Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, leading to widespread power outages in Kyiv and other regions. The attacks, which included missile and drone strikes, are believed to be a tactic deployed in the past, aimed at depriving Ukrainians of essential resources ahead of winter. Ukrainian officials reported casualties and injuries, including the death of a child, and significant damage to energy facilities, causing interruptions to power and water supplies. The government is actively working to restore power and water, with repair crews deployed across the affected regions.
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“We know what to do”: Zelenskyy hints at response after Russian strikes plunge Kyiv into darkness, and it’s impossible not to feel the weight of that statement. It’s a statement that whispers of plans, of strategies honed in the crucible of this relentless conflict. The strikes that plunged Kyiv into darkness, the kind that bring a city to its knees, are answered by a quiet resolve, a promise of action.
“We know what to do” also brings to mind the potential strategic angles at play, the kind that could reshape the very landscape of this conflict. It’s easy to imagine a scenario where critical Russian infrastructure, like power grids, becomes a target.… Continue reading
Ukraine destroyed yet another very expensive Russian EW system – well, that’s certainly a significant development, isn’t it? It really highlights the ongoing and costly nature of this conflict. These electronic warfare systems are not exactly off-the-shelf items; they represent considerable investment and technological prowess on Russia’s part. Their destruction isn’t just a military setback; it’s a drain on their resources and a disruption to their operational capabilities. And the fact that these systems are often moved around suggests that Russia is constantly having to play a game of strategic chess, shifting defenses to cover vulnerabilities. But of course, every move leaves another position weakened.… Continue reading
First Lady Melania Trump revealed she has been secretly communicating with Russian President Vladimir Putin since August. These communications have led to the successful reunification of eight Ukrainian children with their families, separated by the war. Trump’s efforts involved back-channel meetings and calls between U.S. and Russian representatives, with a focus on the welfare of these children. She stated her mission is to facilitate the reunification of more children and optimize information flow regarding those affected by the war.
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Rheinmetall announced a deal for Ukraine to receive Skyranger 35 short-range air-defense systems mounted on Leopard 1 chassis, funded by an EU member state using frozen Russian assets. The agreement, valued in the “hundreds of millions of euros,” will see production and integration handled in Italy. The Skyranger 35 features a 35 mm automatic cannon, with programmable airburst projectiles, and an effective range of approximately 4,000 meters. Equipped with advanced sensors, the system is designed to counter modern aerial threats, and serve as a modern alternative to the aging Flakpanzer Gepard.
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**AP News**
A devastating explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems, a military munitions plant in rural Tennessee, resulted in multiple fatalities and missing persons on Friday. The blast, felt miles away, obliterated one of the facility’s buildings, and secondary explosions hampered initial rescue efforts. The cause of the explosion is currently unknown and under investigation. The plant is a significant employer in the area, and local officials have expressed concern about the economic impact of the tragedy.
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Russian bombers from the Baltic Fleet conducted exercises in Kaliningrad, including bombing runs and practicing evasion techniques, as tensions with NATO allies in the region remain high. Simultaneously, President Putin announced the imminent unveiling of a new weapon for Russia’s nuclear arsenal, emphasizing the country’s advanced nuclear deterrence capabilities. He also warned of a potential arms race, noting that some nations are considering or preparing for nuclear weapons testing. These developments coincide with ongoing concerns about Russia’s potential ambitions beyond Ukraine and the Baltic states’ preparations for a potential Russian attack.
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Trump suggests Spain should be “thrown out” of NATO, a statement that has sparked a considerable reaction, and it’s understandable why. This suggestion stems, at least in part, from the perception that Spain isn’t pulling its weight in terms of defense spending, especially when compared to the commitments some other NATO members have made. Spain’s geographical position, away from the immediate concerns of a resurgent Russia, is seen by some as a factor in this, making defense spending a less pressing priority.
The issue of defense spending, of course, is a complex one, and the consensus seems to be that Spain isn’t meeting the benchmarks many would like to see.… Continue reading
Early Friday, Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine, targeting energy infrastructure and residential areas. The assault resulted in casualties, including a child, and widespread power outages affecting over half of Kyiv, along with water supply issues. At least ten energy facilities were hit, prompting emergency crews to work to restore power, as emergency blackouts were implemented in the Kyiv region. Residential buildings in Kyiv also sustained damage from drone strikes, causing fires in a high-rise apartment block.
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Russia’s industrial titans furlough workers as its war economy stalls, a trend now becoming increasingly visible as the war in Ukraine grinds on. What was initially touted as a display of economic strength is slowly revealing its cracks. While some might dismiss this as mere economic fluctuations, the situation points to a deeper issue: a war economy struggling to sustain itself. Cemros spokesman Sergei Koshkin’s statement calling these furloughs a “necessary anti-crisis measure” is interesting. Though it would seem he might soon be joining the ranks of Russia’s elite, it’s hard to imagine a crisis not be a crisis. Russia’s reliance on a war economy, where the government heavily dictates production and spending, has its limits.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood