THREAD: putin russia

ASSAD’S Fall Rocks Syria: Russia’s Strategic Nightmare

09 December 2024 — The fall of Bashar al-Assad’s regime in Syria marks a major shift after 14 years of civil war. Assad, backed by Russia and Iran, has been ousted, leaving these powers to handle the fallout. This change challenges Russia’s strategic interests in the Middle East.

Russia aimed to maintain its influence in the region through military bases like Khmeimim and Tartus. With Assad out, these assets are now at risk. Rebekah Koffler calls this a strategic defeat for Russia amid its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Ksenia Svetlova from the Atlantic Council criticized Russia’s failure to keep its promises in Syria. She noted that Moscow’s abandonment of Assad makes it look like an unreliable ally, unlike U.S. support for Israel during crises. This perception weakens Russia’s position among Middle Eastern allies.

Former President Trump commented on the situation saying, “Assad is gone,” highlighting the rebels’ success against the longtime dictator. The event underscores shifting power dynamics and raises questions about future regional stability and alliances.

RUSSIA’S Military Drills in Syria: A Powerful Warning to Ukraine

04 December 2024 — Russia recently held major military drills around Syria, showing off its naval and air strength. The exercises involved 1,000 personnel, ten ships, and 24 aircraft. This display is seen as support for Syria and a warning to Ukraine.

The Kremlin called the drills “joint” operations that follow international law. Footage showed modern frigates like Admiral Gorshkov with older Syrian missile boats. Russia also tested its Oniks anti-ship cruise missile during these exercises.

A key moment was the launch of a Zircon hypersonic cruise missile from a frigate, praised by President Putin as a “superweapon.” The Zircon can target ships and land installations. Moscow said another launch from the submarine Novorossiysk involved a Kalibir missile, used often against Ukraine.

These missiles worry Kyiv due to their nuclear capabilities and effectiveness in warfare. Ukraine keeps a close watch on Russian Kalibir-capable ships in the Black Sea as part of its defense strategy against Russian aggression.

EUROPEAN Allies RALLY to Defend Ukraine as Trump Era Looms

12 November 2024 — London, Paris, and Warsaw are forming a core group to support Ukraine against Russia, anticipating changes in U.S. policy under a possible Trump presidency. Donald Trump hasn’t detailed his plans for ending the conflict but has mentioned options like land swaps or demilitarized zones. These strategies clash with Ukraine’s goal of total victory over Russia.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss defense matters and support for Ukraine. They want outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles against Russia before any Trump policy shift. The U.S., however, worries this could escalate tensions with Moscow significantly.

A UK government source stressed the urgency of maximizing efforts before Trump’s potential presidency begins on January 20th. Starmer and Macron aim to strengthen Ukraine’s position as winter nears and after Trump’s re-election announcement days ago, despite financial challenges faced by both the UK and France amid budgetary issues.

Poland, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusks, is also increasing its role in this emerging anti-Trump alliance within Europe. Meetings between Polish leaders and European counterparts are planned to involve NATO members from Scandinavia as well.

UKRAINE FACES NEW Threat: North Korean Troops Join Russia

06 November 2024 — Ukraine is now facing North Korean troops supporting Russia, marking a new phase in the ongoing conflict. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced this during his nightly address, warning of Russia’s plan to escalate the war. Ukrainian forces reportedly fired artillery at North Korean soldiers near Russia’s Kursk border region.

Zelenskyy stressed the global impact of this alliance between Russia and North Korea, noting that unchecked terror can spread like a virus. He called for strong action to prevent further instability and thanked Ukraine’s allies for their support. “Together with the world, we must do everything so that this Russian step to expand the war with real escalation fails,” he stated.

South Korea’s Defense Ministry confirmed over 10,000 North Korean troops have arrived in Russia, many positioned in frontline areas like Kursk. This movement raises concerns about increased military collaboration between Moscow and Pyongyang, potentially destabilizing regional security further. Zelenskyy’s remarks highlight the urgent need for international vigilance against this growing threat.

TRUMP’S Triumph: World Leaders Cheer His Return

06 November 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu quickly congratulated Donald Trump on his HISTORIC return to the White House. Netanyahu, facing challenges with Iran, shared his excitement on X. He stressed the renewed alliance between Israel and America under Trump’s leadership.

Fox News announced Trump’s victory early Wednesday morning, marking a significant political comeback. World leaders swiftly offered their congratulations on X, showing international readiness for collaboration. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed eagerness to work with Trump again for global peace and prosperity.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban celebrated Trump’s win as a monumental comeback in U.S. political history. Orban highlighted the importance of this victory for global politics, aligning with his own border control policies. Fox News reported Trump’s victory over Harris in Wisconsin, flipping a key state back to Republican control.

RUSSIA’S Dangerous Plot: Planes to US and Canada at Risk

06 November 2024 — Western security officials suspect Russia is plotting to plant EXPLOSIVES on planes bound for the United States and Canada. Two incendiary devices ignited at DHL logistics hubs in Germany and England, triggering a multinational investigation. Intelligence agencies found electric massagers with flammable substances were used as a “test run” for Russian sabotage efforts.

Poland’s National Prosecutor’s Office arrested four suspects linked to the DHL hub fires, charging them with “sabotage or terrorist operations.” The suspects allegedly tested parcel transfer channels intended for North America. Authorities have not disclosed their identities or nationalities.

Pawel Szota, head of Poland’s foreign-intelligence agency, attributed the plot to Russian spies. He warned that any attack would mark a “major escalation” of Russia’s sabotage against Western nations. This revelation underscores rising tensions between Russia and Western powers amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.

NORTH KOREAN Troops Join Russia: A Shocking Turn in Ukraine WAR

01 November 2024 — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has confirmed that 8,000 North Korean soldiers in Russia are preparing to fight against Ukrainian forces in Kursk. This deployment comes after Russia trained 10,000 North Korean troops, with most now stationed in the Kursk region. Ukraine’s recent advances have pushed Russia to defend its territory, raising tensions further.

In a joint press conference with South Korean officials, Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized that these North Korean troops were trained in artillery and UAV operations. Austin pointed out that Russia providing uniforms and equipment shows their plan to use these forces on the front lines against Ukraine. This highlights Moscow’s determination to strengthen its military efforts amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine.

The Pentagon has cautioned that if North Korea supports Russia’s war efforts, there will be no restrictions on weapons support for Ukraine. The situation remains tense as both sides gear up for possible escalations in the conflict zone. The international community is watching closely as developments unfold in this volatile region.

RUSSIA’S Military Losses Soar Amid Ukraine Conflict

10 October 2024 — Britain’s Ministry of Defence reports a sharp rise in Russian military casualties, averaging 1,271 per day in September. This marks the highest daily losses since the conflict began. The increase is linked to Ukraine’s counter-invasion efforts and Russia’s aggressive tactics.

The analysis shows Russia’s casualty rate has more than doubled compared to last year’s peaks. Despite harsh winter conditions, there’s no sign of reduced conflict intensity. Over 648,000 Russian casualties are estimated since the war started, based on Ukrainian figures.

Ukraine claims it inflicted over 38,000 casualties on Russian forces in September alone and destroyed thousands of vehicles like tanks and armored units. However, Western sources often highlight Russian losses without comprehensive data on Ukrainian casualties due to limited transparency from Kyiv.

While Ukraine’s reported figures for Russian losses exceed those from Britain’s Ministry of Defence, accurate assessments are tough due to wartime secrecy. President Zelensky dismissed Kremlin claims about Ukrainian casualties as exaggerated lies earlier this year but didn’t disclose specific numbers for his own forces’ losses.

UKRAINE BEGS for Long-Range Missiles Amid Russian Threat

11 September 2024 — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and British Foreign Secretary David Lammy arrived in Kyiv on Wednesday. Ukraine is urging the West to allow it to use long-range missiles against Russia. The diplomats traveled by train from Poland following a U.S. presidential debate where Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Trump discussed the war in Ukraine.

Blinken accused Iran of providing Russia with Fath-360 short-range ballistic missiles, calling it a “dramatic escalation” of the conflict. For months, Ukraine has been requesting approval to use long-range weapons from the United States and Western allies to strike targets in Russia. Given Russia’s latest reported weapons acquisition, Ukraine is expected to press harder for these capabilities.

“We hope that long-range equipment for strikes on the territory of our enemy will be reached and we will have it,” Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal told Lammy during their meeting in Kyiv. Shmyhal described the meeting as “intense” but provided no further details on his Telegram channel.

At a news conference, he emphasized that destroying military targets or weapons prepared by Russia would enhance safety for Ukrainian civilians and children.

CIA and MI6 Chiefs WARN: Global Threats Looming

08 September 2024 — The heads of the CIA and MI6 have issued a stark warning about global threats. They highlighted the war in Ukraine, sabotage in Europe, and rising tensions with China. “We saw the war in Ukraine coming,” they stated, emphasizing their role in alerting the international community.

They are actively working to disrupt Russia’s sabotage campaigns across Europe and address escalating conflicts like the Israel-Gaza situation. Counterterrorism efforts against ISIS are also a priority. The intelligence chiefs stressed that global stability is under threat like never before since the Cold War.

China’s rise is identified as the main geopolitical challenge of this century, prompting both agencies to reorganize their priorities accordingly. Russian intelligence activities were described as reckless, with recent incidents of sabotage and arson attacks on infrastructure in Europe being attributed to Moscow’s covert operations.;

BRITISH PM Storms NATO Summit With Bold Ukraine Support

10 July 2024 — Newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer made a strong debut at the NATO summit in Washington. He met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, reaffirming Britain’s unwavering support for Ukraine against Russia’s invasion. Starmer emphasized that his Labour government would ensure NATO’s unified backing for Kyiv.

Starmer aimed to send a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin about NATO’s strength and unity. He stated that NATO is now bigger and more united than ever, fully aware of the threat posed by Russian aggression.

In addition to meeting Zelenskyy, Starmer will have a one-on-one discussion with President Joe Biden to reaffirm the “special relationship” between the U.S. and Britain. Their extended handshake at the summit arrival ceremony highlighted this enduring partnership.

Starmer’s visit follows his landslide victory on July 4, signaling a new chapter for Britain after years of political turmoil over Brexit. His message to the world is clear: “We’re back.”

NATO SUMMIT In DC: Biden’s RE-Election Doubts Shake Ukraine Support

09 July 2024 — World leaders are heading to Washington, D.C., this week for a historic NATO summit as uncertainty rises over continued U.S. support for Ukraine. The summit marks the 75th anniversary of the alliance’s founding and comes amid skepticism about President Biden’s re-election chances and their impact on Ukraine’s war with Russia.

Key issues on the agenda include Ukraine’s success in its war with Russia, its future within NATO, and how the alliance plans to bolster collective defense. The U.S. has been a major supporter of Ukraine, providing significant aid, sparking debate over whether this level of support can continue under a different presidency.

Former President Donald Trump has not clarified what U.S. involvement with NATO would look like if he wins a second term, leaving questions about future American support for the alliance and Ukraine unanswered. Experts believe Trump is unlikely to pull out of NATO altogether but note that the alliance is taking steps to safeguard its support for Ukraine should Washington reduce its involvement.

RUSSIA’S Nuclear Warning: UK Military Sites in Crosshairs Amid Escalating Tensions

07 May 2024 — Russia has heightened tensions by threatening to target UK military bases. This aggressive stance follows Britain’s decision to supply weapons to Ukraine, which Russia alleges have been used against its territory. This threat emerges as Russia prepares for President Vladimir Putin’s fifth term inauguration and the national Victory Day celebrations.

In a bold response to what it describes as Western provocations, Russia is set to conduct military drills that simulate the use of tactical nuclear weapons. These exercises are unique because they focus on battlefield nuclear capabilities, unlike typical maneuvers involving strategic nuclear forces. Tactical nuclear weapons are intended for localized impact, minimizing broader destruction.

The global community has expressed deep concern over these developments. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric voiced worries about the increasing talk of nuclear arms usage, describing the current risks as “alarmingly high.” He emphasized the need for nations to refrain from actions that might lead to misjudgments or catastrophic consequences.

These events underscore a critical moment in international relations, highlighting the delicate balance between national defense and global security threats. The situation calls for careful diplomatic engagement and a reassessment of military strategies by all involved nations to prevent further escalation of tensions.

RUSSIA’S Unprecedented Attack: Ukraine’s Energy Sector Devastated, Widespread Outages Ensue

22 March 2024 — In a shocking move, Russia launched a colossal strike on Ukraine’s electrical power infrastructure, targeting the country’s most significant hydroelectric plant among others. This assault led to sweeping power outages and claimed at least three lives, as confirmed by officials this Friday.

The Dnipro Hydroelectric Station was among those hit during the attacks. This station supplies electricity to Europe’s largest nuclear power plant — the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The main 750-kilovolt line connecting these two vital installations was cut off during the assault, according to International Atomic Energy Agency head Rafael Grossi. However, a lower-power backup line is currently functioning.

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is under Russian control and has been an ongoing concern due to potential nuclear accidents amid continuous conflict. Despite this alarming situation, Ukraine’s hydroelectric authority assures that there is no immediate threat of dam breach at the Dnipro Hydroelectric Station.

A breach could not only disrupt supplies to the nuclear plant but also potentially trigger severe flooding similar to last year’s incident when a major dam at Kakhovka collapsed. Ivan Fedorov, Zaporizhzhia regional governor reported one death and at least eight injuries resulting from Russia’s aggressive actions.

PUTIN’S NUCLEAR Warning: Russia Ready to Defend Sovereignty at ANY Cost

13 March 2024 — In a stark warning, President Vladimir Putin has declared that Russia stands ready to employ nuclear weapons if its statehood, sovereignty or independence comes under threat. This alarming statement comes on the eve of a presidential election this week where Putin is anticipated to secure another six-year term.

During an interview with Russian state television, Putin underscored the full readiness of Russia’s nuclear forces. He confirmed that the nation is militarily and technically prepared and would resort to nuclear action if its existence or independence was threatened.

Despite his continuous threats since launching the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Putin refuted any plans of using battlefield nuclear weapons in Ukraine as there hasn’t been any necessity for such drastic measures so far.

U.S President Joe Biden was characterized by Putin as an experienced politician who comprehends the potential dangers of escalation. He voiced optimism that the U.S would avoid actions that could potentially ignite a nuclear conflict.

PUTIN’S Dark Turn: From Authoritarian to Totalitarian — The Shocking Evolution of Russia

06 March 2024 — In the wake of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov’s assassination in February 2015, shock and anger rippled through over 50,000 Muscovites. Yet, when well-known opposition figure Alexei Navalny died behind bars in February 2024, those mourning his loss faced riot police and arrests. This change signals a chilling transformation in Vladimir Putin’s Russia — from merely tolerating dissent to brutally crushing it.

Since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, arrests, trials and long prison sentences have become the norm. The Kremlin now targets not just political rivals but also human rights organizations, independent media outlets, civil society groups and LGBTQ+ activists. Oleg Orlov, co-chair of Memorial — a Russian human rights organization — has branded Russia as a “totalitarian state”.

Orlov himself was arrested and sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for criticizing the military’s actions in Ukraine just one month after his damning statement. According to Memorial’s estimates, there are nearly 680 political prisoners currently held captive in Russia.

Another organization called OVD-Info reported that as of November there were over a thousand

TIME to STOP Iran’s Terror Funding: The Unholy Alliance Exposed

31 January 2024 — The current geopolitical landscape has raised serious concerns, according to a recent statement by Lawler. He drew attention to an emerging alliance between China, Russia, and Iran that is becoming increasingly visible. Notably, he identified China as the largest consumer of Iranian petroleum. These sales are providing financial support for dangerous terrorist groups.

Lawler stressed the need for immediate action against Iran in response to over 150 attacks on U.S. military bases and personnel since October 7. Tragically, these assaults have resulted in three servicemembers losing their lives. He called on the administration for a decisive response against Iran.

A bipartisan bill designed to curb illegal funds supporting terrorism was approved in the House after October 7 but has hit a roadblock in the Senate. Lawler urged both Senate and administration officials to advance this bill as part of a comprehensive strategy against these threats.

Lawler believes that an effective response should not only be military or diplomatic but also economic: cutting off funding at its roots. This multi-pronged approach is essential for effectively fighting terrorism.

UKRAINIAN Drone Attacks SPARK Terror in Russia Ahead of Presidential Election

19 January 2024 — The city of Klintsy, located near the Ukrainian border, became the latest victim of Ukraine’s escalated drone strikes. Four oil reservoirs were set ablaze following an attack by a Ukrainian drone. This incident marks an intensification in Ukraine’s efforts to disrupt Russian normalcy ahead of its March 17 presidential election.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has vowed to increase strikes on Russian targets this year. With Russia’s air defenses primarily focused on occupied regions within Ukraine, remote Russian locations are becoming more susceptible to long-range Ukrainian drones.

The fear induced by these drone attacks forced the Russian city of Belgorod to call off its Orthodox Epiphany celebrations — marking a first for major public events in Russia. Concurrently, there are reports that a gunpowder mill in Tambov was targeted by Ukrainian drones. However, local officials refute any claims of operational disruptions.

In another development aligning with this trend, the Russian Defense Ministry reported intercepting a Ukrainian drone near St. Petersburg Oil Terminal last Thursday. These escalating attacks underline the mounting tension between Ukraine and Russia.

PUTIN’S POWER Play: Announces Candidacy Amidst Turmoil, Aiming to Cement His Iron Grip on Russia

08 December 2023 — Vladimir Putin has announced his intention to run in the upcoming presidential election in March. This move is seen as an attempt to prolong his authoritarian rule over Russia. Despite instigating a costly war in Ukraine and enduring internal conflicts, including an attack on the Kremlin itself, Putin’s support remains unshaken after nearly 24 years at the helm.

In June, a rebellion led by mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin stirred up rumors of Putin’s control waning. However, Prigozhin’s death in a suspicious plane crash two months later only served to reinforce the image of Putin’s absolute authority.

Putin made his decision public following a Kremlin award ceremony where war veterans and others encouraged him to seek reelection. Tatiana Stanovaya from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center pointed out that this understated announcement is likely part of the Kremlin’s strategy to emphasize Putin’s humility and commitment rather than making loud campaign declarations.

UK’S Cameron STANDS FIRM for Ukraine, Dismantles Doubts Over War Effort

07 December 2023 — Former U.K. Prime Minister David Cameron has robustly defended Ukraine’s stance against Russia. During a conversation with Jennifer Griffin of Fox News at the Aspen Security Forum, he underscored that not only is Ukraine’s war effort holding strong, but it also positively impacts the U.S. economy.

Cameron countered Republican skepticism about backing Ukraine. He argued that financial aid sent to the country is being utilized efficiently and effectively. As proof, he highlighted Ukraine’s success in neutralizing a significant portion of Russia’s helicopter fleet and sinking its Black Sea naval vessels.

He emphasized the necessity of backing a sovereign nation in its self-defense without overstepping into direct conflict with Russian forces – what he referred to as the “red line” involving NATO soldiers. Furthermore, Cameron refuted allegations that Ukraine’s counteroffensive has been unsuccessful in thwarting Russia’s invasion.

His comments emerge amidst escalating debates over U.S support for Ukraine and doubts raised by some Republicans concerning the effectiveness of aid given to this Eastern European nation.