Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has voiced criticism of the West for its dwindling discussions on providing Ukraine with long-range missiles and its perceived inaction in combating the circumvention of sanctions against Russia. Zelenskyy highlighted that Russia continues to produce missiles due to its ability to acquire necessary components from various countries, including those in Europe and the United States, despite existing sanctions. He questioned the logic of expending resources on repairing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure when the focus should be on cutting off Russia’s access to missile components or destroying the factories producing them. Furthermore, Zelenskyy lamented the fading discussions around long-range weapons for Ukraine and the lack of European action regarding the threat posed by missiles deployed in Belarus.
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Poland to produce 10,000 precision missiles in landmark deal with South Korea is definitely a big deal, and honestly, good for them! Out of all the Eastern European countries, Poland really seems to be stepping up. They’ve been doing a pretty good job so far, and hopefully, they’ll keep it up. This agreement with South Korea looks like a smart move.
This kind of partnership is crucial. Ten thousand precision strike missiles is a serious number and should act as a deterrent, especially with the current geopolitical climate. We’re talking about a significant investment in defense, and it makes perfect sense considering the threats Poland faces, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine.… Continue reading
Following a significant incursion of suspected Russian drones, Poland is set to complete new anti-drone fortifications along its eastern border within two years. The new air defense systems, costing over €2 billion, will integrate with existing defenses, incorporating various protective layers, including machine guns, missiles, and drone-jamming systems. These fortifications are part of a broader effort, including the Eastern Shield, to prevent future Russian aggression, especially considering the rise in suspected sabotage and arson activities linked to Russian intelligence. This strategic investment underscores Poland’s commitment to defense, with increased spending and the implementation of civil preparedness programs, while simultaneously building logistics hubs in all border municipalities.
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President Zelensky announced significant progress in Ukraine’s missile program, particularly with the Long Neptune missiles, which have been used to strike targets inside Russia. He confirmed these strikes were a justified response to ongoing Russian aggression, highlighting the “tangible and precise results” achieved monthly. Furthermore, Zelensky revealed upcoming deliveries of air defense systems and combat aircraft from allies, including a significant agreement with France, while also addressing plans to enhance protection for frontline and border regions against Russian attacks. Finally, Zelensky mentioned the war’s impact on the Russian economy.
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On October 17th, unidentified drones were detected near the Reedo military barracks in South Estonia. One of the drones was brought down by allied forces using an anti-drone rifle. The Defense Forces, in collaboration with the Police and Border Guard Board, searched for the downed drone but were unable to locate it. The Reedo Barracks is a base for the U.S. Army’s 5th Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment.
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The Trump administration has reportedly removed restrictions on Ukraine’s use of Western-supplied long-range missiles, enabling strikes inside Russia using US targeting data. This policy shift allows Ukraine to target Russian sites, with expectations of increased cross-border operations using Storm Shadows. While this move does not dramatically alter the battlefield, it restores flexibility lost by a previous Pentagon review system, enabling attacks on Russian territory with Western-supplied missiles. Despite this change, Ukraine continues to strike deep into Russia with domestically made drones and missiles.
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In response to Ukraine’s drone war, Thales is mass-producing a 70mm rocket equipped with the FZ123 warhead, designed to destroy drones by releasing a cloud of steel pellets. This rocket, which detonates in the air, is cost-effective compared to missiles, and can engage NATO Class II and Class III drones. Production is rapidly increasing with current plans to reach 3,500 rockets by the end of the year and 10,000 by 2026. With increased interest from European countries, and the potential for Ukrainian assembly, Thales is attempting to meet soaring demand in the face of evolving drone threats.
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To bolster security at the upcoming European summits in Copenhagen, France, Germany, and Sweden are deploying military personnel and anti-drone systems. Sweden will send police and radar units, while France will provide a Fennec helicopter and a team specializing in anti-drone operations. Germany will contribute soldiers equipped to detect and neutralize drones. This collaborative effort, prompted by recent drone incursions, will run until October 7, aiming to safeguard the summits and counter aerial threats.
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Ukraine has gained the ability to independently launch deep strikes into Russia, as stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This shift moves away from the prior reliance on US-provided weapons like the ATACMS, which required Washington’s approval. Ukraine’s development of domestically produced long-range missiles, such as the Neptune and the Flamingo, has contributed to this new capability. The Flamingo, with a range of 1,800 miles, could potentially threaten key Russian military facilities.
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Russia launches 6,400 drones, missiles into Ukraine in record-breaking month, and it’s hard not to be overwhelmed by the sheer scale of it. The number is staggering, and the implications are devastating. We’re talking about a relentless bombardment, a constant threat hanging over the heads of Ukrainian civilians. It’s a horrifying reality, especially when you think about the human cost – the lives lost, the families shattered, the constant fear. It’s impossible not to feel a surge of anger and frustration at the sheer brutality of it all. The targeting of civilians, the deliberate infliction of pain and suffering – it’s a war crime, plain and simple.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood