Norway has removed KNDS Deutschland’s EuroPULS from its rocket artillery competition, leaving U.S. and South Korean systems as the remaining options. This decision occurs amid deepening defense partnerships between Berlin and Oslo, making the exclusion a notable point of contention within the partnership. The U.S. offers HIMARS and GMARS systems, while South Korea’s K239 Chunmoo presents an alternative with local production capabilities. Ultimately, Norway’s choice will influence NATO’s deep-fires architecture, impacting the balance between U.S. influence, Asian suppliers, and Europe’s drive for strategic autonomy.
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Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro was arrested and claimed he damaged his electronic ankle monitor “out of curiosity,” after being suspected of planning to abscond. A video released by the Supreme Court showed the device badly damaged and burned, with Bolsonaro admitting to using a soldering iron on it. The arrest, ordered by Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes, came amidst fears Bolsonaro would seek refuge in a foreign embassy, possibly the U.S. embassy, to avoid punishment for his role in a failed coup and his 27-year prison sentence. Supporters and detractors reacted strongly, with his allies condemning the arrest as political persecution, while opponents celebrated his detainment.
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Amidst global uncertainties and escalating tensions, French President Emmanuel Macron is reportedly preparing to announce the establishment of a voluntary military service in the coming days. This initiative, under consideration for several months, aims to bolster France’s capacity for collective reaction, especially in light of the enduring threat posed by Russia to Europe. Macron had previously alluded to this idea in July, emphasizing the need for a nation capable of resisting and mobilizing its resources, with decisions expected in the autumn. The Ministry of Defence has remained tight-lipped regarding specific details such as the duration and cost of the service.
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On November 23rd, Ukrainian forces reported ongoing efforts to clear central Pokrovsk of Russian soldiers, with firefights continuing but the enemy failing to establish a foothold. The Airborne Assault Forces stated they are containing Russian forces and conducting search and destroy operations, while also claiming to have killed 388 Russian soldiers and wounded 87 since the beginning of November. Recent clearing operations by the Skala Separate Assault Battalion have targeted areas like the railway station and Pokrovsk Pedagogical College. The city of Pokrovsk, a critical logistical hub in Donetsk Oblast, has seen intense fighting, and its potential loss could offer Russia logistical advantages.
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In ongoing discussions regarding a proposed peace plan for Ukraine, questions have arisen about its origins. The plan, which reportedly originated from Moscow and was presented by the US, involves significant concessions from Ukraine, including territorial transfers and limitations on its military. European leaders have expressed reservations, primarily due to concerns that it undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty by precluding NATO membership and setting conditions for EU accession. Despite these issues and contradictions in statements by US officials, negotiations continue in Geneva, with Ukraine seeking a deal to stop the bloodshed and the US attempting to “iron out the final details.”
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According to the 7th Corps of Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, Ukrainian forces have cleared the center of Pokrovsk in Donetsk Oblast of Russian troops, including areas near the railway station, Pokrovsk Pedagogical College, and Sobornyi Square. This action has effectively blocked Russia’s attempts to consolidate forces within the city. Fierce firefights continue, with Ukrainian forces preventing the enemy from gaining a foothold and executing search-and-strike missions. Since early November, Ukrainian forces have reportedly eliminated 388 Russian soldiers in the Pokrovsk area.
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In Halifax, Nova Scotia, several lawmakers expressed concerns about a Trump-backed peace plan for the Russia-Ukraine war, claiming Secretary of State Marco Rubio told them the plan was essentially a Russian “wish list.” The State Department refuted this account as false, while Rubio himself disputed the senators’ version of events. The controversial 28-point proposal, which reportedly concedes to numerous Russian demands, was considered a starting point for further negotiations by the Trump administration. The senators believe the plan rewards aggression and have concerns over its implementation.
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During an Oval Office meeting, Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani accused Israel of genocide in Gaza. The statement was made during a discussion with US President Donald Trump. Trump avoided directly addressing a question about potential intervention if Mamdani attempted to arrest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in New York.
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The US has asserted its authorship of a 28-point plan for ending the Ukraine war, despite accusations that the proposal favors Russia. Senator Marco Rubio confirmed that the plan originated in the US, but with input from both Russia and Ukraine, after some lawmakers said they were told it didn’t represent the US position. Details of the plan, which have been leaked, include Ukraine withdrawing troops and limiting its armed forces, drawing criticism from some of Ukraine’s European allies. Former President Trump has also weighed in, stating that this plan doesn’t reflect a final offer.
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In a recent Daily Mail column, former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson condemned a new U.S. peace plan for Ukraine, portraying it as a betrayal. Johnson argued the plan, purportedly a 28-point proposal, would effectively “castrate” Ukraine by allowing Russia control over its military and territory, including relinquishing Crimea and Donbas. He warned that accepting such terms would render Ukraine a puppet state vulnerable to further aggression, comparing it to the appeasement of Munich. Johnson’s remarks, echoing sentiments from figures like Hillary Clinton, highlight the deep divisions within the West regarding the war and its potential resolution.
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John Q. Hosedrinker