Poland is poised to amend its law on military deployments, enabling its forces to engage Russian objects, including drones, over Ukraine without needing prior approval from NATO or the EU. This proposed change, submitted by the defense ministry, aims to eliminate current restrictions that require such authorization before action. The amendment would allow the military to act more swiftly against threats, implementing a “shoot first, ask later” strategy. This move follows an incident in September where Poland shot down suspected Russian drones, marking a first for a NATO member in the ongoing conflict.
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President Zelensky has stated his intention to step down after the war concludes, emphasizing his focus on ending the conflict rather than seeking reelection. He indicated he would be “ready” to leave office, suggesting a desire for a leader with a new mandate to guide post-war peace efforts. Zelensky has also expressed his willingness to ask Ukraine’s parliament to organize elections following a ceasefire, despite the current ban on elections under martial law, and has even discussed the possibility with the US President. While elections are currently legally impossible, officials have stated they will occur after martial law ends, with concerns raised about the timeframe needed for proper preparation.
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The Finance Ministry is implementing tax increases and expanding the tax base to finance defense and security, including lowering the revenue threshold for reporting for small and medium-sized businesses and introducing taxes on gambling. These measures come as the economy cools and revenue from oil and gas sales decline. Facing economic challenges and previously aiming to replenish the National Welfare Fund, the Ministry now plans to adjust oil-related tax flows. The Ministry’s proposals were made shortly before the formal 2026 budget proposal is to be presented.
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Ukraine’s Air Force announced the downing of a Russian Su-34 fighter jet in the Zaporizhzhia Oblast during the early morning of September 25th. The warplane was reportedly launching guided aerial bombs at the city of Zaporizhzhia when it was shot down. This marks another instance of Ukrainian forces targeting the Soviet-era fighter-bomber. As Russian aerial attacks have increased, further intensification is anticipated as winter approaches.
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Russia’s fuel exports have plummeted to their lowest level since 2020, a direct consequence of Ukraine’s increasingly effective drone attacks. It’s becoming abundantly clear that these strikes are no longer isolated incidents; they represent a strategic effort to cripple Russia’s ability to refine and export oil, a crucial source of revenue for the war effort. The shift in the battlefield dynamics, with the emergence of more sophisticated, longer-range drones, has undeniably created a significant problem for Russia. These drones, equipped with advanced navigation systems, are proving far more difficult to intercept. The impact is being felt, and it’s only expected to intensify.… Continue reading
During the U.N. General Assembly, former U.S. President Donald Trump suggested NATO countries should consider shooting down Russian aircraft in their airspace, prompting a “Roger that” response from Polish Foreign Affairs Minister Radosław Sikorski. Sikorski later stated Poland would protect its territory, including its airspace, but he preferred intercepting Russian threats over Ukrainian territory before they reached NATO airspace. Echoing this concern, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted Russia’s history of hybrid warfare against European democracies and emphasized the necessity of defending NATO territory.
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Speaking before the UN General Assembly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned of the “most destructive arms race in human history,” highlighting the rapid evolution of weaponry, particularly drones, and the potential for autonomous AI systems. He asserted that Russia’s aggression in Ukraine is not isolated, and that Putin intends to expand the war, citing concerns about Moldova and the spread of Russian operations. Zelenskyy called for international action to halt Russia now, as the cost of inaction will be far greater, and underscored the need for global rules on AI in weapons. He also announced Ukraine’s efforts to build a new security architecture, including arms exports.
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On Wednesday, Ukraine launched a significant attack on the Russian port city of Novorossiysk, utilizing unmanned surface vessels (USVs) and drones. The strikes resulted in casualties, with reports of at least two deaths and several injuries, including a child. Damage was reported to the Caspian Pipeline Consortium’s local office and various residential buildings and vehicles. The attacks reportedly began with USVs targeting the port, followed by drone strikes on the city center.
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Following recent conflict, Iran has received Russian MiG-29 fighter jets as an interim solution to strengthen its aging air force, with more advanced Sukhoi Su-35 jets anticipated. These acquisitions signal a broader effort to rapidly modernize aerial capabilities and address vulnerabilities exposed during conflict. The arrival of these jets, along with additional air defense systems, are seen as a strategic move to improve Iran’s military strength. This is intended to increase their leverage in diplomatic negotiations and potentially reshape the regional balance of power.
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In response to recent criticisms, the Kremlin has firmly rejected the notion of Russia as a “paper tiger.” A Kremlin spokesperson clarified that Russia is traditionally viewed as a “bear,” emphasizing its strength and dismissing any suggestion of weakness. This statement was made in response to comments from the U.S. president that were critical of Russia’s military performance in Ukraine. The Kremlin’s remarks aimed to reinforce the image of Russia as a formidable power.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood