* Ukraine War * Putin * Zelenskyy * Russia * NATO

Ukraine Strikes Russian Oil and Chemical Plants: Escalation Continues

On October 29th, Ukrainian forces reportedly targeted an oil refinery in Russia’s Ulyanovsk Oblast and a chemical plant in Stavropol Krai, according to Russian Telegram channels. The strike on the NS-Oil refinery in Novospasskoye resulted in a large blaze, while the attack on the Stavrolen chemical plant, a Lukoil subsidiary, reportedly caused a radiating fire. These reported attacks are part of Kyiv’s ongoing campaign against Russian infrastructure that supports its war efforts. These reports arrive amid a large Ukrainian drone attack on various Russian regions, including an instance of drones being downed en-route to Moscow.

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Russia’s Year-Round Military Draft: A Shift in Process, Not War Manpower

In a move to bolster its military, Russia’s State Duma approved a bill shifting towards year-round conscription starting next year. The legislation allows draft boards to conduct enlistment procedures throughout the year, though conscripts will still be sent to service during the traditional spring and autumn periods. A significant amendment introduces a 30-day expiration for electronic draft notices, streamlining the process. This reform, pending further approvals, aims to improve recruitment efficiency and distribute the workload for military offices, ultimately enhancing conscription quality.

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Russia’s Antarctic Oil Ambitions and the Implications of Ukrainian Scientist’s Arrest

A recent document linked to the arrest of a Ukrainian scientist suggests Russia may have long-term ambitions to exploit Antarctica’s oil reserves, despite the existing mining ban under the Antarctic Treaty’s environmental protocol. The document, which outlines Russia’s opposition to proposed marine protected areas, explicitly mentions the potential loss of opportunity to develop hydrocarbon resources. This raises concerns among experts, particularly in light of Russia’s previous activities and its influence in the region. Calls are growing for Russia to clarify its position regarding the exploration and potential exploitation of Antarctica’s resources, with Australia already voicing its expectation that all parties abide by the mining ban.

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Europe Debates Transfer of Frozen Russian Assets to Ukraine: A Complex Legal and Political Battle

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that European countries are nearing a decision regarding the transfer of frozen Russian assets to Ukraine. He indicated that once this decision is made, it will be irreversible regardless of future political shifts. Zelenskyy emphasized that this financial support from Western partners is critical to pressuring Russia and sends a message that Ukraine will not be financially exhausted. Although the European Council removed a direct reference to using frozen assets in its recent conclusions, the EU maintains the issue remains under consideration, with a final decision expected by December 2025.

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Ukraine’s Long-Range Strikes Cripple Russian Oil Refining, Says Zelenskyy

AP News reports that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that long-range strikes on Russian refineries have diminished Moscow’s oil refining capacity by 20%, with over 90% of those strikes conducted using Ukrainian-made weapons. He emphasized the need for more financial assistance to increase production of these weapons. Zelenskyy also discussed ongoing efforts to secure funding for winter gas imports and bolster defense against Russian attacks.

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Zelenskyy Orders Expansion of Strikes into Russia Amidst Ongoing War

During a recent meeting, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy directed military officials to increase the range of Ukraine’s long-range weapons to strike targets deep inside Russia. The meeting, which included weapons manufacturers, focused on reviewing the effectiveness of existing strikes and expanding the geography for future use. Long-term contracts with manufacturers were discussed to improve resource planning and scale up supplies, with Zelenskyy promising more such agreements. The meeting also addressed Russian strikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, identifying new defense needs and the importance of securing air defense supplies from partners.

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Putin Fears Coup Amid Debt, Drones, and Sanctions: A Skeptical View

Putin fears a coup, and honestly, can you blame him? He’s been orchestrating a certain level of fear in others for years. It’s a natural consequence, almost a karmic boomerang, of ruling with an iron fist, and the whispers of a coup are getting louder. With the country sinking deeper into debt, the constant barrage of drone strikes, and the ever-tightening grip of sanctions, the foundations of his power seem to be cracking.

It’s clear that Russia’s economic woes are playing a significant role. The sanctions, meant to cripple the war effort, are having a wider impact, squeezing the entire economy.… Continue reading

Finland: Defeating Russia Crucial for Indo-Pacific, China’s Next Move a Concern

Finland’s Defence Minister, Antti Häkkänen, asserts that successfully countering Russia’s aggression in Ukraine is crucial for deterring China in the Indo-Pacific region, emphasizing the global consequences of the ongoing conflict. He highlights the importance of unwavering Western resolve, citing China’s keen observation of the West’s commitment. Häkkänen advocates for a three-pronged approach to ending the war: strengthened sanctions, increased military aid to Ukraine, and the use of long-range weapons. He suggests that any perceived weakness would embolden China, which is already supporting Russia.

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Russia’s Volodymyrivka Assault: 29 Armored Vehicles Fail to Break Through

Six-hour tank assault, 29 armored vehicles, zero breakthroughs: Russia’s biggest autumn push fails near Volodymyrivka. It’s almost unbelievable, isn’t it? The sheer scale of the conflict in Ukraine is constantly throwing up scenarios that defy expectations. This specific instance near Volodymyrivka, with a six-hour tank assault involving 29 armored vehicles, and resulting in precisely zero breakthroughs, really captures the essence of the current stalemate. It highlights the shifting dynamics and, frankly, the incredible resilience of the Ukrainian defense. This wasn’t some minor probing action; this was presented as a significant push, a major effort. Yet, it yielded nothing in the way of territorial gains.… Continue reading