The Netherlands’ recent pledge of $3.8 billion in support for Ukraine in 2026 represents a significant commitment, showcasing unwavering solidarity with the nation amidst ongoing conflict. This substantial financial contribution builds upon previous support, demonstrating a sustained dedication to Ukraine’s resilience and future.
This new pledge isn’t a sudden reaction to any perceived shift in US support, but rather a continuation of a long-term strategy. The Netherlands has already provided substantial aid to Ukraine in previous years, exceeding $3.5 billion over the past two years alone. This funding wasn’t contingent on any external factors, highlighting the Netherlands’ independent commitment to Ukraine.… Continue reading
Seizing Russian assets, rather than merely freezing them, presents a powerful strategy to pressure Russia and support Ukraine. The current approach of freezing assets, while significant, leaves open the possibility of their eventual return. This uncertainty undermines the impact of sanctions and potentially emboldens Russia. A decisive move to seize and utilize these assets would send a clear message that the international community is serious about holding Russia accountable for its actions.
The argument for seizing assets is rooted in the notion of effective deterrence. Simply freezing assets may not be enough to change Russia’s calculus, as the potential for their recovery remains.… Continue reading
A YouGov poll reveals that 48 percent of British respondents prioritize aiding Ukraine over maintaining strong U.S. relations, while only 20 percent hold the opposing view. Support for Ukraine is prevalent across the political spectrum, though notably higher among Liberal Democrats and Labour supporters than Conservatives. Conversely, Reform Party supporters lean towards prioritizing U.S. ties. Prime Minister Starmer, however, aims to bolster transatlantic relations, planning to discuss preventing future Russian aggression and propose a European peacekeeping force during his upcoming White House visit.
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During a visit to Poland, Keir Starmer urged continued, strengthened support for Ukraine, emphasizing the necessity of peace achieved on Ukraine’s terms. Discussions with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk focused on a proposed defense treaty and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to NATO and Ukraine’s defense. Starmer’s trip follows a meeting with President Zelenskyy, resulting in a strengthened UK-Ukraine defense partnership. While declining to comment directly on Donald Trump’s potential impact, Starmer stressed the US’s crucial role in Ukraine’s defense.
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In a ZDF interview, Chancellor Scholz defended his recent phone call with Vladimir Putin, emphasizing the necessity of continued dialogue despite its unpleasant nature. He clarified that these conversations, including the November 15th call, did not aim for immediate peace but served to reiterate Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine and demand an end to hostilities and a Russian troop withdrawal. Scholz countered criticisms suggesting a single phone call could magically resolve the conflict. He stressed the importance of consistently conveying Germany’s position directly to Putin.
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It’s been reported that Russia has escalated its drone attacks on Ukraine by 44% since the 2024 US election. This surge in attacks has fueled speculation that Russia is attempting to maximize its gains before a potential change in US policy under a new administration. Many believe that a Trump presidency would signal a shift in US support for Ukraine, potentially leading to negotiations that could favor Russia.
Some analysts argue that this aggressive approach is a calculated gamble by Russia. They believe that Russia is burning through its reserves at an unsustainable rate to push the frontline as far as possible before a potential Trump-led peace deal.… Continue reading
Russia loses a record number of soldiers in May, and the numbers are staggering. The death toll of 38,940 soldiers is a tragedy that should shake any society to its core. But in Russia, it seems that these losses are accepted as a grim reality, a sacrifice for the ambitions of oppressive leaders and regimes.
It’s hard to comprehend the scale of these losses, the sheer number of lives sacrificed for a war that seems to have no end in sight. The casualties include young conscripts, minorities from different regions, and even mercenaries from Africa. The majority of the losses are not even ethnic Russians, which is a troubling trend that seems to go unnoticed.… Continue reading
I wholeheartedly support the London mayor’s proposition to sell the homes of ‘Putin cronies’. It’s time to put an end to the Russian playground that has taken over parts of London and to stand in solidarity with Ukraine. The war in Ukraine is a tragedy that requires global support, and one way to contribute is by dismantling the luxurious lifestyles of those who are aiding and abetting the Russian regime.
The idea of reclaiming these properties raises questions about the wealth disparity that exists in London. With half of the oligarchs’ homes potentially becoming available, there is an opportunity to address housing issues and provide much-needed accommodations for lower-income individuals.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker