Europe War in Ukraine - Thread 4 - thread rules updated

[Gethelred]

This is the thread for discussing the War in Ukraine. Should you want to discuss the geopolitics, the history, or an interesting tangent, head over here:

Europe - Backdrop to the war in Ukraine

This is the thread for the geopolitics, history and framework around the Russia-Ukraine conflict. If you want to discuss the events of the war, head over to this thread: https://www.bigfooty.com/forum/threads/war-in-ukraine-thread-4-thread-rules-updated.1376293/page-146

www.bigfooty.com

If a post isn't directly concerning the events of the war or starts to derail the thread, report the post to us and we'll move it over there.

Seeing as multiple people seem to have forgotten, abuse is against the rules of BF. Continuous, page long attacks directed at a single poster in this thread will result in threadbans for a week from this point; doing so again once you have returned will make the bans permanent and will be escalated to infractions.

This thread still has misinformation rules, and occasionally you will be asked to demonstrate a claim you have made by moderation. If you cannot, you will be offered the opportunity to amend the post to reflect that it's opinion, to remove the post, or you will be threadbanned and infracted for sharing misinformation.

Addendum: from this point, use of any variant of the word 'orc' to describe combatants, politicians or russians in general will be deleted and the poster will receive a warning. If the behaviour continues, it will be escalated. Consider this fair warning.

Finally: If I see the word Nazi or Hitler being flung around, there had better have a good faith basis as to how it's applicable to the Russian invasion - as in, video/photographic evidence of POW camps designed to remove another ethnic group - or to the current Ukrainian army. If this does not occur, you will be threadbanned for posting off topic

This is a sensitive area, and I understand that this makes for fairly incensed conversation sometimes. This does not mean the rules do not apply, whether to a poster positing a Pro-Ukraine stance or a poster positing an alternative view.

Behave, people.

 

[Mobbs]

He is a very clever man. Courageous, too. The opposite of the Orange Sociopath.

They say that Zelensky is a clown who became a president, and that Putin is a president who became a clown.

 

[BobbyMorri]

If the US leaves NATO, then it should be replaced with something new. Something that can encompass both the remaining NATO members who want to stay in, plus the likes of Japan, South Korea, Australia and NZ.

Europe does not want to deal with the mess that is Asia (ala Japan and South Korea) .

They have a big scary neighbor next door, plus some little fat dude who loves launching missiles every once in a while which is technically still at war with itself.


We would be good allies...but we are so far away, it wouldn't do much for either party (excluding France and Canada)

 

[Mobbs]

Ok so here's some news from the meetings in Kyiv these last couple days (all from NOEL Reports TG):

Year 2025 Forum:

Ukraine is developing new long-range weapons, already striking 1,700 km into Russia, – Commander in Chief Syrskyi said. "Despite Moscow's failed attempts to seize Ukraine, tough battles lie ahead, and our task is to keep hitting the enemy," he added. - [link]

Tomorrow could be a turning point. Top European leaders are coming to us, Zelensky said. A total of 13 partners are expected in person, with 24 joining online. - [link]

President Zelensky has made it clear—he is willing to step down if it would bring peace. “I am ready to leave my post if it ends the war. Or even trade my position for NATO membership,” he stated, signaling just how high the stakes are. - [link]

The Ministry of Defense is working on "mega-projects" for joint production of high-tech weapons with top international manufacturers, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirms. - [link]

"‘Palianytsia,’ ‘Peklo,’ ‘Ruta’ are all flying, achieving hits and successes. I want to thank our defense industry. These three are taking flight. And also... ballistic missiles are in the works,” Zelensky said. - [link]

International Reps Visit Kyiv :

"Ukrainians survived the Holodomor. Ukrainians survived Stalin. Ukrainians survived Chornobyl. Ukrainians survived Putin. Do you think Donald Trump can break Ukrainians?" — Canadian Member of Parliament Charlie Angus. - [link]

World leaders are arriving in Kyiv for the third anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President António Costa, and leaders from Spain, Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia have arrived. 13 leaders are in Kyiv, with 24 more joining online to discuss peace and security guarantees. - [link]
View attachment IMG_9077.mp4

EU High Representative Kaja Kallas on Trump calling Zelensky a "dictator": "I thought he was confusing two people. Putin hasn’t had real elections in 25 years. Zelensky was elected in free and fair elections. And during war, many constitutions prevent elections—you fight an external enemy, not among yourselves." - [link]

The leaders of Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden have also arrived in Kyiv. - [link]
View attachment video_2025-02-24_08-54-36.mp4

According to Russian media, the EU has disconnected 13 Russian banks from SWIFT in the latest sanctions package and banned 8 Russian media outlets from broadcasting in Europe. New restrictions have also been imposed on supplying Russia with software, equipment, and technology for oil & gas extraction. - [link]

The UK Ambassador to Ukraine reassures that Ukrainians can count on unwavering support from Britain. "We must remember the sacrifices Ukrainians make, not only to defend themselves but all of Europe." - [link]

"I strongly reject the lies being spread about the origins of the war in Ukraine." "I am convinced that Ukraine has a great future as a free, sovereign, and independent state," – Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who also arrived in Kyiv. - [link]

"In Ukraine, about Ukraine, with Ukraine," - President of the European Council António Costa. - [link]

"Today marks the third anniversary of Putin's attack on Ukraine. Three years of war, death, and suffering." In a statement, the CDU (German election winner Merz's party) stands firmly with Ukraine, supporting their right to self-defense and a just peace. For freedom. For peace. For the people of Ukraine. - [link]

"Europe's security depends on Ukraine’s security. That’s why let’s accelerate Ukraine’s EU accession. I propose January 1, 2030. The first cluster can be opened in the coming weeks. Let’s make Ukraine’s path to the EU irreversible,” said Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda. He added that the EU must urgently provide Ukraine with modern weapons and long-range strike capabilities. - [link]

"Today, three years after Putin’s so-called "special military operation," Ukraine is alive, fighting, and has more friends than ever. Grateful to the leaders who came to Kyiv today for the Support Ukraine summit, showing solidarity with us: Presidents, Prime Ministers, and leaders from Europe, G7, NATO, and international organizations. Together, we remain united for lasting peace," - Zelensky - [link]

 

[Mobbs]

And this one probably needs its own post:

Three years on, Australia stands with Ukraine

https://www.minister.defence.gov.au/statements/2025-02-24/three-years-australia-stands-ukraine

24 February 2025

Today marks three years since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. For three years, Ukraine has bravely resisted Russia’s illegal and immoral war of aggression. Australia mourns the loss of life of Ukraine’s citizens and defenders, and the generational toll of Russia’s brutality.

Australia continues to stand with Ukraine.

We have committed over $1.5 billion to help Ukraine defend itself, including more than $1.3 billion in military support through vital equipment for the battlefield and the training of Ukrainian forces.

Australia has been clear since day one that Russia, and those enabling its illegal invasion, will face consequences.

The Australian Government has today imposed further targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 70 persons, and targeted financial sanctions on 79 entities.

This constitutes Australia’s largest sanctions package since February 2022.

The new sanctions target individuals propping up Russia’s illegal administrations in eastern Ukraine and Crimea, including so-called “ministers”, judges and prosecutors, and individuals responsible for conflict-related sexual violence and the forced deportation of Ukrainian children.

The sanctions also target persons and entities involved in deepening military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, including the deployment of North Korean troops to the battlefield.

Deepening Russia-North Korea military cooperation is a dangerous expansion of Russia’s war, with serious consequences for European and Indo-Pacific security.

Targets in Russia’s defence, transport and finance sectors, and those spreading disinformation to undermine Ukraine and governments around the world, have also been sanctioned.

Australia has now imposed a total of more than 1,400 sanctions in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

The Government has taken decisive action to ensure Australians are not inadvertently fuelling Russia’s war economy.

Today we have further tightened trade bans on Russia by prohibiting the supply of commercial drones and components, including the provision of related services.

Guidance on the operation of these bans can be found on the sanctions guidance webpage.

Once again, Australia calls on Russia to immediately end its war and adhere fully to its obligations under international law, including in relation to the protection of civilians and treatment of prisoners of war.

Working with Ukraine and our partners, Australia supports a just and lasting peace for Ukraine.

The major takeaway is this bit:
The Australian Government has today imposed further targeted financial sanctions and travel bans on 70 persons, and targeted financial sanctions on 79 entities. This constitutes Australia’s largest sanctions package since February 2022.

Is Australia's contribution in any way staggering? Well, no. Is it a game-changer? Certainly not on its own. What's important, is that Australia did this right now, at this time, when the leader/president/king of the USA has made overt movements in the opposite direction. That Australia didn't just follow suit with the USA, didn't even just take cover and remain silent - that pleases me.

 

[Mobbs]

I keep wondering if when Trump spoke to Putin, he heard the word "pariah" for the first time with reference to Putin/Russia, and immediately decided "What's this pariah thing? Sounds cool. How do I get to be one of those?"

 

[Visions]

Where there's smoke, there's fire and it would explain so many things.

‘Trump Recruited as Moscow Asset,’ Says Ex-KGB Spy Chief

Alnur Mussayev, former head of Kazakhstan’s security service, who rose up the ranks of the Soviet KGB, claims Moscow groomed Trump under pseudonym “Krasnov” in 1987.

www.kyivpost.com

 

[Mobbs]

Again all links are from NOEL Reports. The same stories are everywhere but they're the ones concentrating specifically on listing them in a row:

During his visit to Kyiv, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announces the allocation of €100 million to support Ukraine's air defense. Earlier, Sweden had already agreed to provide Ukraine with Robot 70 and Tridon Mk2 systems. - [link]

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced a new military aid package for Ukraine in 2025 worth €1 billion. "We will work with Ukraine on the recovery process. We will create structures to enhance the process. We will encourage our companies to participate in Ukraine's projects and programs," he assured. - [link]

Norway will allocate €3.5 billion in 2025 to support Ukraine, announced the country’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. - [link]

 

[Mobbs]

Putin is now trying to step in the ring re "rare earths", a "we've got more" to sell response.

So note that at least in the Ukrainian case, "rare earths" is a misnomer. The resources they are talking about are very important mineral resources, but the term "rare earth deposits" applies to different elements than the one they are talking about. Trump just started calling them that. I dunno about Russia's deposits, maybe they actually are "rare earths".


Russia has also offered to export aluminium to the US, which was the subject of one of the most recent sanctions package.

 

[Mobbs]

Macron fact-checking Trump around Trump's face and head:
View attachment macrontrump1.mp4

 

[Mobbs]

Another image from the Summit in Kyiv:

 

[Mobbs]

The US has called on UN members to support its resolution, which defines war as a "conflict" and does not consider Russia an aggressor

In 'other' news, an example of emergency phone notifications in Kyiv:

 

[Millky95]

The US has called on UN members to support its resolution, which defines war as a "conflict" and does not consider Russia an aggressor

What a ****ing joke

 

[Mobbs]

What a ****ing joke

Since Trump took office this year, 4 or 5 more countries are referring to the USA as an aggressor!

 

[Zidane98]

Putin is now trying to step in the ring re "rare earths", a "we've got more" to sell response.

So note that at least in the Ukrainian case, "rare earths" is a misnomer. The resources they are talking about are very important mineral resources, but the term "rare earth deposits" applies to different elements than the one they are talking about. Trump just started calling them that. I dunno about Russia's deposits, maybe they actually are "rare earths".


Russia has also offered to export aluminium to the US, which was the subject of one of the most recent sanctions package.

Ukraine is a small player in rare earth minerals.


Canada much bigger. Guess that explains Trumps hilariously bad attempts to annex Canada!

 

[Zidane98]

Another image from the Summit in Kyiv:
View attachment 2234378

It's a pity agent Orange couldn't attend.

 

[Mobbs]

It's a pity agent Orange couldn't attend.

US didn't send a rep either I don't think.

 

[Anzacpaul]

https://www.npr.org/2025/02/24/g-s1-50473/un-ukraine-resolution-russia

The US sided with Russia, North Korea and Belarus in the voting.

 

[Zidane98]

To put an end to any pro Russian propaganda posters that may attempt to falsely claim US are into Ukraine for rare earth metals here is the facts on rare earth metal distribution around the world:



Sourced from https://www.statista.com/statistics/270277/mining-of-rare-earths-by-country/ - 2023 statistics

Ukraine a non player in the rare earth minerals world market.


Ukraine isn't in the top 20 worldwide for Titanium or Lithium.


Australia & Chile dominate the worldwide Lithium market.




Anyone that is trying to tell you US wants Ukraine resources is simply flat out lying and could only possibly be doing so because they ultimately support Putin's fascist dream of creating a new Russian empire as he feels the USSR breakup and failure was unjust.

 

[Zidane98]

https://www.npr.org/2025/02/24/g-s1-50473/un-ukraine-resolution-russia

The US sided with Russia, North Korea and Belarus in the voting.

Trump to Putin is what Mussolini was to Hitler. End result will also be similar.

 

[Paul Kersey]

https://www.npr.org/2025/02/24/g-s1-50473/un-ukraine-resolution-russia

The US sided with Russia, North Korea and Belarus in the voting.

Disgraceful.

 

[Zidane98]

Disgraceful.

Imagine what the likes of Reagan would think about this carry on.

 

[Saint]

Lucky Biden passed a law in 2023 which prohibits the US President from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO without a two-third Senate super-majority or an act of Congress.

But Trump could try and then fight it out in the courts, and as CinC, if he's withdrawn, it doesn't really matter about legal wrangling, he aint coming to anybody's aid.

 

[Zidane98]

 

[CD Xbow]

Lucky Biden passed a law in 2023 which prohibits the US President from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO without a two-third Senate super-majority or an act of Congress.

But Trump could try and then fight it out in the courts, and as CinC, if he's withdrawn, it doesn't really matter about legal wrangling, he aint coming to anybody's aid.

Did he? Someone was showing some foresight.

 

[Saint]

Did he? Someone was showing some foresight.

It was specifically in response to some of the things Trump said.

Just shows that when you do put things in law, instead of faffing about like the Democrats usually do, it can work.