Ukraine War Update NEWS: Military Aid News

"China is facilitating Russia's war machine and war project. What are we doing about it? What are we doing about Iran? What are we doing about North Korea? We're just sitting by and we're letting them do it. We're allowing them to have prominent roles in the UN Security Council. How is that? How is that happening? We need to be strong here and we need to be strong against China and against Russia and against Iran and against North Korea. So this is an inflection point in time and it has been for the last two and a half years, and we're still kind of floundering. We're saying the right things often, and we're doing just enough. We need to do more. We need to be stronger."

Hello Team

🎦 00:00-00:54⏩

Jonathan welcomes everyone to another video and comments on the amount of content he is producing due to the US presidential campaigns and UN summit. Jonathan acknowledges that it's a lot to ask viewers to watch all of his videos and suggests changing the playback speed (to 1.25, 1.5, 1.75, or even 2x speed) to help get through them.

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Poland's Foreign Minister on CNN

🎦 00:54-03:00⏩

Jonathan discusses an interview with Polish Foreign Minister, Radislav Sikorski, by CNN's Christiane Amanpour. Sikorski, a staunch advocate for Ukraine, questions the US's rationale for restricting Ukraine from striking military targets within Russia. He argues that there is no justification for preventing Ukraine from defending itself, even if it means striking targets on Russian soil.

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G7 Energy Support for Ukraine

🎦 03:00-03:33⏩

Jonathan reports on a G7 meeting focussed on energy support for Ukraine, with the Netherlands (209.5 million euros), Germany (100 million euros), France (60 million euros), Denmark (17 million euros) and Japan all announcing new aid packages.

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Germany's Skynex Air Defence System Deployed in Ukraine

🎦 03:33-04:45⏩

Jonathan discusses Germany's Skynex air defence system which is now operational in Ukraine. He describes the system, noting its modular design, ability to be mounted on trucks (and potentially Leopard 1 tank chassis), and the size of the rounds. He speculates that two systems may be operational in Ukraine and highlights the effectiveness of these systems.

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Germany Supplies Helmets and Vests to Ukrainian Journalists

🎦 04:45-05:19⏩

Jonathan talks about a lesser-known aspect of aid, highlighting that 70 helmets and 70 bulletproof vests have been delivered to Ukrainian journalists from Germany. He observes that these types of targeted aid packages often go unnoticed but are significant nonetheless.

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Romania and Ukraine to Co-Develop Defence Enterprises

🎦 05:19-07:56⏩

Jonathan discusses a strategic partnership between Ukraine and Romania. The two countries are actively discussing the creation of defence enterprises in Romania to manufacture TNT, armored vehicles and drones, This initiative, Jonathan argues, demonstrates a proactive approach to bolstering Ukraine's defence industry, with the added benefit of potentially mitigating the impact of political shifts in support for Ukraine. He highlights Slovakia as a cautionary tale, where the government, now led by the pro-Russian Robert Fico, has ceased military aid to Ukraine while continuing to sell arms. Jonathan contrasts this with Romania's current political alignment with Ukraine, but underscores the importance of having a robust defence industry that can provide for Ukraine's needs regardless of political changes.

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UK to Procure Attack Drones to Support Ukraine and Boost Domestic Industry

🎦 07:56-08:58⏩

Britain is planning to purchase 300 attack drones, with the possibility of acquiring 500 more each month. Jonathan notes that these drones will bolster the UK's domestic industry while supporting Ukraine's war effort. He emphasises the long-term benefits of such investments, particularly the valuable feedback and experience gained from Ukraine's use of this equipment.

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Ukrainian Drone Innovation: Deploying a "Drone Dog"

🎦 08:58-09:48⏩

Jonathan showcases footage of a large Ukrainian hexacopter drone carrying a "drone dog" which it can deploy to a specific location. The "drone dog" is presumably one of the robotic dogs supplied by the UK. Jonathan expresses amazement at this innovative use of technology and the rapid evolution of drone warfare.

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Jonathan's "Dran Pad" Concept

🎦 09:48-12:37⏩

Inspired by the "drone dog" footage, Jonathan shares his concept of a "Dran Pad" (drone-portable air defence system). He envisions small, lightweight drones that can be deployed deep into Russian territory, carrying a compact MANPAD system. These drones, pre-programmed with the flight paths of Russian aircraft, would then lie in wait and neutralise enemy planes. Although acknowledging potential limitations, Jonathan remains optimistic about the feasibility of his idea. He argues that if a drone can transport a "drone dog," it can certainly carry a "Dran Pad." Jonathan believes that establishing a network of these "Dran Pads" behind enemy lines could significantly enhance Ukraine's air defence capabilities.

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Ukraine Reports Issues with Western Artillery Ammunition

🎦 12:37-14:00⏩

Citing a report in the German publication Handelsblatt, Jonathan reveals that Ukraine has lodged complaints regarding the quality of artillery ammunition received from the West. The Ukrainian government has reported instances of shells prematurely exploding, causing injuries and damaging equipment. The malfunctioning ammunition is believed to be older stock, particularly M515 and M15/M51A5 fuses dating back to World War II. Jonathan draws parallels with Russia's experience with faulty North Korean ammunition, underscoring the crucial role of ammunition quality in warfare.

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Trump's Misleading Claims about US Aid to Ukraine

🎦 14:00-16:49⏩

Jonathan addresses false claims made by former US President Donald Trump, who alleged that Zelensky walked away with $100 billion in cash during each US visit and downplayed Russia's military aggression. Jonathan highlights the factual inaccuracies and misleading nature of these statements, calling them "Russian propaganda." He shares a scathing critique from Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican representative, who condemns Trump's pro-Russian stance and characterises his comments as "despicable." Jonathan then cites data from the Kiel Institute, a German think tank, to debunk Trump's assertion that the US has given $300 billion in aid. He points out that, in reality, total US aid to Ukraine amounts to just under $100 billion, with the EU surpassing that figure. Jonathan expresses concern over the spread of such misinformation, particularly during a US presidential election, and emphasises the need for accurate information and accountability.

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EU Pledges Continued Support for Ukraine Regardless of US Election Outcome

🎦 16:49-18:58⏩

Jonathan discusses the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine irrespective of the outcome of the US election. Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, has affirmed the bloc's unwavering support for Ukraine, even if US aid were to diminish following the election. This pledge, Jonathan notes, is significant given concerns about a potential decline in US support under a new administration. The EU's steadfast commitment, he asserts, provides a vital lifeline for Ukraine amidst uncertainty surrounding future US involvement.

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Biden Administration Seeks to Extend Ukraine Funding Authority Amidst Congressional Concerns

🎦 18:58-20:59⏩

Jonathan reports that the Biden administration is working to extend its authority to send $5.9 billion worth of weapons and military equipment to Ukraine before the current funding expires at the end of the month. However, due to political complexities and congressional gridlock, the administration faces obstacles in securing a straightforward extension. To circumvent these challenges, the administration is considering a workaround that would allow the Pentagon to continue supplying weapons to Ukraine, but only those previously approved for transfer. This restriction, Jonathan points out, limits the types of equipment that can be sent, potentially hindering Ukraine's ability to adapt to evolving battlefield needs.

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Russia, with Iranian Mediation, Negotiates Transfer of P-800 Onyx Missiles to Yemen's Houthi Rebels

🎦 20:59-22:47⏩

Citing a Reuters report, Jonathan reveals that Russia, through Iranian mediation, is engaged in secret negotiations to transfer P-800 Onyx anti-ship missiles to Yemen's Houthi rebels. This move, he warns, poses a significant threat to the Red Sea trade corridor and raises serious concerns about Russia's destabilising actions in the region. Jonathan questions the international community's response, particularly that of the UN, given Russia's permanent seat on the Security Council.

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Fabian Hoffmann Criticises the West's Response to Russia and its Allies

🎦 22:47-24:08⏩

Jonathan highlights the insights of Fabian Hoffmann, who criticises the West's inadequate response to Russia's actions, particularly the transfer of missiles to Yemen. Hoffmann argues that instead of taking decisive action against Russia, Iran and North Korea, the West is engaging in appeasement and failing to safeguard the international order. Jonathan agrees with Hoffmann's assessment, expressing concern about the lack of a robust response to these threats. He questions whether the US's focus on domestic issues, such as the upcoming presidential election, is hindering its ability to address pressing international challenges.

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Blinken Calls for Halt to Russia's Military Cooperation with Iran, China and North Korea

🎦 24:08-25:44⏩

Jonathan reports on US Secretary of State Antony Blinken's call for an end to Russia's military cooperation with Iran, North Korea and China. He highlights the growing concern over China's increasing support for Russia's war effort, which Jonathan finds "deeply, deeply worrying." Jonathan emphasises the severity of the situation, pointing to violations of UN resolutions and the need for a stronger response from the West. He reiterates the importance of confronting these rogue nations and their destabilising actions, urging for greater resolve in upholding international norms and security.

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Zelensky and Stoltenberg Discuss Ukraine's NATO Membership and Air Defence Needs

🎦 25:44-26:46⏩

Jonathan reports on a meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. During the meeting, they discussed bolstering Ukraine's air defences and reiterated Ukraine's aspirations to join NATO. Jonathan emphasises the crucial role NATO continues to play in supporting Ukraine, particularly in light of potential shifts in US policy. He notes that Stoltenberg's successor, Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, is also expected to be a strong advocate for Ukraine.

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Russia Establishes Secret Attack Drone Program in China

🎦 26:46-26:55⏩

Jonathan reveals that, according to Reuters, Russia has set up a clandestine attack drone program within China. This program, he explains, involves the flight testing of a new drone, dubbed the "Garpia 3" or "G3," with assistance from Chinese specialists. Jonathan condemns China's complicity in aiding Russia's military ambitions and calls for a strong response to counter this growing threat.

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Wrap up

🎦 26:55-26:56⏩

Jonathan thanks viewers for watching and bids them farewell.

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