NATO Chief’s pointed remarks about a “broken” Russian submarine and Moscow’s swift denial, paint a picture of Cold War-era tension, but with a distinctly modern, almost sarcastic, flavor. The core of the story revolves around the surfacing of the Russian diesel-powered submarine Novorossiysk off the coast of France, a move Russia attributed to adhering to navigation regulations in the English Channel. However, the incident, coupled with the NATO chief’s – let’s just call him Mark – wry commentary, has set off a wave of speculation and, frankly, a good dose of amusement.
When you hear that a nation, especially one with a history like Russia’s, is claiming compliance with navigation rules, a certain level of skepticism is almost automatic.… Continue reading
The CIA released nearly 1,500 pages of declassified documents related to Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination, fulfilling President Trump’s commitment to transparency. These documents detail the agency’s investigation into Kennedy’s death, including previously unknown contacts between Kennedy and the CIA following his 1955 Soviet Union trip where he acted as a voluntary informant. The release also includes information on the assassinations of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr., and other unrelated documents found during the AI-assisted search. The newly released materials further reveal CIA attempts to poison Fidel Castro and internal memos discussing assassination conspiracy theories.
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Sweden announced its largest military rearmament plan since the Cold War, involving a €27 billion investment to reach 3.5% of GDP in defense spending by 2030. This includes €2.31 billion for new defense materiel (2026-2028), a €8.86 million investment to combat hybrid threats, and an increased €3.69 billion military aid package for Ukraine. A key component focuses on bolstering northern defenses with two new mechanized brigades for subarctic warfare, operational by 2028. The plan is partially funded through loans and was agreed upon with the Sweden Democrats.
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Following President Trump’s advisor’s announcement of USAID’s closure, the agency placed its staff on administrative leave, transferring its functions to the State Department. Russia applauded this decision, viewing USAID as a tool for unwarranted global interference. Moscow’s long-held criticisms of the agency were thus validated, according to Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. The transition marks a significant restructuring of U.S. foreign aid operations.
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An age ago, I worked for NORAD while stationed in Alaska, maintaining the computers that were used to track these interceptions. They used to give photographs of the intercepted Soviet bombers to everyone on duty at the ROCC during the vent. I have a folder of Tu-95 photos. After the Berlin Wall came down, the number of interceptions dropped to almost nothing for many years. During the Cold War this was called “Wednesday”. Obviously in response to the 2 B-52s the other day. Sabre rattling no doubt… this dance is as old as time.
The recent incident where NORAD jets intercepted 2 Russian and 2 Chinese bombers off the Alaskan coast has caused a stir in the media and amongst the public.… Continue reading
Thoughts on Russia scrambling fighter jets to intercept U.S. bomber planes over the Barents Sea:
It’s no surprise that Russia is claiming they scrambled fighter jets to intercept U.S. bomber planes over the Barents Sea. As a Norwegian, living in close proximity to Russia, these constant back and forth encounters are all too familiar. Russian bombers flying at our borders and then turning away at the last second has been a recurring annoyance since the 90s. The same goes for other neighboring countries like Finland, the Baltics, and even the U.S., who have to deal with these provocations on a regular basis.… Continue reading
As someone who grew up during the Cold War era, the recent threats made by Putin regarding revising Russia’s nuclear doctrine and his vow to ‘go to the end’ in Ukraine are incredibly alarming. The idea of a nuclear conflict is something that many of us thought we had left behind in the pages of history. The fact that Putin is willing to bring back the specter of nuclear annihilation is not only reckless but downright terrifying.
Putin’s consistent threats of using nuclear weapons over the past two years have rendered his words essentially empty and hollow. It is clear that these threats are nothing but a desperate attempt to cling to power and assert dominance.… Continue reading
Germany’s recent revelation of a plan for its citizens in the event of a potential attack by Russia following threats from Putin has sparked a range of reactions and sentiments. As someone who hails from a small town with a historical connection to cold war bunkers, the idea of subway bunkers being dusted off and revamped for potential use doesn’t seem far-fetched. In fact, it’s better to be prepared and not need it than to need it and not have it. The thought of compulsory conscription as a means to serve in keeping these bunkers intact brings back memories of a time when such initiatives were more common.… Continue reading
Looks like the arms race is heating up once again, reminiscent of the Cold War era. The recent announcement by the Biden administration regarding a shift towards a more competitive nuclear weapons strategy comes as a response to China and Russia rejecting US efforts to engage in arms control discussions. It seems that the hope for peaceful negotiations has been met with resistance, leading the US to rethink its approach and prioritize its own national security interests.
With rising global tensions and the refusal of China and Russia to engage in arms control talks, it’s understandable that the US feels the need to bolster its nuclear capabilities.… Continue reading
I can’t help but feel a mix of intrigue and concern at the news that Russian warships, including a nuclear-powered submarine, are set to arrive in Havana next week. It’s like a throwback to the Cold War era, reminiscent of the Cuban Missile Crisis that shook the world in the 1960s. The thought of such powerful military vessels making their way to Cuba certainly raises eyebrows.
Some may see this as a strategic move by Russia, a way to flex its military muscles and make a statement on the international stage. Others might view it as a risky maneuver, given the potential for escalation and unintended consequences.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker