Ukraine War Update NEWS: Geopolitics - Wilders, Borders, Soros
Table of Contents 📖
| Topic ID | Topic Title | Timestamp |
|---|
"Nothing says fascism like shutting down academic institutions that you think are too liberal."
Hello Team!
Jonathan introduces this video as the third part of the Ukraine War News Update for November 23, 2023, focusing solely on geopolitics due to the amount of news.
Return to top⤴️
US Polling on Ukraine Aid
- 45% of Americans consider Ukraine aid too high, down from 52% last month
- GOP opposition decreased from 69% to 59%
- 38% view spending as right
Disinformation and Media Ownership
- Jonathan expresses concern over authoritarian countries owning newspapers or media outlets, citing the UAE's bid to take over the Daily Telegraph and the failed takeover of Forbes magazine due to Russian oligarch connections
- The UK Culture Secretary is considering an investigation into the Telegraph takeover
UK Guarantees World Bank Loan to Ukraine
The UK has guaranteed a $400 million loan from the World Bank to Ukraine, which will go towards pensions and doctors' salaries.
Return to top⤴️
Hungary Threatens to Block EU Decisions on Ukraine
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has threatened to block all EU decisions on financing Ukraine, opening accession negotiations, or further sanctions against Russia until EU leaders reconsider their strategy for supporting Kyiv.
Return to top⤴️
Interview with European Council President Charles Michel
- Michel emphasizes the importance of the EU acting geopolitically and supporting Ukraine
- He hopes for continued US support but stresses the need for the EU to have more domestic tools and capabilities to be resilient and influential
- Michel avoids directly commenting on potential outcomes of US elections
Bulgaria to Stop Importing Russian Oil
Bulgaria will stop importing crude oil from Russia in March 2024, preventing Russia from bypassing Western sanctions and blocking their opportunity to earn 1 billion euros.
Return to top⤴️
Russian Investment Preferences
According to Russian media, Russians consider Cyprus and Hungary as top locations for foreign investment, particularly for obtaining residence permits or citizenship.
Return to top⤴️
Dutch Election Results and Geert Wilders
- Anti-Islam populist Geert Wilders won a dramatic victory in the Dutch elections, with his PVV party set to win 35-37 seats
- Wilders will need to persuade other parties to join him in a coalition to reach the 76 seats needed for a majority
- Wilders is known for his far-right policies and pro-Russian stance, which may pose challenges for Ukraine
Argentina's President Javier Milei and Ukraine
Argentina's new far-right libertarian President Javier Milei has been in contact with President Zelensky and invited him to host a conference on Ukraine in Argentina, potentially signaling a move away from Brazil, China, and Russia.
Return to top⤴️
Czech Republic President's Comments on Russia
Petr Pavel, President of the Czech Republic, stated that all NATO countries perceive Russia as the number one threat to European security and are preparing for the possibility of a high-intensity conflict in Europe.
Return to top⤴️
Border Issues and Russian Involvement
- Finland, Norway, and Estonia are considering closing border crossings with Russia due to an influx of asylum seekers allegedly motivated and assisted by Russia
- Investigations have found Russian involvement in the blocking of borders between Poland/Slovakia and Ukraine by protesters
- The organizers of the Polish border blockade have ties to pro-Russian parties and individuals who support the annexation of Crimea
- In Slovakia, the border blockade is supported by anti-European, right-wing radical parties advocating for restoring friendly ties with Russia
George Soros and Open Society Foundations
- George Soros, a prominent left-wing supporter and philanthropist, has donated more than $19 billion over the past four decades through his Open Society Foundations
- Soros is disliked by the right, particularly in America and Hungary, where he is seen as Viktor Orban's number one enemy
- Soros' son, Alex Soros, has taken over the reins of the Open Society Foundations and plans to shift focus towards the US and Ukraine
- The Open Society Foundations have announced new projects in Ukraine to support economic recovery, rebuilding social spheres, and programs for small and medium-sized businesses, particularly veteran businesses
Wrap up
Jonathan thanks viewers for watching and encourages them to like, subscribe, and share. He invites viewers to share their thoughts and engage in debate about the topics discussed in the video.
Return to top⤴️