Ukraine War Update BUMPER NEWS: Geopolitical News

Hello Team

🎦 00:01-00:30⏩

Jonathan welcomes viewers to the video and explains that there is a lot of information to share, even though he's already spoken to them a lot that day. He will start with some American politics, then move on to European politics.

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Russian state TV host Olga Skabieva's claim on Putin's position on negotiation

🎦 00:58-01:27⏩

Russian state TV host Olga Skabieva claimed Putin won't negotiate with Ukraine. Jonathan shares this information and highlights that Skabieva's commentary often includes genocidal rhetoric and propaganda.

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Russian state TV host Malak Dudukov's claims on American third-party candidates

🎦 01:20-02:11⏩

Russian state TV host Malak Dudukov claimed that third-party candidates Cornel West, Jill Stein, and Robert Kennedy Jr. are spoilers who can imperil Kamala Harris's campaign and create an opportunity for Trump.

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Analysis of third-party candidates' impact on American politics

🎦 02:11-02:54⏩

Jonathan analyzes how Dudukov's commentary highlights a potential Russian preference for a Trump victory and suggests that these third-party candidates, at least in the context of foreign policy and Russia, are not acting in America's interests. He quotes a comment from a viewer that calls these candidates "useful American tools to help Russia interfere in our elections."

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Trump's claim about ending the war in Ukraine

🎦 02:54-03:15⏩

Trump claimed he could end the war in Ukraine by reducing oil prices for Russia to $40 per barrel. He hinted that he could settle the war before taking office if he wins the election.

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The effectiveness of the price cap on Russian oil

🎦 03:15-04:32⏩

Jonathan explains that the price cap for Russian oil initially worked, but Russia has found ways around it. He notes that the price cap was meant to limit Russia's revenue and ability to fund the war.

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Trump's lack of detail on his oil price plan

🎦 04:32-05:34⏩

Jonathan points out Trump's lack of detail on how he would force Russia to sell oil at $40 a barrel. He suggests the only way to achieve this would be for the US to sell off its reserves, which would ultimately hurt the US in the long run.

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Trump's claim about settling the war within 24 hours

🎦 05:34-05:53⏩

Trump claimed he could settle the war within 24 hours by negotiating with Putin and Zelensky. Jonathan expresses skepticism about this claim, suggesting that Trump is out of touch with reality.

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Allegations of Russian interference in the US election

🎦 05:53-07:10⏩

Jonathan discusses a previous case where $10 million was allegedly funneled from Russia to a US media organization and then to YouTubers to disseminate pro-Russian propaganda. He mentions that Trump has downplayed this incident. Jonathan then shares information about a recent statement from the Justice Department, suggesting Russia might be involved in the upcoming elections again.

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Analysis of the Justice Department's statement about Russian involvement in elections

🎦 07:10-07:59⏩

Jonathan expresses frustration with the Justice Department's focus on Russia, suggesting that they should be looking at China and Iran too. He calls out the hypocrisy of focusing on Russia while overlooking other countries.

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Trump's response to Putin's endorsement of Harris

🎦 07:59-08:32⏩

Jonathan discusses Trump's response to Putin's statement that he wants Harris to win the election. Trump claims that Putin was joking and is actually supporting him. Jonathan analyzes this as a potential double bluff by Putin, aimed at swaying voters.

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Trump's history with Putin

🎦 08:32-09:21⏩

Jonathan highlights Trump's history with Putin, mentioning that Putin previously endorsed Biden and now Harris. He suggests that Putin's endorsement of Harris was a calculated move, as he is a chess player.

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Trump's claim about being tough on Russia

🎦 09:21-09:48⏩

Trump has claimed that he is the toughest on Russia in history. Jonathan points out the absurdity of this claim, reminding viewers of the Cold War and suggesting that Trump is out of touch with historical context.

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Trump's relationship with Putin

🎦 09:48-11:33⏩

Jonathan discusses a previous exchange between Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin, where Obama acknowledged a relationship with Putin and said he was interested in Obama's actions. He then discusses a comment from Trump, where Trump claims that Putin has done an amazing job. Jonathan questions Trump's metric of success for Putin and his admiration for dictators. He also mentions that Obama and George W. Bush have also faced challenges with Putin.

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Trump's tendency to praise dictators

🎦 11:33-12:16⏩

Jonathan highlights Trump's tendency to praise dictators, mentioning his admiration for Kim Jong-un, Jair Bolsonaro, and Viktor Orbán. He suggests that Trump has a fascination with strongmen.

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Mike Johnson's stance on Ukraine

🎦 12:16-13:06⏩

Jonathan discusses Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House, who has been critical of the Biden administration's handling of aid to Ukraine. He notes that Johnson's personal opinions on Russia are actually fairly positive and that he has spoken out in support of Ukraine.

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Trump's silence on Ukraine

🎦 13:06-13:37⏩

Jonathan expresses frustration with Trump's silence on supporting Ukraine. He questions why Trump, despite having positive opinions on Russia, doesn't speak publicly in support of Ukraine.

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Nikki Haley's stance on Ukraine

🎦 13:37-14:30⏩

Jonathan discusses Nikki Haley's stance on Ukraine, noting that she has expressed strong support for Ukraine and has used this as a campaign differentiator. He questions why Haley, along with Mike Johnson and Lindsey Graham, are not speaking out more publicly on Fox News, where other Republicans are promoting different views on Ukraine.

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US and UK sanctions on Iran

🎦 14:38-15:33⏩

Jonathan discusses the US and UK's decision to take "serious actions" against Iran due to its supply of missiles to Russia. He notes that Blinken has confirmed Iran's involvement and that the US and UK have imposed further sanctions on Iran.

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Analysis of the impact of sanctions on Iran

🎦 15:33-15:42⏩

Jonathan suggests that the sanctions on Iran will have a greater impact on Russia, as they are more reliant on the Iranian supply of missiles.

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Russia-funded media outlet RT's propaganda operations in the US

🎦 15:42-16:52⏩

Jonathan discusses an article in NBC News about a Russia-funded media outlet, RT, and its propaganda operations in the US. He notes that RT has used divisive language to manipulate public opinion and gain viewership. He mentions that RT has hired journalists from both the UK and the US.

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Analysis of the impact of RT's propaganda operations

🎦 16:52-17:43⏩

Jonathan analyzes the impact of RT's operations, noting that they were initially seen as relatively benign. However, as relations between the US and Russia deteriorated, RT became more aggressive and its editor-in-chief, Margarita Simonian, became a key figure in Russian propaganda.

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Shift in Russian propaganda strategies

🎦 17:43-18:12⏩

Jonathan discusses a shift in Russian propaganda strategies, noting that they are moving away from overt propaganda outlets like RT to a "tenant media" model, where they are funneling money to YouTubers.

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Impact of the internet on news consumption

🎦 18:12-19:10⏩

Jonathan notes that more people are getting their news from the internet than from mainstream media. He acknowledges that mainstream media has regulations that prevent the spread of disinformation, but he also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong mainstream media presence, as it plays a crucial role in delivering news.

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Russia's use of the "tenant media" model

🎦 19:10-19:37⏩

Jonathan explains Russia's use of the "tenant media" model, citing an example where they gave $10 million to YouTubers to produce pro-Russian content. He mentions that Tim Pool is one YouTuber who has been caught receiving money from this source.

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Analysis of the effectiveness of the "tenant media" model

🎦 19:37-22:06⏩

Jonathan analyzes the effectiveness of the "tenant media" model, referencing a viewer's comment that points out the low engagement on Tim Pool's videos on Ukraine. He suggests that the Russian funding might not be as effective as they hoped, as viewers seem more interested in divisive culture war topics than in the Ukraine-Russia war.

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Russia's long-term propaganda strategy

🎦 22:06-23:34⏩

Jonathan discusses Russia's long-term propaganda strategy, citing an expert's opinion that Russia has been using disinformation to manipulate US domestic crises. He notes that the Justice Department's focus on RT is only one part of the solution and that a more covert campaign using fake news articles is also concerning.

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Russia's multi-pronged disinformation campaign

🎦 23:34-24:16⏩

Jonathan explains Russia's multi-pronged disinformation campaign, highlighting three key components: official news outlets like Sputnik and RIA Novosti, fake news articles disguised as legitimate media, and individuals who are paid to produce pro-Russian content.

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The content produced by Russia-funded YouTubers

🎦 24:16-25:07⏩

Jonathan discusses the content produced by Russia-funded YouTubers, noting that it often focuses on American events and issues like immigration, inflation, and other domestic and foreign policy topics. He notes that this content is designed to amplify US domestic divisions and weaken US opposition to Russian interests.

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RT's role in the 2016 US election

🎦 25:07-25:43⏩

Jonathan discusses RT's role in the 2016 US election, highlighting the US intelligence findings that RT collaborated with Wikileaks to influence the election by promoting Donald Trump and denigrating Hillary Clinton. He acknowledges that some Trump supporters will be critical of this information.

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RT's response to NBC News

🎦 25:43-26:38⏩

Jonathan shares RT's humorous response to NBC News's questions about their involvement in spreading disinformation, calling it "tongue-in-cheek." He highlights the blasé attitude of RT towards their actions.

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The continued impact of RT's propaganda

🎦 26:38-27:04⏩

Jonathan discusses the continued impact of RT's propaganda, noting that it still has a significant reach in the US and that RT Espanol is very popular in Latin America.

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Russia's focus on Latin America

🎦 27:04-27:16⏩

Jonathan mentions that Russia is focusing on Latin America for its disinformation campaigns.

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RT's strategy of inflaming divisions

🎦 27:16-28:02⏩

Jonathan discusses RT's strategy of inflaming social and political divisions rather than spreading outright lies. He gives the example of immigration, highlighting how RT amplifies issues with immigration to sow division and weaken social cohesion.

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Russia's influence on the domestic sphere

🎦 28:02-28:34⏩

Jonathan emphasizes the importance of Russian influence on the domestic sphere, acknowledging that it feeds off of international issues and can have a significant impact on US politics.

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RT's determination to continue influencing the US

🎦 28:34-29:23⏩

Jonathan shares a quote from Margarita Simonian, RT's editor-in-chief, where she vows that RT will continue influencing the US audience. She claims that RT will "crawl out of every crack" to reach their audience and that it is their duty to Russia.

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Google's blocking of Russian accounts

🎦 29:23-30:11⏩

Jonathan discusses Google's decision to stop registering new accounts for Russian numbers, potentially due to sanctions. He notes that this move will likely have an impact on Russian companies and individuals.

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Impact of sanctions on Russian IT companies

🎦 30:11-31:36⏩

Jonathan discusses the impact of sanctions on Russian IT companies. He mentions that Microsoft has also stopped providing services in Russia and that other IT companies are likely to follow suit. He suggests that this will put Russia in a difficult position regarding IT services.

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Telegram outage

🎦 31:36-32:02⏩

Jonathan mentions a major outage experienced by Telegram, a messaging platform founded by Pavel Durov. He notes that Durov has been arrested and released in France, and his passport has been taken.

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Analysis of the impact of Russian disinformation campaigns

🎦 32:02-33:08⏩

Jonathan analyzes the impact of Russian disinformation campaigns, noting that they may have a relatively low return on investment, but they play a role in a broader strategy. He emphasizes that the spread of disinformation can create divisions and amplify certain messages, which can have a significant impact on political trends.

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Rise of the far right in Europe

🎦 33:08-33:52⏩

Jonathan discusses the rise of the far right in Europe, citing examples like the AfD in Germany, Rassemblement National in France, and Vox in Spain. He notes that Russia has been successful in amplifying divisive messages that have contributed to this trend.

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Germany's response to the rise of the far right

🎦 33:52-34:21⏩

Jonathan discusses Germany's response to the rise of the far right, mentioning that the left-wing coalition government is trying to address the issue by taking a hard line on immigration.

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Germany's potential border controls

🎦 34:21-35:15⏩

Jonathan discusses Germany's potential reintroduction of border controls, highlighting the concerns of other EU countries as this would go against the Schengen Code. He notes that this move could have a domino effect, leading to a potential unraveling of the Schengen system.

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Justification for Germany's border controls

🎦 35:15-35:45⏩

Jonathan questions the justification for Germany's potential border controls, suggesting that it could be a response to the success of the AfD party in local elections.

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Understanding the importance of free movement of people in the EU

🎦 35:45-37:40⏩

Jonathan discusses the importance of free movement of people in the EU, highlighting the economic and trade benefits that it brings. He criticizes those who oppose free movement while advocating for low regulation, pointing out the hypocrisy of their stance.

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The potential impact of Germany's border controls

🎦 37:40-39:28⏩

Jonathan discusses the potential impact of Germany's border controls, suggesting that it could lead to a domino effect where other countries follow suit. He argues that this would move away from free market economics and have negative economic consequences for the EU.

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The impact of the far right on the EU

🎦 39:28-40:36⏩

Jonathan discusses the impact of the far right on the EU, suggesting that the rise of the far right is putting pressure on mainstream parties to adopt more restrictive migration policies. He notes that this trend is causing chaos and instability within the EU.

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Russia's potential return on investment from disinformation campaigns

🎦 40:36-41:28⏩

Jonathan emphasizes the potential return on investment for Russia from its disinformation campaigns. He argues that these campaigns are contributing to instability and weakening support for Ukraine.

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The potential impact of the EU's instability on Ukraine

🎦 41:28-42:11⏩

Jonathan discusses the potential impact of the EU's instability on Ukraine, suggesting that if the EU faces economic and political chaos, support for Ukraine will likely suffer. He sees this as a key strategic goal for Russia.

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Olaf Scholz's potential peace plan

🎦 42:11-42:40⏩

Jonathan discusses Olaf Scholz's potential peace plan for Ukraine, suggesting that Scholz may be trying to expedite a peace deal due to pressure from the far right in Germany.

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Criticism of Olaf Scholz's potential peace plan

🎦 42:40-43:32⏩

Jonathan criticizes Scholz's potential peace plan, suggesting that it is motivated by short-term electoral calculations rather than a long-term strategy for Europe. He shares a comment from a viewer who suggests that Scholz is willing to accept Russian money even while Russians are attacking German interests.

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The potential outcome of German elections

🎦 43:32-43:54⏩

Jonathan discusses the potential outcome of the German elections, suggesting that a win for the far right would be a disaster for Ukraine. He expresses hope that the CDU will be able to regain power and provide a more stable government.

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Allegations of Russian funding for the BSW party in Germany

🎦 43:54-44:14⏩

Jonathan discusses allegations that the BSW party in Germany is being funded by Russian oligarchs.

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Russian influence on American politics

🎦 44:14-44:52⏩

Jonathan discusses Russian influence on American politics, citing a case where Russian money was funneled through a Hungarian organization to the Heritage Foundation, which then produced a blueprint for a Trump administration.

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German Foreign Minister's criticism of Scholz

🎦 45:07-45:43⏩

Jonathan discusses the German Foreign Minister's criticism of Chancellor Scholz's party for its hesitance regarding support for Ukraine.

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Shoigu's statement on negotiations

🎦 45:43-46:09⏩

Jonathan discusses a statement by Russian Defense Minister Shoigu, who said that Russia will not negotiate with Ukraine until Ukrainian forces are withdrawn from Russian territory. Jonathan counters this by suggesting that there should be no negotiations until Russia is withdrawn from Ukrainian territory.

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Biden administration's Ukraine strategy report

🎦 46:09-46:33⏩

Jonathan discusses the Biden administration's Ukraine strategy report that was submitted to Congress. He notes that this report was supposed to be submitted 45 days ago, but it was delayed.

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EU's potential suspension of funding to Slovakia

🎦 46:33-47:06⏩

Jonathan discusses the EU's potential suspension of funding to Slovakia due to violations of democratic norms.

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Slovakia's support for Russia

🎦 47:06-47:23⏩

Jonathan discusses Slovakia's support for Russia, noting that Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico has been critical of Ukraine.

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Fico's comments about Ukrainian troops

🎦 47:23-47:51⏩

Jonathan discusses Fico's comments about Ukrainian troops, highlighting how Fico has repeated the Russian propaganda that Ukrainian forces are Nazis.

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Swedish aid package for Ukraine

🎦 47:51-48:11⏩

Jonathan discusses a significant aid package announced by Sweden for Ukraine.

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Drones at Sweden's largest airport

🎦 48:11-48:23⏩

Jonathan mentions that drones were spotted at Sweden's largest airport, causing flight disruptions.

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Orbán's peace mission

🎦 48:23-48:51⏩

Jonathan discusses Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's "peace mission" concerning the war in Ukraine. He suggests that Orbán's mission is designed to benefit Russia.

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Hungarian energy company's deal with Russia

🎦 48:51-49:15⏩

Jonathan discusses a deal between Molnart, a Hungarian energy company, and Russia to ensure the continued supply of Russian crude oil through Ukraine. He notes that this could potentially mean more money going to Russia.

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Flights redirected around Sweden's main airport

🎦 49:15-49:39⏩

Jonathan discusses flights being redirected around Sweden's main airport due to drone activity.

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Kurt Wilders's meeting with Zelensky

🎦 49:39-50:18⏩

Jonathan discusses Kurt Wilders, the head of the PV party in the Netherlands, who is considered the Dutch Trump. He notes that Wilders is generally anti-immigration and pro-Russian, but he has softened his stance to gain support in the Netherlands.

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Wilders's stance on Russia and Ukraine

🎦 50:18-50:32⏩

Jonathan questions Wilders's true stance on Russia and Ukraine.

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Netherlands's support for Ukraine

🎦 50:32-50:48⏩

Jonathan highlights the Netherlands's strong support for Ukraine, noting that they are one of the leading countries in providing aid.

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Russia's energy problems

🎦 50:48-51:21⏩

Jonathan discusses Russia's energy problems, noting that the Russian energy industry is facing funding issues and has exhausted Soviet energy reserves.

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Putin's comments on energy problems in the far east

🎦 51:21-51:40⏩

Jonathan discusses Putin's comments about energy problems in the far east, noting that the shutdown of a power unit at the Rostov nuclear power plant has caused disruptions.

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Cryptocurrency mining in Russia

🎦 51:40-52:06⏩

Jonathan discusses cryptocurrency mining in Russia, noting that Putin has expressed concerns that it poses a threat to energy security. He mentions the State Duma's approval of a law on mining.

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Impact of the war on Russia's energy sector

🎦 52:06-52:21⏩

Jonathan discusses the impact of the war on Russia's energy sector, suggesting that it is suffering due to the war effort. He notes that Gazprom, a Russian energy giant, has suffered record losses due to heavy taxes imposed by the Kremlin.

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Russia's potential interest in Ukraine's lithium deposits

🎦 52:21-53:24⏩

Jonathan discusses Russia's potential interest in Ukraine's lithium deposits, suggesting that the war could be related to Russia's desire to control Ukraine's resources. He mentions that Ukraine has significant lithium deposits, which are crucial for electric cars and battery production. He also notes that Ukraine has major gas deposits, making it a strategic resource for both Russia and the West.

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Russia's potential motives for invading Ukraine

🎦 53:24-53:43⏩

Jonathan suggests that Russia's invasion of Ukraine could be driven by its desire to control the country's lithium deposits, as the world transitions towards a more electrified energy sector.

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Russia's involvement in the Mali massacre

🎦 53:43-54:37⏩

Jonathan discusses Russia's involvement in a massacre in Mali, where Wagner mercenaries were accused of killing civilians. He notes that Russian soldiers forced local men to bury the bodies in mass graves.

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Blinken and Lammy's meeting

🎦 54:37-55:01⏩

Jonathan mentions a meeting between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy. He suggests that there could be a relaxation of restrictions on the use of missiles against Russia.

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US, France, Germany, and UK sanctions on Iran

🎦 55:01-55:31⏩

Jonathan discusses new sanctions imposed by the US, France, Germany, and UK on Iran, including sanctions on Iran Air. He also notes that the UK is imposing sanctions on parts of the Russian Air Force.

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The UN's inability to force Russia to comply with international law

🎦 55:31-57:00⏩

Jonathan discusses the UN's inability to force Russia to comply with international law, citing a statement from UN General Assembly President Denis Francis. Francis emphasizes that the UN does not operate through coercion, but rather through values and beliefs. Jonathan questions the UN's lack of teeth in dealing with Russia's actions.

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