Lieutenant General Mike Elviss warns that a Ukrainian ceasefire would enable Russia to rebuild its forces and strengthen ties with a new axis of aggressors, including China, Iran, and North Korea. This would initiate a global arms race focused on armored forces, as Russia seeks to reconstitute its military capabilities for future conflicts. Concerns exist that Russia’s adaptable military could emerge stronger from such a conflict. Senior UK officials fear a renewed Russian aggression, particularly if a peace deal is brokered, highlighting the need for sustained Western security commitments. This mirrors Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s warnings of a more dangerous future conflict without robust security guarantees.
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Russia’s rapid rearmament, exceeding initial predictions, is fueling concerns about a potential attack on NATO. This accelerated military buildup, however, presents a complex picture, raising questions about the feasibility and likelihood of such a drastic escalation.
The claim that Russia is rearming faster than anticipated, potentially for a NATO attack, rests largely on reports citing increased weapons production and the acquisition of additional supplies from countries like Iran and North Korea. While these actions undeniably bolster Russia’s military capabilities, it’s crucial to consider the context. Russia’s current struggle in Ukraine, characterized by significant losses of personnel and equipment, suggests a considerable strain on its resources.… Continue reading
Following Donald Trump’s refusal to rule out military action to acquire Greenland, a Danish territory, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot warned against attacks on EU sovereign borders. Trump’s comments, including suggestions of using force to obtain the Panama Canal and economic pressure on Canada, prompted this strong response. Greenland’s leaders have firmly rejected any sale or relinquishing of control, emphasizing the island’s self-determination. Barrot also called for EU action against similar threats from Elon Musk toward European leaders.
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China’s recent restriction on rare earth mineral exports to the U.S. highlights the vulnerability of relying on single sources for critical materials. This action underscores the need for enhanced trade cooperation between Canada and the U.S., particularly given Canada’s significant mineral exports to its southern neighbor. Imposing tariffs on Canadian minerals would further disrupt supply chains and harm North American competitiveness. Companies like Teck Resources are already responding to the increased demand by exploring ways to increase production of vital minerals such as germanium.
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China’s dispatch of officials to Russia to study the impact of Western sanctions is a clear indication of their strategic planning ahead of a potential invasion of Taiwan. The sheer scale of the potential economic repercussions of such an action is undeniable, and this mission highlights China’s attempt to mitigate the foreseeable consequences.
This initiative underscores the gravity of the situation, as China is not simply observing but actively seeking to learn from Russia’s experience. The extensive investigation into every facet of the sanctions—from their economic effects to potential positive impacts on domestic production—shows a meticulous approach to risk assessment. This is not a casual study; it’s a serious effort to prepare for a scenario that would almost certainly lead to crippling international sanctions.… Continue reading
Ukraine drones attacking Crimea, as reported by Moscow, is a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The very act underscores the shifting dynamics of the war, with Ukraine increasingly employing asymmetric warfare tactics to disrupt Russian supply lines and military operations within territory Russia considers its own, despite Crimea’s internationally recognized status as Ukrainian. This raises questions about the evolving strategies on both sides and the potential for further escalation.
The reported drone attacks on Crimea highlight the vulnerability of Russian assets even within territories they control. It suggests a capability on the part of Ukraine to strike strategically important targets, potentially disrupting Russian military logistics and further degrading their ability to sustain their offensive.… Continue reading
Russia’s escalating inflation, reaching 7.4% year-to-date, is causing a ruble devaluation and impacting food prices dramatically; potato prices are up 350% since December. This has led to numerous cancelled fruit and vegetable import contracts from Turkey, Egypt, and Iran, as exporters demand price adjustments to offset currency risks. The Central Bank’s attempts to control inflation through interest rate hikes have proven largely ineffective, further jeopardizing the Russian economy. The combination of inflation and currency instability represents a critical economic challenge.
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Biden allowing Ukraine to use US arms to strike inside Russia marks a significant escalation in the conflict. This decision, likely spurred by a recent massive Russian air attack targeting Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, represents a major shift in the US’s approach to supporting Ukraine.
This authorization fundamentally alters the battlefield dynamics. For months, Ukraine has been largely restricted from directly retaliating against Russian territory, despite enduring relentless attacks. Now, with the green light from the US, Ukraine possesses the means to strike deep within Russia, potentially targeting military installations and infrastructure crucial to the war effort.
The timing of Biden’s decision is intriguing.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood