Over 300 drones and seven missiles, including North Korean KN23 short-range ballistic missiles, were used in a recent large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine, resulting in three deaths. Ukrainian officials reported that these North Korean missiles, initially inaccurate, have demonstrated increased precision in recent attacks. This improvement in accuracy is cause for concern and underscores the need for international pressure on Pyongyang to cease military cooperation with Moscow. The Ukrainian foreign ministry urged the international community to act.
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In the past day, Russia suffered an additional 1,120 military personnel killed or wounded, bringing the total losses since February 24, 2022, to over 999,200. These staggering figures also include significant losses of heavy weaponry, such as tanks, armored vehicles, and artillery systems. The reported losses encompass various military equipment categories, totaling tens of thousands of units. While the provided data is subject to confirmation, it paints a grim picture of the war’s impact on Russian forces.
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Contrary to Western perceptions, Germany’s BND president, Bruno Kahl, asserts that the Russian populace largely supports Putin and the war in Ukraine, fueled by the Kremlin’s complete control over the propaganda machine. This pervasive propaganda frames NATO as the aggressor and the war as a righteous cause for Russia. While internal dissent may exist within the Russian power structure regarding strategic decisions, no significant opposition to Putin himself is currently evident. Kahl further suggests Russia aims to test NATO’s resolve and potentially escalate the conflict beyond Ukraine’s borders.
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The European Union announced its 18th sanctions package against Russia, targeting its oil and gas revenue streams to further cripple its war effort in Ukraine. This package lowers the price cap on Russian oil exports to $45 per barrel and bans transactions with sanctioned Russian banks and financial institutions in third countries aiding sanctions evasion. The EU also proposes a ban on utilizing Russian energy infrastructure, specifically the Nord Stream pipelines. Despite potential opposition from member states, the sanctions aim to pressure Russia into peace negotiations, as its continued aggression demonstrates a lack of interest in diplomatic resolutions.
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The EU announced a new, robust sanctions package against Russia, further impacting its already strained economy. This action, deemed necessary due to Russia’s continued aggression in Ukraine, aims to increase pressure for an end to the war. The sanctions, including a reduced oil price cap, were coordinated with the US and will be finalized before the end of the month. The package is expected to be swiftly adopted by EU member states ahead of a G7 summit, where the oil price cap will be further discussed.
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The upcoming U.S. defense budget will feature reduced funding for military assistance to Ukraine, a decision reflecting the administration’s prioritization of a negotiated peace settlement. While the exact amount of the reduction remains undisclosed, this shift comes amidst intensified Russian attacks on Ukraine and despite previous substantial U.S. aid totaling over $66 billion. This change in policy contrasts sharply with prior levels of support and follows recent controversies including the diversion of anti-drone missiles and a temporary halt to aid. The budget, however, prioritizes funding for U.S. military readiness.
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A leaked FSB document exposes a clandestine intelligence war between Russia and China, revealing deep distrust and accusations of Chinese espionage targeting Russian military operations in Ukraine and the Arctic. The document details Chinese efforts to recruit Russian scientists and intelligence officers, particularly those with access to sensitive information, and highlights concerns over potential Chinese territorial ambitions. In response, the FSB launched “Entente-4,” a counterintelligence program aimed at mitigating the threat, including increased surveillance of Russian-Chinese collaborations. This hidden conflict stands in stark contrast to the publicly proclaimed “no limits” partnership between the two nations.
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According to Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence, Russia and North Korea have agreed to begin establishing a production line for Shahed-type drones within North Korea. This collaboration will involve the manufacture of both Garpiya and Geran drones, Russian designations for Iranian Shahed-136 models. The agreement is expected to significantly shift the military balance in the Korean Peninsula. While production has yet to commence, the deal marks a notable escalation in regional military capabilities.
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In a recent interview, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban dismissed Russia’s capacity to attack NATO, citing its struggles in the ongoing war in Ukraine. He argued against Ukraine’s NATO membership, emphasizing the need for a strategic agreement with Russia and claiming that sanctions are harming Europe. Orban’s stance, aligning with his government’s pro-Russian policies, includes obstructing Ukraine’s EU accession and promoting a national poll designed to discourage Ukrainian membership. This position contrasts sharply with the broader EU approach to the conflict and Russia’s actions.
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Failure to meet the 5% defense spending target, including the crucial 3.5% core defense, jeopardizes societal safety and national security. This shortfall would impact essential services like healthcare and pensions. Consequently, prioritizing adequate defense spending is paramount to maintaining national sovereignty and security. Without sufficient defense investment, nations risk severe consequences, highlighting the critical need for increased military preparedness.
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John Q. Hosedrinker