In summary, Ukrainian strikes on Russian ammunition production facilities and other military targets have significantly reduced Russia’s daily artillery shell expenditure, nearly halving it from approximately 40,000 rounds to a much lower number. Simultaneously, Ukraine is bolstering its own arms production, currently manufacturing roughly one-third of its annual weapons needs, with the remainder supplied by Western allies. This increased domestic production is coupled with efforts to develop indigenous air defense systems, including those capable of countering advanced Russian missiles. Ukraine plans to invest a record $35 billion in weapons production in 2025.
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Germany’s latest military aid shipment to Ukraine includes thousands of artillery shells (155mm and 122mm), hundreds of combat and reconnaissance drones (HF-1, VECTOR, HEIDRUN, SONGBIRD), and various other supplies such as mortar shells and medical equipment. Further deliveries of armored fighting vehicles (Marder, Boxer, and MRAPs), self-propelled artillery (RCH 155), and the first of 54 ordered howitzers are also confirmed. This follows reported internal German government discussions concerning a substantial additional €3 billion weapons package.
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Ukraine’s military intelligence reported that North Korea has supplied Russia with over 100 short-range ballistic missiles and over 5 million artillery shells, including various artillery systems. This arms transfer, ongoing since last month, follows a visit by the Russian defense minister to Pyongyang, signifying deepening military cooperation between the two nations. The substantial North Korean military aid is believed to bolster Russia’s efforts to regain territory lost in Kursk Oblast, a key objective before potential peace negotiations. North Korea has also reportedly deployed over 10,000 troops to support Russia’s war effort.
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A Dutch appeals court has overturned a 2021 ruling that required Shell to reduce its emissions by 45% by 2030, upholding the company’s appeal. While acknowledging climate change as a human right, the court determined that Shell, while responsible for emission reductions, has the right to decide how those cuts will be made. Although the court acknowledged the need to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, it deemed Shell’s existing emissions reduction plans sufficient. Friends of the Earth Netherlands, the organization that initiated the lawsuit, expressed disappointment but maintains its commitment to holding major polluters accountable for their role in climate change.
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The revelation that North Korea is supplying half of all Russian artillery shells used in Ukraine is a disturbing development, to say the least. It prompts questions about the extent of North Korean stockpiles and the impact of this on their own military capabilities. It’s ironic that while Ukraine faces consequences for using bombs from the US on Russia, Russia is sourcing artillery shells from a country as notorious as North Korea.
The meeting between Vladimir Putin and the North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un raises eyebrows, especially with the insensitive nickname “King Kong” being used, equating Kim Jong Un to an ape.… Continue reading
Russia is producing artillery shells around three times faster than Ukraine’s Western allies and for about a quarter of the cost. This news is indeed concerning, as it indicates a significant shift towards a wartime economy in Russia. The implications of such rapid production of artillery shells are alarming, especially when considering the potential consequences of this increased military output. It raises questions about Russia’s intentions and capabilities in conflict zones, with the possibility of further land grabs and destabilization in the region.
The idea of saturation firing, which requires more shells than firing at precise targets, highlights the difference in tactics and approaches between Russia and its Western counterparts.… Continue reading
It’s a rare moment when we hear that there are no reports of artillery shortages in a full-scale war, particularly in the context of Ukraine’s ongoing conflict with Russia. The ability to supply just enough ammunition to avoid shortages is a significant achievement, but it leaves one wondering why Ukraine hasn’t been able to maintain a constant surplus. As a result, it’s crucial for NATO to continue ramping up production of artillery munitions to ensure that Ukraine is well-equipped to defend itself effectively.
The critical shortage of artillery shells that Ukraine’s Armed Forces experienced over the winter months was largely due to delays in U.S.… Continue reading
Russia producing three times more artillery shells than the US and Europe for Ukraine is a stark reminder of the intense focus and dedication that Russia has towards supporting their military efforts. This production surge showcases a wartime economy in action, where priorities are clearly set, and resources are allocated accordingly. The emphasis on artillery as the backbone of their military strategy highlights a strategic difference in approach compared to the reliance on airpower seen in the US and Europe.
While the US and Europe may have the industrial capacity to close the production gap, the key question is whether there exists the political will to do so.… Continue reading
It seems that North Korea has put a halt on sending artillery shells to Russia. This development, as claimed by Seoul, raises questions about what may have caused this sudden change in shipments. Satellite images indicating the absence of Russian container ships at North Korean docks since mid-February hint at a possible pause in the delivery of arms supplies. The cessation of shell shipments, especially after North Korea reportedly sent up to three million shells to Russia previously, sparks curiosity about the underlying reasons behind this turn of events.
The fact that North Korea is possibly running low on artillery shells in their war reserve is a significant point to consider.… Continue reading
North Korea’s recent actions, sending over 3 million artillery shells to Russia, have raised eyebrows and sparked conversation among global observers. The sheer volume of artillery shells being transferred is staggering, especially when compared to the struggles faced by Ukraine in securing such resources from NATO allies. It is a stark reminder of North Korea’s commitment to maintaining a robust military capability, particularly in regards to artillery, as a key component of their defense doctrine.
The fact that Russia has been relying heavily on artillery shells in the conflict with Ukraine, using an astonishing 10,000 shells per day, further emphasizes the strategic importance of such weaponry.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker