Despite the recent adoption of the EU’s 17th sanctions package against Russia, French Minister Jean-Noël Barrot advocates for a more impactful approach. He stressed the need for further, coordinated sanctions with the U.S., potentially including significant tariffs on countries importing Russian oil, to cripple the Russian economy. Barrot highlighted Russia’s ability to circumvent existing sanctions, emphasizing the necessity of a more comprehensive strategy. This intensified pressure, he argued, is crucial to compelling Vladimir Putin to cease hostilities in Ukraine. Future discussions with U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham regarding a proposed sanctions bill are planned.
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The accusations surrounding Steve Witkoff, Trump’s top negotiator, paint a picture of stunning diplomatic incompetence, or perhaps something far more sinister. The claim that he repeatedly met with Vladimir Putin without employing his own interpreters is deeply troubling. Imagine the implications: crucial negotiations taking place where one party – Witkoff – is entirely reliant on the other side’s interpretation of the conversation. This isn’t merely a case of forgetting something; it’s a blatant disregard for basic diplomatic protocol and security.
This raises serious questions about the integrity of the negotiations themselves. If Witkoff didn’t understand Russian, then Putin and his team could have easily manipulated the conversation, leading to a situation where Witkoff was unknowingly agreeing to terms detrimental to the United States’ interests, or more specifically, to Ukraine.… Continue reading
Europe’s backing of a tribunal to prosecute Vladimir Putin for crimes against Ukraine represents a significant step, but the path to justice remains fraught with challenges. The idea of immediate arrests of prominent members of Putin’s administration upon entry into signatory nations is crucial. Without this binding commitment and the subsequent pressure on neighboring countries to join, the tribunal risks becoming symbolic rather than effective. Simply waiting for Putin’s immunity to lapse seems naive; he’s unlikely to face consequences while clinging to power. The hope is that this isn’t just another promise that fades into irrelevance.
The Nuremberg Trials serve as a potent precedent.… Continue reading
During his Moscow visit on May 8th, Xi Jinping publicly endorsed Vladimir Putin and their shared vision for a new world order, explicitly aligning China with Russia’s justification for the war in Ukraine. This joint statement, emphasizing the need to address the war’s “root causes,” mirrors Kremlin propaganda. Xi and Putin pledged enhanced military and economic cooperation, aiming to counter US influence and increase bilateral trade by 2030. This strengthened partnership provides significant support to Russia amidst Western pressure to end the conflict.
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Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, facing reports of a worsening illness and accusations of widespread human rights abuses, has again requested his dismissal from Putin. This request, made to Russian state media, follows previous, unsuccessful attempts in 2016, 2017, and 2022. Kadyrov’s rule has been marked by a severe human rights crisis, leading to international sanctions. The final decision now rests with President Putin.
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Former Vice President Pence criticized the White House’s handling of the Ukraine conflict, arguing that its wavering support has emboldened Russia. He highlighted Ukraine’s acceptance of a proposed 30-day ceasefire, which Russia has ignored, opting instead for self-serving truces. Pence stressed that Putin responds only to strength, advocating for continued military aid to Ukraine to achieve a just peace and prevent further Russian aggression. He warned that failing to support Ukraine could lead to a wider conflict requiring direct U.S. military intervention.
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On Air Force One, Donald Trump berated a Wall Street Journal reporter regarding ongoing peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. His outburst stemmed from a question about discussions with Vladimir Putin, leading to accusations that the Journal is “China-oriented” and a “rotten newspaper.” Trump refused to answer the reporter’s question, citing his dissatisfaction with the publication’s coverage. This incident highlights the ongoing tension between Trump and the WSJ, particularly regarding Trump’s past trade policies.
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Putin, 72, says the succession is always on his mind. This statement, while seemingly straightforward, reveals a complex reality far beyond a simple acknowledgment of aging and political legacy. It hints at a deeply ingrained anxiety, a constant struggle to maintain power in a system he himself has meticulously crafted.
Putin’s preoccupation with succession isn’t merely about choosing a successor; it’s about controlling the process entirely, preventing any unforeseen challenges to his authority. The very act of considering succession speaks volumes about his understanding of power dynamics, his awareness of potential threats, both internal and external, and his calculated efforts to manage those threats proactively.… Continue reading
Following a meeting with US Senator Marco Rubio, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot announced the EU’s preparation of a 17th round of sanctions against Russia, directly blaming Vladimir Putin for obstructing peace in Ukraine. This action coordinates with a US sanctions initiative, and follows a newly signed US-Ukraine agreement on critical minerals, signaling a shift towards economic cooperation alongside continued military aid. Barrot emphasized the need for de-escalation of US tariffs and highlighted the importance of European strategic autonomy within NATO.
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Former German President Joachim Gauck expressed concern that Germany lacks the mental fortitude for war, advocating for increased national resilience alongside military buildup. He emphasized the need for a “new seriousness” in confronting challenges, citing a lack of preparedness beyond technical capabilities. Gauck also urged a firmer stance against Vladimir Putin, warning that appeasement would constitute “submission,” not peace. His comments coincide with the incoming chancellor’s plans for substantial military investment.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood