skybird

12-22-22, 05:31 AM

I am of the opinion that with the Patriot missile system promised but not yet deployed the Russians are going to try to bomb, shoot missiles and launch drones to hit as much as they can beforehand. :hmmm:
No need for them to panic. You can always overcome a defence perimeter by oversaturating it. Or lure it into emptied status be sending decoys first. The Russians may have problems finding shots in their inventory. But so finds Ukraine it hard to always have enough ammo. Patriot missiles are not small. And a shot is very expensive.

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 07:01 AM

Zelensky: Ukraine is 'alive and kicking' and will never surrender

Volodymyr Zelensky was given a thunderous reception as he told a joint session of Congress that Ukraine is "alive and kicking" and would "never surrender".

In a 20-minute speech, repeatedly interrupted by standing ovations, the Ukrainian president invoked the spirit of the Second World War and the American War of Independence.

He told senators and members of Congress his soldiers needed more weapons, including planes, and that US spending on Ukraine was not "charity" but an "investment in global security and democracy".

Comparisons were made between his address and that of Winston Churchill to Congress at Christmas in 1941, a few weeks after Pearl Harbor.

At the end of his speech Mr Zelensky presented House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris with a Ukrainian battle flag signed by soldiers.

The flag was from the front line city of Bakhmut, which he visited the day before heading to Washington.

Mr Zelensky said: "This flag is a symbol of our victory in this war. The flag of those who defend Ukraine, Europe and the world at the cost of their lives.

"They asked me to bring this flag to you, to the US Congress, whose decisions can save millions of people."

Quoting America's war-time president Franklin Roosevelt, he said: "The American people in their righteous might will win through to absolute victory.”

Mr Zelensky added: "The Ukrainian people will win too. Absolutely."

He went on to refer to the Battle of the Bulge in 1944, and the Battle of Saratoga where the Americans turned the tide against the British during the War of Independence in 1777.

Mr Zelensky said: "Just like the brave American soldiers, which held their lines and fought back Hitler's forces during the Christmas of 1944, brave Ukrainian soldiers are doing the same to Putin's forces this Christmas. Ukraine holds its lines and will never surrender.

"Just like the Battle of Saratoga, the fight for Bakhmut will change the tragic story of our war for independence and of freedom.

"We Ukrainians will also go through our war of independence with dignity and success."

Thanking Congress and the American people for their support, Mr Zelensky said: "I hope my words of gratitude resonate in each American heart.

"Against all odds, and doom and gloom scenarios, Ukraine didn't fall. Ukraine is alive and kicking.

"We defeated Russia in the battle for the minds of the world. The Russian tyranny has lost control over us."

He said Russians were still "poisoned by the Kremlin" and would "stand the chance to be free only when they defeat the Kremlin in their minds."

The war in Ukraine would "define what type of world our children and grandchildren live in," he said.

America's support was crucial "not just to stand but to get to the turning point to win on the battlefield."

He said: "We have artillery, yes, thank you, we have it. Is it enough? Honestly, not really. For the Russians to completely pull out more cannons and shells are needed."

The Ukrainian president said he was not asking for US troops, but repeated his request for aircraft.

He said: "I assure you Ukrainian soldiers can operate American tanks - and planes - themselves.

"Your money is not charity, it's an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way. You can speed up our victory."

Mr Zelensky also said the backing of Russia's "genocidal policy" with Iranian drones showed how "one terrorist has found another".

He said: "It is just a matter of time when they will strike against your other allies if we do not stop them now. We must do it."

Mr Zelensky said, even if there was no electricity, Ukrainians would celebrate Christmas and "the light of our faith in ourselves will not be put out."

He said for Christmas "all of us millions of Ukrainians wish the same. Victory, only victory."
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/zelensky-ukraine-is-alive-and-kicking-and-will-never-surrender/ar-AA15y8O1?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=650aab4fe9dd4e58a588a90b2695a5f9

Skybird

12-22-22, 07:12 AM

Russian forces have entered the city of Bachmut in eastern Ukraine, which has been contested for months, according to British assessments. "Russian infantry are now likely to have gained a foothold in the eastern industrial areas of the city and have at times penetrated into the residential areas of the city," the Ministry of Defense in London announced Wednesday, citing intelligence. "Street fighting continues." It said the Russian troops were regular military as well as mercenaries from the Wagner group.
Fighting has been going on around Bachmut in the Donetsk region since June. Until now, the front line ran east of the city. The Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj had surprisingly visited Bachmut on Tuesday and distributed medals and gifts among soldiers. (Der Tagesspiegel)

In-city-fighting requires special training and skill, something I would not take for granted in Wagnerians and unmotivated Russian army reservist infantry.I assume the Ukrainians let them bleed for every row of house the Russians advance along. Question is - to what degree make the Russians the Ukrianians bleed in return?

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 07:44 AM

Putin's only aircraft carrier on fire as Soviet-era warship bursts into flames

A fire broke out onboard Russia's sole aircraft carrier on Thursday, Russian state media reported.

The Admiral Kuznetsov, a flagship of the Russian Navy, suffered a "minor" fire while undergoing repair work at a shipyard in the Arctic port of Murmansk, according to reports by the Russian state Tass and RIA Novosti news agencies. Both cited Aleksey Rakhmanov, head of the state-owned United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) which is overseeing a major refit of the carrier, as saying that the blaze was quickly extinguished and caused no casualties.

Delays and accidents have marred the Admiral Kuznetsov's ongoing overhaul, which began in 2017 and was initially set to conclude last year. At least one person was killed and 12 others were injured after a fire broke out in December 2019. The previous year, a crane crashed onto its deck after a floating dock holding it began to sink, causing unspecified damage.

Rakhmanov told Russian media in June that he expected the Admiral Kuznetsov to return to service in early 2024, almost three years behind schedule.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-s-only-aircraft-carrier-on-fire-as-soviet-era-warship-bursts-into-flames/ar-AA15yZky?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=369783dae76f453583f2ca620943e876

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 07:53 AM

Putin's chilling threat of Satan-II nuclear missile attack after Zelensky's visit to US

Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that chances of peace talks with Ukraine had been slashed by Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to visit US President Joe Biden. Speaking at a meeting of Russian military chiefs, Putin said that he is planning to deploy the hypersonic Satan-2 nuclear missile within weeks.

The mass-destroying missile can travel at a speed of 16,000mph, meaning it could hit the UK from 1,600 miles away in just six minutes.

After its firs test in April, Putin said the nuclear missile could "break through any defences", urging leaders "who try to threaten Russia to think twice".

The threat comes as Zelensky told cheering US legislators during a defiant wartime visit to the nation's capital on Wednesday that against all odds his country still stands, thanking Americans for helping to fund the war effort with money that is "not charity," but an "investment" in global security and democracy.

The whirlwind stop in Washington - his first known trip outside his country since Russia invaded in February - was aimed at reinvigorating support for his country in the US and around the world at a time when there is concern that allies are growing weary of the costly war and its disruption to global food and energy supplies.

Zelensky called the tens of billions of dollars in US military and economic assistance provided over the past year vital to Ukraine's efforts to beat back Russia and appealed for even more in the future.

"Your money is not charity," he sought to reassure both those in the room and those watching at home. "It's an investment in the global security and democracy that we handle in the most responsible way."

Just before his arrival, the US announced a new $1.8 billion military aid package, including for the first time Patriot surface-to-air missiles. And Congress planned to vote this week on a fresh spending package that includes about $45 billion in additional emergency assistance to Ukraine.

The speech to Congress came after President Joe Biden hosted Zelensky in the Oval Office for strategy consultations, saying the US and Ukraine would maintain their "united defence" as Russia wages a "brutal assault on Ukraine's right to exist as a nation." Biden pledged to help bring about a "just peace."

Zelensky told Biden that he had wanted to visit sooner and his visit now demonstrates that the "situation is under control, because of your support."

The highly sensitive trip came after 10 months of a brutal war that has seen tens of thousands of casualties on both sides and devastation for Ukrainian civilians.

Zelensky travelled to Washington aboard a US Air Force jet. The visit had been long sought by both sides, but the right conditions only came together in the last 10 days, US officials said, after high-level discussions about the security both of Zelensky and of his people while he was outside of Ukraine. Zelensky spent less than 10 hours in Washington before beginning the journey back to Ukraine.

Declaring in his speech that Ukraine "will never surrender," Zelensky warned that the stakes of the conflict were greater than just the fate of his nation - that democracy worldwide is being tested.

"This battle cannot be ignored, hoping that the ocean or something else will provide protection," he said, speaking in English for what he had billed as a "speech to Americans."

Earlier, in a joint news conference with Biden, Zelensky was pressed on how Ukraine would try to bring an end to the conflict. He rejected Biden's framing of finding a "just peace," saying, "For me as a president, 'just peace' is no compromises." He said the war would end once Ukraine's sovereignty, freedom and territorial integrity were restored, and Russia had paid back Ukraine for all the damage inflicted by its forces.

"There can't be any 'just peace' in the war that was imposed on us," he added.

Biden, for his part, said Russia was "trying to use winter as a weapon, but Ukrainian people continue to inspire the world." During the news conference, he said Russian President Vladimir Putin had "no intention of stopping this cruel war."
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-s-chilling-threat-of-satan-ii-nuclear-missile-attack-after-zelensky-s-visit-to-us/ar-AA15yrwt?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=5f48c4b57136436f94e6b0007eb91e9b

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 08:52 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NH7TH1CAl6U

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 08:58 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opQds5aCu4Q

Skybird

12-22-22, 09:01 AM

FOCUS analyses:
------------------------
On question of peace Selenskyj has meaningful message to Putin

Volodymyr Selenskyj did not flee from the attacking Russians. Selenskyj gave his country the leader it needed to resist. Selenskyj convinced the U.S. to ensure Ukraine's survival. Selenskyj has convinced fearful Europeans to help him do so. And now Selenskyj has united a divided Congress behind him.

In short, from the point of view of Vladimir Putin, who was hoping for cheering Ukrainians when his troops arrived, Selenskyj is the worst thing that could have happened to the Russian leader. After 300 days of war, it is clear that Selenskyj is Putin's biggest nightmare.

Here are the main lessons from Selenskyj historic visit to Washington:

First, Selenskyj's appearance in Washington was historic because he managed to convince even the majority of Republicans [Skybird: many Republicans abstained from attending, however, and some remained seated while other Senators stood and applauded, report various media]. He managed to do so with two arguments. The fight against Putin is not a regional but a fundamental issue: a war between freedom and dictatorship. And, American aid is not a gift, but an investment - Ukraine is grateful to the U.S., but the U.S. can also be grateful to Ukraine. Both houses gave Selenskyj several standing applause - as they last did to British wartime Prime Minister Winston Churchill 81 years ago. CNN commentator Frida Ghitis then called Selenskyj's performance "a triumph."

Second, Selenskyj managed to rally the totally divided, and even more, ideologically hostile American parties behind him and his goal. Whether it was a one-time success or one that will last is, for Selenskyj, literally decisive for the war. As of Jan. 3, Republicans hold the majority in the House of Representatives. This is where the decision on Ukraine aid will be made; Biden can't decide that on his own. So in the new year we will see - but Selenskyj at least tried everything, more is not possible in any case. Time magazine made Selenskyj the "person of the year".

Memorable statements on peace

Third, it was also about peace - and peace negotiations. And for the first time it became clear that Selenskyj is not free in his decision if and when and about which peace will be negotiated. In the press conference with Joe Biden Selenskyj was asked about it. His answer is remarkable - he used it for a public reflection on a "just peace" - a great philosophical topic. He spoke about the dead, including about "feelings of revenge" of the surviving citizens in Ukraine, and then said this crucial sentence:

"How will you explain to people who have lost their partners or children what a just peace is?"

Selenskyj's message: simply because of the sacrifices Ukraine has made, this struggle must continue. If he wanted peace negotiations now, he would lose the support of his own people. That limits his room for maneuver. That is real news.

Fourth, Selenskyjs, by his own admission, has a peace plan. He has discussed it with Biden. The plan consists of ten points. What they are, one did not learn. But that Selenskyj has a ten-point plan for peace is new.

Fifth, the West is united, but it is at a low level. Europe is responsible for this, Germany in the lead. Because Germany is afraid of a nuclear war, of a Third World War, aid to Ukraine only goes as far as Olaf Scholz's formula: Russia must not win the war, Ukraine must not lose it. The Americans go much further, Joe Biden explained - and admitted that he had already said too much. What was this too much? [Skybird: Bubble-Olaf also wants to reestablish trade relations with Russia after the war, he told German industry leaders just days ago, he even signalled Putin that he offers him trade relations for peace].

Why did the Americans deliver weapons only piecemeal - and not all at once, a Ukrainian reporter asked Joe Biden. His answer:

"There would have been a danger that the European Union and NATO would have broken apart." Golly - and why? Biden continued:

Different goals of U.S. and Europeans

He had spent "hundreds of hours" with the leaders of the European states - "face to face." To convince them why it was in their own interests to support Ukraine. "They understood that." In other words, the Europeans had to be convinced of this first.

And further, according to Biden: They, the Europeans, did not want to slide into a war with Russia - into a Third World War. Then the sentence that marks the crucial difference between Joe Biden and Olaf Scholz: "I think that can be prevented - by making sure that Ukraine wins on the battlefield."

That is, Americans, like Scholz, don't just want Ukraine "not to lose." Biden wants Ukraine to "win." [Skybird: the Germans deliberately do not want Ukreiane to win triumphantly, because that would destroy their plan to "not further provoke" and put to shame Russia with whom they want to flal back to ealrier trade relatiosn again].
The Americans are not afraid, like Scholz, that arms deliveries could trigger a Third World War. They are afraid that NO arms deliveries could trigger a Third World War.

That explains Selenskyj's sentence, "We are not afraid. You don't need to be afraid either." In the eyes of Biden and Selenskyj, who repeatedly emphasized how united they are on everything, the Europeans, apparently including Scholz, are driven by fear in their hesitation, while they themselves consider the fear of Putin's "escalation dominance" to be a fire hazard.

Sixth : What is the point of American and European arms deliveries, apart from Ukraine holding its own (in Scholz's sense) or winning the war (in Biden's sense)?

"We both want peace." Says Biden, referring to Selenskyj and himself. Peace, he says, will come when Putin says "pull out." In other words, pull his troops out of Ukraine. "But that's not going to happen," Biden says. Ergo: The U.S. is counting on a long war. And now?

Making peace with more and more weapons

Biden: "Ukraine cannot win on the battlefield without our help and that of European allies." And what follows from that? Biden: "We are putting this president in a position to decide how he wants to end this war."

In other words, without more arms deliveries, Selenskyj cannot win the freedom to decide whether to make peace. So at the end of this one-time visit, which began on a Ukrainian train and was made possible by an American military plane taking off from Polish soil, there is a paradox that is very difficult for Germans to understand:

Making peace with more and more weapons.
-----------------------------------

Do not trust the germans, I say it one more time. The Germans cannot be trusted. They easily play this even more underhandedly than France(lie the Germans, France hails itself for its close ties to Russia and you must only check the amount of military aid they provide in comparison to others to see that their policy reflects that basically positive stand towards Russia). Moreover, a free and war-winning Ukraine would massively shift the political balance in Europe, in favor of Ukraine and Poland and the Baltic states, and to the detriment of Germany and France, and the rest of Western Europe: Ukraine would be the most belligerent country in Europe, the country with the largest surface area, one with a large population, and the largest reserves of raw materials and the largest agricultural sector in Europe.

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 09:24 AM

In two days, 5 ships with 221 thousand tons of agricultural products for Africa and Asia left ports of Odesa. PHOTOS

As part of the "Grain Initiative", 5 ships with 221,000 tons of agricultural products left the ports of Odesa for Africa and Asia.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the Facebook page of the Ministry of Infrastructure of Ukraine.

"Among them is the SEA BRIDLE bulker with 25,000 tons of agricultural products for Libya. Since the start of the grain corridor, the ports have sent 12 vessels with 305,000 tons of Ukrainian grain to this African country. Currently, 29 ships are being processed in the ports of Odessa. More than 1 million tons of Ukrainian agricultural products are loaded on them," the message reads.

2 ships are moving along the "grain corridor" to load 89,000 tons of agricultural products.

In the Bosphorus, 92 vessels are waiting for their turn to be inspected by the JCC. Last day, 7 vessels received approval for further movement after inspection. The Ministry of Infrastructure noted that for uninterrupted movement along the grain corridor, a minimum of 12 inspections per day should take place.

Since August 1, 574 ships have left the ports of Odesa, which exported 14.6 million tons of Ukrainian food to the countries of Asia, Europe, and Africa. Source: https://censor.net/en/p3388549

Peskov on meeting between Biden and Zelensky: There were no real calls for peace

Putin’s spokesman Dmytro Peskov commented on the meeting between Presidents Zelensky and Biden.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to RIA Novosti.

"We note with regret that no words have been heard from Biden and Zelensky about a potential readiness to listen to Russia's concerns," said the press secretary of the Russian dictator.

Also, according to Peskov, there were no real calls for peace.

"There were no reservations about the barbaric shelling of residential buildings in Donbas," he added. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388554

Ukraine-EU summit will be held on February 3 in Brussels

The next Ukraine-EU summit will be held on February 3 in Brussels, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has already received an invitation to the event.

The press secretary of the President of the European Council, Charles Michel Barend Leits, informed the Interfax-Ukraine agency about this on Thursday in Brussels, Censor.NET informs.

"I can confirm that the Ukraine-EU summit will take place on February 3, there is an open invitation to President Zelensky to visit Brussels," he said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388564

Jimbuna

12-22-22, 09:27 AM

US has three different models for ending war in Ukraine through negotiations, - WP

In the USA, they see three models of what could be the end of the war between the Russian Federation and Ukraine through negotiations.

As Censor.NET reports, The Washington Post writes about it.

"There are three different models of what a negotiated end to the war could be, each of which has supporters in the (Biden administration. - Ed.)," the publication notes.

According to WP, the first part of the plan, which Zelensky proposed last month, calls for Russia to withdraw from all the territory of Ukraine it currently occupies, including Crimea and Donbas.

The other foresees the withdrawal of the Russian occupying forces to the 2014 line.

The third is the withdrawal of Russian troops from Donbas, but not from Crimea.

"Zelensky made it clear that he would not support the last two options, noting that peace can only come when the Russian invaders retreat from all the occupied territories," the newspaper writes.

At the same time, according to WP, during the meeting, Biden wanted to hear from Zelensky "current thoughts on how it should be." The publication's source said that "at the moment this is something of an academic discussion", as there is no evidence that Russia is interested in the conversation. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388565

Russian officials will continue to visit occupied territories, - Peskov

Russia will continue to send its officials to temporarily occupied Russian territories despite the risks to their lives.

This was stated by the press secretary of the President of the Russian Federation Dmytro Peskov, who was quoted by the Russian mass media, Censor.NET reports.

"Look, there is a delegation of officials.
And it is absolutely normal, for officials to visit Russian regions and will visit, especially those regions that need special attention now, in the transition period, during their integration, adaptation into the entire life space of our great country. And officials are obliged to go there in large numbers," he said.

Peskov admitted that staying in the occupied territories is dangerous and carries risks for life.

"But this does not mean that these conditions should prevent officials from performing their functions..." he added.

The day before, it became known that Rogozin and the "prime minister of the DPR" Vitaly Khotsenko were injured during an explosion in a restaurant in occupied Donetsk. They celebrated Rogozin's birthday there.

Ukrainian border guards knew exactly where the former head of Roscosmos, Dmytro Rogozin, was in the occupied territories and reported this information to "caring comrades". Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388576

Head of IAEA, Grossi, convinced Moscow to create security zone at ZNPP

The head of the IAEA, Raphael Grossi, met in Moscow with the general director of Rosatom, Oleksiy Likhachev. They discussed the creation of a "security zone" in Russian-occupied Energodar, which would include the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.

Grossi announced this on Twitter, Censor.NET informs.

Grossi emphasized after the meeting with Likhachev that "the key point is the focus of the zone exclusively on preventing a nuclear accident."

The head of the IAEA assured that he will continue to make efforts to achieve this goal "with a sense of extreme urgency".

The details of the negotiations - what this zone should be, whether all the troops of the Russian Federation will withdraw from there, or only those with heavy weapons - and other details have not been disclosed. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388593

FUBAR295

12-22-22, 09:36 AM

Putin's chilling threat of Satan-II nuclear missile attack after Zelensky's visit to US

BRING IT ON!

I am getting really tired of Poopin's threats and sabre rattling. I hope both he and I are a our respective ground zeros if it ever happens.

I lived through the cold war hiding under my school desk because of the Soviet Union. I do not scare easily any more.

Yeah, he can nuke London in less than six minutes, but he has only twenty minutes before there is no Russia left, just radioactive char.

Commander Wallace

12-22-22, 10:24 AM

^ It's absolutely incredible and defies all logic that Russia, China and North Korea don't understand that the United States has more than enough nuclear weapons to annihilate all of them with weapons left over.

If Putrid had any brains, he would look at not only what Western weapons have done to his forces in the Ukraine but also ponder what weapons the U.S has in it's inventory that they don't know anything about. :hmmm:

That goes for the other Communist Countries as well. And, since England and America share ideas and technology, I'm sure the U.K has more than a few surprises up it's sleeve as well. :yep:

mapuc

12-22-22, 10:28 AM

I'm 99.99 % Sure he wouldn't use nukes or other WMD even if he lose face in his defeat in Ukraine.

It's nothing but empty threat.

Markus

mapuc

12-22-22, 11:46 AM

"Wagner" PMC received a shipment of weapons from North Korea, – Reuters.
"We can confirm that North Korea has completed the initial supply of weapons to 'Wagner', which paid for the equipment.

https://twitter.com/Flash_news_ua/status/1605962249905917955?t=lHyLdQz4faTAAJ_iNd5VIA&s=19

So now NK has entered the war indirectly on the Russian side.

Markus

Dargo

12-22-22, 01:59 PM

Skybird

12-22-22, 03:20 PM

Dargo

12-22-22, 04:34 PM

I said it before, maybe we get misled by our mediabaout Bachmut, they tell us its a Putinesque ego trip - or it is a way of Russia to grind Ukrainian meat, because the Ukrainians must suffer heavy casualties there, too - and in their case its some fo the best units they currently have that get chewed on. Russia looses just - sorry - "meat".

Its hard to say whats going on and why without onpwinbg the ukrainian losses for sure. Ukrainian numbers given on Russian losses so far seem to more or less stay withoin the envelope of what others expect, too, but they give almost no data on their own casualties.

Note that the assessment on Russia establishing a lasting foothold in Bachmut is not mine, but that of the British, who so far seem to be quite good informed. As I understand it, before it was like the Russian entering Bachmut, and leaving it, and entering, and leaving. Now it is like staying in the east, and advancing towards the centre, and getting pushed back and staying in the east, and then advancing against the centre again.

For Russia, the region is about Ukrainian artillery being in reach of their extremely thin north-to-south supply line east of the city. This is what gives the city more of tactical value than Western media usually say: they usally say Bachmut has no value at all, but I think that is only true on the strategic level. In itself it has none, yes, but if the ukraine can have artillery in that region, it is in range to shell that road so vital for Russia.

But for the most I think the Russian use Bachmut to grind Ukrainian meat from some of the Ukrainian best units. A loss ration of 1:2 against Russia maybe is a good deal for them - what do we know. Western media are part of the propaganda battle.Russians thought it would take 10 days to finish this operation, we have now entered month 10 Ukraine has got yesterday months to fight on Russia still have the problems not solved they can have a large stock so tell me why they have to buy ammo from other countries if they have that large stock. There are many factors that the Russians underestimate about Ukraine and the west they could not win in WW2 without the supply of the west now they think they can, it is not that they get help from any real world power North Korea or Iran (both are heavily sanctioned) can not meet the supply needed China only wants Russia to start talks to end this. Putin lacks the authority to turn his mafia system into a war economy, the criminals only care for themselves...

Skybird

12-22-22, 07:23 PM

Dargo

12-22-22, 07:38 PM

^ Still, I cannot see them needing to leave Ukraine any time soon. Somehow, they hang on. And destroy more and more of Ukraine's essential economy, industry, and infrastructure. Day for day for day.

The Kremlin is talking up the situation. But, so do the Western media, and to Ukraine's and/or Western purposes. They are certainly more skillful and less clumsy, and all in all, the truth content of their statements is probably greater than that of the Kremlin'S wooden-hammer propaganda. But they certainly do not describe the full picture. And even if they wanted to, they still could not.Ukraine’s battle against the Russian invasion is consuming ammunition at rates unseen since World War II. Kyiv’s forces have been firing around 6,000 artillery shells a day and are now running out of antiaircraft missiles amid a relentless aerial onslaught by Russia, according to experts and intelligence officials. At the height of the fighting in eastern Ukraine’s Donbas area, Russia was using more ammunition in two days than the entire stock of the British military, according to the Royal United Services Institute. Ukraine uses up to 40,000 artillery shells of the NATO caliber 155 mm each month, while the entire annual production of such projectiles in Europe is around 300,000. The best way we can support Ukraine is to increase production of artillery shells now, this will be the single biggest issue next year if we can pull this off.

August

12-22-22, 08:05 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hND3DPX3sNU

Skybird

12-22-22, 08:07 PM

Rheinmetall prepares new production capacities for ammunition in Germany. But these first must be build, before that: planned, before that: passing state administration hurdles. They will then build ammo for the Gepards with priority. Germany plans to no more buy such things from Switzerland.
The Bundeswehr has ammunition supplies for 2 days of war fighting at the intensity levels seen in the Ukraine. Go figure who will get most of the newly produced ammo. Its not necessarily the Ukraine. The German military is blank and naked.

Shortages of missiles and cruise missiles are also reported, since months, from the US. The industry there says it will take years to replace what already has been given to the Ukraine.

China watches with wide open eyes, not to miss any tempting opportunity that may come from this.

Skybird

12-23-22, 06:21 AM

Deutsche Welle (German edition):
-----------------------------
Historian: "Misconceptions led Putin to war".

British historian Mark Galeotti talks to DW about false expectations before the Russian invasion of Ukraine on both sides, the state of both armies, and what might happen next in 2023.

Mark Galeotti is a British historian and honorary professor at University College London. His latest book is titled "Putin's Wars: From Chechnya to Ukraine."

DW: President Vladimir Putin has led Russia into four wars: Chechnya, Georgia, Syria, and finally Ukraine. Why was the West able to be surprised by the Russian invasion?

Mark Galeotti: I think it's the scale. From the end of 1999 to the present, there have been only three years in Putin's reign when Russia has not been involved in one war or another. And yet they were always limited conflicts. Each time, Putin had picked targets that he thought he could easily win. And the fundamental misunderstanding [in the West] was not to recognize the extent to which the Russian president was convinced that he would defeat Ukraine more easily - which then turned out to be a catastrophic miscalculation.

>>> You write in your book that you, like many other experts, were surprised by the invasion. Do you think it had something to do with Putin's isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic? Did his information bubble become too dangerous or too small?

Until the televised Security Council meeting the week before the invasion, I put the probability at only 30 to 40 percent-precisely because the invasion didn't seem to make sense.

Up to that point, Putin was in many ways the clear winner. He had assembled a huge force on Ukraine's borders, and that presence was inflicting serious damage on the Ukrainian economy without crossing the borders. As a result, a number of key Western leaders traveled to Moscow and, with their pleas not to start a war, put Putin in exactly the position he likes to be in. And Kiev was also under pressure to make concessions.

Today we know how big the misunderstanding was. And how much Putin had talked himself into believing that Ukraine was not a real country, that Ukrainians would not offer any significant resistance, and that the allegedly drug-addicted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Selenskyj, would either flee or be imprisoned.

All of these fundamental misconceptions have led Russia to this war. And they paint a clear picture of the extent to which Putin has created for himself a system in which telling him the truth is detrimental to people. It shows the degree to which his intelligence officers, his entire environment, were not telling him what he needed to hear, but only what he wanted to hear.

>>> You are an expert on Russia's intelligence services. Why do you think they misinformed him? Are they not as good as their reputation?

There should still be deplorably good intelligence capabilities in Russia. And there are certainly smart analysts. But I recall a conversation with a former foreign intelligence officer back in 2015 who said, "We learned that you don't deliver unwelcome news to the czar." In other words, it is politically dangerous to tell Putin things he doesn't want to hear.

A culture has emerged that shields the president from inconvenient truths. Most of the time, it doesn't matter because he doesn't really determine every single detail in the country. For that, he has a lot of technocrats and officials, some of whom are extremely effective. What matters is that he makes important decisions, which he initiates, which he pushes, and which can then plunge the whole country into such a disaster.

>>> Would you say that Russia has failed to achieve its war aims?

Absolutely! Frankly, it is only a question of what the defeat will look like. Putin still hopes that he can exhaust the resistance of Ukraine and the West by signaling that this war will go on for a long time. And that, if necessary, he can keep sending Russian soldiers into the conflict.

Putin is virtually challenging the West, saying, go ahead and keep sending billions of dollars, euros, and pounds to Ukraine to keep this war going. We can do it as long as you want.' That is really his last hope to achieve anything that he can sell politically as a victory.

But the point is that the Russians have not succeeded in taking Kiev. They have not succeeded in really extending their control over the Donetsk and Lugansk regions. They have the Crimean corridor, but that is now under threat. And, of course, they have already had to withdraw from Kherson.

So it's not as if the momentum is on the Russian side. Quite the opposite. While Ukraine is increasingly building a modern 21st century army thanks to all the support from the West, the Russian military is in many ways weakening. It is regressing to a late-Soviet army, fighting with half-trained soldiers and weapons from the 1970s. But this is not to underestimate its capabilities. Russia is a big country, it has a huge military industrial complex, and it can continue this war for a long time. But it will not be able to push back the Ukrainians with major offensives for a long time.
"No basis for negotiations"

>>> What are your forecasts for 2023? Can this war end next year? And if so, how?

It can end. It will depend on the Ukrainians being able to make significant progress on the battlefield. At the moment, there is no real basis for negotiations because the Ukrainians see themselves as having an advantage. If anything, they want to negotiate from a position of strength.

Putin is desperately hoping that he can drag this out. He hopes to have perhaps 150,000 additional reservists trained in Russia and Belarus by spring and use them to reinforce his front in Ukraine.

But this war has so far very much defied all expectations. I can imagine that the Ukrainians, who are superior to their Russian opponents not only militarily but also intellectually, are planning further large-scale offensives. And only if they win on the battlefield will they have a chance of convincing the Kremlin that it needs to negotiate in some way.
---------------------------

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 12:36 PM

Mariupol theatre demolished 'to hide Russian crimes', aide says

Russian authorities have started destroying the ruined theatre in Mariupol, according to an aide to the city's exiled Ukrainian mayor.

Petro Andryushchenko accused the occupying authorities of seeking to cover up the murder of hundreds of civilians when the building was bombed by Russian warplanes in March.

A screen was recently erected around the ruined theatre.

Video showed a bulldozer knocking down some of the rear of the building.

Mr Andryushchenko said the Russians were planning to leave the front of the theatre intact and destroy the rest of the structure, to build a new theatre "on the bones of Mariupol's people".

A screen was erected around the ruins of the theatre last month, complete with images of Russian cultural figures.

Before Russia invaded Ukraine last February and laid siege to Mariupol, the theatre was a focal point of city life.

This year, Russia's proxy authority that runs the city and the occupied areas of the surrounding Donetsk region has promised the city's remaining population alternative entertainment - a revival of a 1960s Soviet cult musical, The Bremen Town Musicians.

Instead of taking place at the bombed out theatre, it is being staged more than a kilometre away at the Pioneers' Palace.

It is all a far cry from the glitzy new year celebrations held in Mariupol a year ago.

Earlier this month journalists from the Associated Press used satellite imagery to estimate that 10,300 new graves had been dug at a Mariupol cemetery.

The BBC reported in November that witnesses had seen Russian authorities removing bodies from the rubble of destroyed buildings and taking them away for burial. Ukrainian officials believe 25,000 people lost their lives in fighting in the city.

It took months for Russia to win the siege of Mariupol in May, when hundreds of Ukrainian fighters finally surrendered at the city's Azovstal steel plant.

Two months earlier, at around 10:00 on 16 March, Russian warplanes dropped two 500kg bombs on the city's theatre which detonated simultaneously, according to a report by Amnesty International, which condemned the attack as a clear war crime.

Civilians had been using the building as a refuge from the siege and a large sign spelling "children" had been daubed in Russian in front of the theatre.

Some 1,200 people were inside the building when the bombs struck. Ukrainian authorities believe 300 people were killed but an AP investigation said the number was closer to 600. Many of the bodies were found in the basement.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64075088

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 12:50 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjDVS1Kw6G0

mapuc

12-23-22, 12:52 PM

Some of you mentioned some days ago that we Europe in fact was at war with Russia/Putin.

I have friends and friends friend who is or may be supporting Putin and Russia.

I wonder if they are under "observation" from our intelligent agencies ?

Markus

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 01:04 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j2xV1eB7gqQ

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 01:15 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IkxzzwxhC8

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 01:44 PM

78% of citizens believe that Ukraine should not make compromises with Russian Federation in order to end war, - survey

According to the survey of the Kharkiv Institute of Social Research, 89% of citizens do not doubt the return of all temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine.

As Censor.NET informs about this with a link to ZN.ua.

At the same time, another 6% of respondents are more confident in the return of the occupied territories than vice versa. Another 1% are rather unsure of de-occupation, 2% doubt the return of occupied lands to Ukrainian control. It was difficult to answer this question for 2% of respondents.

At the same time, 78% of respondents believe that Ukraine should not make any compromises in order to end the war. 6% were in favor of giving the occupied territories a special status as part of Ukraine, 4% were in favor of our country's refusal to join NATO. Also, 3% of respondents consider it acceptable to give the Russian language the status of a second state language and amnesty for all those who served in the armed forces in the occupied territories. Another 2% of Ukrainians believe that in order to end the war started by Russia, it is possible to recognize Crimea as Russian. And in the opinion of 1%, it is worth abandoning European integration. At the same time, 9% of respondents could not answer this question. In this case, sociologists noted that when answering questions about compromises, respondents could choose several options, so the sum of all answers exceeds 100%.

The victory of Ukraine over the Russian Federation in this war for 57% of citizens is the return to our borders of 1991. For another 21%, it will be a victory if Ukraine becomes a recognized leader in Eastern Europe. The return to the borders at the time of the invasion of the Russian Federation on February 24 was called a victory by 8% of respondents, and the same number of respondents pointed to the disintegration of the Russian Federation into several states. Another 2% gave another answer, and 4% - it was difficult to answer.

As for Crimea itself, 75% of Ukrainians consider the occupation of the peninsula part of the Russian-Ukrainian war. It's more a part of the war than not - for the 9%. For another 2%, the occupation of Crimea is rather not part of the war than vice versa, for 8% - it is definitely not part of the Russian-Ukrainian war, 6% - it is difficult to answer this question. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388901

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 01:47 PM

Majority of Poles support provision of arms to Ukraine, - survey

77.5% of Polish citizens support Warsaw’s continued provision of military equipment and weapons for the Armed Forces. 18.3% of respondents are against it, and 4.2% abstained.

This is stated in a survey conducted in December in Poland by the IBRiS center for the Rzeczpospolita publication, Censor.NET reports with reference to Ukrinform.

As noted, the majority of supporters of the further transfer of weapons to Ukraine by Poland are among the voters of the ruling party "Law and Justice" (PiS) - 97%, among other parties the level of support reaches 88%.

The majority of opponents of providing military aid to Ukraine are among the voters of the nationalist, Eurosceptic "Confederation" - 27%.

The majority of supporters of the transfer of weapons to Ukraine are among the elderly (over 60 years old), residents of small towns and villages.

As the publication emphasizes, today Poland ranks fourth among the countries that transferred the most weapons to Ukraine: the United States (about $23 billion), Great Britain (over $4 billion), Germany (more than $2.3 billion), Poland - more than 2 billion $ Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388909

G7 countries will stand by Ukraine as long as it is needed, - statement of heads of foreign affairs

The countries of the "Great Seven" promise to continue to support Ukraine, strengthen sanctions against the Russian Federation and, if necessary, against Belarus, as well as work to bring Russian criminals to justice.

This is stated in the statement of the ministers of foreign affairs of the G7 - Great Britain, Italy, Canada, Germany, the USA, France, and Japan, as well as the high representative of the European Union based on the results of their 12th meeting this year, Censor.NET reports with reference to Ukrinform.

The Russian Federation is trying to terrorize the civilian population with mass and groundless attacks on the critically important infrastructure of Ukraine, in particular on the energy, heat and water supply systems, using missiles and Iranian drones.

"Members of the G7 recalled that indiscriminate attacks and attacks on civilians or civilian objects are war crimes," said a statement posted on the website of the German Foreign Ministry, which chaired the group in 2022.

Diplomats emphasized the intensification of efforts to support the Ukrainian people this winter, in particular, after the international conference held in Paris on December 13. Having decided to support the reconstruction and economic recovery of Ukraine, the G7 members recalled the importance of coordinating international support and welcomed the recent agreement of G7 leaders to create a platform for donor coordination.

"The members of the G7 pledged to intensify and closely coordinate their efforts to meet Ukraine's urgent needs for military equipment and defense equipment, in particular, in the field of air defense. They emphasized that this is necessary to save lives and prevent further suffering of civilians," it says. in the application.

The G7 members also reaffirmed their determination to continue to coordinate financial, material, humanitarian, defense, political, technical, and legal support to help Ukraine protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to unprecedented coordinated sanctions in response to Russia's aggressive war against Ukraine. G7 members will continue to apply economic pressure on Russia and those who circumvent or undermine restrictive measures. They will also encourage third countries to join the efforts of the Group of Seven, including the reduction of Russia's revenues from oil exports by using the price cap per barrel of "marine crude oil" of Russian origin, which is promoted by the Price Cap Coalition.

G7 members reiterated that Russia's use of energy and food as weapons has a particular impact on the world's most vulnerable communities, and Russia's spread of disinformation and false accusations, Russia's irresponsible nuclear rhetoric, as well as Russia's occupation and militarization of the Zaporizhia NPP are unacceptable. The G7 members confirmed their full support for the activities of the International Atomic Energy Agency regarding the creation of a safe zone at the Zaporizhzhia NPP.

The statement also contains a warning to Minsk: "Any further active participation in Russia's illegal war of aggression would be contrary to the will and aspirations of the Belarusian people. If the Belarusian authorities involve Belarus more directly in Russia's war, the G7 will impose devastating additional sanctions on the regime."

The signatories once again called on the Belarusian authorities to stop encouraging Russia's war of aggression by providing support to the Russian military and allowing Russian armed forces to use its territory.

G7 members highly appreciated the courage of the Ukrainian people in their struggle for their country. The G7 strongly supports efforts to ensure Ukraine's immediate financial stability and to facilitate its reconstruction and recovery towards a prosperous, sustainable future, and encourages Ukraine on its reform agenda. They remained committed to Ukraine's full support to ensure its free and democratic European future.

The ministers again condemned the illegal, unjustified, and unprovoked Russian war of aggression against Ukraine and declared their full solidarity and unwavering support for Ukraine and its people for as long as necessary. They confirmed their unwavering commitment to the independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders.

Foreign Ministers reiterated their strong condemnation of Russia's attempt to illegally annex Ukrainian territory, which will never be recognized. They also condemned the atrocities committed by Russian troops. The G7 members stressed that war crimes should not go unpunished and stressed the need to bring Putin and other perpetrators of aggression to justice under international law.

G7 members welcomed and supported President Zelensky's efforts to promote a just and lasting peace. Russia can end this war immediately by ceasing attacks on Ukraine, completely and unconditionally withdrawing its troops and equipment from the entire territory of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders. G7 members again called on Russia to do this "urgently". Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388926

Rockstar

12-23-22, 01:57 PM

Китайские банки полностью присоединились к санкциям против России

Chinese banks fully joined the sanctions against Russia

https://www.moscowtimes.ru/2022/12/20/kitaiskie-banki-polnostyu-prisoedinilis-k-sanktsiyam-protiv-rossii-a29186

https://www-moscowtimes-ru.translate.goog/2022/12/20/kitaiskie-banki-polnostyu-prisoedinilis-k-sanktsiyam-protiv-rossii-a29186?_x_tr_sl=auto&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en-US&_x_tr_pto=wapp

Jimbuna

12-23-22, 02:19 PM

IAEA will deploy permanent teams to Ukrainian nuclear power plants

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is preparing to deploy teams on a permanent basis at the Khmelnytsky, Rivne, and South Ukrainian nuclear power plants, as well as at the Chornobyl site.

As Censor.NET informs about this with reference to Euro Integration.

These missions are aimed at providing technical support and assistance necessary to maintain a high level of nuclear and physical nuclear security and reduce the risk of a nuclear incident or accident, the agency said.

On December 16, Ukraine was subjected to heavy shelling throughout the territory. This led to a decrease in the capacity of the Khmelnytsky and Rivne NPPs, as well as a disconnection from the power grid of the South Ukrainian NPP. None of Ukraine's nuclear power plants experienced a loss of power outside the site. Currently, all nine power units are operating again at these three NPPs.

The IAEA also notes that diplomatic efforts to create a nuclear safety protection zone around Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant are moving forward.

It will be recalled that Russia has declared that it will not give up control over the ZNPP in order to create a nuclear safety zone. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3388943

Catfish

12-23-22, 06:07 PM

^ Still, I cannot see them needing to leave Ukraine any time soon. Somehow, they hang on. And destroy more and more of Ukraine's essential economy, industry, and infrastructure. Day for day for day.
The Kremlin is talking up the situation [...]
It will not end until Russian central cities become aware of the war, the hard way.

Reece

12-23-22, 06:19 PM

Catfish

12-23-22, 06:21 PM

Some of you mentioned some days ago that we Europe in fact was at war with Russia/Putin. [...]
Markus
Not Germany. Chancellor Olaf Scholz was a FdJ sympathiser during soviet block times, and Mrs Sarah Wagenknecht of "Die Linke" openly calls herself a "stalinist" today.
In the meantime Mr Ramelow of "Die Linke" is on the brink of being excluded from his party because he "does not do enough for Russia".

I seem to have missed that the german "Die Linke" is not politically "left" , but simply sympathizes with right-wing autocrate dictatorships and especially Russia.

Jimbuna

12-24-22, 08:12 AM

Xi turns on Putin and ‘demands letter' explaining how and when Ukraine war will end

Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly sent a letter to Vladimir Putin asking him to spell out his proposals on how to end the war in Ukraine. The deputy head of Russia's Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, met with the Chinese President on Wednesday.

Medvedev, a former Russian president, said in a video statement that he and Xi discussed an array of topics, including "the conflict in Ukraine." Medvedev did not elaborate.

It is now claimed that he travelled to China to collect the letter.

China has refused to condemn Russia's invasion of Ukraine and criticised sanctions against Moscow.

Beijing has only referred to the invasion as the "Ukraine situation" in deference to Moscow, and accused the US and NATO of provoking Putin by expanding into eastern Europe.

Iran has issued a warning to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that its "patience" over accusations of supplying Russia with deadly kamikaze drones is not "endless".

Describing the claims made by Ukraine, as well as numerous western Governments, that Iran is offering weapons to Russia as "baseless" and "rude", the nation's foreign ministry focused on Mr Zelenskys' latest speech at the US Congress on Wednesday, when he described the regime as "terrorists".

Russia, in turn, has strongly backed China amid the tensions with the US over Taiwan.

Russian and Chinese warships on Thursday practiced joint action in the East China Sea, continuing a series of drills that reflect a growing defence cooperation between the two countries.

The Russian Defence Ministry said the Varyag missile cruiser, the Marshal Shaposhnikov destroyer and two corvettes of Russia's Pacific Fleet were taking part in the drills that began on Wednesday.

China has deployed two destroyers, a diesel submarine and several others ships for the exercise.

Russian and Chinese aircraft were also taking part in the weeklong manoeuvres that will involve firing exercises and anti-submarine drills, according to the ministry.

"The main goal of the drills is to strengthen naval cooperation between the Russian Federation and the People's Republic of China and to maintain peace and stability in the Asia Pacific region," the ministry said.

Military ties between Moscow and Beijing has grown stronger since Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his troops into Ukraine on February 24.

In November, Tu-95 bombers of the Russian air force and Chinese H-6K bombers flew joint patrols over the Sea of Japan and the East China Sea.

As part of the drills, the Russian bombers landed in China for the first time, and the Chinese bombers flew to an air base in Russia.

In September, China sent more than 2,000 troops along with more than 300 military vehicles, 21 combat aircraft and three warships to take part in a sweeping joint exercise with Russia.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/xi-turns-on-putin-and-demands-letter-explaining-how-and-when-ukraine-war-will-end/ar-AA15B1Ut?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=c2a16bb185a04ca59d4786df939491a9

Jimbuna

12-24-22, 08:30 AM

‘Get rid of the video!' Putin's TV mouthpiece loses it on-air over triumphant Zelensky

Top Russian propagandist Vladimir Solovyov lost it on live TV as footage of Volodymyr Zelensky's warm reception in the US pushed him over the edge. Mr Solovyov castigated his own studio producers for repeatedly showing clips of Ukraine's president receiving huge applause during the historic visit to DC earlier this week. The irate Kremlin mouthpiece became so furious at the on-air mishap during the live show that he interrupted his guest, the US-based Dimitri Simes.

Mr Solovyov revealed he had been messaging his producers on the show Full Contact behind the scenes during the interview to demand they remove the footage of the Ukrainian leader.

He said: "Forgive me, Dimitri. Guys, get rid of this video if you can't read what is being written to you!"

Next to the image of Russian propagandist, footage played House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Vice President Kamala Harris accepting and holding up the Ukrainian flag, handed to them by Mr Zelensky.

The clips of President Zelensky receiving triumphant applause in the US Congress contrasted with a photoshopped picture on display behind Mr Solovyov in the studio.

The photo showed the Ukrainian president shining Biden's shoes, next to a caption that read: "A vassal has arrived."

During the interview, the pair blasted House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for comparing Winston Churchill to President Zelensky.

Mr Simes, who is president of The Center for the National Interest, suggested Vladimir Putin was the one who most resembled Churchill in his February speech announcing the invasion.

He said: "Putin addressed his people and said that the nation is in danger, that its enemies have a far-ranging plan.

"This was a speech worthy of Churchill! The speech of President Vladimir Putin."

Mr Simes said it was "unpleasant" to see US President Joe Biden meet with Zelensky, who he described as an "evil poodle".

He added it was "disgusting" for Ms Pelosi to kiss Mr Zelensky's hand during the meeting

Mr Solovyov concluded the interview saying: "Based on current events, 2023 is the year of big wars.

"We're entering the year on terms of an escalation. No one knows whether this is the last year for all of humanity."

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed that Russia has made significant progress towards "demilitarising" Ukraine, despite losing huge swathes of land it had gained earlier in the war.

Demilitarisation was one of the initial goals of Russia's invasion ten months ago.

On Thursday, President Putin dismissed the US decision to send Patriot missiles to Ukraine.

He said the missiles were "outdated," adding that Russia's missile systems would be able to shoot it down.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/get-rid-of-the-video-putin-s-tv-mouthpiece-loses-it-on-air-over-triumphant-zelensky/ar-AA15BDre?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=b6972a63eec64bf5a3ac90cb0f5fffdb

Jimbuna

12-24-22, 10:51 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYllXH34n-M

Jimbuna

12-24-22, 11:08 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iudhzin_sek

Jimbuna

12-24-22, 12:20 PM

Japanese companies refused to insure ships in Russian waters: it is too dangerous because of war

From January 1, three Japanese insurance companies will stop insuring ships against military damage in all Russian waters. The possible danger has spread to the borders of the Black and Azov seas.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to RBC-Ukraine.

Tokyo Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance, Sompo Japan Insurance, and Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance began informing shipowners of their decision on Friday.

The move, made about 10 months after the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, was prompted by the refusal of foreign reinsurance companies to take on risks related to Russia.

The decision of the Japanese insurers means that war damage coverage will not be provided anywhere in Russian waters - not even in the Far East, far from the war in Ukraine. The lack of additional coverage for Russian waters would make sailing there too risky for most operators.

Japanese imports of liquefied gas from the Russian Sakhalin-2 project and other countries may be affected due to the inability to provide insurance coverage.

Shipowners must subscribe to additional military damage insurance before sailing through Ukrainian and Russian waters. Insurers must be notified in advance to monitor payment terms and premiums. Starting next year, shipowners will no longer have this option from the three Japanese insurers.

The insurers' decision reflects the industry's perception of the risks associated with war. The perceived danger has spread beyond the borders of the Black and Azov Seas, which are not far from the site of hostilities. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389051

Jimbuna

12-24-22, 12:23 PM

US Ambassador Brink condemned shelling of Kherson: Very terrible, especially on eve of Christmas

US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink condemned the shelling of Kherson by Russian troops on the eve of Christmas.

This was reported by Censor.NET with reference to Brink's Twitter page.

"Today is another brutal Russian attack on the recently liberated Kherson. The city's residents suffered so much when the Russian troops cut off electricity and water. According to preliminary data, many were killed and wounded. It is very terrible, especially on the eve of Christmas," she said.

We will remind you that on December 24, the Russian occupiers shelled the center of Kherson. So far, 7 dead and 58 wounded are known, 18 are in serious condition. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389060

Germany is winding down economic aid programs for Iran

Germany’s federal government suspends trade promotion and economic cooperation with Iran.

Про це, як пише Zeit, повідомило Міністерство економіки Німеччини, інформує Цензор.НЕТ з посиланням на Укрінформ.

This was reported by the Ministry of Economy of Germany, Censor.NET informs with reference to Ukrinform, as Zeit writes.

Germany is curtailing aid projects to Iran due to the suppression of protests against the regime. The Ministry of Economy announced that foreign trade financing instruments and economic cooperation will be suspended due to the "very serious" situation in the country. This applies to export credits and investment guarantees, the German-Iranian energy dialogue, the manager training program and the foreign trade program, etc. "Exceptions can be allowed only for humanitarian reasons," the ministry added.

The volume of German-Iranian trade in 2021 amounted to 1.76 billion euros. From January to September 2022, it amounted to 1.49 billion euros.

In reality, the provision of export and investment guarantees to Iran was still suspended. Only in 2016, after the lifting of EU sanctions, these instruments were reopened for a short time. In particular, guarantees were granted or extended for several projects. As of the end of 2018, the German government had no applications for new investment guarantees to make a decision. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389069

Germany handed Ukraine another BREM, 13 border guard vehicles and is preparing 50 field heaters

During the last week, Germany handed over to Ukraine another, thirteenth Bergerpanzer 2 armored repair and evacuation vehicle.

This is stated in the updated list of weapons on the website of the German government, Censor.NET reports with reference to "Euro Integration".

In addition to BREM, Ukraine received from Germany 13 border service vehicles (already 78 in total), one ambulance (previously 34) and two forklifts (six in total).

The list shows that the German side is preparing for the transfer of 26 replacement systems for loaders and 50 field heaters.

Bergerpanzer 2 is developed on the basis of the Leopard 1 battle tank. It provides recovery of battle-damaged vehicles, support in the installation and dismantling of engines and turrets. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389084

Jimbuna

12-26-22, 07:01 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vib5tzdwvAU

Jimbuna

12-26-22, 07:28 AM

Drone attack on Russian bomber base leaves three dead

A Ukrainian drone attack on an airbase for bombers in southern Russia has left three people dead, Moscow says.

Air defences shot down the drone near the Engels base, but falling debris fatally wounded three technical staff, the defence ministry said.

Earlier this month, Russia accused Ukraine of a similar attack on the airfield, home to bombers that have carried out missile attacks on Ukraine.

The base lies about 500km (310 miles) north-east of Ukraine's border.

The Ukrainian military has not officially admitted carrying out the latest attack, but air force spokesman Yuriy Ihnat said the explosions were the result of what Russia was doing on Ukrainian soil.

The latest incident will come as an embarrassment to Russian authorities, coming so soon after the two 5 December attacks hundreds of kilometres from the front line - both at the Engels base and in the Ryazan region.

Russia had also blamed falling debris for the deaths of three servicemen and what it described as light damage to two aircraft.

Social media early on Monday posted videos of blasts and air sirens in the vicinity of Engels airfield.

Russia's defence ministry then said its air defences had shot down the drone flying at low altitude at about 01:35 on Monday (22:35 GMT Sunday).

Saratov governor Roman Busargin expressed his condolences to the men's families and friends, and said there was "absolutely no threat to residents" in the town of Engels itself.

The Ukrainian air force spokesman said satellite imagery of the airfield would soon reveal the full damage from Monday's attack, adding that earlier blasts had damaged aircraft at the base.

The Engels air base has been repeatedly used by Russia to carry out missile strikes on various targets in Ukraine since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion on 24 February.

The Kremlin has accused Ukraine of attacking its territory before, but the latest incidents have taken place far deeper in Russian territory.

After the 5 December attacks, there were widespread calls for tightened security around Russian military installations and the latest attack suggests that has not happened.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64092183

Jimbuna

12-26-22, 07:47 AM

Total combat losses of Russian Federation since beginning of war - about 102,600 people, 3,016 tanks, 1,996 artillery systems, 6,017 armored vehicles. INFOGRAPHICS

Losses of the Russian occupiers as of the morning of December 26 are approximately 102,600 people.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the press center of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

As noted, the total combat losses of the enemy from 24.02 to 26.12 are approximately:

personnel - about 102,600 (+550) people were eliminated,
tanks - 3016 (+5) units,
armored combat vehicles - 6017 (+7) units,
artillery systems - 1,996 (+5) units,
MLRS - 418 (+0) units,
air defense equipment - 212 (+0) units,
aircraft - 283 (+0) units,
helicopters - 267 (+0) units,
Operational-tactical UAV - 1707 (+1),
cruise missiles - 653 (+0),
warships/boats - 16 (+0) units,
automotive equipment and tank trucks - 4647 (+12) units,
special equipment - 178 (+0). Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389264

Jimbuna

12-26-22, 07:55 AM

West did not try to become mediator in Russia’s war against Ukraine, - Erdogan

The President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said that the West did not try to become a mediator in Russia’s war against Ukraine, but allegedly engaged in "only provocations".

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to Anadolu.

"Unfortunately, the West was only engaged in provocations and failed to make efforts to become a mediator in the Ukrainian-Russian war," Erdogan said.

At the same time, he reminded that Turkey took on the role of mediator and reached an agreement on the "grain corridor".

Erdogan noted that Turkey, together with the Russian Federation, will also take steps to export fertilizers. He added that solving this problem is "the most stressful part of the job." Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389289

Neither Iran nor China handed Russia single missile, - Budanov

Iran has not transferred any missiles to Russia.

This was stated in an interview with LIGA.net by the head of the Defence Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, Censor.NET informs.

According to him, the issue of Iran's transfer of missiles to Russia remains open.

"Everyone is working to prevent this from happening. And Iran itself realized that handing it over to Russia so easily is not accepted by the world. Even the world with which they are used to communicating normally.

In addition to "mopeds" "Shahed-136" and "Shahed-131". There was a large Mohajer-6, similar to Bayraktar in tactical and technical characteristics. They are trying to buy ammunition from them and want the Iranians to sell ballistic missiles. However, Iran never handed over a single missile," explained the head of the Ministry of Defense.

According to Budanov, China has not transferred any weapons either.

"And he won't pass it, as far as we understand," he concluded. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389302

Jimbuna

12-26-22, 07:57 AM

Enemy in south is losing its positions gradually, but quite confidently - Defense Forces of South

The Russian invaders are losing their positions in the south of Ukraine, but continue to terrorize the civilian population.

Nataliya Humenyuk, the head of the joint press center of the Southern Defense Forces of Ukraine, told about this during the television marathon, Censor.NET informs with reference to ArmyInform.

"The occupying forces continue to terrorize the civilian population. In particular, they do not stop shelling communities from the Kinburn spit, as well as the water area of the Black Sea and the Dnipro-Buh estuary in order to prevent the planned sea transport corridors from working in the grain agreement.
In other words, the occupiers are doing everything to make it impossible to include Mykolaiv direction and Mykolaiv ports there. In addition, he flies from time to time to the Ochakiv and Kutsurub districts," the spokeswoman said.

The enemy is keeping the maximum number of territories under threat, especially those they have lost. The occupiers are trying to hold at least some positions, but the Ukrainian military will not allow them to do so.

"The enemy is losing positions gradually, but quite confidently. The task before them now is to hold on, to wait for the moment when they draw up their reserves. Therefore, the command plans measures in such a way as not to give the enemy the opportunity to do this: we establish fire control, try to stop their logistical supply, do not give them peace, and force them to constantly look for new places of deployment," added the head of the joint press center of the Defense Forces of Southern Ukraine.

She also emphasized that the enemy continues to maneuver and is obviously preparing for something.

"Now they are maneuvering and one of the missile carriers has already entered the base station. Currently, one surface and two underwater missile carriers are in the sea, which makes a total of 16 Kalibr missiles ready for use.
But we remember that it is not difficult to return that missile carrier to combat duty - it will take several hours. It should also not be forgotten that they have a tendency to repeat operations that are more or less significant for them, so if you think about December 5, how they were preparing for a massive missile strike, when they took missile carriers out to sea, raised strategic and tactical aviation, then in general everything very similar. And we are ready for this," Natalia Humeniuk said.

In addition, the head of the joint press center of the Defense Forces of Southern Ukraine emphasized that one should not expect only a massive strike, because the enemy is capable of inflicting point strikes as well.

- The fact that they are running out of supplies is understandable because they are using them, but the enemy cannot be underestimated. the Russians are trying to replenish their reserves despite sanctions and despite limitations in their capacities.
We see that they are looking for an opportunity to delay the course of events, to take a so-called operational pause to raise reserves and continue their "victory show", as they think, but our countermeasures are adequate, we will not give them that pause, because we realize that we have to win its independence as quickly as possible," emphasized Natalia Humeniuk. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389317

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 07:31 AM

Ukraine war: Five ways conflict could go in 2023

The conflict in Ukraine is about to enter its second calendar year. We asked several military analysts how they think events on the ground will unfold in 2023.

Could it conclude in the coming year and how - on the battlefield or at the negotiating table? Or might it grind on to 2024?

'Russia's spring offensive will be key'

Michael Clarke, associate director of the Strategic Studies Institute, Exeter, UK

Those who seek to invade another country anywhere across the great Eurasian steppes are condemned eventually to winter in it.

Napoleon, Hitler and Stalin all had to keep their armies moving in the face of a steppes winter, and now - his invasion going backwards on the ground - Vladimir Putin is digging his forces in for the winter to await a new Russian offensive in the spring.

Both sides need a pause but the Ukrainians are better equipped and motivated to keep going, and we can expect them to maintain the pressure, at least in the Donbas.

Around Kreminna and Svatove they are very close to a big breakthrough that would throw Russian forces 40 miles back to the next natural defensive line, close to where their invasion effectively began in February.

Kyiv will be reluctant to halt when the immediate prize is so great. Ukrainian offensives might, nevertheless, pause down in the south-west, following the recovery of Kherson.

Crossing over to the east side of the Dnipro river to pressure Russia's vulnerable road and rail links into Crimea might be too demanding. But the possibility of Kyiv launching a surprise new offensive can never be ruled out.

For 2023, the key determinant will be the fate of Russia's spring offensive. Putin had admitted that about 50,000 of the newly mobilised troops are already at the front; the other 250,000 of those just mobilised are training for next year.

There is no scope for anything but more war until the fortunes of those new Russian forces are settled on the battlefield.

A short and unstable ceasefire is the only other prospect. Putin has made it clear he will not stop. And Ukraine has made it clear it is still fighting for its life.

'Ukraine will win back its land'

Andrei Piontkovsky, scientist and analyst based in Washington DC

Ukraine will win by restoring completely its territorial integrity by spring 2023 at the latest. Two factors are shaping this conclusion.

One is the motivation, determination and courage of the Ukrainian military and Ukrainian nation as a whole, which is unprecedented in modern war history.

The other is the fact that, after years of appeasement of a Russian dictator, the West has finally grown up to realise the magnitude of historical challenge it faces. This is best illustrated by a recent statement by Nato General Secretary Jens Stoltenberg.

"The price we pay is in money. While the price the Ukrainians pay is in blood. If authoritarian regimes see that force is rewarded we will all pay a much higher price. And the world will become a more dangerous world for all of us."

The exact timing of the inevitable Ukrainian victory will be determined by the speed at which Nato can deliver a new game-changing package of military assault weapons (tanks, planes, long-ranged missiles).

I expect Melitopol will become the key battle point in the coming months (maybe weeks). Having taken over Melitopol, Ukrainians will easily move to the Azov Sea, effectively cutting off supply and communication lines to Crimea.

Russian capitulation will be formally agreed upon at technical talks after devastating Ukrainian advances on the battleground.

The victorious powers - Ukraine, UK, USA - will shape a new international security architecture.

'There is no end in sight'

Barbara Zanchetta, Department of War Studies, King's College London

Vladimir Putin expected Ukraine's passive acceptance of its more powerful neighbour's actions, with no meaningful involvement of other countries. This grave miscalculation has led to a protracted conflict, with seemingly no end in sight.

The winter will be difficult, as Russian attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure will try to break the morale and endurance of an already shattered population. But Ukrainian resilience has proved to be remarkable. They will stand firm. The war will drag on. And on.

The prospects for negotiation are bleak. For a potential peace deal the core demands of at least one side need to change. There is no evidence that this has happened, or that it will happen soon.

How will the end come, then?

The costs of the war, both material and human, might break the level of commitment of the Russian political elite. The key will be inside Russia.

Past wars in which miscalculation was a crucial element, such as Vietnam for United States, or Afghanistan for the Soviet Union, only ended in this way. Domestic political conditions shifted in the country that had miscalculated, making exit - either "honourable" or not - the only viable option.

This may only happen, however, if the West stands firm in its support for Ukraine, in the face of increased domestic pressures linked to the costs of the war.

Sadly, this will continue to be a long-protracted political, economic and military battle of resolve. And by the end of 2023 it will most probably still be ongoing.

'No other outcome except Russian defeat'

Ben Hodges, former commanding general, United States Army Europe

It's too early to plan a victory parade in Kyiv but all the momentum is with Ukraine now and there is no doubt in my mind that they will win this war, probably in 2023.

Things will move slower over the winter but there's no doubt that Ukraine's forces will be better able to cope than Russia's because of all the winter equipment coming from the UK, Canada and Germany.

By January, Ukraine could be in a position to begin the final phase of the campaign which is the liberation of Crimea.

We know from history that war is a test of will and a test of logistics. When I see the determination of the Ukrainian people and soldiers, and the rapidly improving logistical situation for Ukraine, I see no other outcome but a Russian defeat.

The Russian pull-out from Kherson has partly led me to this conclusion. Firstly as a psychological boost for the Ukrainian people, secondly as a profound embarrassment for the Kremlin and thirdly by handing Ukraine's forces a key operational advantage - all approaches into Crimea are now within range of Ukrainian weapon systems.

I believe that the end of 2023 will see Crimea fully restored to Ukrainian control and sovereignty though there may be some sort or agreement that allows Russia to phase out some of its naval presence in Sevastopol… perhaps even to the end of the treaty (approximately 2025) that had existed before Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea.

Reconstruction efforts will be under way on the Ukrainian infrastructure along the Azov Sea coast, including the important ports of Mariupol and Berdyansk, and the reopening of the North Crimean Canal that diverts water from the Dnipro to Crimea will be another important project receiving attention.

'Expect more of the same'

David Gendelman, military expert based in Israel

Instead of "how it's going to end" here is what each side would like to achieve in the next phase.

Only about half of Russia's 300,000 mobilised troops are already in the fighting zone. The rest, together with the forces freed for action after Kherson withdrawal, gives the Russians an opportunity to launch an offensive.

The occupation of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions will continue but a major Russian breakthrough like a drive from the south to Pavlograd to encircle the Ukrainian forces in the Donbas is less likely.

More probable is a continuation of current tactics - a slow grinding of Ukrainian forces on narrow directions and a slow advance, like in Bakhmut and Avdiivka areas, with possible same tactics in Svatove-Kreminna area.

Continuing targeting of Ukrainian energy infrastructure and other attacks on Ukrainian rear will complete this war of attrition strategy.

Significant Ukrainian forces were also freed after a Russian retreat from Kherson. For them the most strategically valuable direction is south, to Melitopol or Berdyansk, aiming to cut the Russian mainland corridor to Crimea. That would be a major Ukrainian victory, and that is exactly why Russians are fortifying Melitopol.

Another option for Ukraine is Svatove - success there would endanger the whole northern flank of the entire Russian frontline.

The big question is how many Ukrainian forces are free and available for the offensive at this point, and what timetable General Zaluzhnyi has on his desk stating how many new reserve brigades and corps that are being built will be ready in one, two or three months from now, including manpower, armoured vehicles and heavy weapons.

After the mud freezes, we will get the answer to this question. And this answer will get us a little closer to "how it's going to end".

The analysts were chosen for their military expertise and their mix of perspectives
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-63987113

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 08:04 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ADQ4lK-5U8

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 09:29 AM

Russian sausage tycoon Pavel Antov dies in Indian hotel fall

By Paul Kirby
BBC News

Russian sausage tycoon Pavel Antov has been found dead at an Indian hotel, two days after a friend died during the same trip.

They were visiting the eastern state of Odisha and the millionaire, who was also a local politician, had just celebrated his birthday at the hotel.

Antov was a well known figure in the city of Vladimir, east of Moscow.

Last summer he denied criticising Russia's war in Ukraine after a message appeared on his WhatsApp account.

The millionaire's death is the latest in a series of unexplained deaths involving Russian tycoons since the start of the Russian invasion, many of whom have openly criticised the war.

Reports in Russian media said Mr Antov, 65, had fallen from a window at the hotel in the city of Rayagada on Sunday. Another member of his four-strong Russian group, Vladimir Budanov, died at the hotel on Friday.

Superintendent Vivekananda Sharma of Odisha police said Mr Budanov was found to have suffered a stroke while his friend "was depressed after his death and he too died". The Russian consul in Kolkata, Alexei Idamkin, told the Tass news agency that police did not see a "criminal element in these tragic events".

Tourist guide Jitendra Singh told reporters that Mr Budanov may have "consumed a lot of alcohol as he had liquor bottles".

Pavel Antov founded the Vladimir Standard meat processing plant and in 2019 Forbes estimated his fortune at some $140m (£118m) at the top of Russia's rich list of lawmakers and civil servants.

He played an important role at the legislative assembly in Vladimir, heading a committee on agrarian policy and ecology. The assembly's deputy chairman Vyacheslav Kartukhin said he had died in "tragic circumstances".

Late last June he appeared to react to a Russian missile attack on a residential block in the Shevchenkivskyi district of Kyiv that left a man dead and his seven-year-old daughter and her mother wounded.

A WhatsApp message on Antov's account described how the family were pulled out of the rubble: "It's extremely difficult to call all this anything but terror."

The message was deleted and Antov then posted on social media that he was a supporter of the president, a "patriot of my country" and backed the war.

The WhatsApp message had come from someone whose opinion on the "special military operation in Ukraine" he strongly disagreed with, he insisted. It had been posted accidentally on his messenger and was a highly annoying misunderstanding, he said.

Several high-profile Russian tycoons have died in mysterious circumstances since the war began.

In September the head of Russia's oil giant Lukoil, Ravil Maganov, apparently fell from a hospital window in Moscow.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64101437

Commander Wallace

12-27-22, 09:39 AM

^ Being a friend or former friend of Putrid is a tough gig. :yep:

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 09:50 AM

^ Being a friend or former friend of Putrid is a tough gig. :yep:

There must be a great many experiencing sleepless nights.

Commander Wallace

12-27-22, 10:35 AM

There must be a great many experiencing sleepless nights.

I'm sure if they do sleep, it's very little and with one eye open at all times. :yep:

Skybird

12-27-22, 11:05 AM

There is currently a lot of sudden health problems and accidents happening in Putin's circle of friends.
Less Vodka and more Borschtsch, I would subscribe. ;)

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 02:45 PM

If USA stops giving money and weapons to Ukraine, then war will stop, - Orban

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbn believes that Ukrainians can fight as long as the United States supports them with weapons and money.

As reported by Censor.NET with reference to the Euro Integration, he stated this in a Christmas interview.

According to him, this year was the most dangerous in the last thirty years. And Hungary faced the danger of being drawn into the war in Ukraine, while rising energy prices are also pushing the country in a dangerous direction.

Orbán confirmed Hungary's position that a cease-fire is necessary in the war, followed by peace talks.

"Ukraine can continue fighting only as long as the USA supports them with money and weapons. If the Americans want peace, then there will be peace," he said.

Regarding Hungary's position, he noted that Hungary is "pro-Hungarian".

"Our answer to the question of whether we are on the good or bad side of history is that we are on the Hungarian side of history. ... We support and help Ukraine, we are interested in the survival of a sovereign Ukraine, and we are interested in so that Russia does not pose a threat to the security of Europe. But we are not interested in giving up all our economic relations with Russia," concluded Orban. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389620

If Orban really wants peace, he should use his close ties with Russian Federation and persuade it to stop its aggression against Ukraine, - MFA

The Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbn, once again demonstrated contempt for Ukraine and political short-sightedness.

This is stated in the comment of the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Censor.NET informs.

"The statements of the Prime Minister of Hungary demonstrate a pathological contempt for Ukraine and the Ukrainian people, who are resisting Russian aggression, as well as his own political short-sightedness. After all, the defeat of Ukraine in the war, which Viktor Orbán is indirectly calling for, would lead to a direct threat of Russian aggression for Hungary and Hungarians. The Hungarian leader should ask himself whether he wants peace. If the answer is yes, he needs to use his close ties with Moscow so that it stops aggression against Ukraine and withdraws its troops," the ministry emphasizes.

We will remind you that the Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orbán, said that the Ukrainians are fighting only thanks to the help of the USA, saying that when the supply of weapons stops, the war will also stop. "Our answer to the question of whether we are on the good or bad side of history is that we are on the Hungarian side of history. ... We support and help Ukraine, we are interested in the survival of a sovereign Ukraine, and we are interested in so that Russia does not pose a threat to the security of Europe. But we are not interested in giving up all our economic relations with Russia," concluded Orban. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389666

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 02:49 PM

Difficult winter awaits Ukrainians, US and its allies will do everything to protect its infrastructure, - Blinken said

US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said that the States and allies will do everything to protect and repair Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.

He announced this on Twitter, Censor.NET reports.

"We will be with Ukraine as long as it takes. Ukrainians have a tough winter ahead of them, and we will work tirelessly with the G7 and other partners to repair, replace and protect Ukraine's energy infrastructure," he stressed. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389650

Number of desertions in Russian army is increasing, - General Staff

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine published information on the increase in the number of desertions in the Russian army.

As Censor.NET informs, this was reported on the official Facebook page of the General Staff.

The message states: "Due to significant losses of personnel, there has been an increase in cases of desertion of Russian servicemen and their leaving combat positions in the Luhansk region. In order to maintain control over the situation, the Russian military leadership has increased the number of patrols to detain and return deserters to their units." Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389677

Brussels should do its "homework" in context of Ukraine’s accession to EU, - Berbok

The European Union should deal with internal transformations against the background of potential expansion, in particular, the acceptance of Ukraine into its membership.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Berbok said this in an interview with the Romanian portal Digi24, Censor.NET reports with reference to "European Truth".

The head of the German Foreign Ministry called granting Ukraine the status of a candidate for membership in the European Union in June a "historic moment".

"Ukrainians also fight every day for the right to freely choose their future. And they see this future in Europe, in the EU. The road there will still be long and, of course, difficult at times, but we are doing everything possible to support Ukraine in the process of harmonizing its legal system and standards with European ones, thus paving the way to EU membership," she noted.

At the same time, Burbok noted that the European Union should also do its "homework".

"It is not enough to hang more new flags on the (EU) Council building in Brussels. We have to think about how we can remain able to act and take decisions in an enlarged Union. This is why we support reforms such as the use of qualified majority voting in more areas." , - explained the head of the German Foreign Ministry.

Back in June, Annalena Berbok spoke out for the reform of the European Union, in particular, the rejection of the principle of unanimity of decision-making in foreign policy, before the bloc's expansion, and also supported Ukraine's entry into the EU.

We will remind you that the Minister of European Affairs of the Government of Austria, Karoline Edtstadler, considers Ukraine's accession to the European Union a real prospect if it continues to follow the path of reforms. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389690

Jimbuna

12-27-22, 02:54 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWHvBYQswmk

Skybird

12-27-22, 04:25 PM

As was to be expected:
-----------------------------

Russia has banned oil sales to countries and companies that comply with a price cap agreed by Western nations earlier this month. (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-63843893)

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64102180

Commander Wallace

12-27-22, 08:35 PM

Here’s a list of Putin critics who've ended up dead

Jeremy Wilson (https://www.businessinsider.com/author/jeremy-wilson) and Taylor Ardrey (https://www.businessinsider.com/author/taylor-ardrey)
Updated
Dec 27, 2022, 5:12 PM

Pavel Antov - December 2022

Russian tycoon reportedly (https://www.businessinsider.com/putin-critic-pavel-antov-dies-falling-out-hotel-window-2022-12) fell from a hotel window in Rayagada, India, on December 25 days after his 65th birthday.
The politician and millionaire criticized Putin's war with Ukraine following a missile attack in Kyiv earlier this year on WhatsApp but quickly deleted the message and claimed that someone else wrote it, the BBC reported. (https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64101437)

"Our colleague, a successful entrepreneur, philanthropist Pavel Antov passed away," Vice Speaker of the Regional Parliament Vyacheslav Kartukhin said on his Telegram channel (https://t.me/v_kartukhin/2471), Russian media outlet TASS reported (https://tass.ru/politika/16687899). "On behalf of the deputies of the United Russia faction, I express my deep condolences to relatives and friends."

Ravil Maganov - September 2022

Lukoil chairman Ravil Maganov had been openly critical of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, CNBC reported (https://www.cnbc.com/2022/09/01/lukoil-chairman-ravil-maganov-is-the-8th-russian-energy-executive-to-die-suddenly-this-year.html). Shortly after the war began, the oil company called (https://www.lukoil.com/PressCenter/Pressreleases/Pressrelease?rid=577636)for "the soonest termination of the armed conflict," per the report.
Maganov, similar to Antov, died mysteriously by falling out the window of a Moscow hospital in September, the outlet reported. However, a now-deleted statement from Lukoil said that the 67-year-old died "following serious illness."

Dan Rapoport- August 2022

Businessman Dan Rapoport publicly condemned the Russia-Ukraine war on social media multiple times and emphasized his support for Ukraine, the Daily Beast (https://www.thedailybeast.com/anti-putin-investment-banker-dan-rapoport-found-dead-under-mysterious-circumstances-in-dc?ref=scroll) reported.
He was discovered dead in front of an apartment building in Washington, D.C, in August, according to the report. Police said he had a Florida driver's license, a black hat, just over $2500, and orange flip-flops when he was found.
Mikhail Lesin- November 2016

Russian press minister Mikhail Lesin was found dead of "blunt force trauma to the head" in a Washington, DC, hotel room in November 2015.
Lesin, who founded the English-language television network Russia Today (RT), was considering making a deal with the FBI to protect himself from corruption charges before his death, per the Daily Beast. (https://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/01/10/was-putin-s-media-chief-ready-to-snitch-before-he-dropped-dead.html) For years, Lesin had been at the heart of political life in Russia and would have known a lot about the inner workings of the rich and powerful.

Boris Nemtsov- February 2015

Boris Nemtsov was a former deputy prime minister of Russia under Boris Yeltsin who went on to become a big critic of Putin — accusing him (https://www.opendemocracy.net/od-russia/mumin-shakirov/who-was-mister-putin-interview-with-boris-nemtsov) of being in the pay of oligarchs. He was shot four times in the back just yards from the Kremlin as he walked home from a restaurant.

Boris Berezovsky- March 2013

Boris Berezovsky was a Russian oligarch who fled to Britain after he fell out with Putin. During his exile he threatened to bring down Putin by force (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/6708103.stm). He was found dead at his Berkshire home in March 2013 in an apparent suicide, although an inquest into his death recorded an open verdict.
Berezovsky was found dead (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/6708103.stm) inside a locked bathroom with a ligature around his neck. The coroner couldn't explain (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-berkshire-26778866) how he had died.
The British police had, on several occasions, investigated alleged assassination attempts (https://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200304/cmhansrd/vo040113/text/40113w08.htm%2340113w08.html_spnew7) against him.

Natalia Estemirova- July 2009

Natalia Estemirova was a journalist who sometimes worked with Politkovskaya.
She specialized in uncovering human-rights abuses (http://www.kavkaz-uzel.ru/articles/125059/) carried out by the Russian state in Chechnya.
She was abducted from outside her home and later found in nearby woodland with gunshot wounds to her head (https://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/jul/23/chechnya-natalia-estemirova). No one has been convicted of her murder.
Stanislav Markelov and Anastasia Baburova- January 2009

Human-rights lawyer Stanislav Markelov represented Politkovskaya and other journalists (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/russia/11441919/Kremlin-critics-killed-during-Vladimir-Putins-leadership.html) who had been critical of Putin. He was shot by a masked gunman near the Kremlin. Journalist Anastasia Baburova, who was walking with him, was also shot when she tried to help him.

Alexander Litvinenko- November 2006

Alexander Litvinenko was a former KGB agent who died three weeks after drinking a cup of tea at a London hotel that had been laced with deadly polonium-210.
A British inquiry found (https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2016/01/21/world/europe/100000004158141.mobile.html?_r=0) that Litvinenko was poisoned by FSB agents Andrei Lugovoi and Dmitry Kovtun, who were acting on orders that had "probably approved by Mr Patrushev and also by President Putin."
Litvinenko was very critical of Putin, accusing him of, among other things, blowing up an apartment block (http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/blog/september-1999-russian-apartment-bombings-timeline) and ordering the murder (https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/who-really-did-kill-russian-journalist-anna-politkovskaya-9535772.html) of journalist Anna Politkovskaya.

Anna Politkovskaya- October 2006

Anna Politkovskaya was a Russian journalist who was critical of Putin. In her book (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Putins-Russia-Anna-Politkovskaya/dp/1843430509) "Putin's Russia," she accused Putin of turning his country into a police state. She was murdered by contract killers who shot her at point-blank range in the lift outside her flat. Five men were convicted of her murder, but the judge found (https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/who-really-did-kill-russian-journalist-anna-politkovskaya-9535772.html) that it was a contract killing, with $150,000 paid by "a person unknown."
Paul Klebnikov- July 2004

Paul Klebnikov was the chief editor of the Russian edition of Forbes. He had written about corruption (https://news.sky.com/story/1437519/the-putin-critics-who-have-been-assassinated) and dug into the lives of wealthy Russians.
He was killed in a drive-by shooting in an apparent contract killing, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (https://cpj.org/data/people/paul-klebnikov/).

Sergei Yushenkov- April 2003

Sergei Yushenkov was a Russian politician who was attempting to prove the Russian state was behind the bombing (http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/2958997.stm) of an apartment block. He was killed in an assassination by a single shot to the chest just hours after his political organization, Liberal Russia, had been recognized by the Justice Ministry as a party, the BBC (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/2958997.stm) reported.

https://www.businessinsider.com/list-of-people-putin-is-suspected-of-assassinating- (https://www.businessinsider.com/list-of-people-putin-is-suspected-of-assassinating-2016-3)
2016-3 (https://www.businessinsider.com/list-of-people-putin-is-suspected-of-assassinating-2016-3)

Another Putin critic dies after falling out a window

Pavel Antov, 65, died Sunday at a hotel in India just days after celebrating his 65th birthday.

https://www.businessinsider.com/putin-critic-pavel-antov-dies-falling-out-hotel-window-2022-12?inline-endstory-related-recommendations=

Jimbuna

12-28-22, 08:00 AM

Russian troops able to freeze sperm for free - lawyer

By Paul Kirby
BBC News

Russian soldiers called up to fight in Ukraine will have the chance to store frozen sperm in a cryobank for free, according to a leading Russian lawyer.

Russian Union of Lawyers head Igor Trunov told state news agency Tass the health ministry had responded to his appeal for a free cryobank, and changes to compulsory medical insurance.

Russia mobilised 300,000 reservists after a string of setbacks in Ukraine.

Men then began approaching clinics to have their sperm frozen, reports said.

Mr Trunov announced on Twitter that his union was applying on behalf of several couples where the husband had been called up to take part in the special military operation (SVO) - the term used by Russia for its war in Ukraine.

The health ministry is yet to comment on Mr Trunov's remarks and the lawyer told the BBC his union would have to follow up with the department on what procedure there would be.

He told Tass the ministry had "determined the possibility of financial support from the federal budget for free conservation and storage of germ cells (spermatozoa) for citizens mobilised to take part in the SVO for 2022-2024".

Russia invaded Ukraine in February with up to 200,000 troops. It has not only lost more than half the territory it occupied during the initial phase of the war, but has suffered losses in the tens of thousands.

In September President Vladimir Putin announced a "partial mobilisation", and casualties have continued to mount. More than 250,000 Russian men fled the country to avoid the draft.

Within days of the call-up, the Fontanka website in Russia's second biggest city, St Petersburg, reported a surge in men approaching IVF and fertility clinics to freeze their sperm and draw up documents entitling their wives to use it.

Andrei Ivanov from the city's Mariinsky hospital said men preparing for the draft had come forward, as well as those who were planning to leave Russia.

Russian men and women rarely used the clinics "just in case" something went wrong, Fontanka reported, and they had never considered freezing their biomaterial before.

However, this solution meant that if a man died - or lost the ability to reproduce - then he would still be able to have children.

In recent weeks, the initial increase in men approaching reproductive clinics appears to have subsided.

One Moscow clinic contacted by the BBC said it doubted any quotas to store biomaterial could be promised as they would have all been agreed for 2023.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64107729

Jimbuna

12-28-22, 09:06 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwH0HVW2aSI

Jimbuna

12-28-22, 09:14 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4f5k-E19Zdk

mapuc

12-28-22, 11:16 AM

In a livestream from Ukraine, someone wrote that the Ukrainians would get the newest type of F16 next month from the Netherlands.

I tried to find information on this-I can only find article that's a couple of month old.

Markus

Skybird

12-28-22, 11:41 AM

I think you mean the Netherlands give surplus F-16s to Bulgaria and Bulgaria gives Ukraine its Mig-29ers...?! The german word for such action would be "Ringtausch".

Dargo

12-28-22, 12:25 PM

I think you mean the Netherlands give surplus F-16s to Bulgaria and Bulgaria gives Ukraine its Mig-29ers...?! The german word for such action would be "Ringtausch".Correct, if Washington gives its approval to the Netherlands it is gone to give its surplus F-16MLU fighter jets to NATO allies in Eastern Europe, so they can in turn donate MiG-29 fighter or other soviet jets to Ukraine.

mapuc

12-28-22, 12:32 PM

Correct, if Washington gives its approval to the Netherlands it is gone to give its surplus F-16MLU fighter jets to NATO allies in Eastern Europe, so they can in turn donate MiG-29 fighter or other soviet jets to Ukraine.

Which I also have heard a few times by now.

So where she and he got it from-that the Netherlands would send F16 to Ukraine I don't know.

Markus

Commander Wallace

12-28-22, 01:02 PM

Correct, if Washington gives its approval to the Netherlands it is gone to give its surplus F-16MLU fighter jets to NATO allies in Eastern Europe, so they can in turn donate MiG-29 fighter or other soviet jets to Ukraine.

The MiG-29 Fulcrum's are only half the battle. The Ukraine's are dealing with the long range missiles deployed on board all of the front line fighters Russia is using against the Ukraine.

Hopefully, any MiG-29 sent to the Ukraine can be sent with upgraded avionics, engines and perhaps more importantly, much better armament.

Aktungbby

12-28-22, 01:38 PM

There must be a great many experiencing sleepless nights....:hmmm:....or eternal rest!:oops::dead:

Jimbuna

12-28-22, 02:05 PM

UN members should consider creating tribunal on war crimes of Russian Federation, - High Commissioner for Human Rights Turk

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Trk, called for the prosecution of war crimes committed during Russia’s war against Ukraine.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to DW.

"Criminals should know that they will not be able to escape punishment," said Turk. According to his estimates, at this stage it seems that the majority of war criminals will be able to escape punishment. If they cannot be brought to justice in Ukraine or Russia, then the UN member states should decide on the creation of an international tribunal, the UN High Commissioner is convinced.

Individual countries can also initiate legal proceedings, Türk emphasized and recalled that in 2021, the highest regional court in the German city of Koblenz sentenced a Syrian citizen to imprisonment for facilitating crimes against humanity in Syria.

When asked whether it will be possible to bring Russian President Vladimir Putin to justice for the war he started in Ukraine, Turk answered: "I don't want to speculate, but something like that seems unrealistic to me now." He emphasized that it is currently difficult both from a political and legal point of view.

Turk added that Ukrainian law enforcement agencies are currently investigating about 40,000 war crimes. Back in 2014, after Russia's occupation of Ukrainian Crimea and the start of fighting in eastern Ukraine, the UN Office for Human Rights sent investigators to this country. Reports on the results of their work have been prepared, the UN commissioner said.

"Most recently, they documented the killing of 441 civilians in three regions in the first months of a full-scale invasion in 2022. It is about the deaths of 341 men, 72 women, 20 boys, and 8 girls," Turk clarified.

"We are also registering new cases in a number of regions of the Kharkiv and Kherson regions, which have been retaken by the Ukrainian armed forces," the UN commissioner noted. According to him, Russian servicemen probably killed civilians in temporary detention centers and after security checks. "Another commission of the UN Human Rights Council and the International Criminal Court (ICC) is conducting an investigation in Ukraine," Turk reminded. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389885

Jimbuna

12-28-22, 02:16 PM

European Union should start discussion on revision of sanctions against Russia, - Orban’s advisor

The main adviser to the Prime Minister of Hungary, Bal Orbn, said that the European Union should start a discussion on revising the sanctions imposed against Russia.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to Euro Integration.

According to Orbán's adviser, Hungary has not supported sanctions since 2014 because it believes "that it is a political tool that is not effective, based on historical experience."

"In this case, the objective of the sanctions should be to establish peace and withdraw Russia at least to the borders that existed before February 24. However, at the end of December, we are at a point where a series of sanctions have been imposed, there is still no peace, and Russia has occupied more territory than before the 24 February," Balash Orban claims.

At the same time, he assures that the unity of the European Union is important for Hungary, so it will support restrictive measures against Russia, but "fights for exceptions in areas that are of elementary national interest."

"This was the case, for example, with oil sanctions. We also take a principled position that if new sanctions are introduced in the energy sector, it will harm our state. In view of this, we do not allow, for example, the introduction of sanctions against religious leaders and officials who will play an important role in peacebuilding or be responsible for energy cooperation with us," added the Hungarian Prime Minister's adviser.

Baláš Orbán also referred to the Hungarian government's "national consultations" on the sanctions, where the majority opposed them.

"It's time to talk in Brussels about which sanctions make sense and which - which is obvious, maybe even to others - we are just shooting ourselves in the foot. We encourage a debate on this issue, and the opinion of over a million Hungarian citizens in a nationwide survey will be an excellent mandate for this," he believes.

Earlier, the main advisor of the Hungarian Prime Minister also stated that the EU should have assessed the impact of European sanctions against Russia on the EU countries before agreeing to any new ones. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389903

Jimbuna

12-28-22, 02:27 PM

Communicating with Devils leads to unfortunate fall out of reality, - Danilov on Peskov’s position on "peace plan"

Oleksiy Danilov, Secretary of the NSDC, commented on Putin’s press secretary Peskov’s statement that the "peace plan for Ukraine" can only exist if the occupied regions are "incorporated into Russia".

As Censor.NET informs, he wrote about it on Twitter.

Danilov noted: "There are no realities in which there are "new territories within the Russian Federation". It's time for Kremlin speakers to get out of the state of information delusion. The realities of the Russian Federation are shame, defeat and its collapse."

"Without taking these realities into account, no "peace plan" will take place. Communicating with the Devils leads to an unfortunate departure from reality," - summed up the secretary of the NSDC. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389913

US began to actively prevent production and transfer of Iranian drones to Russia, - New York Times

According to The New York Times, the administration of US President Joe Biden has developed a large-scale program aimed at preventing the development of Iranian drones and their transfer to Russia.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to RBC-Ukraine.

According to the publication, the White House intensified its work on Iranian drones after it turned out that the drones contained technologies from Western countries, including American ones.

The NYT notes that the Americans are already providing the Ukrainian military with information about locations where the Russians are preparing Iranian kamikaze drones for launch. Also, US companies handed Ukraine devices that can detect enemy drones at long distances. Such means for combating drones were also included in packages of American military aid to our country.

At the same time, the publication adds that American officials discussed the topic of Iranian drones with Israel, a country that has experience in undermining Iran's nuclear program. In particular, the US President's National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan last week discussed cooperation between Russia and Iran with Israeli officials.

Information that the US is trying to prevent the production of kamikaze drones in Iran with the help of sanctions and negotiations was confirmed by the press secretary of the US National Security Council, Adrienne Watson.

Also, according to the NYT, the White House ordered to take tough measures against companies whose technology was found in Iranian drones. The state plans to continue imposing sanctions against them. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389926

Zelensky discussed defense needs of Ukraine with French Defense Minister Lecorne

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a meeting with Minister of Defence of France Sbastien Lecorne.

This is stated by Censor.NЕТ with reference to the page of President in Facebook.

"I had a meeting with Minister of Armed Forces of France Sebastien Lecorne. I spoke about the security situation at the front and the defense needs of Ukraine. We discussed further steps to strengthen the defense capability of our state with the support of France," Zelensky noted.

The President thanked France for the military assistance already provided aimed at protecting the Ukrainian sky and strengthening the capabilities of the defense forces. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3389938

Skybird

12-28-22, 07:56 PM

Fighting in Ukraine is currently at a deadlock as neither Ukraine nor Russia can make significant advances, the head of the Ukrainian military intelligence agency has said, while Kyiv waits for more advanced weapons from Western allies.

"The situation is just stuck," Kyrylo Budanov told the BBC in an interview. "It doesn't move."

(...)

Mr Budanov said Russia was "now completely at a dead end" suffering very significant losses, and he believed the Kremlin had decided to announce another mobilisation of conscripts. But, he added, Ukrainian forces still lacked resources to move forward in multiple areas.

"We can't defeat them in all directions comprehensively. Neither can they," he said. "We're very much looking forward to new weapons supplies, and to the arrival of more advanced weapons."

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-64109024

Commander Wallace

12-28-22, 10:25 PM

https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/QuDq6ctGyyFSNuePwKQwTw--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTI0NjtoPTQ4O2NmPXdlYnA-/https://s.yimg.com/os/creatr-uploaded-images/2020-11/eaf7c2f0-2a9d-11eb-afff-e2a99e2a0d80 (http://www.marketwatch.com/)
Russian ruble slides to level not seen since April as Moscow concedes sanctions are squeezing the economy

https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/b1DzB_LL1OpCXNMA6.HDjA--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTk2MDtoPTQ4MDtjZj13ZWJw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/marketwatch.com/bd654eabfce249c8b73f047dba92ef7b

The value of the ruble tumbled sharply against the U.S. dollar Wednesday on signs that the latest wave of sanctions by Western countries are beginning to impact Russia’s economy.

Russia’s finance minister, Anton Siluanov, told journalists on Tuesday that the imposition of an oil price cap of $60 per barrel by G-7 economies, plus the European Union and Australia, is squeezing Russia’s export income.
This could widen Russia’s budget deficit beyond the planned 2% of gross domestic product in 2023, Reuters reported. (https://www.reuters.com/markets/oil-price-cap-may-widen-russias-2023-budget-deficit-says-finmin-2022-12-27/) In losses that intensified as U.S. markets opened, the ruble USDRUB, (https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/currency/USDRUB?mod=MW_story_quote) slumped 3% to $72.45 early Wednesday.

Is a bigger budget deficit possible? It is possible, if revenues are lower than planned. What are the risks next year? Price risks and restrictions,” Siluanov said in approved comments to reporters.

The sanctions, which took effect on Dec. 5, were imposed in retaliation for Moscow’s withdrawing oil flows to Europe and to limit funding for the Russian military campaign in Ukraine.
The ruble has consequently dropped, losing some of the gains achieved in the summer, when it benefited from higher oil prices BRN00, -0.54% (https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/future/BRN00?countryCode=UK&mod=MW_story_quote).

The ruble will continue to weaken because there’s no fundamental demand [for it],” Vladimir Milov, a Russian opposition politician, was quoted as having told the New York Times on Monday (https://www.nytimes.com/2022/12/23/opinion/russia-ruble-sanctions-economy.html). Russia’s central bank is likely to drop the U.S. dollar and buy Chinese yuan on the foreign-exchange market in a bid to reduce reliance on Western finances, Reuters recently reported. (https://www.reuters.com/markets/currencies/russia-likely-buy-yuan-fx-market-2023-sources-2022-12-22/)

This year, yuan-ruble RUBCNY, -0.10% (https://www.marketwatch.com/investing/currency/RUBCNY?mod=MW_story_quote) trading on Moscow’s currency exchange has increased from 1% to between 40% and 45%, while the share of dollar-ruble trades have been slashed in half to 40%.

https://www.marketwatch.com/story/russian-ruble-slides-to-level-not-seen-since-april-as-moscow-says-sanctions-squeezing-economy-11672229698?siteid=yhoof2

Jimbuna

12-29-22, 07:24 AM

"Russia does not want peace with Ukraine. Russia wants subjugation of Ukraine": Great Britain’s ambassador to Ukraine Simmons commented on missile attack on December 29

British Ambassador to Ukraine Melinda Simmons was one of the first to comment on the missile attack on Ukrainian regions on December 29.

This was reported by Censor.NET with reference to Simmons' Twitter.

Russia launched missiles at Kyiv and Lviv. Injured civilians. Russia rejects the peace plan of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Russia does not want peace with Ukraine. Russia wants the subjugation of Ukraine," wrote Simmons.

Also remind, that Russia launched another massive missile attack on Ukraine on the morning of December 29. Air defense forces destroyed 16 missiles in the sky over Kyiv. However, the debris damaged a private building, an industrial enterprise. Three people were injured. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390035

Probability of involving Belarus in war against Ukraine depends on ability of Russian Federation to advance in Donetsk direction, as well as on activity of AFU, - General Staff

Today, the group of Russian troops deployed in Belarus, Bryansk and Kursk regions of the Russian Federation is half the size of the group that was used for the offensive on Kyiv in February.

This was reported by the Deputy Chief of the Main Operational Department of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksii Hromov, Censor.NET reports.

According to Gromov, the Russians continue to raise the level of training by conducting training on Belarusian training grounds.

"Currently, there are up to 11,000 personnel and more than 400 units of military equipment of the occupying country," he added.

"Today, the group of Russian troops deployed in Belarus, the Bryansk and Kursk regions of the Russian Federation is half the size of the group that was used for the attack on Kyiv in February. 22,000 against 45,500 occupiers.
Even in the case of the involvement of all combat Belarusian military units from the ground forces and special operations forces, the joint grouping of the aggressor's forces will number about 30,000 people, which is exactly less than that which took part in a full-scale invasion," Hromov explained.

He added that Russia has removed all stocks of ammunition for artillery systems from Belarusian territories. At the same time, Minsk has limited opportunities to provide ammunition for the next grouping of troops from its territory.

"The prospects for the involvement of the Armed Forces of Belarus in the war against Ukraine directly depend on the ability of the Russian Armed Forces to advance in the Donetsk direction, as well as on the activity of the actions of the Defense Forces of Ukraine," Gromov concluded. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390055

Jimbuna

12-29-22, 07:27 AM

Around Bakhmut, Armed Forces of Ukraine deter up to 20 Russian attacks every day, - General Staff

Around Bakhmut, Ukrainian forces deter up to 20 attacks by the enemy every day, who, in order to concentrate artillery fire in the Bakhmut direction, reduced the number of shelling of the positions of Ukrainian troops in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia directions.

This was announced by the Deputy Chief of the Main Operational Department of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Brigadier General Oleksii Hromov, Censor.NET informs with reference to Interfax-Ukraine.

"The most difficult situation remains in the east of our country, where the enemy is trying to enter the administrative border of the Donetsk region. Since December 23, during the Forces and Defense operation, there have been 259 combat clashes with the enemy. The aggressor has fired more than 4,000 shots at our troops," he said

The main efforts of the enemy, as before, are concentrated in the Bakhmut direction, the General Staff noted.

"Around Bakhmut, Ukrainian forces repulse up to 20 enemy attacks every day, which persistently advance on the positions of our troops under the cover of artillery fire," Hromov said.

According to him, to concentrate the artillery fire in the Bakhmut direction, the enemy deliberately reduced the number of shelling of the positions of the Ukrainian troops in the Kherson and Zaporizhzhia directions.

"At the same time, the ammunition was delivered to the Bakhmut and Lyman directions," he said.

According to the information of the General Staff, more than 40% of the enemy's artillery fire along the contact line from Kupiansk to Mariinka falls on the Bakhmut direction. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390058

I do not see any signs of preparations for invasion of Kyiv or northern regions by Belarus. Lukashenko does not want disaster for his country - Budanov

Belarusian dictator Oleksandr Lukashenko is doing everything to prevent a disaster for his country.

Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, stated this in an interview with the BBC, Censor.NET reports.

According to him, the maneuvers of the Russian military in Belarus are being conducted in order to distract Ukrainian troops from the battles in Donbas and the south.

"Currently, I do not see any signs of preparations for an invasion of Kyiv or the northern regions by Belarus. Lukashenko is taking all steps to prevent a disaster for his country," Budanov said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390066

Skybird

12-29-22, 09:22 AM

An outlook by Martin van Creveld.
---------------------------------------

Any war that does not quickly break the will of the enemy ends up as a war of attrition. In Ukraine, this stage has been reached. Strategically, this leaves Putin with seven options. One of them was tested in Vietnam. The least likely is a peace deal.

Almost a year after Putin began his so-called special military operation against Ukraine, the war in that country has clearly turned into a war of attrition. Historically, such battles are not at all uncommon. Even Clausewitz argued that any offensive that fails to break the will of the enemy and achieve its objective within a reasonable period of time ends in a war of attrition. In this context, two battles in particular are worth mentioning. One was fought by Germany, Britain, and France on the Western Front and lasted from the end of 1914 to the end of 1918; the other was fought by Iran and Iraq and lasted from September 1980 to August 1988. In light of these, as well as several other armed conflicts, we should examine the options Putin has now.

First, he could simply allow the war to continue as it has in recent months. It is true that the ongoing hostilities and sanctions imposed by the West have not been without negative effects - perhaps even significant ones - on the Russian economy. On the other hand, those in the West who hoped to win the war relatively quickly and painlessly through economic pressure have been mistaken.

This is partly because of Russia's vast resources, especially energy and raw materials, but also - as the Germans learned in World War II - because of its sheer size; the maxim attributed to British Field Marshal Bernhard Montgomery, "Do not march on Moscow," is still as relevant today as it was in the days of Sweden's Charles XII and Napoleon. Putin may be hoping that he can break Ukraine's will and/or divide the coalition currently aligned against him by simply letting the war continue for as long as it takes.

Second, he could mobilize additional troops and equip them with whatever weapons he still has in reserve or can produce, train those troops, and use them for further battlefield offensives. This is what both the Allies did in World War I and what the Iranians did in their war against Iraq. In the first case, it worked, albeit only after four years of bitter fighting and only at a horrendous cost that bled both France and Britain dry in terms of manpower and national budgets. In the second case, it didn't work at all; the masses of young Iranians, many of whom carried Korean-made golden plastic keys to speed them on their journey to paradise, proved insufficient to the firepower of the Iraqis, backed by the East and the West.

Third, Putin can move from trying to defeat enemy forces in the field to attacking them in the rear. "They create a desert and call it peace," as the historian Tacitus put it twenty centuries ago in reference to Rome's conquest of Britain. Right now, this seems to be Putin's preferred option. Courtesy of Iran, its drones have attacked Ukrainian cities, and it is quite possible that more are already on the way. On the other hand, it is questionable whether such attacks can really go so far as to begin to break the Ukrainians' will to fight. From 1963 to 1973, three times as many bombs (by weight) were dropped on Vietnam as were dropped on Germany and Japan combined during World War II. But when the smoke cleared, the U.S. withdrew, and North Vietnam and the Viet Cong triumphed.

Fourth, the inclusion of Belarus. For as long as there has been armed conflict, belligerents in all times and places have always done their best to win allies. Since the beginning of the current war, Putin's main goal has been to draw Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko to his side as much as possible. As a glance at the map confirms, such an intervention may open a third, northern front against Ukraine, in addition to the two already existing to the east and south. Putin's recent meeting with Lukashenko could be a major step in this direction. On the other hand, it could also be that Lukashenko is trying to stay out of the war without provoking Putin too much. He is playing a dangerous game-and so far, as far as can be seen, with considerable success.

All four strategies, in one form or another, are as old as history itself and can be used both individually and together. The next, fifth option, however, takes us into a very different world. As far as I know, no one has yet clearly defined "tactical" nuclear weapons as opposed to "strategic" ones. The former, they say, are intended to be small and suitable for use on the "battlefield," military bases and airfields included. The latter are powerful enough to be used against entire cities and their civilian populations.

In truth, these distinctions are almost meaningless. Depending on geographic location, terrain, the extent to which enemy forces are concentrated or dispersed, and many other factors, "battlefield engagement" can mean anything from no casualties at all to hundreds, perhaps thousands, of deaths. What one side sees as a limited strike intended primarily to shock and impress may be seen by the other as a lethal blow that threatens its very existence. Even if retaliation can be avoided in a given war, a country that uses nuclear weapons must expect them to be used against it; if not sooner, then certainly later, when the need arises and the opportunity presents itself.

Then the use of strategic nuclear weapons, option six. From conventional weapons to tactical nuclear weapons is a big step; from tactical nuclear weapons to strategic nuclear weapons is a much smaller one. Although the nuclear arsenals of both the United States and Russia (and soon China) are not as large as they were during the Cold War thirty years ago, they are sufficient to destroy the world several times over. Therefore, as long as Putin remains sane under the pressures he faces, he will almost certainly decide not to use strategic nuclear weapons or the smaller tactical weapons that lead to them.

Finally, option number seven: Make peace. Almost from the beginning of the war, Putin had the option of halting his offensive, withdrawing his troops, and making peace. Such a move, indeed anything resembling it, would almost certainly result in his downfall and that of his clique. With only somewhat less certainty, it would also cause his entire country to disintegrate - with consequences for Eurasia that are beyond the author's imagination. Therefore, at the moment, this seems the least likely of all possibilities.

Putin is caught between Scylla and Charybdis.
--------------------------------------------

(Die Welt)

mapuc

12-29-22, 10:20 AM

"Finally, option number seven: Make peace."

Not so long ago, some hours I read in a Danish newspaper in which Russia have said there can't be any peacetalk with Ukraine if they don't accept that these 4 region in Ukraine is now a part of Russia.

Ukraine has said they want to retake all that has been taken. They want it back to how the border was in 1991.

The question here is not who's gonna win the war but who will be forced to give in, after been under massive pressure from USA, NATO, UN a.s.o.

Yes Biden and other leaders has said they will give aid to Ukraine as long as it has to...however I think this help has its limits.

Markus

Ostfriese

12-29-22, 10:40 AM

As for tactical nuclear weapons: way too many people simply don't understand that a single tactical nuke wouldn't change much even on the tactical level, let alone on the operational or strategic level.

To make a serious difference a lot of tactical nukes would be needed. If I remember correctly the US assumed during the cold war that it would require about 130 to 170 tactical nukes for a front of 100km length. So, even if used only locally (to achieve a breakthrough) it would require dozens of tactical nukes to make a serious difference.
Even if I assumed the Russians were capable of launching so many tactical nukes (which I don't, I seriously doubt the Russians have anything close to the required capabilities) I don't see how anyone (and certainly not the Russians) can prevent events from spiraling out of control after that. No nuclear armed nation can afford to stand by if another launches a massive nuclear strike.

Skybird

12-29-22, 11:40 AM

The question here is not who's gonna win the war but who will be forced to give in, after been under massive pressure from USA, NATO, UN a.s.o.

Yes Biden and other leaders has said they will give aid to Ukraine as long as it has to...however I think this help has its limits.

Exactly, due to homegrown prsssure from national populations. The US, NATO cannot press Russia to give in - they can make life harder for Russia, but they cannot directly pressure it enough to "give in" - that would in clude to send own troops and become an actively fighting war faction. The only ones the US ands nATO cna poress for anything, it the ukraine. Without weapons, without sophisticated means of destroying columns of Russian platforms on the goprund and in the air, and killing Russian soldiers, the Ukrain e necessarily must lose this war in the long run.

Fools like Macronman and Bubble-Olaf either do not understand this - or understand it all too well and exactly aim at right this: forcing the Ukraine to give in. It is very telling how little military and other assistance France has provided so far.

https://www.nzz.ch/international/frankreich-warum-das-land-der-ukraine-so-wenig-waffen-liefert-ld.1707381?_x_tr_hl=de&_x_tr_pto=wapp&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_sl=de

Personally, I currently give any speculation about negotiating a peace zero chance. I also think the war will not end next year, but may last severla years, in a frozen or active status. In my reading, the war lasts since 8 years already.

Jimbuna

12-29-22, 11:53 AM

Putin to build four more nuclear submarines in desperate bid to prevent Ukraine defeat

Vladimir Putin has announced that four new nuclear submarines will be built to bolster Russia's firepower at sea, state media in Moscow says. According to reports from RIA Novosti, Putin announced the launch of the 'Emperor Alexander III' via a video link, boasting that this will ensure Russia's security.

Putin is quoted as saying: "I would like to note that four more such submarines will be built as part of the current state armament program. This will ensure Russia's security for decades to come."

The submarines will be equipped with modern navigation, communication and hydroacoustic systems, as well as precision weapons.

Putin added that the Generalissimo Suvorov vessel "is armed with Bulava ballistic missiles, which significantly increase the capabilities of our nuclear naval forces".

State media reported that Putin was keen to emphasise the "pace and volume" at which these new submarines would be built.

Vladimir Putin has incensed international and Russian communities since February, with his bloody invasion of Ukraine having killed thousands and courted extensive western sanctions.

As well as the Emperor Alexander III and Generalissimo Suvorov, a small missile ship named 'Grad' and a sea minesweeper named 'Anatoly Shlemov' will also be built.

The announcement comes as fighting in Ukraine continues to intensify.

On Thursday morning, Putin's forces dropped at least 120 missiles on Kyiv and other cities.

Ukrainian presidential office adviser Oleksiy Arestovych said: "A massive air raid. More than 100 missiles in several waves."

Russia has repeatedly dropped missiles on Ukraine, leaving those who remain in the country without basics such as electricity, water and heating.

Ukrainian officials have recently said that the war is at a "stalemate" on the battlefield with neither side able to make significant advances.

Russian President Putin has indicated that he would be willing to engage with Ukraine in peace talks, quoted on Wednesday by Tass as saying he is ready to "negotiate with everyone involved in this process about acceptable solutions".

However, any peace deal looks far from happening given the huge gulf between the demands of Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Ukraine wants a complete withdrawal of Russian troops from the country, but the Kremlin will only accept a peace deal if it keeps control of the four recently annexed regions.

This week, Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov said Mr Zelensky's demands for Moscow's troops to leave eastern Ukraine and Crimea was an "illusion".

He also said: "Our proposals for the demilitarisation and denazification of the territories controlled by the [Ukrainian] regime, the elimination of threats to Russia's security emanating from there, including our new lands, are well known to the enemy.

"The point is simple: Fulfil them for your own good. Otherwise, the issue will be decided by the Russian army."

This came in response to Mr Zelensky's 10-point peace plan, setting out Ukraine's demands to see the war ended.

His peace formula included a number of conditions including nuclear safety near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, food security to ensure Ukraine can export grain to poorer parts of the world, and energy security so that Ukraine can rebuild its infrastructure.

Mr Zelesnky also wants Russia to release all prisoners and deportees, including war prisoners and children deported to Russia.

Other demands include Russian war crimes being prosecuted in a special tribunal, and that an official document is signed to end the war.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-to-build-four-more-nuclear-submarines-in-desperate-bid-to-prevent-ukraine-defeat/ar-AA15MgVw?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=076e9583cd1a492d8fb451a9182b703b

Jimbuna

12-29-22, 01:27 PM

Russia began using missiles that were manufactured in fourth quarter of 2022

On December 29, during another massive missile attack, the Russians fired at least one X-101 missile, which was manufactured in the fourth quarter of 2022, from their Tu-95MS.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to Defense Express.

The publication notes that the occupiers started launching missiles "directly from the assembly line", that is, immediately after production. However, this is not the first use of "fresh" ammunition. Missiles that were manufactured in 2022 were also detected during the missile attack.

It is reported that it is still unclear what percentage of new missiles they use for strikes on Ukraine - whether they have time to produce enough missiles to replenish the stockpile or whether they release them immediately after production without creating any reserves. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390141

August

12-29-22, 03:01 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XhC3RLA6Mo

August

12-29-22, 04:04 PM

This is pretty good. I especially love the guys paddling the tank up stream at 49 seconds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSnj_1f3JaE

Jimbuna

12-30-22, 07:38 AM

Kremlin insider says Putin suffering headaches and dizziness as president skips events

Putin is suffering from cancer and Parkinson's and is "critically ill", according to a Kremlin insider. The Russian President is believed to be using "body doubles" to attend public events as his health is deteriorating. Link

Putin is experiencing "dizziness and headaches", the Kremlin insider said in a post on Russian Telegram channel General SVR,

Echoing previous claims made in the same channel that Putin is also suffering from cancer, they added that the cancer is "slowly progressing", "calling into question his ability to participate in large events".

The Telegram channel has long claimed Putin is battling with cancer and has said that sources inside the Kremlin say the Russian leader has lost 18lbs.

They claim Putin's inner circle is worried that his "persistent cough" will be seen as a "sign of the leader's rapidly deteriorating health", as Russia continues to attack Ukraine.

Last month, the Russian President appeared to cough in a clip from a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko.

Putin has been cancelling a number of meetings in the past month and he also called off his annual end of year press conference in Russia's parliament.

Last week Putin was supposed to be visiting a tank plant in Nizhny Tagil but this was cancelled.

Putin also appeared unsure as he stepped onto the tarmac in Belarus after a flight from St Petersburg for a meeting with his close ally Alexander Lukashenko last week.

The Russian leader was forced to jump down from the step of the Russian aeroplane, appearing unsteady on his legs and the 70-year-old arrived in Belarus.

It is claimed that Putin initially suffered colon cancer which has spread and the medication used to treat it has led to early symptoms of Parkinson's.

Rumours surrounding Putin and his health began to swirl years ago, but they gained traction in February when his "shaky arm" was seen while he was speaking to Lukashenko.

In April, an independent media outlet reported that the Russian leader has travelled with an oncologist on numerous occasions.

In May, a former MI6 spy also added weight to claims Putin is suffering from poor health. Speaking to LBC, Christopher Steele said the exact details were unknown but added Putin is "constantly" accompanied by doctors.

But others dismissed the claims. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov addressed Putin's health in May, saying "Putin appears in public every day" and added: "I don't think sane people can discern any sort of symptom of disease in this man."

Then, in July, CIA Director William Burns also said that the Russian President is "too healthy" but dded that his comment was "not a formal intelligence judgment."

The Kremlin has repeatedly denied rumours on Putin's health.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/kremlin-insider-says-putin-suffering-headaches-and-dizziness-as-president-skips-events/ar-AA15O2YD?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=f5fe2f854ea642f189d332edfd32270b

Jimbuna

12-30-22, 07:49 AM

Belarus says it downed Ukraine air defence missile

Belarus has summoned the Ukrainian ambassador, saying it had shot down a Ukrainian air defence missile in Belarusian territory.

It happened during one of Russia's heaviest aerial onslaughts against Ukraine so far.

Footage from Belarusian state television appeared to show missile debris in a field.

A Ukrainian military spokesman said the incident was "the result of air defence".

Belarus - a key ally of Russia - demanded that Kyiv carry out a full investigation, after the S-300 rocket came down near the border.

It is the first time Belarus has shot down a Ukraine missile since the Russian invasion in February.

The Ukrainian ambassador was called in to the foreign ministry in Minsk.

"The Belarusian side views this incident as extremely serious," spokesperson Anatoly Glaz told the Reuters news agency.

He called on Ukraine to "take comprehensive measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents in the future".

And in a press briefing on Friday, the Kremlin said it was greatly concerned by the incident.

Ukraine's defence ministry said it was ready to invite experts from countries that do not support "the terrorist state of Russia" to help investigate of the incident, adding that it reserved "the unconditional right to the defence and protection of its own sky".

It said it did not rule out a "deliberate provocation" in which Moscow launched its cruise missiles on a path where they would be intercepted over Belarusian territory.

Belarus said the missile came down near the village of Harbacha in the Brest region, around 15 km (9 miles) from the border with Ukraine.

A witness told Radio Free Europe: "Our windows were shaking and the house was vibrating from what must have been a sound wave."

The military commissar of the Brest region, Oleg Konovalov, sought to downplay the incident.

"Unfortunately, these things happen," he said in a video posted to social media.

He compared it to an incident last month when a missile landed in Poland, killing two people. Nato chief Jens Stoltenberg said Kyiv's air defences were "most likely" to blame, but Ukraine denied this.

Belarus has very close ties with Russia, and allowed Moscow to use its territory in February to start the invasion of Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials recently claimed that Russia could be planning a new offensive from Belarus, but Western governments say they have seen no evidence of that.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said most regions were without power in freezing conditions following a huge wave of Russian missile attacks.

Moscow fired scores of missiles at cities across Ukraine on Thursday, including in Kyiv, Kharkiv, Lviv and Odesa.

Mr Zelensky warned that Moscow "is only driving itself deeper into a dead end".

"The status of the largest terrorist in the world will have consequences for Russia and its citizens for a long time. And each missile only confirms that all this must end with a tribunal. This is exactly what will happen," he said.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64122632

Jimbuna

12-30-22, 08:10 AM

Dargo

12-30-22, 01:30 PM

In West, only sect "saving Russia’s face" remains, everything is already understood about Putin - Kuleba

In the West, there are no longer any supporters of the idea of "saving the face" of the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin. However, there are those who want to "save Russia’s face".

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba stated this in an interview with RBC-Ukraine, Censor.NET reports.

"Only the ``saving Russia's face'' sect remained. But they already understood everything about Putin. This is a marginal sect, but it still exists, because of the prism of "we still want to live with them", "they will not disappear anywhere", etc., - explained the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

"For me, the most important thing now is not so much to overcome this sect but to establish in my partners the understanding that no matter what the government in Russia is, Russia will not change in its essence.
This should stop a much wider circle of people who believe that it is possible to turn Russia into a liberal, democratic country. And it's actually much more important to overcome that narrative. And agree with the thesis that Russia is what it is, and our task is not to turn an orc into an elf but to extinguish this aggression.
And to create such conditions under which the expansion of Russia will become impossible. That is, from an aggressive-authoritarian country, it should become simply an authoritarian, conservative country. They must be pushed into their borders and locked up. Let them live in their autarky, under their tsar-father, as long as they don't attack anyone," Kuleba added. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390256Now that winter has set in, most Dutch people still support Ukraine, according to a study by the research collective Euroskopia, conducted in the Netherlands by the Bureau I&O Research on behalf of de Volkskrant (https://www.volkskrant.nl/nieuws-achtergrond/europa-staat-nog-eensgezind-achter-oekraine-vooral-onder-nederlanders-is-de-steun-opvallend-groot~b8ec9d09/). Only 27 percent of Dutch people think that "the war in Ukraine should be ended as soon as possible, even if that means Ukraine loses territory. 46 percent are against such a compromise peace, the rest are neutral or have no opinion. This surprisingly puts the Netherlands in the lead in a survey of nine EU member states. Poland, with 28 percent in favor of an agreement with Russia, is similar to the Netherlands.

In other countries, support for the Zelensky government is less generous, the survey shows. In the nine EU member states surveyed, 48 percent favor a compromise peace, and 32 percent oppose it. The preference for an agreement with Moscow is highest in Germany (60 percent) and Austria (64 percent). It is not clear why support for Ukraine is relatively high in the Netherlands. According to the Euroskopia survey, the Dutch are less affected by increased energy prices than citizens of European countries. Of the Dutch, 32 percent say they feel the effects of the energy crisis "to a great extent," compared with an average across the nine countries surveyed of 48 percent. The Dutch are also the most satisfied with the support they receive from their own government: 37 percent versus an average of 25 percent. However, it is not clear whether there is a causal link between the burden of energy prices and support for a compromise peace, the researchers write, because very different factors are at play. In September, researchers at the University of Michigan explained the German desire for a quick peace not primarily by high prices but by the pacifist tradition of postwar Germany. After the Russian invasion, Chancellor Scholz announced a Zeitenwende: Germany was going to supply weapons to Ukraine and wanted to become a major military power itself. German citizens, however, struggled to follow this turnaround, according to the researchers.

August

12-30-22, 03:59 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=deK98IeTjfY

Skybird

12-30-22, 05:05 PM

The Times' radio had this: why more oligarchs will meet their fate before all this is over.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idPw9pn_NC0

Jimbuna

12-31-22, 06:52 AM

Putin “knows he’s in trouble” in Ukraine: Former head of British Army speaks out

The former head of the British Army has said Vladimir Putin is pushing the idea of peace talks to end the Ukraine war because he’s in a “position of weakness.”

Lord Richard Dannatt said of Putin’s negotiation hints that “the reason why he’s talking about this at the present moment is that he knows he’s in trouble. He’s been raising fresh troops, mobilising several thousands we are told. But I don’t think he’s equipping them very well.”

Putin gave the order to invade Ukraine in February and Kremlin planners expected a swift victory. However, the Russian army is now protecting just a small sliver of the land it picked up in the early days of the conflict, and Western support for Ukraine shows little sign of falling away.

“One has to ask why he’s saying what he is saying. He is, I think, speaking from a position of weakness. If I was the Ukrainian President, I would not want to hear talk of peace talks at the present time. And, frankly, to be honest, I don’t think we should be talking about it either, because it gives Putin a little bit of encouragement that maybe the West is starting to talk about peace talks,” Dannatt said, in a lengthy interview with GB News today.

Dannatt also warned that Putin would be under domestic pressure, as the mobilisation of reserves had made it “everyone in Russia’s war” as opposed to a special military operation, as it was originally badged.

“We are ready to negotiate with everyone involved about acceptable solutions, but that is up to them – we are not the ones refusing to negotiate, they are,” Putin told state television in an interview broadcast on Christmas Day.

Lord Richard Dannatt led the British Army as Chair of the General staff from 2006 to 2008.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/putin-knows-he-s-in-trouble-in-ukraine-former-head-of-british-army-speaks-out/ar-AA15HSlS?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=fc7a05e4202c44e88fa114d6c5174cd8

Jimbuna

12-31-22, 06:59 AM

China’s Xi’s reserved remarks contrast Putin’s upbeat tone

Since major Western economies responded to the invasion with an unprecedented, coordinated barrage of sanctions, Russia has been forced to seek other markets, and has overtaken Saudi Arabia as the top crude supplier to China.

Bilateral trade has soared and financial ties have been expanded.

On Friday, Russia‘s Finance Ministry doubled the maximum possible share of Chinese yuan in its National Wealth Fund (NWF) to 60 per cent as Moscow tries to “de-dollarise” its economy and end dependency on “unfriendly” nations including the United States, European Union members and Britain and Japan.

Moscow has also publicly backed Xi’s position on Taiwan and accused the West of trying to provoke a conflict over the status of the self-governing island, which China claims as its own.

Putin told Xi: “You and I share the same views on the causes, course and logic of the ongoing transformation of the global geopolitical landscape, in the face of unprecedented pressure and provocations from the West.”

However, Xi has been less vocal in his criticism of Western countries that are China’s key export market, and has appeared cool on Russia‘s invasion of Ukraine.

China has refrained from condemnation, instead stressing the need for peace, but Putin in September publicly acknowledged that his Chinese counterpart had “concerns” about Russia‘s actions.

Xi did, however, tell Putin on Friday that China was ready to increase strategic cooperation with Russia against the backdrop of what he called a “difficult” situation in the world at large.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the meeting had been substantive and constructive, but that no date had yet been set for Xi’s visit.

Jimbuna

12-31-22, 02:00 PM

Zelensky tells Russians - Putin is destroying you

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has told Russians that their leader is destroying their country.

Responding to Vladimir Putin's New Year address delivered while flanked by people in military uniform, he said the Russian president was hiding behind his troops, not leading them.

On a day of deadly Russian air strikes across Ukraine, he said Ukrainians would not forgive Russia.

At least person died and dozens were injured in the attacks.

The head of Ukraine's armed forces, Valerii Zaluzhny, said air defences had shot down 12 of 20 Russian cruise missiles.

The attacks happened two days after one of the largest air strikes since the start of the war. Dozens of attacks in recent weeks have caused repeated power cuts.

Moscow has repeatedly denied targeting civilians, but Mr Putin has recently admitted hitting critical energy facilities.

In an address on his Telegram channel, Mr Zelensky said those who carried out Saturday's attacks were inhuman and they would "lose".

Switching from Ukrainian to Russian, he then attacked Mr Putin.

"Your leader wants to show you that he's leading from the front, and his military is behind him," he said.

"But in fact he is hiding. He's hiding behind his military, his missiles, the walls of his residences and palaces.

"He's hiding behind you, and he's burning your country and your future. No-one will forgive you for terror. No-one in the world will forgive you for that. Ukraine will not forgive."

He was speaking in response to Mr Putin's New Year address, which is being broadcast for each of Russia's 11 time zones as they see in 2023.

The Russian leader tried to rally people behind his troops fighting in Ukraine, saying the country's future was at stake.

In combative mood, Mr Putin said: "We always knew, and today it is confirmed to us yet again, that a sovereign, independent and secure future for Russia depends only on us, on our strength and will."

He presented the invasion of Ukraine's sovereign territory as "defending our people and our historical lands" and said "moral, historical rightness is on our side".

Mr Putin also accused the West of "provoking" Moscow to launch its invasion of Ukraine on 24 February.

"The West lied about peace. It was preparing for aggression... and now they are cynically using Ukraine and its people to weaken and split Russia," he said.

Ukraine and the West reject Russia's claims about the start of the aggression.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64135080

Jimbuna

12-31-22, 02:06 PM

Putin read address against background of security personnel disguised as military personnel. PHOTOS

Russian dictator Putin recorded a New Year’s greeting surrounded by "military". However, the network noticed a woman who had appeared with Putin in other "roles" several times.

This is reported by Censor.NET.

Among the "military" present, standing behind Putin during the New Year's greeting, a user noticed a woman on the network. This is not the first time she appears at events with Putin.

This time she portrays herself as a military woman.

We will remind, today the Russian dictator Vladimir Putin addressed the Russians with New Year's greetings. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390583

Armed Forces of Ukraine have already liberated 40% of territories occupied after February 24, - General Staff

As of the end of 2022, the Defense Forces of Ukraine liberated 40% of the territories of Ukraine occupied by Russia after February 24.

Deputy Chief of the Main Operational Department of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Brigadier General Oleksiy Hromov, reported this in a comment to Ukrinform, Censor.NET reports.

"The Armed Forces of Ukraine and other components of the defense forces liberated 40% of the territories occupied after February 24. The liberation of the right-bank Kherson region brought the total area of de-occupied territories to almost 40,000 square kilometers. Only during the fall, during the offensive operation in the Kharkiv region, 12,000 square kilometers were liberated. km, about 500 settlements were liberated, and during the offensive operation in the Kherson direction, about 6,000 square kilometers were liberated, more than 200 settlements were liberated," he said.

He also said that 14,000 square meters have been released in the Chernihiv and Sumy regions. km, in the north of the Kyiv region - 7 thousand square meters. km

The brigadier general reminded that with the forces of a powerful offensive group of Russian troops, which had been building up for several months, the enemy only managed to partially achieve the goal in the Donetsk operational area - to temporarily deprive Ukraine of access to the Sea of Azov, to create a land corridor to the temporarily occupied Crimea.

At the same time, the achievement of dominance in the air remained only a declaration of the enemy, Hromov emphasized.

Answering questions about the potential of the Russian army in February, when the Russian Federation invaded the territory of Ukraine, Hromov said: "As of February 23, 2022, the offensive group of the enemy exceeded 127,000 servicemen, almost 1,800 tanks, 4,900 armored combat vehicles, more than 1,800 artillery systems , 830 rocket salvo systems. In a 400-km zone near the state border of Ukraine, there were about 440 combat aircraft and more than 500 helicopters of the PKS, 11 tactical groups of missile brigades (44 launchers) of operational-tactical missiles "Iskander". reinforced by landing and artillery boats of the Caspian Flotilla of the Southern Military District and the Baltic Fleet, there were 28 attack ships (boats), six attack submarines. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390544

Jimbuna

01-01-23, 07:16 AM

Chilling New Year's Eve message scrawled onto killer Russian drone as bombs fall on Kyiv

Russia targeted the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv with a fresh round of missile strikes in the last hours of 2022 - with one bearing a chilling "Happy New Year" message apparently scrawled on it by a Russian soldier. In total, 45 Iranian-made Shahed drones were downed overnight, although Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said nobody had been killed, unlike the previous night's raids, which resulted in the death of at least one person.

A picture of the Iranian drone was shared by Andriy Nebytov, chief of Kyiv's police, via the Telegram messaging app.

He commented: "The fragments of the martyr are part of the nightly greeting from the "brotherly people" with a happy New Year!"

Using a nickname for Russian troops, he added: "You can say cheap and tasteless! Real orc-style."

Mr Nebytov stressed: "And these wreckages are not at the front, where fierce battles are taking place, they are here, on the sports ground, where children play.

"This is all you need to know about the terrorist state and its army.

"We thank the air defence units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine for the excellent result.

"Without your professional work, the morning would not be good.

"I ask all citizens not to ignore the air alarm signal and always take shelter."

Mr Klitschko shared a picture of a bomb-damaged car, commenting: "Explosions in the Holosiivskyi and Shevchenkovskyi districts of the capital.

"In Shevchenkivsk, a fragment of a rocket fell on a Volkswagen car and damaged the hood of the car. There are no victims or victims."

The raids did not deter Ukranians from celebrating although an 11pm curfew prevented them from doing so in the main square overnight.

Nevertheless, for several hours leading up to it, hundreds packed the streets, unfurling Ukrainian flags and taking selfies in front of a big Christmas tree in Sofia Square lit up in blue and yellow.

US Ambassador to Ukraine Bridget Brink tweeted: 'Russia coldly and cowardly attacked Ukraine in the early hours of the new year.

"But Putin still does not seem to understand that Ukrainians are made of iron."
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/chilling-new-year-s-eve-message-scrawled-onto-killer-russian-drone-as-bombs-fall-on-kyiv/ar-AA15Ruqq?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=0c5aa4af47ac421698fea31b7c1f7bd6

Jimbuna

01-01-23, 07:35 AM

Putin should face trial this year, says top lawyer

By James FitzGerald
BBC News

Russian President Vladimir Putin should go on trial in Ukraine this year for war crimes committed there, says the man who led the prosecution of former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic.

Sir Geoffrey Nice told the BBC Mr Putin was a "guilty man" for attacks on civilian targets during the war.

The British barrister expressed his surprise that prosecutors and politicians were not "spelling this out much more freely and openly".

Russia denies committing war crimes.

But, speaking to Radio 4's Broadcasting House programme, Sir Geoffrey described Moscow's actions during the invasion as "crimes against humanity" - as civilian targets were being attacked.

Crimes against humanity are considered to be among the most serious offences under the so-called "rules" of war.

These laws ban attacks on civilians - or infrastructure vital to their survival - and are set out in international treaties such as the Geneva Conventions.

For example, Russia's repeat attacks on the Ukrainian energy grid over the winter have been described as war crimes because of the harm done to civilians. Russia insists it is hitting military targets only.

Moscow's troops have been accused by the international community of thousands of abuses since their full-scale invasion of the neighbouring country last February.

The prosecutor-general in Kyiv says more than 62,000 war crimes have so far been recorded, including the deaths of more than 450 children. The BBC has not been able to verify these figures.

Sir Geoffrey worked with International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY) between 1998 and 2006.

He led the case against former Serbian leader Slobodan Milosevic, who went on trial in The Hague in 2002 for war crimes committed in Croatia, Bosnia and Kosovo.

Mr Milosevic - once known as the "butcher of the Balkans" - died in prison before the trial concluded.

Commenting on the war in Ukraine, Sir Geoffrey said the case "couldn't be clearer" against Mr Putin, and there was "no doubt" of a chain of command leading to the man in the Kremlin.

This meant the "most important thing" was to try the Russian leader himself, rather than low-ranking soldiers, he told Broadcasting House.

He added that any trial "could be tomorrow morning, as far as I'm concerned" and should be held by Ukrainians in the Ukrainian language. Mr Putin himself would not need to be present, he said.

Sir Geoffrey speculated over a possible reason why the Russian leader had not faced tougher action so far - suggesting there could be a move to exempt him from prosecution as part of a peace deal.

He said the International Criminal Court (ICC) - which has jurisdiction over Ukraine - "has still not made a pronouncement about Putin's responsibility for this crime".

Sir Geoffrey said this "reluctance" raised the question of whether there was some sort of "political advantage" to not indicting the president.

But he said the idea of any peace settlement that prevented a trial of Mr Putin was an "appalling prospect" which would be "a complete denial of justice to the people of Ukraine".

In response, the ICC rejected any assertion of "pressure or influence" on the prosecutor, Karim Khan, to delay any investigations.

Mr Khan had "gone on record repeatedly... to demonstrate that accountability is an imperative that must be achieved", an ICC statement said.

It added that the prosecutor had been working on the ground in Ukraine to collect evidence of war crimes - and arrest warrants would be issued when enough proof had been gathered.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64138851

Jimbuna

01-01-23, 02:58 PM

Russia intends to launch new offensive in Ukraine. Russian Federation mobilized much more forces than it used on battlefield, - Stoltenberg

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg believes that Russia is preparing a new wave of offensive during its aggression against Ukraine, and also calls not to underestimate the impact of the mobilization carried out in the Russian Federation.

He said this in an interview with the BBC Radio 4 channel in the World at One program, Censor.NET reports with reference to "Euro Integration".

Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine now has an advantage on the battlefield and reminded that this has been going on for a long time. However, he believes that Ukraine has not yet felt all the consequences of the so-called "partial mobilization" that took place in the Russian Federation in the fall.

"Ukrainian forces have been advancing for several months, but we also know that Russia has mobilized much more forces (than it used on the battlefield), many of them are currently undergoing training," the Secretary General said.

The available data, according to the Alliance Secretariat, indicate that Russia is "ready to continue the war and intends to potentially launch a new offensive," he emphasized.

Stoltenberg emphasized that Ukraine needs to maintain and continue support from the Western world, including the supply of weapons. Donors of Ukraine should also be prepared for the fact that this support will last for a long time. The NATO Secretary General is convinced that there is such readiness.

"We will be by your side no matter what. We will help you until victory," he assured Ukraine.

Stoltenberg is also convinced that the war will end with negotiations with Russia, but it is important to create good conditions for the start of negotiations.

"What Ukraine can achieve at this table depends entirely on the strength on the battlefield," he said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390707

Russia has missiles left for 2 massive strikes on Ukraine. By March, Russian Federation will have critical situation with weapons, - Budanov

The head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov predicted what awaits Ukraine and Russia in 2023

He said this in an interview during the United National Telethon, reported by Censor.NET.

"- the Russian Federation has missiles left for 2 massive strikes on Ukraine — they are reducing the number in order to keep simulating the intensity of these missile attacks;
- one Russian missile attack requires 1.5-2 months of work;
- by March, the Russian Federation will have a critical situation with weapons;
- Belarusian production is not able to provide Russia with weapons;
- the industry of the Russian Federation is not comparable to the industry of the Soviet Union, there is no production of strategic aviation aircraft, these are all old aircraft;

- the Russians faced a big problem of motor resource production;
- TU-95 and TU-160 are the basis of the Russian aircraft fleet;
- the military situation in Bakhmut is not catastrophic, there is a catastrophe with the city itself and the destruction caused by the Russians;
- the Russians suffer heavy losses near Bakhmut;
- protests in Russia are unreal, more than 70% of Russians support this war;
- mobilization in the Russian Federation continues continuously since March 2022;
- since January 5, the Russian Federation is preparing to close the borders for Russians under the age of 55 to leave (from the territory of the Russian Federation and Belarus);
- next year will bring joy and victory to Ukraine, and transfer of power to Russia;
- victory is a return to the borders of 1991. But this will not be the "end" of all processes, they will be quite long," Budanov said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390686

Skybird

01-01-23, 04:32 PM

Its remarkable that since qzuite some time the media tell us Russia is runnignm out fo ammo. But they do not lose a wor don how thin the ammo supplies for missiles throwers and artillery on Ukrainian side are.

Also, plenty of ammo, very epensive sorts of ammo are being used to shoot down decoy and low cost drones costing just a fraction of the defensive counter missiles taking them out.

I suspect since some time already that the Russians keep Ukrianian enaged at Bachmut only to have them wastring their sparse ammo and chewing on their units there, no matter ther Russian cost. Sort of preparation for a planned Russian offensive with fresh forces.

Europe should not have allowed the ukrainian offensive to sort of bogging down by not delivering them the mechanised armoured transportation means and tanks needed for pushing that attack. Some armoure dtrcuks and border control rovers are not the same like capable IFVs.

I hope I am wrong. But if it turns out the way I thiunk possible, I and the ukrainians will never forgive Babble-Olaf.

-----------------

Sicne today Germany "leads" the NATO spearhead group of 14500. This does not mean the Germans are ready to send those 8500 troops contirbuted as they announced. It only means there is a plan and intention to be capable to do so if they get called up. It certainly does not mean that troops are being sent already now to the Eastern border. As I see it the Germans announced the plan, stay at home and hope that history passes by without challenging their resilience. It has been the same way with their engagement in the Baltic states. Most troops they said would be set up for that theatre - are only existing on paper, witoout intention to change that. Strange way to deter Russia from challenging Baltic borders. I thought deterrance and border control would mean to have forces available, and in place.

Catfish

01-01-23, 04:36 PM

"Thank you for coming to Ukraine. We hope you enjoyed your visit"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2JTMSRWg0mg

They really care for their dead :doh:
At least Putin does not have to pay them anymore.

mapuc

01-01-23, 04:52 PM

"Its remarkable that since qzuite some time the media tell us Russia is runnignm out fo ammo. But they do not lose a wor don how thin the ammo supplies for missiles throwers and artillery on Ukrainian side are."

Can't remember if it was in this thread here or somewhere else.

The logistic from USA and Europe can barely keep up with the amount used on daily basis. They get a lot of weapon and weapon system from the Russian army who have left them while running away.

However it seems like they are saving ammo, material and manpower to conduct a third offensive in the near future.

Edit
I found this page, when searching for Ukrainian losses day by day

https://www.statista.com/statistics/1296924/ukraine-war-casualties-daily/
End edit

Markus

Rockstar

01-01-23, 10:48 PM

Europe’s big question: What a diminished Russia will do next

Analysis by Nick Paton Walsh, International Security Editor, CNN
Updated 6:33 PM EST, Sun January 1, 2023

https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/01/europe/putin-ukraine-war-shift-europe-security-intl-cmd/index.html

CNN
—
Russia’s war in Ukraine has proven almost every assumption wrong, with Europe now wondering what left is safe to assume.

Its invasion in February managed to startle in every way. To those who thought Moscow was sane enough to not attempt such a massive and foolhardy undertaking. To those who felt the Russian military would waltz across a land of 40 million people and switch to clean-up operations within 10 days. And to those who felt they had the technical and intelligence prowess to do more than just randomly bombard civilian areas with ageing artillery; that the Kremlin’s military had evolved from the 90s levelling of Grozny in Chechnya.

And finally, to those who felt nuclear saber-rattling was an oxymoron in 2022 – that you could not casually threaten people with nukes as the destruction they brought was complete, for everyone on the planet.

Still, as 2022 closes, Europe is left dealing with a set of known unknowns, unimaginable as recently as in January. To recap: a military once considered the world’s third most formidable has invaded its smaller neighbor, which a year ago excelled mostly in IT and agriculture.

Russia spent billions of dollars apparently modernizing its military, but it turns out that it was, to a large extent, a sham. It has discovered its supply chains don’t function a few dozen miles from its own borders; that its assessment of Ukraine as desperate to be freed from its own “Nazism” is the distorted product of nodding yes-men, feeding a president – Vladimir Putin – what he wanted to hear in the isolation of the pandemic.

Russia has also met a West that, far from being divided and reticent, was instead happy to send some of its munitions to its eastern border. Western officials might also be surprised that Russia’s red lines appear to shift constantly, as Moscow realizes how limited its non-nuclear options are. None of this was supposed to happen. So, what does Europe do and prepare for, now that it has?

Key is just how unexpectedly unified the West has been. Despite being split over Iraq, fractured over Syria, and partially unwilling to spend the 2% of GDP on security the United States long demanded of NATO members, Europe and the US have been speaking from the same script on Ukraine. At times, Washington may have seemed warier, and there have been autocratic outliers like Hungary. But the shift is towards unity, not disparity. That’s quite a surprise.

Declarations that Russia has already lost the war remain premature. There are variables which could still lead to a stalemate in its favor, or even a reversal of fortune. NATO could lose patience or nerve over weapons shipments, and seek economic expediency over long-term security, pushing for a peace unfavorable to Kyiv. But that does, at this moment, seem unlikely.

Russia is digging in on the eastern side of the Dnipro River in southern Ukraine, and has the advantage that the Donetsk and Luhansk frontlines in Ukraine’s east are nearer its border. Yet its challenges are immense: poorly trained, forcibly conscripted personnel make up 77,000 of its frontline troops – and that’s according to the glossy assessment voiced by Putin. It is struggling for munitions, and seeing regular open, internal criticism of its winter supply chain.

Ukraine is on home territory, with morale still high, and Western weapons still arriving. Since the collapse of Moscow’s patchwork of forces around the northeastern city of Kharkiv in September – where their supply lines were cut by a smarter Ukrainian force – the dynamic has all been against Moscow.

The prospect of a Russian defeat is in the broader picture: that it did not win quickly against an inferior adversary. Mouthpieces on state TV talked about the need to “take the gloves off” after Kharkiv, as if they would not be exposing a fist that had already withered. Revealed almost as a paper-tiger, the Russian military will struggle for decades to regain even a semblance of peer status with NATO. That is perhaps the wider damage for the Kremlin: the years of effort spent rebuilding Moscow’s reputation as a smart, asymmetrical foe with conventional forces to back it up have evaporated in about six months of mismanagement.

The question of nuclear force lingers still, chiefly because Putin likes regularly to invoke it. But even here Russia’s menace has been diminished. Firstly, NATO has been sending unequivocal signals of the conventional devastation its forces would mete out were any form of nuclear device used. Secondly, Russia’s fairweather allies, India and China, have quickly assessed its losing streak and publicly admonished Moscow’s nuclear rhetoric. (Their private messaging has likely been fiercer.)

And finally, Moscow is left with a question nobody ever wants to learn the answer to: if its supply chains for diesel fuel for tanks 40 miles from its border do not function, then how can they be sure The Button will work, if Putin reaches madly to press it? There is no greater danger for a nuclear power than to reveal its strategic missiles and retaliatory capability do not function.

Despite this palpable Russian decline, Europe is not welcoming in an era of greater security. Calls for greater defense spending are louder, and heeded, even if they come at a time when Russia, for decades the defining issue of European security, is revealing itself to be less threatening.

Europe is realizing it cannot depend on the United States – and its wild swings between political poles – solely for its security.

Meanwhile thousands of innocent Ukrainians have died in Putin’s egotistical and misguided bid to revive a Tsarist empire. More broadly, authoritarianism has been exposed as a disastrous system with which to wage wars of choice.

Yet some good has come from this debacle. Europe knows it must get off its dependence on Russian gas immediately, and hydrocarbons in general in the longer term, as economic dependence on the fossil fuels of dictators cannot bring longer-term stability.

So, how does the West deal with a Russia that has experienced this colossal loss of face in Ukraine and is slowly withering economically because of sanctions? Is a weak Russia something to fear, or just weak? This is the known unknown the West must wrestle with. But it is no longer such a terrifying question.

For over 70 years, the Russians and West held the world in the grip of mutually assured destruction. It was a peace based on fear. But fear of Moscow should be ebbing slowly, and with that comes the risk of miscalculation. It also raises a less chilling prospect: that Russia – like many autocracies before it – may be fading, undermined by its own clumsy dependence on fear domestically.

Europe’s challenge now is to deal with Russia in a state of chaotic denial, while hoping it evolves into a state of managed decline. One abiding comfort may be that, after underestimating Moscow’s potential for malice, the risk for Europe would be to overstate its potential as a threat.

Skybird

01-02-23, 06:52 AM

Der Spiegel:
-------------------
If you wish to surrender, please dial the...

Ukraine is using a hotline and drones to try to persuade Russian soldiers to surrender. Apparently, the unusual method is succeeding - which says a lot about morale in Putin's army.

Under heavy fire, a fighter from the Wagner Group wanders through trenches in the Donbass. Realizing that his situation is hopeless, he looks up and sees a drone in the sky. He signals the unmanned aerial vehicle to surrender and is escorted into captivity.

If the Ukrainian armed forces have their way, the video of this surrender, which probably only came about by chance, should not remain an isolated case. They are trying to convince Russian soldiers to lay down their arms, sometimes with unusual concepts. In doing so, they are apparently mainly targeting new recruits who have been sent to the front in the course of mobilization - and are often poorly motivated anyway.

In a new promotional video, the Ukrainian military now shows how it envisages surrender with the help of drones. It is designed like an instruction manual. The method could also help the Ukrainians themselves to take prisoners of war comparatively easily and risk-free - they run less risk of being ambushed themselves. In addition to the use of drones, there are other offerings that are apparently intended to weaken the fighting capabilities of the Russian attackers.

Under the name "I want to live," the Ukrainian government has now also set up a hotline, a website
as well as a Telegram channel, which are supposed to be available around the clock. They promise Russian soldiers treatment under the Geneva Convention, three meals a day and medical care if they surrender. In addition, the website also provides information on how potential recruits can best avoid mobilization. However, the site has since been blocked in Russia .

Nevertheless, the unusual concept seems to be reaching its target audience. According to the Russian investigative portal Meduza, there were between 50 and 100 calls a day via the hotline and the site at the beginning. In the meantime, there are said to be more than a hundred calls a day. These are probably mainly young men and their families who first want to find out about the consequences of giving up. Statistics from the Russian search engine Yandex support the interest; since mid-November, there have been 10,000 inquiries there a week with the phrase "How to surrender?" Ukraine speaks of 4,300 concrete interested parties, some of whom would soon be ready to surrender.

The interest is probably due in part to the shortcomings of the Russian military. Since the beginning of the war, the army has been suffering from logistical problems, supplies have been slow to arrive and some soldiers have been suffering from a lack of food. The winter is likely to exacerbate the problems, and experts believe Moscow's troops are ill-prepared for the cold. In addition, new recruits and former prisoners are being burned up on the front lines. More experienced fighters use them as cannon fodder to spy out enemy positions.

According to the New York Times, Russia responded to the "I want to live" program by sending SMS messages to Ukrainian numbers asking them to surrender. So far, however, the messages do not appear to have had a major effect. With the project, the Ukrainians are once again demonstrating that they can cause problems for Russia with a mixture of ingenuity and modern technologies.
----------------------------

Jimbuna

01-02-23, 07:03 AM

Putin ally turns screw on Russian leader as he pins blame on Kremlin for Ukraine success

Vladimir Putin is under increasing political pressure at the start of 2023 after a senior ally appeared to point the finger at the Kremlin for Russia's lacklustre military campaign. Igor Girkin did not hold back in a blunt Telegram message following Ukrainian missile attacks on military facilities. Girkin, also known as Igor Strelkov, who played a key role in the annexation of Crimea in 2014, posted: "Unfortunately, in some places their strikes on our military facilities turned out to be both targeted and successful. "Due to the ongoing excessive profligacy of the command of units and formations of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation it is an impression that our command is unteachable in principle."
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-ally-turns-screw-on-russian-leader-as-he-pins-blame-on-kremlin-for-ukraine-success/ar-AA15SFUO?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=0a6657e231294b758cd82cbc653a0f2a

Jimbuna

01-02-23, 07:08 AM

Ukraine demands heavy tanks: „It will depend on Germany“

The mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, appeals to Germany again. The reason for this is the demand for heavy weapons in the fight against Russia.

„It will depend decisively on Germany that Leopard 2 tanks are finally delivered,“ said Klitschko in a guest article in the „Bild am Sonntag“. „Without this type of tank, it will be difficult to retake more territory in Ukraine.“

The Leopard 2 is a main battle tank made in Germany and is particularly popular because of its great precision.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/ukraine-demands-heavy-tanks-it-will-depend-on-germany/ar-AA15SG3J?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=b065f71d443f48c986c262c7eecca395

'Hundreds' killed as Ukrainian Himars flatten Russian barracks in one of war's deadliest strikes

AUkrainian Himars attack on a town in Russia-held eastern Ukraine flattened completely destroyed a vast building holding several hundred Russian mobilised men inside.

Early estimates from Kyiv and from pro-Russian sources suggest the New Year’s Eve attack on the barracks in Makiivka could be Russia’s single biggest loss of life since the start of the invasion last February.

The Ukrainian military on Monday mocked Russia over the attack on a former school building in Makiivka, a suburb of Donetsk, attributing it to “smoking in inappropriate places” and claiming that it killed “about 400” people.

A former Ukrainian separatist commander put the death toll at “hundreds” of killed and injured.

A video from the Ukrainian army’s communications department showed what was once a huge building turned into rubble, with just one two-storey wall left standing among the smouldering debris on the ground.

A Russia-appointed official in Donetsk on Sunday told the Tass news agency of 15 injured men in the attack in Makiivka but Russian officials have not commented on the cause of the attack or a possible death toll.

Daniil Bezsonov, a separatist official in Donetsk, confirmed on Monday that the school in Makiivka came under attack from Ukraine’s Himars multiple-rocket system.

Shortly before they reported the death toll, the Ukrainian military posted a video online, captioned “Surprise!”, showing what appears to be a Himars system launching a strike in the dark.

Ukrainian media reported that the school housed almost 300 soldiers, most of them mobilised men from one Russian region who were doing their training.

Russia’s ultra-nationalist politicians and staunch war supporters on Monday spoke of a “tragedy in Makiivka” and blamed the Russian military for being too careless, inviting large casualties by housing so many soldiers in one place so close to the frontline.

Igor Girkin, a retired Russian official and former Ukrainian separatist commander who has been increasingly critical of the Kremlin’s handling of the war, on Monday accused the Russian military of negligence.

The entire building reportedly collapsed after ammunition stored inside detonated. Armoured vehicles parked nearby were also destroyed.

The number of casualties in Makiivka are “in several hundreds”, he said on his Telegram channel, adding that a great number of people were missing as they were trapped under the debris.

He said he received repeated complaints that Russia troops in eastern Ukraine can be under a deadly attack “at any moment” as they were stationed precariously close to the front line and well within the range of the Himars missile systems.

Andrei Medvedev, a pro-Kremlin Moscow lawmaker who has links to the Donetsk separatists, said on Monday the decision to house troops “in a house rather than in a well-hidden place is direct help for the enemy”.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/hundreds-killed-as-ukrainian-himars-flatten-russian-barracks-in-one-of-war-s-deadliest-strikes/ar-AA15TeX6?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=be937a48ead7458db9a3b9698a7d2d64

Jimbuna

01-02-23, 07:33 AM

Total combat losses of Russian Federation since beginning of war - about 107,440 people (+720 per day), 3,031 tanks, 2,027 artillery systems, 6,093 armored vehicles. INFOGRAPHICS

The losses of the Russian occupiers as of the morning of January 2, 2023 are approximately 107,440 people.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the press center of the General Staff.

As noted, the total combat losses of the enemy from 02.24.22 to 01.02.23 are approximately:

personnel - about 107,440 (+720) people were eliminated,
tanks - 3031 (+0) units,
armored combat vehicles - 6093 (+9) units,
artillery systems - 2027 (+6) units,
MLRS - 423 (+0) units,
air defense equipment - 213 (+0) units,
aircraft - 283 (+0) units,
helicopters - 269 (+0) units,
UAVs of operational-tactical level - 1836 (+44),
cruise missiles - 723 (+0),
warships/boats - 16 (+0) units,
automotive equipment and tank trucks - 4725 (+5) units,
special equipment - 181 (+0). Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390756

Jimbuna

01-02-23, 07:47 AM

Situation in power system is under control, limits for evening period have been brought to regions, emergency shutdowns in Kyiv, - "Ukrenergo"

On the night of January 2, the Russians again attacked the energy infrastructure with drones. Unfortunately, there is damage.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the press center of "Ukrenergo".

As noted, at the same time, as of 11:00 a.m. on January 2, the situation in the power system is fully under control.

"Due to network restrictions caused by significant damage to main networks as a result of 11 missile and 14 drone attacks by the enemy, to prevent additional accidents, consumption limits for the evening period have been brought to the regions. As a result of the night attack, the situation with the electricity supply in Kyiv has become more complicated, which is why emergency shutdowns are being used. Restoration work is already underway," the message reads.

"Ukrenergo", electricity producers and operators of distribution systems continue to restore damaged facilities to ensure power supply to consumers and increase its reliability. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390788

Belarus has continued joint military exercises with Russia at least until January 8, - Belarussian Gajun

The Ministry of Defense of Belarus continued joint exercises with the Russian army. They will last at least until January 8.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the "Belarusian Gajun" monitoring group.

As noted, this is evidenced by the schedule of exercises at Belarusian training grounds. December 31 and January 1 became days off for some landfills. Also, some training grounds where the Russian Armed Forces are concentrated were closed without days off "Osypovichsky" and "Domanovo".

In general, the schedule of military exercises at Belarusian training grounds looks like this:

227 combined military training ground "Borysovsky" (Borysovsky district) until 07.01;
Training ground "Gozky" 6 SMB. (Hrodna district) until 06.01;
"Brestsky" training ground 38 AAB (Brest district) until 06.01;
"Osypovichsky" training ground 51 SAB (Osypovych district) until 08.01;
212th aviation range "Neman" (Novogrudsky district) until 06.01;
230 combined military training ground "Obuz-Lisnivskyi" (Baranovichi district) until 07.01;
174 training ground of the Air Force and air defense forces "Domanovo" (Ivatsevichi district) until 08.01;
"Lepelskyi" training ground 19 SMB (Lepel district) until 08.01.
The monitoring group emphasizes that military exercises on the territory of Belarus have been ongoing since April 29, that is, for 36 weeks already.

"The Belarusian army has become more prepared for defensive operations, but it is still not prepared for a large-scale offensive due to the lack of real combat experience," the message reads. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390805

85% of Ukrainians consider territorial concessions unacceptable, - KMIIS survey. INFOGRAPHICS

In all regions of Ukraine, the absolute majority of the population is against any territorial concessions.

As Censor.NET reports, this is evidenced by the KIIS survey.

So, according to sociologists, for 85% of respondents, no territorial concessions are acceptable. Only 8% believe that to achieve peace and preserve independence, it is possible to give up some territories.

"In September, 87% considered the concessions unacceptable, but the difference with the current indicator is within the statistical margin of error, that is, in fact, no changes have occurred. Also, in September, the same number as now (8%) were in favor of negotiations and were ready to give up certain territories. At the same time, now the share of those who do not support territorial concessions is slightly, but higher than the indicator as of May 2022," the message reads.

In all regions of Ukraine, the absolute majority of the population is against any territorial concessions.

"As you can see, among Ukrainian-speaking, bilingual, and Russian-speaking Ukrainians (respondents who consider themselves Ukrainians by nationality) the absolute majority is against any concessions," the sociologists added. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390818

Jimbuna

01-02-23, 10:32 AM

Von der Leyen and Zelensky held first telephone conversation of new year: "EU will support you as long as it is needed"

President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and President Volodymyr Zelensky held a telephone conversation.

She announced this on Twitter, Censor.NET reports.

"In the first phone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the new year, I expressed my sincere support and best wishes for the Ukrainian people in 2023. The EU will support you as long as it takes. We support your heroic struggle. The struggle for freedom and against brutal aggression," - she emphasized. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390824

We expect first tranche of macro-finance already in January, - Zelensky

Already in January of this year, Ukraine is expecting the first tranche of macrofinance from the EU.

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, announced this following a telephone conversation with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, Censor.NET informs.

"I am glad to start the year with a conversation with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen. He thanked for the unwavering support from the EU. We are waiting for the first tranche of the macro-finance already in January, the first batch of energy-saving lamps, school buses, generators, and modular houses. Coordinated steps regarding the Ukraine Summit - EU. We feel supported and are heading towards victory together," Zelensky said. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390845

Jimbuna

01-02-23, 02:33 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM4kmD5iOIY

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 06:28 AM

Russia's war drains Ukraine's rich list of power

By Vitaly Shevchenko
BBC Monitoring

For decades, Ukraine's super-rich businessmen have wielded enormous economic and political power within their home country. However, since the Russian invasion, Ukraine's most infamous oligarchs have lost billions in revenue.

Has the reign of the Ukrainian oligarchs finally come to an end?

Ukraine's richest man - 56-year-old Rinat Akhmetov - is for many the epitome of an oligarch.

The son of a coal miner turned self-made billionaire, he is known across Ukraine as "the King of Donbas."

As well as owning huge swathes of the steel and coal industry in the east, including the Azovstal steelworks which now lies in ruins, he also owns Shakhtar Donetsk FC, one of the country's best football teams, and until recently one of the country's main TV channels.

But beyond their extraordinary wealth, Ukraine's oligarchs are also renowned for wielding political power.

In 2017, London-based think tank Chatham House said they posed "the greatest danger to Ukraine".

Through a vast network of allies and loyal MPs, Ukraine's oligarchs have repeatedly influenced the passing of laws for the benefit of their own business empires.

President Volodymyr Zelensky called them "a group of people who think they are more important than lawmakers, government officials or judges".

But like so many ordinary civilians, since the beginning of the Russian invasion in the east of Ukraine back in 2014, they have had their businesses blown apart by missiles and their properties lost to the Russian occupation.

Many felt that as Ukraine's richest man Mr Akhmetov should have done more from the very beginning to stamp out separatism fuelled by Russia in his home region.

As Russia's influence backed by military power spread in Donbas, he told his factories to sound their sirens in protest. He also issued statements critical of the separatists.

But as far as funding and supporting the resistance, he was criticised for taking too little action. Especially when compared to another Ukrainian tycoon, billionaire Ihor Kolomoisky.

In March 2014, he was appointed governor of Dnipropetrovsk Region, south-east Ukraine.

As the conflict escalated, Mr Kolomoisky pumped millions into Ukraine's volunteer battalions. He offered bounties for capturing Russian-backed militants and supplied the Ukrainian army with fuel.

But then, in 2019, he found himself at loggerheads with President Zelensky's predecessor, Petro Poroshenko.

Parliament had recently passed a law which resulted in Mr Kolomoisky losing control over an oil company. His response? Turning up at the oil company's headquarters with men allegedly wielding machine guns.

But as the war ground on in the east, and with the loss of yet more factories, mines and fertile farmland, the demise of Ukraine's oligarchs was well under way.

The next blow came in late 2021, when Ukraine passed what was known as the "de-oligarchisation bill".

President Zelensky's new law defined an oligarch as someone who met three of the following four conditions:

Holding influence over the media or politics
Owning a monopoly
Making millions of dollars a year.
All those who qualified were exposed to extra checks and banned from funding political parties.

To avoid being put on the Zelensky list, Rinat Akhmetov immediately sold all his media assets.

But then came Russia's dramatic escalation of the conflict - the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The war has only intensified the loss of earnings for Ukraine's super-rich. But will their demise strengthen Ukraine's democracy?

"Absolutely," says Sevgil Musayeva, editor-in-chief of popular news website Ukrainska Pravda. "This war is the beginning of the end for oligarchs in Ukraine."

"The de-oligarchisation law was one of the first major triggers of their demise," says Serhiy Leshchenko, formerly one of Ukraine's most prominent investigative journalists and now adviser to President Zelensky's chief-of-staff.

"But as the war escalated, it made the oligarchs' life even more difficult," he tells the BBC. "They have been forced to focus on survival rather than domestic politics."

Now, says Ms Musayeva, it is up to Ukraine's civil society and anti-corruption institutions to prevent the emergence of new oligarchs. And, of course, the very survival of democracy in Ukraine depends on the outcome of the war with Russia.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64075087

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 06:45 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWgq8jB2bh0

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 07:22 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9ZY8eo6QSI

Catfish

01-03-23, 07:44 AM

If the west does not give more military attack hardware to Ukraine this war will not end in 2023.

Ukraine should have sent one missile to Moscow, just as a reminder.
The fact that Russia thinks they can attack a country but can't be attacked on their homeland is baffling.

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 07:52 AM

Kuleba urged partners to remain strong and continue to support Ukraine

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, called on partners to remain strong and continue to support Ukraine, noting that there are two more months of winter ahead.

The head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, wrote about this on Twitter, Censor.NET informs.

"Preparing for two more winter months and plunging into the new year 2023, we call on Ukraine's partners to remain strong and continue to support our country. Ukraine's victory will be a victory for the whole world and will bring us all peace and prosperity," he wrote. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3390951

"We didn’t want war. West rallied to destroy us. I asked my husband to take revenge," - Russian woman zombified by propaganda about elimination of occupiers in Makiivka. VIDEO

Residents of Russian Samara are organizing mourning events in connection with the liquidation of a large number of mobilized soldiers of the Russian army, who were stationed at PTU-19 in occupied Makiivka.

This is reported by Censor.NET.

It should be noted that a woman who is clearly under the influence of propaganda took the floor during the event. It is clear from her speech that her husband is in Ukraine and probably heads some branch of the occupation forces.

"Samara hasn't slept for three days. Neither we nor our men wanted war, but the whole West rallied against us to destroy us... I asked my husband to take revenge (after the attack of the Armed Forces on the concentration of occupiers in Makiivka. - Ed.)," she said. Source: https://censor.net/en/v3391008

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 09:54 AM

Germany is ready to seize Russian assets to help restore Ukraine, - mass media

Germany is open to using billions of euros in frozen Russian assets to help Ukraine rebuild, if the legal issues are resolved and allies follow suit.

As Censor.NET reports, Bloomberg writes about this with reference to people familiar with the discussions.

Chancellor Olaf Scholz's government supports Ukraine's demand for war reparations, but has yet to take an official position on seizing Russian state assets due to differences in the ruling coalition.

If Berlin can resolve its own problems, it could give new impetus to discussions in the European Union and put pressure on the United States to seize assets, such as central bank reserves, that were frozen in response to the Russian invasion.

According to the publication, German Foreign Minister Annalena Berbock insists that the seizure of at least part of the frozen assets should be an option.

Finance Minister Christian Lindner, who heads the pro-business Free Democrats, is more cautious. He is concerned that confiscating the assets of the Russian central bank could set a dangerous precedent and drag European countries and their allies into a legal quagmire.

The EU and the G7 countries froze about 300 billion euros of reserves of the Russian central bank. The EU has also frozen around €19 billion in assets belonging to sanctioned Russian businessmen, although these estimates are not complete. These assets are in a suspended state and cannot be distributed at this time.

Instead of an outright arrest, a more likely legal path would be to seize the assets of individuals proven to be involved in Russian war crimes, one of the interviewees said. However, such cases can take years to go through the courts, which can reduce such an initiative to mere symbolism.

Details of the discussions show that the potential for asset seizure is moving beyond theoretical debate and into practical implementation, but serious obstacles remain. Scholz wants any move to be coordinated with allies and legally clear. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391036

Zelensky discussed with Dutch Prime Minister Rutte risks of escalation at front and defense needs

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, had a telephone conversation with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to Telegram channel of the head of state.

"He talked about the risk of escalation at the front and potential challenges, as well as about our defense needs for an adequate response. We are counting on concrete steps by our partners to maximally strengthen Ukraine at the nearest Ramstein," the president wrote. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391030

Skybird

01-03-23, 10:47 AM

Die Welt writes:
--------------------
Ukrainian attacks on targets far behind the front line - here's what's behind them

Several Ukrainian attacks on targets in Russia or Russian-controlled areas apparently killed hundreds of Russian soldiers and knocked out power supplies. This serves psychological warfare - and a tactical goal of the Ukrainian General Staff.

The governor of Bryansk did not have much to say. "This morning, a Ukrainian drone attack occurred in the Klimovsky district," Alexander Bogomas wrote on the short message service Telegram on Monday. "The attack damaged the electric power station and the power went out."

For the governor, it was a new, unpleasant experience. After all, it's usually Ukrainian towns, not Russian places, where the lights go out. The governor and the 400,000 or so residents of Bryansk would hardly have thought it possible. After all, there are almost 150 kilometers between their city and the Ukrainian border.

Recent attacks show that this Ukrainian tactic can have much more dramatic consequences for Russia. For example, the Ukrainian army shelled a former vocational school in Makiyivka in the Russian-controlled Donetsk region, which served as housing for soldiers, with the advanced U.S. Himars multiple rocket system. One of the rare official reports from Moscow on casualties mentioned 63 killed.

According to Ukrainian figures, there were about 400, but the former leader of pro-Russian separatists in eastern Ukraine, Igor Strelkov, also spoke of hundreds of dead, saying that the soldiers had been unprotected and that ammunition had also been stored in the building.

Already on New Year's Eve, the General Staff in Kiev reported, heavy losses were inflicted on the enemy with an artillery attack in the Kherson region near the village of Chulakivka - according to the report, they amount to 500 dead and wounded.

Kiev has been trying for two months now to push the war more and more often and further into Russian territory. Initially, Belgorod was a favorite target of Ukraine. The Russian city is located just a few kilometers across the Ukrainian border, level with the provincial capital of Kharkiv.

In April, Mi-24 helicopters had set fire to fuel depots in Belgorod in a spectacular operation. Since late November, however, Ukrainian attacks have not been limited to targets in the border area. Ukrainian drones fly deep into the territory of the Russian Federation.

In November, the governor of Kursk reported attacks on critical infrastructure in the Russian city. This was followed in December by reports of explosions at the Kursk airbase. After that, Engels military airfields and the Ryazan military base were hit. The latter is located only a few hours' drive from Moscow.

Russian fighter jets and bombers take off from these mentioned facilities to launch missiles at Ukrainian cities. It is unclear how extensive the total damage caused was. However, fuel depots were reportedly hit, some aircraft damaged, and Russian soldiers killed and injured.

The government in Kiev would neither confirm nor deny the attacks - the usual silence when it comes to secret operations. However, the air strikes in the middle of Russia are exactly in line with the strategic concept of the Ukrainian General Staff.

The blackouts, as in Kursk and recently in Bryansk, may have only symbolic value. But the attacks and blackouts are part of the psychological warfare and bring the consequences of Vladimir Putin's "special operation" deeper into the consciousness of Russian society.
Most importantly, the drone attacks on air bases in Russia reveal, yet again, the serious problems of the Russian army. If enemy flying objects can penetrate bases that occupy key functions within Russian military strategy, then air defense has worrying gaps. It is such vulnerabilities that the Ukrainians have repeatedly targeted to their advantage since the beginning of the invasion, giving them hope of victory.

Ukraine's successful counteroffensives in Kharkiv and Kherson were based on the understanding that forces do not necessarily have to fight battles, do not have to conquer specific cities and regions, in order to win. "The Ukrainians have recognized from the beginning that their real enemy is the Russian military machine," Phillips P. O'Brien sums up after ten months of war in Ukraine. "They rationally calculate at what point Russian casualties will be so great that a counteroffensive is possible."
The professor of strategic studies at Scotland's St. Andrews University admits he was dumbfounded when Ukrainian intelligence calculated the conditions of a counterattack for August as early as May. "They had not miscalculated badly," O'Brien writes in one of his regular analyses of the armed conflict. The victorious Kharkiv offensive began in September, and by November Kherson in the south of the country had been liberated.

The secret of Ukrainian warfare is permanent and precise attacks on the logistics of the Russian army and its organizational structure. Targets are ammunition depots, gasoline depots, military bases and food supplies. If these Russian army resources are indeed hit sensitively and systematically, it could mean the end of the entire "special operation" in Ukraine.

Until now, Kiev has relied on drones for its attacks, most of which are still Russian-made. This is because the version of the Himars missiles that the U.S. is providing to Ukraine only has a range of 80 kilometers. Should Washington decide to supply variants with a range of 150 and 300 kilometers, this could be a "gamechanger." Kiev would then be able to attack the Russian army in almost all relevant places - on the occupied Crimean peninsula and also in Russia.

But the decision on the delivery of long-range Himars missiles is still pending. That is why Kiev is working on a Plan B to take its operations to a new level on its own. Ukrainian weapons producer Ukroboronprom announced in November that it had developed new drones with a range of up to 1,000 kilometers and a warhead of 75 kilograms.

"The final stage of testing on behalf of the General Staff begins with flights in electronic warfare conditions," the company reported on Facebook at the time. With these drones, Ukraine could even attack targets in Moscow. At first glance, this sounds like fantasy. But thinking about the shortcomings of Russian air defense, it could be within the realm of possibility.

"Almost certainly, the Ukrainians are making their calculations again," writes military expert O'Brien. "Their assessment of Russian losses will put them on the road to victory in 2023," the academic believes. In fact, the Ukrainian General Staff seems to have already made a new calculation.

"Russian forces have significant problems with artillery ammunition, which will become more pronounced by March 2023," Kyrylo Budanov, the head of military intelligence, told Ukrainian media at the turn of the year. "Russian forces used to consume 60,000 artillery shells per day. Today, they use only 19,000 to 20,000."
------------------------------------

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 12:07 PM

To prepare quality solutions, Ukraine needs "Boyd’s loop", - Butusov

Colonel John Boyd created a world-famous doctrine that became one of the basic ones for the US Army. "Boyd’s loop" allows you to overtake the opponent.

This is stated in the material of the editor-in-chief of Censor.NET Yuriy Butusov on ZN.

"Boyd proved that in a great war the cause of defeat or victory is not a set of material or moral factors in themselves, not the total number of men, weapons, resources, psychological state or social conditions. First of all, this is the quality of management, which makes it possible to use one's advantages and reduce the significance of the enemy's advantages, that is, to act faster and more competently than the enemy," the post reads.

"Boyd's loop" is a continuous cycle of planning strategic and tactical steps, which should be its own for each country. "Boyd's loop" defines that the management cycle in war is divided into four components: observation, orientation, decision and action.

Butusov suggests ways to improve management within the framework of the existing government structure in Ukraine.

"The position of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief (SCC). Must perform the function of coordination and control between independent blocks of power, which are responsible for creating the advantage and efficiency of the state in all elements of the cycle. For this, the president must reduce the number of management objects and delegate independent powers to a certain circle of managers, whom he trusts as much as possible. For the efficiency of the Boyd cycle, it is necessary to create an organization with distributed functions, the hyperconcentration of powers at Bankova does not allow quick reaction and action," the journalist is convinced.

He calls for an end to competition in the military leadership, the "war of reprimands and official investigations", to punish commanders for truthful reports about a difficult situation. Currently, the implementation of post-operational analysis of combat operations (after action review) and streamlining of work in the Ministry of Defense (in particular, the management structure) are extremely important.

Butusov is convinced that a consistent and logical defense policy should be implemented. Among other things, in his opinion, the SSU should coordinate the work of all departments in the fight against Russian influence, and all intelligence structures - the NSDC.

"The key criterion for assessing the quality of the troops - combat capability, the creation of motivated combat teams and the organization of people should include them in the Boyd cycle as full-fledged participants at their echelons," Butusov emphasizes. He calls for the creation of combat training standards, the organization of large-scale training of commanders, the improvement of the quality of training of soldiers and non-commissioned officers of the military unit, the appointment of professionals from related fields of activity (auto mechanics, locksmiths, etc.), the creation of a full cycle of military justice and the institution of the commissioner for the rights of servicemen.

"We need to understand what kind of army we are building, what training, management, and armament systems will be needed tomorrow and will be needed in three years. To keep up with the war, we need to be ahead of the curve. "Boyd's loop" is needed to prepare high-quality solutions, and solutions are built precisely on planning. In particular, there is no planning, so we have self-organization and chaos in logistics, procurement, and any distribution of resources. We need short-term and long-term defense planning," the journalist emphasizes. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391050

Skybird

01-03-23, 12:46 PM

^That will fail them if Western nations do not beef up their production capacities and ease their permissions to deliver heavy weapons.

The war serves as a reminder of a lesson first taught in WW1, and since WW2 maybe has been forgotten again in Europe: that industrialized armies consume ammo at industrialized rates.

And another truth: gold coins are the sinews of war.

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 01:00 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zdBQ0jgPuPM

Jimbuna

01-03-23, 01:05 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wsyvk5U007w

mapuc

01-03-23, 02:01 PM

Depending on who you ask and what standpoint a person got when it comes to this war in Ukraine, the response on who's to blame goes from Putin to Biden.

However-Each and one them are wrong. To find the perpetrator behind this development that lead to the civil war which started 2014 and the invasion Feb. last year 2022.

Who is the perpetrator then

It's none other than Mr. Josef Stalin.

His biggest mistake was to give Crimea to Ukraine in the 50's- A majority of people there are Cossacks.(I'm not saying it's ok to invade and annex Crimea far from it)

"In the end of the 40's he moved millions of east Ukrainian to other places in Soviet. and moved millions of Russian mostly (forgot the name) to east Ukraine."(The part between "" is taken from memory)

Markus

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 12:13 PM

Makiivka: Russia blames missile attack on soldiers' mobile phone use

By Will Vernon in Moscow & Elsa Maishman in London
BBC News

Russia has said a new year missile attack that killed at least 89 Russian soldiers happened because troops were using mobile phones, defying a ban.

Turning on the phones and massive use of them allowed the enemy to locate its target, officials said.

Ukraine says 400 soldiers were killed - and another 300 wounded - in the attack on a college for conscripts in Makiivka, in the occupied Donetsk area.

It is the largest number of deaths Russia has acknowledged in the war.

Russia said that at 00:01 Moscow time on New Year's Day, six rockets were fired from a US-made Himars rocket system at a vocational college, two of which were shot down. Moments earlier President Vladimir Putin had given his annual new year address on Russian TV.

The deputy commander of the regiment, Lt Col Bachurin, was among those killed, the ministry of defence said in a statement on Wednesday. A commission was investigating the circumstances of the incident, the statement said.

But it was "already obvious" that the main cause of the attack was the use of mobile phones by troops in range of Ukrainian weapons, despite this being banned, it added.

"This factor allowed the enemy to locate and determine the co-ordinates of the location of military personnel for a missile strike."

Lt Gen Sergei Sevryukov said officials found responsible by the investigation would be brought to justice and "all the necessary measures are currently being adopted to prevent this kind of tragic incident in the future".

The defence ministry's statement was striking for two reasons.

The military's official death toll is now 89. The previous figure of 63 dead already represented the highest single loss of life Moscow had admitted since the war began. The real death toll in Makiivka could be much higher, as is claimed by both Ukraine and by unofficial Russian sources.

Second, the statement said that "responsible officials" would be brought to justice, suggesting that something went wrong. This is highly unusual behaviour for Moscow - very rarely do authorities admit that errors have been made.

The vocational college was packed with soldiers at the time - men believed to have been among the 300,000 called up in President Vladimir Putin's partial mobilisation in September. Ammunition was also being stored close to the site, which was reduced to rubble.

The head of Russia's proxy authority in the Donetsk region, Denis Pushilin, praised the heroism of those caught up in the missile strike, who he said had tried to pull comrades out of the building. Some of those returning to the building had died in the process, he added.

With such a high official death toll, one would think the Russian military's latest update on the horrific events in Makiivka would be the top story on Russian state TV news today.

Not so. There was almost no mention of the story on Rossiya-24's main bulletins this morning.

Over on Channel One, the main news programme did briefly mention the defence ministry statement, but chose to bury it at the end of a report about alleged victories on the front line and losses amongst Ukrainian, not Russian, forces.

"A whole series of Russian missile attacks was unleashed on the first days of the new year against Ukrainian nationalists and foreign accomplices of the Kyiv regime," said the Channel One correspondent triumphantly, using common false narratives to describe Ukrainian forces.

But if you switch off the TV and log on to vKontakte, Russia's version of Facebook, you get a very different picture.

Communities have sprung up where soldiers' relatives are organising, appealing for information and crowdfunding for troops on the front line. Here there is anger.

Many relatives of the Makiivka soldiers blame military officials for the incident, and are sceptical of reports that those guilty will be punished. Some question why Kremlin-controlled media are largely silent on the story. However, there is little direct criticism of President Putin or of the war in general.

Pavel Gubarev, a former leading official in Russia's proxy authority in Donetsk, said the decision to house a large number of soldiers in one building was "criminal negligence". "If no-one is punished for this, then it will only get worse," he warned.

The deputy speaker of Moscow's local parliament, Andrei Medvedev, said it was predictable that the soldiers would be blamed rather than the commander who made the original decision to put so many of them in one place.

The defence ministry's claim that military officials who were allegedly responsible for this disaster will be punished will be seen as an attempt to defuse public anger over the disaster in Makiivka, but also to place the blame firmly on the military, and not President Putin. He has yet to respond to the disaster so far,

Throughout this war, the Kremlin has been careful to distance Russia's president from any bad news coming from the front line.

In November, Russia withdrew from the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, a major strategic defeat for Moscow. The announcement to retreat, though, was made by Gen Sergei Surovikin, commander of Russian forces in Ukraine. President Putin was meanwhile pictured touring a neurological facility, and did not make any comment on the situation in Kherson.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned on Tuesday night that Moscow was "on the eve of new mobilisation processes".

Declaring that "their new offensive must fail", Mr Zelensky said Ukraine had no doubt Russia would throw everything they had left and everyone they could muster in a bid to turn the tide of the war.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64159045

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 12:20 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfjCQxqKrG0

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 12:23 PM

WARNING: ADULT CONTENT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBIokLP-uWg

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 12:25 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZLIpaNl8pQ

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 12:40 PM

Ukraine agrees not only on new Patriot batteries, but also on supply of new systems NASAMS, Iris-T, Crotale, - Kuleba

Ukraine is negotiating not only about new Patriot batteries, but also about the supply of new NASAMS, Iris-T, and Crotale systems since air defense and anti-missile defense equipment is a priority need.

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Dmytro Kuleba said this at a briefing today, Censor.NET informs with reference to "Interfax-Ukraine".

"The first group of needs concerns all air defense and anti-missile defense equipment without exception, including ammunition for them. Ukraine needs as many high-tech air defense systems as possible, and that is why we are negotiating not only about new Patriot batteries but also about the supply of new NASAMS, Iris-T systems, Crotale.
We are grateful to the USA, Germany, Norway, and France for the already adopted decisions. We are working to speed up such decisions either from them or from other countries," Kuleba said during an online briefing on Wednesday.

He noted that this work is performed daily by the President, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry of Defense.

Kuleba also emphasized that Ukraine is interested in additional anti-aircraft installations, such as Gepard and Vulcan, as well as portable air defense systems, such as Stinger, etc.

"All these means are needed so that the Ukrainian sky becomes an impregnable wall for the terrorist country as soon as possible and we can protect our peaceful cities and critical infrastructure and citizens," the head of the Foreign Ministry said.

In addition, he added that another important need remains artillery shells of all calibers.

"Ukrainian gunners do not get tired of using them effectively, so we appeal to all partner countries to speed up the relevant additional supplies as much as possible," he said.

According to him, Ukraine is currently working with partners to reach a new level in providing the Armed Forces with artillery systems and armored vehicles of all types. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391194

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 12:44 PM

As of November, EU estimated that Russia had lost up to 60% of its battle tanks and 60,000 soldiers in Ukraine

The Commander of the European Union Military Mission, Admiral Herv Blejean, in November 2022, during a speech before the deputies of the National Assembly of France, claimed that Russia had lost 60% of its total stock of battle tanks.

As reported by Censor.NET with reference to "Euro Integration", the transcript of Blejan's speech at the meeting of the National Defense Committee of the French Parliament on November 16 was published.

"According to our most reliable estimates, at least 60,000 Russian soldiers have been killed and three times more wounded, which means that about 250,000 Russian soldiers are now incapacitated," he said.

The admiral added that the losses on the Ukrainian side are more difficult to estimate, and the EU believes that they are lower than the Russian ones, "but still significant."

"Russia has lost 60% of its tank arsenal, as well as 70% of its stockpile of missiles suitable for hitting ground targets. So it now uses anti-aircraft missiles to hit ground targets, with corresponding accuracy problems, and relies on supplies of equipment from Iran or North Korea ", the head of the EU Military Mission added.

He clarified that it is difficult to assess the nature of Pyongyang's supplies, but Iran had already provided Russia with drones, and there were also negotiations on the transfer of medium-range ballistic missiles.

Blezhan also cited EU estimates, according to which Russia has lost 40% of its armored personnel carriers and 20% of its artillery since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

He predicted the resumption of active offensive actions by Ukraine in the spring of 2023. But for this, Kyiv needs to form three new army corps numbering approximately 75,000 people - "the approximate number of the ground operational group of the French army," the admiral noted.

"Therefore, more than ever, this is a war of attrition, and the Ukrainians need our support to rebuild their forces, repair or replace their weapons, and support in rebuilding their forces, repair or replace damaged or destroyed weapons and equipment, and to be able to continue the reconquest territories annexed after the winter," he emphasized.

We will remind you that NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg believes that Russia is preparing a new wave of offensive during its aggression against Ukraine, and also calls not to underestimate the impact of the mobilization carried out in the Russian Federation. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391287

EU did everything possible to stop Russia’s war against Ukraine, but Putin just wants to destroy neighboring state, - Berbok

The European Union has done everything possible to stop the war in Ukraine, but Russian President Vladimir Putin has nothing else on his mind but to destroy the neighboring country.

This opinion was expressed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Germany, Annalena Burbok, Censor.NET informswith reference to DW.

According to her, Putin's position is the reason why "it is important to continue the supply of weapons so that Ukraine can defend itself and protect people's lives."

In addition, the minister emphasized that the EU can no longer afford to block decisions by individual member states. "We must be able to act effectively and quickly," Burbock was quoted by Reuters as saying at the conference. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391242

Jimbuna

01-04-23, 01:39 PM

Danilov on German tanks for Armed Forces: If Scholz wants war with Russian Federation near Berlin, he can continue game

Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council Oleksiy Danilov is sure that the transfer of modern tanks to Ukraine is a matter of time, and Germany should go for it if it does not want the war with the Russians to continue already on its territory.

He said this in an interview on a telethon, Censor.NET reports with reference to LigaBusinessInform.

"If Mr. Scholz wants the Germans to fight with the Russians near Berlin and near Stuttgart with German tanks, then they can continue this game in the future, conduct research: whether tanks should be given or not," said Danilov.

The Secretary of the National Security Council stated that the war unleashed by Russia is a "huge challenge" for Europe, and countries that understand this help Ukraine "by 150%".

"Those countries that are gradually beginning to see that this needs to be done, they also started this movement. And I thank both the Germans and the French for changing their point of view," Danilov said.

He also expressed confidence that "the issue of tanks is a matter of time." Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391307

August

01-04-23, 01:40 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iyCB_Yyh-zY

Skybird

01-04-23, 02:24 PM

France announces it wants to deliver recce wheel tanks AMX-10RC to Ukraine. How many, is not known. The tank design is from the early 70s. France plans to ohase out those it still has in use, parts of these seem to now go to Ukraine. The wheel tank is armed with a 105mm tank gun, so while it can hunt other armoured vehicles like IFVs, and MBTs, it needs to catch the latter from flanks and rear sectors, because the 105mm is not potent enough anymore to reliably penetrate frontal MBT armour. The tank has wheels, and is amphibous. Myself I think of it as a swimming Leopard-1 on wheels. Its relatively heavily armoured for a recce tank or light and medium MBT, but does not compare to a heavy MBT, in no way.

Ostfriese

01-04-23, 02:33 PM

France announces it wants to deliver recce wheel tanks AMX-10RC to Ukraine. How many, is not known. The tank design is from the early 70s. France plans to ohase out those it still has in use, parts of these seem to now go to Ukraine. The wheel tank is armed with a 105mm tank gun, so while it can hunt other armoured vehicles like IFVs, and MBTs, it needs to catch the latter from flanks and rear sectors, because the 105mm is not potent enough anymore to reliably penetrate frontal MBT armour. The tank has wheels, and is amphibous. Myself I think of it as a swimming Leopard-1 on wheels.

It sounds very much like an evolution of the tank destroyer concept of WWII. Fast, highly maneuverable, heavily armed but lightly armored, ideally suited for hit-and-run attacks aimed at the sides or rear of MBTs.

If used correctly they could cause havoc among Russian tanks.

Skybird

01-04-23, 02:42 PM

Bubble-Olaf cannot like what he sees.

http://www.military-today.com/artillery/amx_10_rc.jpg

https://www.military-today.com/artillery/amx_10_rc.htm

Skybird

01-04-23, 03:00 PM

Very good analysis why Scholz refuses to accept reality. His failure is not so much an intellectual, but a psychological one. The expalnation is very alarming, becasue it shows there is little reason to assume the German government will ever get its acts together. Die Welt writes in this very good analysis:

Our chancellor's dangerous Russia thought bubble
[Hear-hear, Skybird is not the only one mentioning Scholz in combination with thought bubbles :) ]
Chancellor Scholz has not pursued Germany's security policy and military capability to act with any pressure and has let almost a year pass virtually idly by. This has to do with the fact that German policy on Russia has nestled itself in a dangerous thought bubble.

The turnaround that Chancellor Scholz announced is not progressing. At the end of 2022, Defense Commissioner Eva Högl complained that neither the structures for more rapid procurement had been created for the Bundeswehr, nor had sufficient personnel been recruited - 20,000 service posts had not been filled - and equipment was worse than before the war.

At the time, Army Inspector General Lieutenant General Alfons Mais had said, "The Bundeswehr, the army I am allowed to lead, is more or less bare." After ten months of war waged by Russia against Ukraine, the Bundeswehr is in an even worse position.

Högl now complains that the Bundeswehr "lacks personal equipment such as helmets, backpacks, protective vests, as well as smaller and large equipment - from radios, ammunition to tanks.... The Bundeswehr is short of almost everything."

This also has to do with the fact that Ukraine, which Germany wanted to support with 5000 helmets at the beginning of the war, has since received weapons and ammunition. But at the same time, it is surprising that the equipping of the Bundeswehr is proceeding so slowly when the chancellor attaches so much importance to this goal.

It is true that the Chancellor repeatedly points out that Germany is safe because it is protected by its NATO allies. But this is precisely the free-rider mentality in security policy that Germany has long been accused of. At the same time, this negligence pays insufficient attention to Germany's obligations to NATO.

Why did the chancellor not pursue the security policy and military capacity to act with more pressure and let almost a year, a quarter of his time in government, pass virtually idly by?

An answer can be found when it is asked which way Scholz thinks the war in Ukraine can be ended. In an interview with the "Süddeutsche Zeitung," Chancellor Scholz said in mid-December 2022 about ending the war: "Russia must realize that this cannot continue. Putin must end the war, withdraw troops and thus create the possibility for mutual understanding."
The consistency with which Scholz speaks of "differences of opinion" is a significant indication of what he really thinks

The subsequent question, "Do you think it's possible, then, that this will happen in 2023? And what can you do to make that happen?" he answered thus, "When we will get to that point, I can't say today. It is important that we do not let the thread of talks with Russia break, despite the major disagreements. If we don't talk, it becomes even less likely that Russia will end the war."

Enough criticism has already been written about the phrase that there are "disagreements" with Russia. The one I found most accurate was the one that elaborated that differences of opinion existed as to whether Pizza Hawaii was within the bounds of good taste (unfortunately, I could not agree with the criticism because, for me, differences of opinion are not possible in this regard; the answer is clearly no).

Since Chancellor Scholz also spoke of "differences of opinion" during his visit to Moscow before the Russian attack on Ukraine, this is particularly noteworthy. For apparently nothing so grave changed in the Chancellor's thinking with Russia's attack and its turning point in time that he wanted to change his vocabulary. And this, when he is confronted day in and day out with the observation that language creates reality and that formulations are therefore of great importance, so that in the meantime doctors or pharmacists are supposed to make way. In this respect, the consistency with which he speaks of "differences of opinion" is a significant indication of what Scholz really thinks.

Scholz indicated before the above-quoted formulation that German support for Ukraine would continue to follow three guidelines, namely, first, to support Ukraine to the best of its ability, second, to prevent a direct NATO confrontation with Russia, and third, to refrain from Germany going it alone.

It is obvious, however, that Ukraine's supporters have drawn completely different conclusions from Russia's war, as became clear only recently when the German government offered Poland Patriot defense systems, Poland proposed to supply them to Ukraine, Germany refused, and the U.S. announced that it would supply the Patriot systems to Ukraine.

Even within the German government, there is no unified line on Ukraine policy, as the FDP and Greens do not speak to Scholz on this issue as if they were in a joint government. The Greens and FDP are demanding that Ukraine be supplied with the Leopard 2 main battle tank, while Scholz and the SPD are refusing. So what is the German chancellor's goal in supporting Ukraine? To this end, the interview quoted above is revealing.

For Scholz has so far refused to formulate that Russia must lose this war. Apart from the fact that Russia can only be denied the theft of land and that no one intends to attack Russia behind its territorial borders, the formulation that Russia must lose the war is otherwise intended to indicate that Russia's imperialist intentions are to be limited from the outside with effective countervailing power vis-à-vis Russia. Scholz's formula, Russia must not win, Ukraine must not lose, has a different flavour, because it implies that Russia will suffer a defeat, but it should not be limited in its claims by power. It should understand the situation.

The above-quoted answer of Scholz also goes in this direction. "Russia must realize..." - and in order to achieve this insight, it is necessary to talk to each other. Now, Russia has always clearly stated its goals in the war from the very beginning. They are: the recognition of the annexations, the demilitarization of Ukraine, the liquidation of the elites and their supporters, and the eradication of "Ukrainian" directed against Russia, as well as the demilitarization of the country.

Therefore, at first glance, it is not obvious on what basis Scholz wants to talk to the Russian side. For he calls these goals, emphasized by Russia at all times, a dictatorial peace that must be prevented. But how?

Scholz's answer is: through talks that should lead to an understanding. This is a deeply rooted attitude that has dominated thinking about international politics in Germany for more than twenty years. It is that the international order, the norms and rules that shape it, is constructed by actors in common speech acts. When actors shape common attitudes in discourse with each other, they shape reality.

It would be surprising if Scholz and his environment had not been influenced by this way of thinking, which had a lasting impact on conferences and expert discussions in Germany. In any case, what he says about ending the war is very much in line with this way of thinking. "Russia must realize...". The insight is to end the war, not the means of power mustered against Russia.

Accordingly, it is not the power of arms and money that shapes reality, but it is the understandings that are collectively agreed upon by the actors, it is the convictions that collectively prevail. Democratic governance in international politics, norm entrepreneurship and civil power were the keywords that not only became discourse-determining in a bubble stemming from the peace movement of the 1980s, but also still balance the mental limbo of some politicians to this day.

This has nothing to do with reality. With the reality of one's own world view and the desired expectation of how the world should be, however, very much. For some of those who bear responsibility for German politics, this is apparently more formative than the connection to reality. Freely following the motto "Being detunes the consciousness", they have settled down splendidly in their thought bubble and wonder why reality does not adhere to their imaginings.

Another example of this view of international relations could be observed right at the beginning of Scholz's term in office, when he refused for a long time to mention the Nord Steam 2 pipeline by name. As if it would disappear from the agenda if it remained unnamed.

Scholz's visit to China was also marked by this, as the most important result, which he has always emphasized since then, was the joint declaration that no nuclear weapons should be used. As if, by banishing the danger with words, it were really over.

Admittedly, it is positive that China and Germany made this declaration. The contrast with the slowness with which the Bundeswehr has been upgraded for the past 11 months, namely practically not at all, makes the emphasis of the joint speech even more glaring. For in the issues relevant to power politics, energy dependence on Russia was reduced, but this was seen less as a security policy task than an economic policy one.

And it is questionable whether this would have happened so quickly without the corresponding pressure from the European allies. The fact that Scholz is already talking about the fact that with a "Russia capable of peace ... at some point there can also be coexistence again" is on the one hand correct, but because of the lack of a turnaround it points once again in the direction that the German government assesses the threat emanating from Russia differently than it does in many other European states.

Edward Lucas has put this in a nutshell: The fact that Germany does not draw any conclusions from Russia's behavior, not only since 2022, may let the country sleep well. The other European states are losing sleep over this behavior of the largest EU member. For they know that the new European security order is currently being created not by insight, but by power and strength.
Conclsuion: Scholz is really dangerous for Europe.

mapuc

01-04-23, 03:05 PM

You know more about what German have given in military aid to Ukraine.

In a discussion on fb a friend wrote.

Why isn't Germany helping Ukraine ?

This made me do a search and I found this page

https://www.dw.com/en/ukraine-war-how-much-does-germany-spend-on-help/a-64160984

As I see it Germany is sending help both military and civilian aid.
The question is of course-Is it enough ?

Markus

Skybird

01-04-23, 03:17 PM

Germany indeeds have sent more than many others, but it stubbornly refuses ot do what it could do and what woudl be needed. Scholz doe snot weant Russia to loose or be defeated, especialyl not with German weapons, and all what he has sent fulfills the criterion that it cannot "defeat" Russia. Its not more than a sign held up that says:" He Russia, stop here, and become reasonable".

Therefore, no Leopard-2s, no Leopard-1s, no Marders. Scholz doe snot want Russia beign defeated (I say thats iocne ölong, didn'T I). He wants to promote superior socialdemocratic reasoning by creating the historic example of Russia becoming sane due to Scholz' superior psychological mindgame, and illustratign the superiority of German reasoning and pedagogic political education of the Russian leader. Finally, he wants to prove the suepriuroty of the German potlical model of defining reality not on grounds of facts, but opprutnsitic reframing strtageies. Int his, he is in fact extrnmeely close to Trump and others. Reality is not somethign that sets the framer, but is something that is negotiable, is endlessly manpulatable, is the result of reframing efforts like the reputation of a product is the result of a marketing campaign by advertising experts and psychologists.

Ekelhaft.

In the end, the existence of a penultimate, final, objective reality is being denied, and not just metaphorically, but literally. Like Trump denies it, too. If you look at Germany, you see this reality-denial at work on all levels and in every aspect of German inner politics. Its like a new form of neutron bomb that exactly kills neural tissue and brain cells.

Ostfriese

01-04-23, 03:24 PM

mapuc

01-04-23, 03:32 PM

Germany sent more military exports to Ukraine than to any other nation in 2022 (about 25% of all military exports). This includes Gepard AA tanks (nifty beasts, I remember them from my time in the army), PzH 2000 self-propelled artillery and IRIS-T anti-air-missiles.
A great many arguments are made about sending Leopard 1 and 2 tanks (which hasn't been done so far). I definitely don't know enough about the arguments in this case, so please don't ask me whether it'd be a good idea to send those tanks to Ukraine or not.

Gepard AA tanks, IRIS-T anti-air-missiles is defensive weapon types.
PzH 2000 self-propelled artillery is both used in offensive and in defensive.

Been thinking-Have Germany mostly been sending defensive weapon systems to Ukraine ?

Sending Leopard 1 or 2 or would mean Germany goes from passive(if I got it correctly) to offensive supporter to Ukraine

Markus

Ostfriese

01-04-23, 03:40 PM

mapuc

01-04-23, 03:46 PM

Skybird

01-04-23, 04:04 PM

I'm sure Skybird and I have very different opionions on this, which doesn't mean that his opinion is wrong.

I personally think that sending German tanks to Ukraine would additionally antagonize Russia, and while I understand that there are good reasons to do so I still don't want this to be done lightly.
No nation so far has send western tanks to Ukraine, so far Ukraine has only received former Soviet tanks.

On the one hand sending Leopard tanks to Ukraine would bring Germany (and thus NATO) closer to a war with Russia. On the other hand I simply am not sure that an open war with Russia can be avoided at all (which would mean that sending tanks to Ukraine or not wouldn't make any difference).
Look at the kill score the Himars and the Western artillery systems have fed to the Russians. They have lost thousands of troops due to these weapons. Has this brought America and Germany with the delivery of Mars-2 (German term for Himars) closer to a war with Russia? And if Western tanks bring, in your view, Western nations closer to a war with Russia , why then does the delivery of Sovjet-made tanks not? And finally, how is that the Germans are so terribly afraid of their own shadow moving - with much more at-risk states like Poland and the three Baltic states having much more reason to be concerned: but nevertheless sending Ukraine EVERYTHING THEY CAN, and at much greater cost to their own stocks, if standardizing weapon deliveries to economy and population sizes?

I know your arguments, because as you and me know, here in germany we hear right these arguments all day long. But they are all inconsistent. They are self-contradictory.

And how can it be that Scholz just around ten days ago talked in front of German economy leaders about that after the war Germany will do business with Russia again and implying, indicating, that German companies must not fear for their lost Russia contacts, they will get them back...??

Scholz does not want Russia to lose the war. And that is no subtle implication anymore. Its obscenely obvious.

Skybird

01-04-23, 04:09 PM

We also has to remember the war history between Germany and Russia/Soviet

Markus
Hitler and Stalin decided over Poland as if Poland were something non-existent and an entity without own will. Germans and Russians also wanted to dispose of Ukraine entirely according to their will, considered it a land mass whose population had no rights of self-determination. Bubble-Olaf is completely in this tradition with his fooling around - and he is even too stupid to even notice this. And so he leads Germany once again onto the wrong side of history. History repeats itself.

Ostfriese

01-04-23, 04:12 PM

As I said: I certainly don't agree with you, in my opinion there's way to much populistic opinion and way too little thoughtful consideration in your words. Which, as I would like to underline again, does not mean that you are wrong - I just consider your suggestion to be far to much on the path of recklessness.

Dargo

01-04-23, 04:15 PM

I'm sure Skybird and I have very different opionions on this, which doesn't mean that his opinion is wrong.

I personally think that sending German tanks to Ukraine would additionally antagonize Russia, and while I understand that there are good reasons to do so I still don't want this to be done lightly.
No nation so far has send western tanks to Ukraine, so far Ukraine has only received former Soviet tanks.

On the one hand sending Leopard tanks to Ukraine would bring Germany (and thus NATO) closer to a war with Russia. On the other hand I simply am not sure that an open war with Russia can be avoided at all (which would mean that sending tanks to Ukraine or not wouldn't make any difference).Sahra Wagenknecht, the German leftist [parliamentary deputy] of Die Linke (The Left party), and she quite openly says: Why should we lose energy, money, and so on, putting ourselves in danger, fighting for some war far away… endangering our welfare, the welfare, as she puts it, of our working people? Her idea is basically: Let Ukraine perish so that we don't have to pay higher prices for electricity or whatever, and this is pure egotism. Now, the pacificists say, the front is more or less stabilized, let's push for peace negotiations, give Russia part of Ukraine. But are these pacifists aware that we arrived at this stage of relative stabilization of the front precisely because of the immense Western help in Ukraine? The Western intervention has opened up the chance for peace. Without Western intervention helping Ukraine, the country would probably be occupied, and then you can probably go on, to Moldova, the Baltic States, pressure on Finland and so on and so on. The Western intervention has already antagonized Russia, a couple of tanks will not undo that. Instead of being afraid of this, will they push Russia too far? Shouldn't we be glad of this? The Ukrainian will to resist is one of the few examples of authentic popular resistance, they did the impossible Ukraine cannot win without very strong Western help including tanks.

Skybird

01-04-23, 04:18 PM

With the French now dopeevrign light tanks, the Germans shpoudo consider at least the Marders of the industry, and the Leopard-1. I also agree to sending the Leopard-2A4 parked in the industry's backyard. Scholz vcnanot hide behind claism about non-öexcistign NATO- plans anymore, and not behind the Americnas who have repatedly said that what he claism regarding them wa snot true, and that the gerjan shopuld send tanks, if they want, and now Macronman sends light tanks, so Germany is no longer alone if also sending Westenr tanks. Scholz always claimed that he rejects tanks in cooperation with Washing (a lie), and that NATO obligtrations were in plce hidnering Germany, which was also a lie, and that Germany would never act alone in sending tanks, which is now obsolete.

I can't wait to see what lame excuses he comes up with next. Maybe that Lambrecht got a cold and every further planning is delayed, therefore?

Ostfriese

01-04-23, 04:19 PM

@Dargo: That's way to much thinking in black-and-white schemes in my opinion. From my point of view there's a number of shades of grey in between "believing in Wagenknecht" (a person who is truly despicable, if you ask me) and "sending tanks to Ukraine."
Once again: I don't claim to be right (I'm a scientist, after all, I'd never claim to be right unless I have a lot of proof and evidence), I'm stating my opinion.

Dargo

01-04-23, 04:25 PM

Dargo

01-04-23, 04:29 PM

Ostfriese

01-04-23, 04:30 PM

Not attacking you sorry if I gave that impression

No worries, mate, you didn't give that impression. I just wanted to clarify my position. :)

Skybird

01-04-23, 04:40 PM

Think the US will send the Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV) after this French proposal they will not wait on Germany on making any decision.
As a matter of fact they have dleievred already, amongst other stuff, over 200 M113 in various weapon configurations.

Beyond that, it makes sense to not send Ukraine American gas-turbined Abrams tanks, for which the Ukraine would need to open a completely new logistic network and supply line it does not have, but to tell the Europeans they should send their Diesel-run MBTs instead. The Abram's gas demands is excessive. Needing to shuttle huge quantities of gas additonal to the large quantities of Diesel is the last thing the ukraine needs. Better have all their stuff on Diesel.

Also , the US already donates as much military aid than all Europe alltogether. So why should they send more of what is being parked on the industry's backyards in higher quantities anyway, and closer to Ukraine? We tlak abotju kitems and platforms that are not in short supply in Europpe, but of whcih there isa hige fleet that alrready got pohased out from active service. Why should always the US do all the heavy weights - even on things and aspects where Europe in fact CAN do something itself?

Skybird

01-05-23, 06:57 AM

Is the diplomatic pressure on Scholz behind the scenes becoming too great? Der Tagesspiegel writes:
----------------------------------
After battle tank statements by Biden and Macron: Scholz wants to make new decision by mid-January

The German chancellor has so far always stressed that he would "not go it alone" on military aid to Ukraine. Now a new situation has arisen.

France's head of state Emmanuel Macron wants to provide Ukraine, which is under attack from Russia, with AMX-10 "light battle tanks," and U.S. President Joe Biden has confirmed that he is considering supplying Bradley infantry fighting vehicles - as a result, the German government is also examining what form of additional military assistance should be provided to Kiev.

"Following the statements from Paris and Washington, we are continuing to consult intensively with our allies in the United States and France on further support for Ukraine," government circles said on Thursday.
Live on your cell phone Get all the latest news on the Russian attack on Ukraine with the Tagesspiegel app. Download here for IOS and Android.

In this context, the German government referred to the Tagesspiegel "in particular to the next meeting in the Ramstein format in mid-January."

At the U.S. air base in Rhineland-Palatinate had taken place at the end of April of last year, a first coordination meeting of the countries that provide military assistance to Ukraine.

Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht (SPD) had announced at the time that Germany would send Gepard-type anti-aircraft tanks and thus, for the first time, the "heavy weapons" demanded by the Bundestag to Ukraine.

Now the next meeting of this round is apparently to be the time by which the German government wants to provide clarity on possible German battle tank deliveries. Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) had so far not rejected this in principle, but had always pointed out that there would be "no going it alone" from the German side on this issue. Now, after the statements by Macron and Biden, that would no longer be the case. However, there has not yet been a corresponding decision.

The Bundeswehr does not have a model comparable to the French AMX-10 wheeled tank. The German variants of the American Bradley type would be the old Marder infantry fighting vehicles or the ultra-modern Puma, which had recently made headlines due to numerous breakdowns, however.
-----------------------
Comparing to the AMX-10, the Italian Centauro comes to mind, close to 30 tons, and a 105mm cannon. 8 Wheels.

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/Centauro01.JPEG

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 06:59 AM

Look at the kill score the Himars and the Western artillery systems have fed to the Russians. They have lost thousands of troops due to these weapons. Has this brought America and Germany with the delivery of Mars-2 (German term for Himars) closer to a war with Russia? And if Western tanks bring, in your view, Western nations closer to a war with Russia , why then does the delivery of Sovjet-made tanks not? And finally, how is that the Germans are so terribly afraid of their own shadow moving - with much more at-risk states like Poland and the three Baltic states having much more reason to be concerned: but nevertheless sending Ukraine EVERYTHING THEY CAN, and at much greater cost to their own stocks, if standardizing weapon deliveries to economy and population sizes?

I know your arguments, because as you and me know, here in germany we hear right these arguments all day long. But they are all inconsistent. They are self-contradictory.

And how can it be that Scholz just around ten days ago talked in front of German economy leaders about that after the war Germany will do business with Russia again and implying, indicating, that German companies must not fear for their lost Russia contacts, they will get them back...??

Scholz does not want Russia to lose the war. And that is no subtle implication anymore. Its obscenely obvious.

Fully agree :yep:

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 07:11 AM

Defying Russian onslaught in city 'at the end of the world'

By Yogita Limaye
BBC News, Bakhmut

"This is the toughest operation I've ever seen. The enemy has thrown its strongest assault at Bakhmut. We haven't seen troops like this before," the Ukrainian commander tells us.

Commander Skala, as he wants to be called, is controlling the Ukrainian operation to defend the city of Bakhmut in the eastern Donbas region from an underground chamber off a nondescript street. It is one of the main command centres the Ukrainian military has set up in the city, and few journalists have been here.

A tall, hefty man with sparkling eyes, he watches a live feed from a drone hovering outside the eastern edge of the city on a big screen in the centre of the room.

One of the battalion's units is trying to spot the location of Russian positions, to aid another unit which has just gone out to defend eastern approaches to Bakhmut under attack.

In addition to Russian armed forces, mercenaries from the private paramilitary Wagner group have been sent in their thousands to front lines around Bakhmut.

"Wagner soldiers openly advance under fire towards us even if they're littering the land with their bodies, even if out of 60 people in their platoon only 20 are left. It's very difficult to hold against such an invasion. We weren't prepared for that, and we're learning now," Commander Skala says.

"Some weeks ago, we lost positions on the eastern approaches to the city because the enemy was constantly storming us with assaults. We moved to secondary front lines to save our soldiers," he adds.

"We are trying to work smartly and get those positions back. Sometimes you have to withdraw to attack the enemy properly."

Wagner leader Yevgeny Prigozhin has said Ukrainians have turned every house in Bakhmut into a fortress, and that there were now "500 lines of defence".

Russia has been using all its might to try to take Bakhmut - a battle considered critical for the country after it lost ground in Ukraine in recent months, being pushed out of Kherson in the south and the Kharkiv region in the north-east. Capturing Bakhmut is also important to further Russia's aim to control the whole of the Donbas region in eastern Ukraine.

Throughout our conversation with Commander Skala, muffled explosions can be heard from above ground. The second you step outside, the sound is loud enough to make your heart pound - the terrifying whistle of shells flying in followed by the deafening boom of the impact.

And the sound never stops as the bombs keep falling.

One resident described it as "the end of the world" and there are moments when it feels like that.

Bombs have ripped through the middle of apartment blocks, blown away the facades of buildings and created craters by the side of streets. It was hard to find a window in Bakhmut that was intact. The ground is littered with broken glass and debris.

This was once a quiet, ordinary town in the east, known for its sparkling wine. Now, it's become a byword for war and Ukraine's resistance.

It lies at a vital road intersection, but over the months, the battle here has gained a symbolic importance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently called it the "fortress of our morale".

Bakhmut used to be home to just over 70,000 people before the war. Just a tenth of its residents - mostly elderly or poor - remain.

While the streets are largely empty, we see dozens of civilians in an aid centre, known here as a "resilience centre".

It has power, and wi-fi provided by Elon Musk's Starlink satellite system. Volunteers distribute small packets of food, medicines and other basic supplies. A wood-burner in the centre keeps the room warm.

This is a lifeline for the people in Bakhmut.

Many sit huddled around electrical points, trying to charge up their phones.

What's remarkable is that even when shells land just a few hundred metres from the centre, people don't flinch. It's as if they've become numb, running from bombs every day.

Trauma is visible on many faces though.

Why don't you leave, we asked Anatolay Suschenko, who was standing in a queue for some food.

"I have nowhere to go. I'm alone. Who would want to take an 86-year-old?" he said. "Here, at least sometimes when soldiers throw away food or soup, I find it and eat it. And I get free bread. In my whole life, I've never seen anything like this. All the windows of my house have been blown off, and the gate has been destroyed."

People have different reasons to stay. Olha Tupikova sits in the corner of the room with her 13-year-old daughter Diana.

"I think everywhere in Ukraine is equally dangerous. Some of our neighbours left and died elsewhere. Here we have a house. We have cats and dogs. We can't leave them," she said.

"Our roof has 21 holes and the garage has nine. I mend them every time, and try to repair the windows too. Normally the holes are caused by shrapnel, but lately we've had stones flying in too, making holes that are the size of a head."

"We live like mice. We quickly run out to get some bread, choose different routes to get back home. Before sunrise I look for wooden boards and logs [to repair my home]. In the evening I search for water because there's no water supply in town," Olha said.

"Of course, it's frightening. But now we do it army style, like soldiers. We joke that master chefs know nothing about cooking [compared to us]. We can make a meal out of anything on an open fire, or even a candle."

The local administration is trying to convince people to leave.

In a location in the city we can't disclose because it could compromise his safety, we met Oleksiy Reva, who has been the mayor of Bakhmut for 33 years.

"It's those who don't have money and don't want to face the unknown who are staying. But we are talking to them about it. Because safety is most important, safety and peace," he said.

Why does he continue to stay, we asked. "This is my life, my job, my fate. I was born here, and grew up here. My parents are buried here. My conscience won't allow me to leave our people. And I'm confident our military will not allow Bakhmut to fall," he said.

In the fields outside the city, we see the daily grind required to keep a hold on it.

The unit of soldiers we meet try to spot Russian locations and fire artillery - Soviet-era D-30 guns - in their direction, to allow Ukrainian infantry to push ahead every day. But barely any advance is being made.

"The equipment is outdated. It works fine and does the job, but it can be better. We also have to be very economical with our shells, very precise with our targets so we don't run out of ammunition. If we had more equipment and modern weapons, we would be able to destroy more targets which would make things much easier for our infantry," one of the soldiers, Valentyn, said.

Winter also makes things difficult. Weapons don't operate as smoothly in cold weather, they tell us.

"We simply need to overcome this period, hold on, and then execute counter-offensives and fight," Yaroslav said.

Each side is trying to wear the other down. This is a battle of endurance.

How do you motivate yourself every day, we asked. "We all have families to go back to. Valentyn just had a son but his family is in Germany, so he hasn't seen him yet," Yaroslav said as Valentyn cracked a shy smile.

"His motivation is colossal."
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-64153581

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 07:23 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nottZlm8gWM

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 07:25 AM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGUDYXXiGaM

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 08:18 AM

Putin 'has cancer and will die very soon', claims Ukrainian intelligence chief

Ukraine has claimed that Vladimir Putin will die "very quickly" because he has been sick for a "long time". Kyrylo Budanov, Chief of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, told ABC News that they had sources close to the Kremlin leader who had confirmed that Putin, 70, was suffering from cancer. Though the Russian autocrat's life was apparently in danger, Mr Budanov said the "war must end before his death". He later added that strikes into Russian territory, such as the Engels airbase attack on December 5, would undoubtedly continue this year, though he declined to take responsibility for them.

In a rare interview, a laconic Kyrylo Budanov was pressed on a number of issues relating to Putin's health and the possibility of missile strikes in Russia and Crimea.

Asked if Putin was "terminally ill", Mr Budanov said: "Of course. He has been ill for a long, very long period. I think he will die very fast. I hope. I am sure he has cancer."

He later said that he "just knew" that Putin was suffering from an illness because he had received the information "from people, from sources".

When asked whether the intelligence agency had obtained this information from sources close to Putin, Mr Budanov answered: "Yes".
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/putin-has-cancer-and-will-die-very-soon-claims-ukrainian-intelligence-chief/ar-AA15ZJxO?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=7d1b3885846d4c5c9f8942c8c5835344

Skybird

01-05-23, 08:21 AM

#?+%

This is exactly the kind of Western treason on the Ukraine that I have warned against from beginnign on that that I have predicted that it will happen sooner or later, very early on already.

Die Welt writes:

--------------------------
The secret longing for the ceasefire

France is supplying tanks to Ukraine, the U.S. may soon follow suit, possibly Germany as well. But in truth, almost all allies are doing far less than they could. Despite all the oaths of allegiance, there is very clear talk behind the scenes about a Plan B.

It was a dramatic appeal. In the middle of the week, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyi again called on the international community to finally deliver more weapons. Russia will leave no stone unturned to destroy his country, he said. "We must destroy this scenario of the Russians. The terrorists must lose," Selenskyj demanded.

The timing of the appeal was deliberate. A few days earlier, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg, Selenskyj's most important ally on the issue of arms deliveries, had backed the Ukrainian president: "It may sound paradoxical, but military support for Ukraine is the fastest way to peace," Stoltenberg had said then.
Now the West is supplying new weapons. France wants to supply Ukraine with "light battle tanks," more precisely the AMX-10 RC armored reconnaissance vehicle. The wheeled tank with a large gun will be used primarily for reconnaissance.
"Until victory, until the return of peace in Europe, our support for Ukraine will not diminish," Macron wrote. Selenskyj thanked Macron on Twitter for the decision. The Ukrainian president took the announced delivery of French armored reconnaissance vehicles as an important signal to other Western countries as well.

"France is raising defense support to Ukraine to a new level, and I thank President Macron for this leadership," Selenskyj said. Following the French push, it is conceivable that the U.S. and Germany will also follow suit.

One thing is clear: Without help from the West, Ukraine would have had to capitulate in the fight against Russia long ago. But it is equally clear that the weapons Ukraine urgently needs at this stage of the war are being withheld by the West. There is increasing evidence that the West's weapons assistance is only half-hearted - and that many in Washington, Brussels and other European capitals are working toward a cease-fire in Ukraine.

Only with sufficient anti-aircraft missiles, however, would Kiev be able to stop the nationwide successive destruction of energy infrastructure. Only with tanks and warplanes could Ukraine capture the city of Kreminna in the east or Melitopol, a city in the south that is strategically important for the recapture of Crimea.

Only recently, in an interview with the news magazine "Economist," Ukraine's Chief of General Staff Valery Salushnyi gave the West a detailed calculation of what the Ukrainian armed forces now absolutely need for a new offensive: 300 battle tanks, 600 to 700 infantry fighting vehicles and 500 artillery systems.

The West must support Kiev until Putin runs out of reserves
But none of that is anywhere near in sight, certainly not on these scales. The frustration in Zelenskyy's entourage that NATO countries are providing relatively little support to Ukraine, despite impressive operational successes at Kherson and Kharkiv, is huge. To avoid angering the West, however, Kiev does not talk about this publicly, preferring to offer friendly thanks for the weapons that arrive in Ukraine.

Several questions remain: Why is the West still slowing down so much on arms deliveries? The U.S. has 2757 fighter jets at its disposal, but so far it has not delivered a single one of them. Thus, the international community is de facto allowing Moscow to systematically destroy Ukraine's entire electricity supply.

"To prevent that, at least ten Patriot batteries would be needed to defend against long-range missiles," Colonel Markus Reisner, one of Europe's leading military experts from the German Defense Ministry in Vienna, told WELT.

In addition, he said, 50 to 100 Iris-T and Nasam systems are needed to defend against medium-range missiles, and 1,000 to 1,500 shoulder-launched surface-to-air defense systems such as the Stinger are needed for short ranges. The colonel, like other experts, had called for more air defense as early as the summer because attacks on Ukrainian power grids in the winter were foreseeable at that time. "But nothing happened," he says.

Reisner, who also teaches military strategy at the Theresian Military Academy in Wiener Neustadt, asks further questions: "Why are the Americans supplying only 20 Himars missile launchers so far? Why is Washington not providing F-16 or A-10 fighter jets? Why doesn't the U.S. destroy Russian satellite communications to significantly limit the range of Russian missile salvos? And how could it be that 30,000 Russian fighters with 2,500 vehicles were able to withdraw unimpeded from the bridgehead at Kherson without a shot being fired?"

Reisner is almost certain about the last question, at least: there had most likely been collusion at a meeting of Russian and American representatives in Turkey immediately before the withdrawal from Kherson.

If you ask politicians and diplomats from NATO and the EU in Brussels and other European capitals, you will come to the conclusion that the West is currently working towards a ceasefire in the course of this year. No one is saying this out loud.
The official announcement remains: Ukraine is a sovereign state; Kiev alone must decide how long the country will fight. "There is no sign that there will be a winner in this war in the foreseeable future," says a top EU diplomat.

"We underestimated Russia's staying power after Ukraine's successes in the summer. A cease-fire would probably be better than further escalation, which could then get out of hand," stresses a NATO military official. "I'm afraid there can be a cease-fire lasting years without negotiations. But I no longer see any alternative," said a diplomat from a major NATO country.

At the moment, some indications are that the Americans fear prolonging the extremely costly war by years through large-scale arms deliveries and encouraging an escalation that could, in the worst case, spread to neighboring countries such as Moldova or even NATO countries. Officially, only the top U.S. military official, General Mark Milley, has spoken of negotiations so far.

After Ukraine's spectacular successes at Kherson in November, he said, "If there is an opportunity for negotiations, if it is possible to make peace, the opportunity must be seized." At the same time, he said that the likelihood of a Ukrainian military victory, which would include the desired recapture of Crimea, was "not very high." The reaction from Kiev was prompt: angry protests.
What might come next? "2023 will be the year of disillusionment. The situation is comparable to 1915 in World War I," says military strategist Reisner.
--------------------------

One week ago, Die Welt wrote this short comment:

-------------------------
The result of the war is likely to be a shrunken Ukraine

The war in Ukraine has turned into a grueling war of positions. Can a peace conference in February help? One must acknowledge - as bitter as it is - the realities of this war.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has proposed a conference at the United Nations headquarters in New York to discuss peace in his country in February. This is good news. One can assume that Kuleba's proposal came about mainly under pressure from the Americans.

This conference could become the first step toward peace negotiations with Russia. The fact that Kuleba does not want to invite Russia, the enemy of war, to this Ukraine peace conference seems absurd at first glance - but such a step would be premature at the moment, because it would mean crossing a red line from Ukraine's point of view.
And what comes after New York? The outcome of this terrible war cannot be the projection screen for ethicists who rightly warn against Russian aggression and raise the flag of freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity. One must acknowledge - bitter as it is - the realities of this war: It is now a brutal war of position, and neither side is likely to emerge "victorious" from it in the foreseeable future.

The Russian economy appears largely resistant to Western sanctions. Russia's President Vladimir Putin is firmly in the saddle and the majority of the Russian population continues to support war. The West has failed to rally key countries such as China, India, Indonesia, Brazil or the Gulf states to its side in the Ukraine war.

The West's arms deliveries remain far too slow, and the question remains whether they will ever be sufficient to defend the vast country of Ukraine in the field and to recapture lost territory. Moreover, support for further arms deliveries to Kiev is gradually crumbling in Western societies; in Germany, it slipped below 50 percent for the first time in early December.

The cardinal mistake with regard to Ukraine was not to admit Kiev to NATO in the spring of 2008, contrary to what Washington and London had demanded. Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy prevented this at the time.

Both preferred to do lucrative business with Moscow and feared that joining NATO could provoke Putin. Yet such a step, and the alliance's accompanying commitment to stand by him, would have prevented the Ukraine war 14 years later. Unfortunately, all that remains now is to contain the consequences of this epochal mistake. In plain language: There are likely to be negotiations - probably as early as next year - the result of which will be a shrunken Ukraine.
-----------------

Merkel, always Merkel, she has been worse than George Bush and Clinton and Obama together. Merkel has inflicted the greatest damages possible on Germany, and on Europe. How often have I called her the worst politic event in Europe and Germany since 1933 and the 12 dark years that followed...?

Verfluchte, dreimal und mehr verfluchte Merkel. Wie ich dieses Weib verabscheue. And the Germans left her her ways for 16 years. Tells a very lot about Germans.

And thus the West is about to lose another big war (if things turn out the way they seem to be in Ukraine). Another one. We have become experts in losing wars and finding endless rationalisations for why we let it happen.

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 08:29 AM

German opposition demands that Scholz initiate supply of tanks to Ukraine with allies

The opposition faction of the Christian Social Union (CSU) in the Bundestag called on the German government, together with its NATO partners, to come up with a European initiative to supply Western-style battle tanks to Ukraine.

As reported by Censor.NET with reference to the EP, the head of the CSU faction in the Bundestag, Alexander Dobrindt, stated this in an interview with DPA.

"We want Ukraine to be able to exercise its right to self-defense. For this, it needs more heavy weapons, including Leopard 2 tanks," Dobrindt said.

"The German government should come up with a European initiative regarding the joint supply of battle tanks," he added. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391402

It became known about presence of Western-made parts in Iranian drones even after first attacks in September, - Air Force

It became known about the presence of Western-made parts in Iranian drones even after the first attacks of the Russian Federation in September.

This was reported by Air Force spokesman Yurii Ihnat, Censor.NET reports with reference to Interfax-Ukraine.

"It was known, yes, that the USA, meaning the companies, are manufacturers of these spare parts for those drones that were captured by the survivors in September. That is, they were knocked down or landed on tree branches themselves. It was investigated immediately back in September, and already now there are certain conclusions that indeed Iran received them," he said.

Ignat noted that Ukraine will quickly make the data public, but Western countries are very cautious about it, because "a legal framework is needed where it needs to be contained."

The spokesman of the Air Force added that Iran will certainly try by all means to avoid the strengthening of sanctions and to deny the provision of drones to the Russian Federation.

"Perhaps, Russia will open a fake factory of these Iranian drones, which will supposedly be produced on its territory," he noted.

Also remind, that earlier it was reported that more than a dozen companies from the USA discovered technologies in Iranian drones used by the Russian Federation. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391426

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 08:32 AM

Putin: Russia is "open to serious dialogue", but Kyiv must fulfill "known demands" and "take into account new territorial realities"

Russian dictator Putin said that the Russian Federation is allegedly ready for a "serious dialogue".

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to the propaganda publication RIA Novosti.

"Putin once again confirmed Russia's openness to a serious dialogue - on the condition that Kyiv fulfills the known demands and takes into account new territorial realities," the publication notes.

Also, the Russian dictator once again repeated theses about "arming Ukraine" by the West and also accused the West of providing "information and targeting" to Kyiv. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391452

Germany handed over batch of military aid to Ukraine: 8x8 trucks, drones, tractors, EW, BREM, and other

Germany handed over drones, anti-drone equipment, modular military trucks, dozens of pickup trucks, trailers for transporting heavy equipment and other military aid to the Defense Forces of Ukraine.

The list is published on the website of the German government, Censor.NET reports.

In this list:

30 drone detection systems;
27 sensors and "jammers" for protection against drones;
8 reconnaissance drones;
17 8x8 trucks;
12 heavy-duty trailers;
1 M1070 tank transporter;
7 tracked/remotely controlled infantry vehicles for support missions;
2 armored repair and evacuation vehicles;
63 pickup trucks;
20 launchers (70 mm) on pickup trucks with a stock of missiles;
21 generators;
32 mobile heating systems;
1 ambulance;
7 border patrol cars;
36,400 wool blankets.

The vast majority of what is delivered comes not from Bundeswehr stocks, but from the industry.

The German authorities also undertook to hand over 92 reconnaissance drones to the Armed Forces. They do not specify which type. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391444

France is helping to convince both Russia and Ukraine to create protective zone at ZNPP, - head of Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kolonna

France is helping to convince the occupying power Russia – and Ukraine as well – to create a safety zone around the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant in the Russian-captured Ukrainian city of Enerhodar.

As reported by Censor.NET with reference to LIGA.net, this was stated by the head of the Foreign Ministry of France, Catherine Colonna.

According to her, France "helps the International Atomic Energy Agency and its director Rafael Grossi, who undertook this difficult mission, to try to convince both Russia and Ukraine to establish a protective zone."

When asked about a possible new telephone conversation between French President Emmanuel Macron and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin, the head of the French Foreign Ministry said that it was "not planned", but "it is possible that they will talk, as they talked to each other before."

"It (dialogue - Ed.) remains useful, in particular, to try to limit the risk of a nuclear accident at the Zaporizhzhia NPP," Kolonna added. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391438

Skybird

01-05-23, 09:50 AM

There are increasing indications that Germany will supply Marder infantry fighting vehicles. How many is unknown. As before, Bubble-Olaf seems to categorically refuse to supply battle tanks of any type. But something substantial he must do, the pressure is mounting now after Macronman sending light tanks and Biden considering sending Bradleys.

Marders are 50 years old, however, they are a proven reliable design, and are still surprisingly well armoured. Their 20mm cannon is considered a bit weak in callibre by now, but is said to be extremely precise. They can carry Milan missiles, however the loader must expose himself to reload the launcher in battle. 3 crew, 7 troops.

The problem with the Marder is the handling under combat conditions. Many technical issues that routinely occure, also reloading procedures, demand the crew to leave the protected armour ahead and expose itself to the threats around. Also, internal handling routines and fighting interactions of the crew are as designed half a century ago, are not as ergonomical and streamlined as in new vehicles. This commands longer training for the crews. Its complicated working kit, by modern standards at least. Well armoured complicated kit, but complicated kit. I think the Ukrainians need to really learn well how to handle these IFVs right, else the Marder will work against their interests and cause them losses they maybe do not expect right now. They wanted the Marder from beginning on, maybe they have too high expectations there. However, it certainly is better than MTBLs and BMPs - these are rolling coffins, the insiders say, difficult to escape from, and easily burning..

I would prefer if they are being given Leopard-2A4s.

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 10:59 AM

Redeployment of Marder IFV to Ukraine should begin, - Head of Defense Committee of Bundestag Strack-Zimmerman

The head of the defense committee of the German Bundestag, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, supported the idea of transferring Marder infantry fighting vehicles to Ukraine.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to UNIAN.

"We should start redeploying the Marder infantry fighting vehicle to Ukraine now and immediately begin training to operate it... We definitely need to move now," Strack-Zimmerman said.

A representative of the German parliament spoke favorably of France's decision to hand over wheeled tanks to Ukraine.

"It is important that our Western partners are again the first to take the step they could expect from us," said the deputy.

She added that the Marder is in sufficient quantity in the warehouses of the Bundeswehr, as well as spare parts for them. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391490

Cooperation between Russia and Iran can threaten not only Ukraine, but also national security of United States, - Kirby

Cooperation between Russia and Iran can threaten not only Ukraine, but also the national security of the United States. Therefore, the States look forward to working with the new Israeli government to jointly face these challenges.

This was stated by the coordinator of strategic communications of the White House, John Kirby, Censor.NET informs with reference to the Voice of America.

"We continue to see a deepening defense relationship between Iran and Russia. And that worries us not only because of the war in Ukraine but because of what it could mean for our national security interests in the Middle East and the interests of our partners there." Kirby said.

He recalled the hundreds of drones provided by Iran to Russia. He also noted that the US government is looking forward to working with the new Israeli government, including to counter the challenges posed by Iran: "We are confident that we will be able to continue working toward these common goals." Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391494

Personnel and equipment of Russian army continue to arrive in Belarus

Personnel, weapons, military and special equipment of the armed forces of the Russian Federation will continue to arrive in the Republic of Belarus.

This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Defense of Belarus, Censor.NET informs.

It is noted that in this way the regional grouping of the troops of the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation to "ensure the military security of the Union State" continues.

With the units of the Russian Federation arriving at the Belarusian training grounds, further combat coordination activities are planned.

In addition, it is planned to hold a joint flight and tactical training in order to increase the level of combat training of the aviation units of both countries. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391505

mapuc

01-05-23, 11:02 AM

It's breaking news here in Denmark

Following is taken from the Danish news channel

Russian President Vladimir Putin declares a ceasefire in Ukraine on Friday and Saturday. It happens in connection with the celebration of the Russian Orthodox Christmas.

Markus

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 11:05 AM

Putin instructed Shoigu to introduce ceasefire along entire line of combat in Ukraine from 12:00 on January 6 to 24:00 on January 7, - Kremlin

The President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, instructed the Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation, Serhiy Shoigu, to introduce a cease-fire regime from 12:00 on January 6 to 24:00 on January 7 along the entire line of combat of the parties in Ukraine.

As Censor.NET informs, this was reported by the Russian propaganda publication "RIA-Novosti" with reference to the Kremlin.

More details are currently unknown. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391513

August

01-05-23, 12:14 PM

Russkies didn't cease fire when the Ukrainians had their Christmas. Unless they have agreed to this they should not give the Russians a break.

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 12:18 PM

US does not expect war to end in near future, because Russia really wants to capture Bakhmut, - Sky News

The US does not expect the end of the war in eastern Ukraine in the near future. It is important for Russia to gain control over Bakhmut.

This is reported by Sky News, Censor.NET reports with reference to RBC-Ukraine.

According to a high-ranking American official, intense fighting in the east of Ukraine will continue for several more months. In his opinion, what is happening in Bakhmut can be expected in other areas of the front as well.

"The fighting is still quite hot (in the Donetsk region. - Ed.). What we see in Bakhmut, we should expect in other parts of the front as well, that the fighting will continue in the coming months," said an anonymous official.

Russia pays special attention to Bakhmut, as it is located on a strategic supply line between Donetsk and Luhansk regions. If the enemy manages to gain control over the city, he can use it as a bridgehead to advance to larger cities - Kramatorsk and Sloviansk. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391520

Turkey is ready to participate in implementation of our peace formula, - Zelensky

The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, had a telephone conversation with the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

As Censor.NET informs about this with reference to Zelensky's Facebook page.

"We discussed with the President of Turkey, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the security cooperation of our countries, the issue of nuclear safety, in particular the situation at the ZNPP. There should be no invaders there.

They also discussed the exchange of prisoners of war under Turkish mediation, the development of the grain agreement. We appreciate Turkey's readiness to take part in the implementation of our peace formula," said the President of Ukraine. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391517

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 12:21 PM

By supplying missiles to Russia, Iran will cross "red line", - Kuleba

The supply of missiles by Iran to Russia will be a "red line", the crossing of which will cause the use of all available instruments of pressure on Tehran.

As reported by Censor.NET, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, Dmytro Kuleba, stated this in an interview with the Arab TV channel Akhbar Al Aan.

"Iran supplies Russia with drones that Russia uses to attack our cities and critical infrastructure. We have also heard that Russia and Iran are likely negotiating an agreement to supply certain types of missiles from Iran to Russia. We are following this process very closely. . This will become a "red line" that Iran should not cross, because then the entire tool of pressure will be used to force Iran to stop doing this," he said.

According to Kuleba, Iran's message "should be very simple": "Whatever the benefits for Iran from cooperation with Russia in these arms deliveries, the negative consequences of this cooperation will be much greater and painful." And that is why Tehran should proceed from these very pragmatic considerations.

The minister also pointed out that by supplying Russia with drones, Iran is participating in Russia's terrorist campaign directed "against the civilian population of the country, which has always been very friendly to the Iranian people."

"And finally, I want to say that this, in fact, also goes against the will of God - to use weapons against the civilian population. And this is exactly what Iranian drones are used for: they are not used to attack our military positions, but Iranian drones kill civilians and are destroying our energy infrastructure, which works in the interests of the civilian population during the war," said the Ukrainian Foreign Minister. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391528

Russian Commanders Encourage Sexual Violence Against Ukrainian Civilians, New York Times

Journalists of the American publication The New York Times published an investigation of sexual violence against peaceful Ukrainian residents in the de-occupied territories by Russian soldiers.

This is reported by Censor.NET with reference to UNIAN.

In particular, there is evidence that Russian commanders knew about the rapes or even encouraged them, the NYT writes with reference to Iryna Didenko, a representative of the prosecutor's office handling cases of sexual violence. In some cases, they gave, as Didenko claims, orders to rape or gave instructions to "go and relax."

Didenko says that there is a clear pattern of behavior when Russian troops occupy a territory: "The ground troops arrive, and on the second or third day the rapes begin."

In one of the cases described in the investigation, the commander allowed the soldiers to enter the apartment building, while he himself remained outside. At the same time, the soldier could be heard saying: "We'll just beat this one, and we'll rape this one." In another case, eight Russian soldiers raped a man who was stopped at a checkpoint.

According to Didenko, a total of 154 cases of rape have been officially established. However, the prosecutor believes that in reality there are many more such cases. For example, in one of the previously occupied villages of the Kyiv region, psychologists found that every ninth woman had experienced sexual violence.

According to prosecutors and city authorities, rape victims are reluctant to talk about what happened, and the situation worsens amid the war, as they may be accused of collaborating with the Russian army.

A special mobile group recorded 64 cases of sexual violence by the Russian occupiers in the de-occupied part of the Kherson region. This is more than in other liberated regions of Ukraine.

There are known cases when Russian servicemen raped a woman in the Kherson region for four months. Another local resident has been systematically exposed and tortured since March - she was doused with boiling water. Source: https://censor.net/en/n3391523

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 12:40 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ_edDcA7zM

Skybird

01-05-23, 12:44 PM

https://www.welt.de/politik/ausland/video243042133/Frankreich-Ukraine-erhaelt-leichte-Kampfpanzer-vom-Typ-AMX-10-RC.html

Video only in German, sorry. But the general's words make a lot of sense.

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 01:00 PM

This video could not be played. Please try again later.

mapuc

01-05-23, 01:04 PM

Same here couldn't play

The text below said

The french AMX-10 lightweight armoured tank can be useful, it is however no match for the T72 heavy tank.

Markus

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 01:07 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ge2YZ8YSNjU

Jimbuna

01-05-23, 01:11 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7O471HwfsE8

Skybird

01-05-23, 02:42 PM

Its official: Germany delivers "several dozens" of Marders, and one Patriot battery to Ukraine.

The video. The interviewed ex-general says that due to the mild temperatures any polanned spring offensiove probbaly will come earlier, but that the temps, while some frost will come, will allow muddy underground much sooner again, and so the Ukraine being given tracked combat vehicles is a must to allow the Ukraine to push the counter-.attacks in muddy terrain.

He further says that that AMX is a lightly armoured recce tank that despite its 105mm is no real match for a modern T-72.

He elaborate son the over 2000 Leopard-2 tanks in Europe, that they all use different ammo standards and that the firing control systems are individualised for every nation's individual ammos, and that is why the Leo-2 can only be given to Ukriane in an united Europe-wide project. He said the Leopard-2 verisons are pronbbaly th ebest tnaks in the world, best protected and with tremedous firepower and highest level of crew survival, and that their nature of tanks as being "duel-weapons" that take it out in one-on-one situations and eye to eye with the enemy makes them different to delivery of satellite and HIMARS. He indicated he assumes that this is the fear of politicians: that it would make the difference for Putin to see NAOT entering the war formally: when two tanks are staring at each other and then firing at each other. He idnicated that eh does nto agree with this vie,w since in his words it is exclsuioevly Putin'S decison wheer or not to form a narration in such way that NAOT is seen as inside or outside the war, and that NATO decisions have no influence on this his decision making. I fully agree with that view.

Finally he said the Puma were an overdeveloped vehicle that maybe one day will be the best of its kind, but currently is so complicated to operate and maintainand is so complex that crews simpyl are overburdened and need way more training time. That the Puma is this way he said is not the fault of the iondutsry, which is capable to deliver and dveloe whatever is demanded. He compolained about germany never beign satisfied with develping kit according to need, reliably and trustworthy but that they always plan to do it in the absolutely "best" way possible, that it must be the most modenr, most sophisticated, most superior, most new-deining gold-standard design imaginable. The result thus is failures over failures in such projects when the high flying plans collide with profane realities. Several Pumas recently failed due to crew simply not operating them correctly, and not knowing how to replace for exmaple an electric fuse that burnt through.
Plain reason the man speaks, speaking a grounded, simple language.

Skybird

01-05-23, 02:44 PM

What about a little Dollittle raid into Moscow on orthodox christmas, just to celebrate with Putin?

Skybird

01-05-23, 02:51 PM

Also confirmed, it seems: the US will deliver around 50 M-2 Bradleys.

Skybird

01-05-23, 03:57 PM

Germany mulls the delivery of up to 40 Marders. Of around 100 such verhciles that the industry had parked, 40 were given to othe rnatiosn that in their turn delivered Russian tanks to Ukraine. So in totla around 60 Marders are left. Some of the 40 Marders will come foirm the Bundeswehr itself, these will later be replaced with refurbished Marders from the industry pool. I estimate that more than 60 Marders in total cannot be delivered by Germany, even if it wanted to do so. The delivery, including training, should be finished within the first quarter.

Germany also negotiates with two other nations about their Gepards. It has delivered already 30 Gepards, and in Decembre announced to deliver 7 more. If the new dela also comes to life, another 23-30 Gepards could follow, including significant stocks of ammo for it. Details on the negotiations are secret.

All this is ncie and well, but what the A,meicna, frnech and German new donatioosn lack is: deidcated tank killer capacity. Neither the M2 nor the AMX-10 nor the Marder nor the Gepard are meant to duel it out with T-72s who lie in defensive ambush in the woods. TOWs and Milans hate forests and woods. The 105mm armed AMX-10 is fast on roads, but better has no T-72 setting its sights on it. All three can kill the occasional, lonely strolling MBT. But they better do not try to specialise in that role.

Also, Russian artillery mjust be supressed. The war shows that it was true what everybody said about the Russians: they are an artillery army, and once their coordinated artillery is on the loose, they ram the ukrainian advances into the ground. So, anti-tank and supressing artillery are the two homeworks the Ukrainians still need to solve. The Russians can afford high losses. The Ukrainians not so much, especially not in - material.

Rumours stobbornly claim the Ukrainians are developing their own new cruise missiles to strike deeper into Russia. I think this is believable and logical.

Skybird

01-05-23, 04:20 PM

FOCUS explains:
------------------
Those who want to understand the tank decision must look at the timing

So now after all: Germany is supplying Ukraine with Marder tanks and a Patriot air defense system. But Olaf Scholz is once again last with this decision - can't it be better?

Let's start with a corny joke: If you order leadership from Olaf Scholz, you get it - from Emanuel Macron and from Joe Biden. The German chancellor is the last in the allied line of three. How that fits with his claim to Germany as a leading power will remain his secret.

Anyone who wants to understand the decision by France, the United States, and finally Germany to supply Ukraine with the next heavy weapons system, infantry fighting vehicles, must look at the "timing." Why are these light tanks, demanded by Ukraine for many months, only now being delivered?

Americans, French and Germans do not want to give Russia an excuse to escalate the war towards NATO. Now that Russia itself has been escalating the Ukraine war for weeks with its inhumane attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure in violation of international law, there is no longer any reason for the main Western allies to hesitate in taking military aid to the victim to the next level in return.

It is a threefold signal: to the Russians, the Ukrainians and the people in their own countries. To the Russians that the West will not let up with its military aid to Ukraine. That Putin should therefore reconsider launching the next large-scale offensive against Ukraine in the spring. The same signal goes to the Ukrainians: solidarity stands. Without Western help, Ukraine would probably be lost militarily. And it is an indirect appeal to their own populations to stick to their guns.

The fact that Joe Biden and Olaf Scholz are now announcing their decision to supply Bradley and Marder tanks, respectively, just a few hours after Putin announced an Orthodox Christmas ceasefire is no coincidence. This ceasefire called for by Patriarch Kirill, one of Putin's closest allies and Ukraine's greatest enemy, ostensibly to allow people in the Donbass to attend church, is a stratagem of war. Psychological warfare, nothing else. Putin is doing what he has always done - he is trying to unsettle and divide the West through feints, while putting Ukraine in the wrong in front of the whole world. However, as the decisions for the new arms deliveries show, this has not worked for the West. Good thing.

As far as Germany's domestic policy is concerned, it can be noted that this decision by Scholz would probably not have been taken the way it was without the pressure exerted by his two coalition partners - the FDP in particular. Only recently, the Green Party Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock made a course correction.

By declaring in a fundamental foreign policy interview that Ukraine must win this war. Scholz, on the other hand, has still not changed his old formula, according to which Russia must not win and Ukraine must not lose. In doing so, Scholz is exposing himself - even to his partners in Europe - to the suspicion that at some point he will also seek to restore "normal" political and economic relations with Russia. The change-through-trade doctrine is particularly deep and entrenched in the SPD. [marking by Skybird]

As important and correct as the decision by Macron, Scholz and Biden is, it has a biting aftertaste. How many Ukrainian soldiers might still be alive if the Western Allies had made this decision earlier - it could have been made months ago.

Just how important German arms deliveries are in particular is shown by the decision to supply Ukraine with the "Cheetahs." They are taking Iranian drones out of the sky by the dozen. That is why it is also right that Germany is now finally supplying Ukraine with a Patriot defense missile system.

It would be even better if Germany were to start training Ukrainian soldiers on Leopard main battle tanks now. To ensure that valuable time is not lost again, the next step should be to decide to supply Ukraine with this weapon, which is probably the most important one for it - without which it would probably be impossible to recapture the territories occupied by the Russians. This morning, SPD party leader Saskia Esken said in an interview that the delivery of Leopard tanks is already being discussed among the partners. So the current move is unlikely to have been the last.

Conclusion: Germany's, France's and America's decision in favor of the light battle tanks and further air defense systems is the right one. The help comes late, fallen earlier, many lives could have been saved. But it is also not too late; in terms of war tactics, it may even have come at the right time.

But Scholz should do more to finally get "in front of the situation" instead of constantly running anxiously after others. Otherwise, Germany's leadership role will come to nothing.

----------------------------------

https://www.tagesspiegel.de/images/file-photo-a-marder-armoured-infantry-fighting-vehicle-of-the-german-army-bundeswehr-is-pictured-at-rukla-military-base/alternates/BASE_21_9_W1000/file-photo-a-marder-armoured-infantry-fighting-vehicle-of-the-german-army-bundeswehr-is-pictured-at-rukla-military-base.jpeg

Dargo

01-05-23, 06:01 PM

Regarding Putin's "unilateral ceasefire":

Russia has always violated ceasefires, dozens of various ceasefires were agreed upon during the first eight years of war, most meant just less but never zero military activity, and many of them didn't hold even a day. Usually, Russia's "ceasefires" mean that Russia needs to regroup its troops, replenish the losses, and pull in supplies. Some Russian Telegram channels claimed that Putin was going to replace Russia's military leadership and the defense minister - if so, Russia needs a break for the new leadership to rethink their strategy. Chief Wagner clown Prigozhin failed to capture Bakhmut before the new year and whined that his cannon fodder lacks vehicles, etc. - the Bakhmut area is the only sector of the front where Russia continues relatively large-scale offensive operations.

Many Russian Telegram channels complained that there are large-scale artillery ammunition shortages. Ukraine continues its campaign to destroy the Russian rear troop accommodation facilities, often full of freshly mobilized soldiers (it's not only about Makiivka). Looks like Russia not only needs to deliver more ammunition to the front, but also start the second wave of mobilization, and take a break to come up with a new general strategy of what else they may try to do to achieve at least something.

They are desperate. There's the so-called "old New Year's Day" later on after the Orthodox X-mas, and later if they are lucky for some reason to have Ukraine lured into their "ceasefire", they can extend it on and on In previous years, such "holiday ceasefires" were meant to last indefinitely. Of course, the fact that Ukraine doesn't care about Russia's ceasefire ideas will be used for propaganda ("look, you see, we're peaceful, white, and fluffy, and Ukraine is an aggressor!") Even though no one but its regular consumers care about it. https://twitter.com/loogunda/status/1611126263640477700

Reece

01-05-23, 06:35 PM

:agree:

Skybird

01-05-23, 07:14 PM

I think the french offer is half-hearted. The AMX-10RC is a wheeled light tank, and wheels are what in the coming mud of spring is inferior to tracks. It more or less will stick to roads. The French are phasing these tanks out anyway, are in the midst of the process. And the tank once may have been meant, in the early 70s, at the times of T-55 and T-64 and Leopard-1s and M-60s, to be a tank hunter (RC in this case stands not for recce, but for roue, canon: wheels, canon), but today it is not en par with modern MBTs, even T-72, if it meets them: no chance to withstand a shot from a T-72. The vehicles it likely should hunt, are APCs and IFVs. Maybe infantry support via HE rounds.

Mud will be an issue for it. remember how the columns of Russian APCs with wheels in the first days of the war last February - MTLBs, sticking to the road although they turned into turkeys that way? They could not negotiate the terrain off the road with those things.

Skybird

01-05-23, 07:23 PM

Its rumoured since a few days already that Germany silently mulls the delivery of Leopard-2s alreay since mid-Decembre. If true, the decision time will depend on the weather, I think. Which only makes sense if tank crews are being trained since earlier.

These rumours so far are not substantially confirmed, but they dont go away, and refer to "informed sources".

Scholz said he wanted Germany to play a leading role. If that's what he means, he can't always wait for Biden and Macronman to pick him up and carry him to a decision.

Jimbuna

01-06-23, 05:59 AM

Race to overthrow Putin and take crown has begun, says former loyalist

Vladimir Putin may claim to lead an army, but he stands alone as he conducts what he calls a special military operation, but to everyone else is the illegal invasion of Ukraine. He had hoped, when the war began in February, to finish it quickly and force Ukraine to surrender. Instead, 10-months on, his forces are suffering losses and he has resorted to commandeering civilian hospitals to cope with injured coming back from the front. In the face of such failings, questions about his future have already begun to be asked says on former loyalist.
This former loyalist is former Russian defence minister Igor Strelkov, a man who played a key role in Putin's annexation of Ukraine's Crimea in 2014.

In a video statement he said that the fight for the "political olympus" has already begun.

The political olympus Strelkov talks of us Vladimir Putin's job.

Among those fighting for this position, says Strelkov is head of the Wagner private army Yevgeny Prigozhin.

He alleges that Prigozhin is going head to head with allies of current defence minister, Sergein Shoigu.

Other potential candidates include ex-head of the FSB Nikolai Patrushev who currently sits as secretary of the security council, it is these men who Strelkov believes could move to remove Putin.

On Prigozhin, Strelkov said he is aiming to become a political force of his own and has started securing coverage in the state media amid speculation he would like the job of defence minister.

Strelkov also had words to say on the current situation in Ukraine and how Putin could salvage the situation by mobilising an extra half a million men.

However, he added that political infighting rather than the actual fighting may now be taking precedence: "The grouping of Yevgeny Prigozhin stands against groupings which includes Sergei Shoigu. They have already started the fight.

"They are not fighting over the number of shells... Now we are speaking about what comes after Putin. Will it happen in one year or two? We don't know."

Strelkov said of Prigozhin he "stands against the grouping which Shoigu either heads or belongs to".

He said: "They have already started to fight. It was like a 'feudal' battle. The military crisis led to a power crisis.

"In turn the power crisis will deepen the military crisis.

"And it'll keep going down the spiral, unless urgent measures I mentioned earlier are taken."

On future mobilisations he said: "They will be forced to have it - a second and then perhaps a third wave.

"To win in Ukraine we would need about half a million more soldiers."

However, men alone will not win Putin's war. Sending in untrained troops is just more cannon fodder for Ukraine's well trained army and more lost sons, fathers, nephews, uncles, and brother's for Russia's civilian population.

Nevertheless, Putin seeks to mobilise at least two million more men this year either to go to the front or to military linked industries.

First to be called up will be in debt to their ex-wives, a move potentially set to come into action next month.

Whether this has an impact is not yet known, what is certain is that Ukraine's morale and desire to push Russia off every inch of sovereign territory is undimmed.

As the first anniversary of the beginning of the war draws nearer and the mercury continues to remain glued below zero, what is certain is the war continues to remain as hot as ever.
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/world/race-to-overthrow-putin-and-take-crown-has-begun-says-former-loyalist/ar-AA160Kr9?ocid=mailsignout&pc=U591&cvid=66d79f072e1a4faea1a9205b477e1974