Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov highlighted a surprising convergence between US and Russian foreign policies under President Trump, citing coinciding views on global configurations and a joint UN vote against a Ukrainian resolution condemning the invasion. This alignment is underscored by resumed high-level talks between the two nations, including recent diplomatic discussions in Saudi Arabia and Istanbul. However, Russia has simultaneously ruled out negotiations on the status of annexed Ukrainian regions. Trump’s actions, including a public dispute with Zelensky, have raised concerns regarding US support for Ukraine.
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In light of a perceived shift in U.S. foreign policy away from Europe, President Macron has emphasized the urgent need for increased European strategic autonomy. This necessitates substantial investment—hundreds of billions of euros—in a robust, independent European defense industrial base. Several EU nations, echoing this sentiment, are actively pursuing diverse military partnerships and exploring mechanisms to bolster European defense spending and cooperation. Discussions on these critical issues, including new financial tools and incentives, are slated to commence Thursday.
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Haltbakk Bunkers, a Norwegian fuel supplier, has announced a cessation of fuel services to U.S. military forces and vessels in Norway, citing disapproval of recent U.S. policy toward Ukraine and a televised event featuring President Trump and Vice President Vance. The company’s strong statement praised Ukrainian President Zelensky and condemned the U.S. actions. This decision, impacting American naval operations in the region, raises questions about broader European responses to U.S. policy and the evolving role of private companies in geopolitical events. The U.S. has yet to publicly react.
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Dismissing a potential Ukrainian-U.S. rare earth minerals deal as inconsequential, Putin asserted Russia possesses significantly greater reserves, including in newly annexed Ukrainian territories. He proposed alternative cooperation with the U.S., offering access to these resources and suggesting joint aluminum production for mutual economic gain. This offer contrasts with the EU’s recently announced minerals deal with Ukraine, emphasizing mutually beneficial partnerships. Putin’s statements align with the Trump administration’s past pro-Russia stance and its echoing of Kremlin narratives regarding the Ukraine conflict.
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Russia will not return to the G7, a German finance minister has stated, effectively shutting the door on any potential reinstatement. This assertion underscores the deep divisions and lack of trust that currently characterize the international relationship between Russia and the West. The gravity of Russia’s actions in Ukraine, and the resulting geopolitical fallout, have made any reconciliation seem incredibly distant.
The idea of Russia rejoining the G7 hinges on the premise of restored cooperation and a fundamental shift in Russia’s behavior. However, the current global climate suggests that such a scenario remains highly improbable in the foreseeable future. The ongoing conflict, characterized by aggression and disregard for international norms, makes any meaningful cooperation extremely challenging, if not impossible.… Continue reading
The core message, delivered by a Finnish President—presumably to Donald Trump—is stark and direct: a Putin victory in Ukraine translates to an American defeat. This isn’t about abstract geopolitical strategy; it’s about hitting Trump where it hurts. The problem, as many have observed, isn’t the message itself, but the framing. Appealing to Trump’s sense of patriotism or national interest is futile; he’s primarily driven by self-preservation and personal gain.
Therefore, the argument must be reframed to directly impact Trump’s own interests. Suggesting that a Putin win equates to a personal loss for Trump is far more effective than highlighting potential damage to the US.… Continue reading
German election victor Friedrich Merz’s plans to shift Germany’s focus away from the United States as coalition talks commence are generating considerable international discussion. This potential pivot isn’t simply a rejection of American influence; it’s a complex recalibration of Germany’s foreign policy in the face of evolving global dynamics. The question of how Germany will handle the allocation of frozen Russian assets to Ukraine is a critical factor in this shift. The potential use of these funds to continue the conflict raises concerns and might influence Merz’s decisions regarding his foreign policy strategy.
The timing of this potential pivot is particularly noteworthy, occurring amidst a global reassessment of relationships with the US.… Continue reading
Ukraine’s remarkable resilience in the face of Russian aggression has made it a potent force, a fact that renders any notion of “selling out” Ukraine utterly absurd. The sheer scale of Ukraine’s drone production, numbering in the millions annually, is a testament to its burgeoning military-industrial capacity. These drones, largely responsible for a significant percentage of battlefield kills inflicted on Russia, highlight a level of technological prowess and manufacturing capability that shouldn’t be underestimated.
This advanced drone program, coupled with the Ukrainian military’s unparalleled combat experience – arguably the most seasoned fighting force in the world today – makes the idea of abandoning Ukraine strategically disastrous.… Continue reading
Expanding its humanitarian aid to Ukraine, Japan’s Ministry of Defense will add the National Defense Medical College hospital to its program providing medical treatment for wounded Ukrainian service members, starting mid-March 2025. This expansion complements existing treatment at the Self-Defense Forces Central Hospital, initiated in June 2023, marking Japan’s unprecedented medical support for foreign military personnel. This medical assistance coincides with a separate $58 million Japanese grant for Ukrainian reconstruction projects, further demonstrating Japan’s commitment to supporting Ukraine.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood