On January 4th, President Zelensky enacted sanctions against 95 individuals and 70 entities involved in supporting Russia’s military-industrial complex. These sanctions, targeting both Russian and Chinese citizens, include asset freezes, trade restrictions, and transportation bans, intending to cripple Russia’s weapons production capabilities. The measures also extend to key industrial sectors like chemicals, mining, and energy. Notably, some entities targeted by Ukraine are also facing sanctions from the European Union, which recently expanded its sanctions on Russia’s “shadow fleet” of tankers.
Read More
On December 24th, Ukrainian forces launched a series of attacks on crucial targets in Russia and Russian-occupied territories. These attacks resulted in damage to the Yefremov Synthetic Rubber Enterprise in the Tula region, a facility producing components for explosives. Additionally, a storage facility for unmanned boats near Myrne village in Crimea was targeted, along with a regimental-level storage site for supplies in the Luhansk region. The Ukrainian General Staff also reported strikes on various air defense positions and areas where Russian forces were concentrated.
Read More
Russia’s recent failed missile test exposes deep flaws within its military-industrial complex, undermining its strategic deterrence and the credibility of its nuclear threats. This incident, following a previous devastating missile strike in November 2024, reveals vulnerabilities in even Russia’s most advanced weaponry. The failure casts doubt on the effectiveness of Russia’s intimidation tactics, which rely heavily on the perceived power of its arsenal. Consequently, the myth of Russian military invincibility is eroding as its actions increasingly contradict its boasts. This weakening of Russia’s perceived strength contrasts sharply with the strengthening defenses of Ukraine and its allies.
Read More
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
Europe paying for US-supplied arms to Ukraine is a complex issue, sparking a range of opinions and concerns. The core idea, as presented, is that while Europe will foot the bill for these weapons, the US defense industry will reap the rewards, securing contracts and credit.
This arrangement raises valid concerns about potential vulnerabilities. Imagine a scenario where relations between the US and Europe sour; Europe would be left with a hefty bill but lacking the means to adequately defend itself, possessing only the arms purchased at a premium. This highlights the urgent need for Europe to bolster its own defense industry, significantly increasing investment in its capacity to produce arms independently.… Continue reading
Senator Sanders criticized his colleagues’ hypocrisy in prioritizing a near-$1 trillion military budget while simultaneously claiming insufficient funds for addressing critical national issues like housing and healthcare. He highlighted the consistent rejection of funding for social programs despite readily approving massive military spending. This occurred shortly before the Senate overwhelmingly passed the $895 billion National Defense Authorization Act, a vote Sanders opposed. Sanders argued that this prioritization reflects undue influence from the military-industrial complex, urging a shift towards investing in the needs of working families.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood