Ukraine’s GenStaff says its deep strikes have erased 4% of Russia’s GDP this year, and that figure certainly grabs your attention. Four percent might not seem like a colossal figure at first glance, but when you’re talking about the entire economic output of a country, it represents a significant dent, a real punch to the gut. It’s a substantial sum of money, and you have to wonder, just how much damage needs to be inflicted before it becomes truly unsustainable for Russia to keep up the fight?
This brings up the million-dollar question: What percentage point of economic damage would it take to make the war unfeasible for Russia to continue?… Continue reading
A new Pew Research Center survey reveals that a majority of U.S. adults are not confident in former President Donald Trump’s ability to make wise decisions regarding the Russia-Ukraine war. The poll, conducted from August 4 to August 10, found that 59% expressed little to no confidence, while only 40% expressed at least some confidence. The survey also highlights partisan divides, with Democrats more likely to believe the U.S. has a responsibility to help Ukraine. These findings come ahead of a meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, where a potential ceasefire in Ukraine and broader U.S.-Russia matters will be discussed.
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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy continues to be a pivotal figure in international diplomacy throughout Russia’s invasion. Zelenskyy, a former comedian, has addressed global leaders and advocated for military aid, firmly resisting territorial concessions. His unwavering stance against land swaps has sparked debate, highlighting Ukraine’s commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity. This position remains steadfast even as the war intensifies.
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On the night of August 13-14, the Russian city of Volgograd was targeted in a drone attack, with explosions and subsequent fires reported at the LUKOIL-Volgogradneftepererabotka oil refinery. Multiple Russian sources confirmed the large-scale assault, which caused fires and an oil spill at the refinery. As a result, the local airport was temporarily closed. This refinery, the largest producer of petroleum products in the region, has been attacked previously by Ukrainian drones.
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During a White House news conference, former US President Donald Trump stated his intention to negotiate the return of Ukrainian territory occupied by Russia during his upcoming meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. Trump anticipates a “feel-out meeting” with Putin on Friday, after which he will contact European leaders and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to inform them of any proposed “fair deal”. Trump has expressed his disagreement with Zelensky’s actions. Kaja Kallas, vice-president of the European Commission, stated that Putin wants to divide territories and spheres of influence.
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China has expressed its hope that all parties involved in the Russia-Ukraine war will participate in peace negotiations, as former U.S. President Donald Trump prepares for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Beijing, a key strategic partner of Russia, has been providing significant economic support to Moscow, helping it circumvent Western sanctions. The summit will address the control of Ukrainian territory seized by Russia, with Kyiv and its allies urging Trump not to concede any land. China supports efforts toward a peaceful settlement and hopes to see a fair and lasting agreement reached.
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According to a source familiar with the negotiations, Russia has proposed that Ukraine cede Donbas in exchange for a ceasefire, but without offering to return any occupied territories. The Kremlin is unwilling to relinquish control of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia oblasts, as they provide a crucial land bridge to Crimea. A former official suggests Russia may be leaning toward a temporary truce to allow for elections. This comes as President Trump has indicated a potential territorial trade for peace, a notion rejected by Ukrainian President Zelenskyy.
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On August 10th, a drone attack targeted an oil refinery in Saratov, resulting in a significant fire and explosions. Local reports and social media footage depicted drones and active air defense systems. Saratov Governor Roman Busargin acknowledged damage to an industrial site, with one fatality and several injuries reported. Simultaneously, there were reports of air defense activity in Lipetsk and Voronezh. This information originated from local Telegram channels and remains unverified, with no comment from Ukrainian officials.
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In response to escalating Ukrainian drone attacks, Russia is actively rebuilding its air defenses around Moscow, mirroring Cold War-era strategies. An investigation by Radio Liberty reveals over 50 new surface-to-air missile (SAM) positions, primarily Pantsir systems, constructed in the Moscow region within the last two years. This reconstruction, initiated after the first drone strikes in May 2023, has led to the placement of SAMs in urban areas, increasing the risk of civilian damage from falling debris. Satellite imagery further confirms ongoing construction into 2025, particularly near the TsKAD and “small concrete road,” recreating a layered defense system reminiscent of the Soviet era.
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The Ukrainian military intelligence agency (HUR) has reportedly obtained classified documents on Russia’s new nuclear submarine, K-555 Knyaz Pozharsky, a key component of the Kremlin’s nuclear arsenal. These documents include detailed information on crew members, combat instructions, schematics, internal regulations, and engineering records. The HUR also secured an excerpt from the submarine’s schedule book, detailing daily operations. This information provides insight into the vessel’s technical limitations and allows the identification of vulnerabilities.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker