Ukraine War Update NEWS: Military Aid & Geopolitical News

"We never liked the French, and now we're convinced of this."

Hello Team

🎦 00:00-00:14⏩

Jonathan welcomes viewers to the second part of the Ukraine War Update. He acknowledges that the first part was rather lengthy and aims to be more concise in this instalment.

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NATO Members' Procurement of Patriot Missiles

🎦 00:14-01:07⏩

European NATO members, including Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Spain, have reached an agreement to jointly procure 1,000 Patriot air defence missiles. This decision comes as Ukraine faces a relentless barrage of Russian ballistic and cruise missiles, alongside the deployment of Shahed drones, highlighting the urgent need for air defence systems and munitions. Jonathan emphasises that this collaborative effort underscores the commitment of NATO allies to bolstering Ukraine's defence capabilities.

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Effectiveness of Mobile Air Defence Fire Groups

🎦 01:07-02:57⏩

Jonathan discusses the effectiveness of mobile air defence fire groups, highlighting their crucial role in intercepting Russian drones and missiles. Recent statistics indicate that these groups successfully destroyed 8 out of 17 drones and 11 out of 48 missiles on 2nd January 2024. This high success rate is particularly significant given the cost-effectiveness of these groups compared to sophisticated air defence systems like NASAMs, SAMs, SAMP/Ts, and Patriots. He expresses surprise at the effectiveness, admitting he initially perceived them as less impactful. The successful interceptions alleviate the burden on more expensive air defence systems, demonstrating their valuable contribution to Ukraine's defence strategy.

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Norway's F-16 Fighter Jet Contribution and Training Support to Ukraine

🎦 02:57-03:09⏩

Norway will supply Ukraine with two F-16 fighter jets and provide training to Ukrainian pilots in Denmark. This contribution aligns with the broader international effort to equip and train the Ukrainian Air Force, demonstrating Norway's commitment to enhancing Ukraine's defence capabilities against ongoing Russian aggression.

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Slovakia and Hungary: Discrepancy Between Political Rhetoric and Defence Support for Ukraine

🎦 03:10-13:41⏩

Jonathan delves into the seemingly contradictory stance of Slovakia and Hungary, where despite anti-Ukrainian political rhetoric, their defence industries are actively aiding Ukraine. He cites a Euromaidan Press article highlighting the shift in Slovakia's government stance from outright refusal to provide arms to a more nuanced approach of fulfilling existing contracts and engaging in joint production agreements. This approach allows Slovakia to maintain its defence industry while indirectly supplying Ukraine. Jonathan argues that economic motivations, particularly the pursuit of profits in the international defence market, are driving these decisions. He underscores the substantial profits generated by Slovakian defence companies like Konštrukta - Defence, citing their significant increase in sales and net profit in 2022. Jonathan then shifts focus to Hungary, highlighting the country's burgeoning defence industry and its collaboration with German company Rheinmetall. He questions whether Rheinmetall's significant investment in Hungarian defence manufacturing could be a strategic move to influence Hungary's geopolitical stance towards Ukraine. He postulates that by fostering economic interdependence, the EU, through Rheinmetall, might be able to exert leverage on Hungary's policies. He concludes by highlighting the rapid growth of Hungary's defence sector, noting its potential to become a major producer of 155mm artillery shells for NATO by 2027, indirectly benefiting Ukraine.

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German Air Defence Aid to Ukraine and Production Capacity

🎦 13:41-15:07⏩

Jonathan addresses Germany's provision of air defence systems to Ukraine, quoting German government spokesperson Steffen Hebestreit, who confirms Germany has supplied what is feasible within its production capacity. The limiting factor remains production, with talks underway to prioritize Ukraine's needs over existing orders from other governments. Hebestreit reveals Germany's current production capacity for key air defence systems, including the TRML-4D and IRIS-T SLM, highlighting the challenges in meeting the high demand. He also mentions ongoing discussions with various countries, likely those involved in the European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI), to potentially delay their orders in favour of Ukraine, underscoring the urgency of bolstering Ukraine's air defences.

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Ukraine's Domestic Defence Production Increase

🎦 15:07-15:56⏩

Jonathan reports that Ukraine plans to increase its domestic defence production sixfold by 2024, allocating over ₴265 billion (approximately $7 billion) for weapons procurement, production, and repairs, as announced by Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal. He also highlights Ukraine's goal to reduce its reliance on external financing in 2024, aiming for a reduction of $5 billion compared to the previous year, indicating a move towards greater self-sufficiency in sustaining its defence efforts.

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Mickey Rourke's Support for Kherson's Reconstruction

🎦 15:56-16:20⏩

Jonathan shifts to a lighter note, sharing that Hollywood actor Mickey Rourke is raising $1 million to support the reconstruction efforts in Kherson, drawing a parallel between Denmark's significant aid to Mykolaiv and Rourke's commitment to Kherson, showcasing individual acts of solidarity with Ukraine.

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Update on US Funding for Ukraine Aid

🎦 16:20-17:42⏩

Jonathan addresses the news regarding the depletion of US funds allocated for Ukraine aid, citing US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby's statement on 3rd January 2024. The US government can no longer draw from existing funds and awaits Congressional approval for a new $61 billion aid package. Despite this, Kirby asserts that no evidence of misuse or large-scale corruption in the management of US military aid by Ukraine has been found, directly countering Russian propaganda narratives.

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Slovakia's President Condemns Russian Attacks on Civilians

🎦 17:42-18:14⏩

Jonathan turns to geopolitical developments, highlighting Slovakian President Zuzana Čaputová's condemnation of Russian attacks targeting Ukrainian civilians, emphasizing that continued military support for Ukraine remains the most effective way to deter further Russian aggression. He draws attention to the contrasting stance of Slovakia's president and its prime minister, underscoring the internal political dynamics surrounding aid to Ukraine.

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NATO Response to Russian Attacks on Civilian Infrastructure

🎦 18:14-18:36⏩

Jonathan reports that NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has convened a meeting of the NATO-Ukraine Council following Russia's sustained missile and drone attacks on Ukraine's civilian infrastructure. This signifies a coordinated response from NATO to address Russia's escalation and reaffirm its support for Ukraine.

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US Becomes World's Top LNG Exporter

🎦 18:36-19:49⏩

Jonathan discusses the US becoming the world's leading exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), surpassing Australia and Qatar, a development he links to the ongoing war in Ukraine. He argues that this shift benefits the US economically, countering American critics of providing aid to Ukraine. He highlights the rapid growth of US LNG exports since 2016 and suggests that this economic advantage strengthens the argument for continued US support for Ukraine.

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Ukraine and Westinghouse Develop New Nuclear Fuel

🎦 19:49-21:14⏩

Jonathan reports on Ukraine's collaboration with Westinghouse, a US-based nuclear technology company, to develop a new type of nuclear fuel, a move aimed at reducing dependence on Russian nuclear fuel supplies. He quotes Ukrainian Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko, confirming the successful implementation of the new fuel in Ukrainian nuclear power plants, effectively challenging Rosatom's, a Russian state-owned nuclear energy corporation, monopoly in the market. This development paves the way for potentially sanctioning Rosatom, further isolating Russia economically and strategically.

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Polish Farmers Resume Blockade of Ukrainian Border

🎦 21:14-22:25⏩

Jonathan expresses concern over the resumption of the blockade at the Polish-Ukrainian border by Polish farmers who protest the influx of Ukrainian agricultural products, which they perceive as a threat to their livelihoods. Despite a temporary reprieve, the blockade has resumed, as reported by the Polish Press Agency, citing Roman Kondral, the leader of the protesting farmers' organization. Jonathan acknowledges the delicate balance that needs to be struck between supporting Ukraine and addressing the concerns of Polish farmers and truck drivers who face economic hardship due to the influx of cheaper Ukrainian goods and haulage services.

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Donald Tusk's Response to the Border Blockade

🎦 22:25-22:41⏩

Jonathan discusses Donald Tusk's, Poland's former prime minister, response to the border blockade, quoting Tusk's pledge to address the concerns of Polish carriers while ensuring the blockade is lifted, reflecting the ongoing political efforts to manage the situation and find a resolution that balances support for Ukraine with domestic economic concerns.

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Russian Missile Enters Polish Airspace

🎦 22:41-23:35⏩

Jonathan reports on a concerning incident where a Russian missile reportedly crossed into Polish airspace during a mass attack on Ukraine on 29th December 2023. Polish authorities are investigating the incident, with Polish security official Jacek Siewiera stating they possess information confirming the missile's Russian origin and deeming the 40-kilometer incursion into Polish territory unlikely to be accidental. Jonathan expresses astonishment at the depth of the incursion, raising concerns about potential escalation and the need for a thorough investigation.

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French Foreign Ministry Defends Ukraine's Actions in Belgorod

🎦 23:35-24:06⏩

Jonathan discusses the French Foreign Ministry's statement regarding the Ukrainian strikes on targets in Belgorod, Russia, on 30th December 2023. The statement unequivocally supports Ukraine's right to self-defence under Article 51 of the UN Charter, emphasizing that Ukraine, as a victim of aggression, is justified in taking actions to protect its territory. The French Foreign Ministry directly calls upon Russia to end the conflict, signalling strong diplomatic support for Ukraine.

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Dmitry Medvedev's Reaction to the French Statement

🎦 24:06-25:06⏩

Jonathan reports on Dmitry Medvedev's, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, fiery reaction to the French Foreign Ministry's statement supporting Ukraine's right to self-defence. He expresses astonishment at Medvedev's alleged statement: "We never liked the French, and now we're convinced of this," questioning its authenticity given Medvedev's reputation for making controversial remarks. Jonathan highlights the absurdity of Medvedev's statement, particularly in light of France's unwavering support for Ukraine, ironically providing further justification for France to strengthen its assistance to Ukraine.

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Georgia's Show of Support for Ukraine

🎦 25:06-26:29⏩

Jonathan highlights a powerful display of solidarity with Ukraine in Georgia, describing a mural on a building that underscores the shared experience of Russian aggression faced by both nations. The mural depicts a map of Georgia with 20% of its territory under Russian occupation, highlighting the ongoing consequences of the 2008 Russo-Georgian War. It also features an image of a Ukrainian soldier forced to dig his own grave before being executed for uttering the phrase "Slava Ukraini" (Glory to Ukraine), a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during the ongoing war. Jonathan points out the significance of the mural, emphasizing Georgia's strong support for Ukraine despite the complex geopolitical realities and the presence of pro-Russian sentiments within the country's political landscape.

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Kazakhstan Stops Broadcasting Russian TV Channels

🎦 26:29-27:36⏩

Jonathan discusses Kazakhstan's decision to cease broadcasting Russian TV channels, including the prominent Channel One, interpreting it as a sign of Russia's diminishing influence in the region. He emphasizes the importance of countering disinformation, a strategy Kazakhstan is actively pursuing by blocking Russian propaganda outlets like Tsargrad and Sputnik. He commends Kazakhstan for taking proactive measures to limit the spread of Russian propaganda and misinformation, which he sees as crucial in countering Russia's aggressive foreign policy.

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Lukashenko Amends Belarusian Law to Grant Himself Immunity

🎦 27:36-28:36⏩

Jonathan shifts focus to Belarus, reporting on Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's amendments to the country's constitution, granting himself immunity from prosecution even after leaving office. He draws parallels between Lukashenko's actions and similar moves made by Putin in Russia, suggesting a pattern of authoritarian leaders consolidating power and seeking to evade accountability for potential crimes. He criticizes Lukashenko's efforts to shield himself from accountability, emphasizing the need to hold him responsible for his role in facilitating the Russian invasion of Ukraine and for human rights abuses within Belarus.

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Russia Facing Egg Shortage, Imports from Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Iran

🎦 28:36-29:07⏩

Jonathan ends the update on a lighter note, reporting on the egg shortage in Russia, which he presents as another indicator of the economic challenges brought on by the war and international sanctions. He mentions the arrival of the first batch of eggs from Turkey and the anticipated imports from Azerbaijan and Iran, suggesting that even seemingly mundane aspects of daily life are being affected by the ongoing conflict and Russia's increasing international isolation.

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Wrap up

🎦 29:07-29:11⏩

Jonathan thanks viewers for watching the update, encouraging them to like, subscribe, and share the video. He bids farewell with a promise to provide further updates soon.

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