Reuters reported that the U.S. threatened to cut off Starlink service to Ukraine unless a minerals deal was reached, a claim Elon Musk vehemently denied on X, calling it a falsehood and accusing Reuters of lying. This followed reports that negotiations were ongoing after Ukrainian President Zelensky initially rejected a U.S. proposal. Musk’s denial lacks supporting evidence and contrasts with his past criticisms of Ukraine and support for Russian narratives. The potential Starlink interruption is significant given its crucial role in Ukraine’s war effort.
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On February 20, 2025, Ukrainian Security Service units, in coordination with other defense forces, successfully struck the Novovelichkovskaya oil pumping station in Russia’s Krasnodar territory, a key facility supporting the Russian occupation forces. The station services the Tikhoretsk – Novorossiysk-2 pipeline. Russian forces responded with ground-based air defenses and helicopters. Further assessment of the strike’s effectiveness is underway, but future operations targeting similar strategic facilities are planned.
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Ukraine’s firm rejection of a US demand for a staggering $500 billion fund tied to a minerals deal underscores a deep chasm in trust and understanding between the two nations. This isn’t just about money; it’s about sovereignty and the very nature of international relations. The proposed deal, framed by some as a lucrative opportunity, is viewed by Ukraine as a blatant attempt at economic coercion, a direct violation of the spirit – and perhaps the letter – of the Budapest Memorandum on Security Assurances. This agreement, signed in 1994, specifically pledged that the US, UK and Russia would refrain from using economic pressure to influence Ukraine’s sovereign decisions.… Continue reading
Following initial comments downplaying Russia’s role in the conflict, President Trump acknowledged Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, attributing blame to both Russian President Putin and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy for the situation. He subsequently predicted an imminent minerals agreement between the U.S. and Ukraine, despite Zelenskyy’s earlier rejection of a proposed deal. This shift in tone, coupled with Trump’s continued criticism of Zelenskyy, has caused concern among European officials regarding potential concessions to Russia. International leaders, including Poland’s President Duda, are urging continued cooperation between Ukraine and the United States.
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Zelensky’s reported reluctance to sign a minerals deal with the US highlights a complex situation fraught with distrust and underlying power dynamics. The proposed deal itself feels less like a mutually beneficial agreement and more like a desperate attempt by the US to secure resources, possibly stemming from a need to fund tax cuts without causing significant economic damage. This perception of desperation, fueled by past actions, significantly undermines any potential for a fair and trustworthy negotiation.
The proposed agreement carries the scent of past questionable dealings, bringing to mind previous accusations of leveraging aid for political gain. Concerns exist that this deal could mirror those past situations, potentially involving coercion or undue pressure.… Continue reading
Poland’s continued financial support for Ukraine’s Starlink satellite internet access is a testament to the unwavering solidarity between the two nations. This commitment speaks volumes about Poland’s commitment to supporting Ukraine during this challenging time. It underscores the crucial role reliable communication plays in a nation’s ability to defend itself and coordinate its efforts effectively, especially in the context of ongoing conflict.
The decision by Poland to shoulder this responsibility also highlights the complexities of international relations and the shifting dynamics of geopolitical alliances. The situation exposes the potential vulnerabilities inherent in relying on a single provider of essential technology, particularly when political motivations might outweigh purely commercial considerations.… Continue reading
Negotiations between the U.S. and Ukraine over a revised minerals deal are ongoing, following President Zelensky’s rejection of an initial proposal demanding a 50% stake in Ukrainian resources. The U.S. has threatened to cut off Ukraine’s access to crucial Starlink internet service if a deal isn’t reached, a move described as devastating to Ukraine’s war effort. This threat, delivered through various U.S. officials, including Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, followed President Trump’s public criticism of Zelensky and assertions of a near-complete agreement on a resource deal. The specific terms of the revised agreement remain undisclosed, but Trump claims it benefits both nations.
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Trump’s recent pronouncements regarding his communications with Vladimir Putin and his escalating criticism of Volodymyr Zelenskyy paint a disturbing picture. He boasts of “good talks” with Putin, while simultaneously ignoring Ukraine’s pleas for support and launching personal attacks against its democratically elected leader. This stark contrast highlights a troubling prioritization of personal gain over national interests and international stability.
This situation evokes chilling parallels to historical moments where appeasement of dictators led to catastrophic consequences. The image conjured is one of a leader seemingly more concerned with personal accolades and potential benefits from a hostile power than with upholding democratic values and protecting an ally under siege.… Continue reading
Despite claims by Donald Trump and Mike Waltz of an imminent deal, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy refuses to sign a US-proposed minerals agreement. The draft agreement, which would grant the US access to Ukraine’s natural resources in exchange for weapons, is viewed by Ukraine as problematic due to its perceived unilateral nature and lack of true partnership. Concerns exist that the US may leverage Ukraine’s reliance on Starlink internet access to pressure a deal. Zelenskyy maintains his commitment to only accepting agreements that fully involve Ukraine.
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In a recent Fox News Radio interview, Donald Trump acknowledged Russia’s initiation of the full-scale war in Ukraine, contradicting his earlier statements blaming Ukraine. While admitting Russia’s aggression, he criticized both President Zelensky and President Biden for failing to prevent the invasion, further asserting Zelensky’s unimportance to future peace negotiations. This statement follows Trump’s recent escalation of hostile rhetoric towards Zelensky, including accusations of dictatorial behavior and shared responsibility for the conflict. The omission of Ukrainian representatives from recent US-Russia talks further underscores this critical stance.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood