Ukraine War Update NEWS: Pt 1 - Overnight & Other News. I'm Angry. With Everybody.
Table of Contents 📖
"I'm super angry with the position the Biden administration is taking with regard to Ukrainian strikes into Russia."
Hello Team
🎦 00:00-00:22⏩
Jonathan welcomes viewers to the channel and apologises for the late video, attributing the delay to real-life commitments. He acknowledges that there is a lot of news to cover, none of it particularly positive. He hints at a second video.
Return to top⤴️
🪦 DISCLAIMER FOR GENERAL STAFF LOSSES DATA
- These are real people with real lives and real families who love them. Don’t let the numbers sap your humanity.
- These numbers probably aren’t accurate but they’re the best we have and we don’t need them to be accurate to be indicative of patterns of activity.
- All losses are estimates. Losses cannot be counted with accuracy because of the conditions on the ground.
- Both sides would see it to be of their advantage to minimize their own losses maximize the other side’s losses.
- Neither side releases their losses but we have enough transparency from the Ukrainian side to have confidence in they are indicative.
- Personnel losses are hard to count. If a soldier gets injured, heals up, and returns to the front line only to get injured again, is that one loss or two? Also, how to deal with losses from PMC’s or soldiers fighting with RF from occupied territories?
- Equipment losses are hard to count. If an AA complex involves several parts and one part gets disabled, is that a loss, or a fraction of a loss? If a tank gets disabled, repaired, back into the fight, then disabled again, is that one lost tank or two?
- All recorded losses are vulnerable to multiple reporting. We have already seen numerous cases of multiple drones in the air reporting the same loss from different angles as multiple engagements.
- Losses are not always reported on the same day they occurred. It is frequent that drone losses are reported at least 24 hours after other terrestrial equipment losses. Certain losses may not be reported for days or weeks for military intelligence reasons.
Ukrainian General Staff Report: Russian Losses (10th April 2024)
🎦 00:22-01:19⏩
Jonathan reviews the Ukrainian General Staff's figures for Russian losses on the 10th of April 2024. He notes that while significant, they represent a decrease compared to the high numbers reported in the previous five days. The figures include:
- 810 personnel
- 5 tanks
- 12 APVs
- 48 artillery systems (a high number for this category).
- 1 anti-aircraft warfare system
- 50 vehicles and fuel tanks
- 6 pieces of special equipment.
Jonathan speculates that this decrease could be due to reduced Russian activity on the front lines, possibly due to previous equipment losses.
Return to top⤴️
Request for help with Perun's Losses Data
🎦 01:19-02:02⏩
Jonathan highlights the substantial workload faced by Perun, who compiles loss statistics, and puts out a request for assistance from viewers. He emphasizes the meticulous and consistent nature of data collection and analysis required, urging anyone with spare time to contact Andrew if they are able to help.
Return to top⤴️
Perun's Losses Data Analysis (9th April 2024)
🎦 02:02-04:21⏩
Jonathan examines the loss data compiled by Perun for the 9th of April, 2024, describing them as "phenomenally bad" for the Russians, with a loss ratio estimated to be around 7 to 1 in favour of Ukraine. He highlights the significant financial losses for Russia, drawing attention to specific equipment losses, including:
- An aircraft (unclear if shot down by friendly fire or due to a technical malfunction)
- A Baryev B-200 drone
- A Buk air defence system
- Borisoglebsk 2 electronic warfare systems (destroyed by a Ram drone - a new type of drone identified by Jonathan)
- A substantial quantity of infantry fighting vehicles including BMP-1, BMP-2, BMP-3 and BTRs
- Numerous trucks (Kamaz and Urals), civilian vehicles and ATVs.
Jonathan reiterates that the sheer scale of the losses is unsustainable for Russia. He concludes by acknowledging the challenges faced by Andrew in processing the significant volume of incoming data and footage.
Return to top⤴️
Neil Howe: Russian Vehicle Losses Unsustainable
🎦 04:21-04:37⏩
Jonathan references open-source intelligence analyst Neil Howe, who emphasises the extraordinary scale and rate of Russian vehicle losses, stating that they are "not remotely sustainable."
Return to top⤴️
Prokofsk Region: Heavy Russian Losses and Successful Strikes
🎦 04:37-05:13⏩
Jonathan highlights data indicating significant Russian equipment and personnel losses in the Prokofsk region, specifically in the Avdiivka salient. Conversely, he notes that Russia is achieving success with its missile and drone strikes in the same region.
Return to top⤴️
General Chris Cavoli: Russia's Artillery Advantage & Concerns over Ammunition Shortages
🎦 05:13-05:52⏩
Jonathan references a statement made by General Chris Cavoli, Commander of the U.S. European Command, during a House Armed Services Committee (HASC) hearing. General Cavoli expresses concern that Russia is currently firing five times more artillery shells than Ukraine on the battlefield and warns that this ratio could increase to 10 to 1 within weeks. This highlights the urgent need for Ukraine to receive significant military aid, including artillery and ammunition, to counter this advantage.
Return to top⤴️
The Dangers of FPV Drone Warfare: An Example from Kherson
🎦 05:52-06:55⏩
Jonathan shifts focus to the inherent risks associated with FPV drone warfare, highlighting a video depicting the aftermath of an accidental explosion at a Russian FPV drone workshop in Kherson. The footage, reportedly filmed by a Russian soldier, shows the destroyed workshop and mentions casualties. Jonathan emphasises the perilous nature of handling munitions, particularly in makeshift workshops, and acknowledges the dangers faced by both sides in the conflict. He concludes that this dangerous aspect of warfare is a shared challenge for both Ukrainian and Russian forces.
Return to top⤴️
Recurring Problem: Russian Friendly Fire Incidents in Aviation
🎦 06:55-07:29⏩
Jonathan discusses the issue of Russian friendly fire incidents, noting that Russia has officially acknowledged 13 cases involving its aviation units. He mentions a recent incident in Crimea where a Russian Mi-24 helicopter crashed, with conflicting reports suggesting it was either shot down by friendly fire or suffered a technical malfunction. Jonathan emphasizes that friendly fire incidents seem to be a persistent issue for the Russian military and suggests that they have been unable to effectively address this problem.
Return to top⤴️
Ukrainian Strikes on Russian Targets: Abdiivka and the Serebryansky Forest
🎦 07:29-08:12⏩
Jonathan provides updates on Ukrainian strikes against Russian targets.
- He reports that Ukrainian forces have set fire to fuel and lubricant warehouses near the Avdiivka Coke Plant.
- He announces the death of Yevgeny Polovodov, a major in the press service of the Russian Ministry of Defence. Polovodov, described as a journalist embedded with Russian forces in the Serebryansky Forest, was killed alongside other Russian personnel.
Jonathan concludes that the loss of Polovodov is a blow to the Russian military's propaganda efforts.
Return to top⤴️
Russian Missile and Drone Attacks Overnight (10-11 April 2024): A Detailed Analysis
🎦 08:12-11:00⏩
Jonathan analyses a major Russian missile and drone attack that took place overnight. Ukrainian Success in Intercepting Cruise Missiles and Shahid Drones He notes that Ukrainian air defences successfully intercepted:
- 20 out of 24 Russian cruise missiles (a mix of Kh-101 and Kh-59)
- 39 out of 40 Iranian-made Shahed drones.
Jonathan praises Ukraine's improving ability to intercept these threats, particularly the Shahed drones. Russian Kinzhal and S-300 Missiles Evade Defences However, he expresses concern over Russia's use of hypersonic Kinzhal missiles and S-300 missiles in ground attack mode, both of which proved impossible for Ukraine to intercept. Key targets hit include:
- Tripilska Thermal Power Plant, located 40km south of Kyiv, was struck by a Kinzhal missile.
- Kharkiv was targeted by 12 S-300 missiles.
Analysis of Russian Targeting Jonathan analyses the geographical spread of the attacks, referencing a map illustrating approximate routes taken by the missiles and drones. He observes that the areas most heavily targeted were:
- The west of Ukraine, particularly around Kyiv
- Zaporizhzhia
- South of Lviv
- Kharkiv.
Ukrainian Concerns and Calls for Increased Aid He concludes this section by quoting Ukrainian officials, including:
- Jay in Kyiv, who highlights Russia's intent to target and destroy critical underground gas storage facilities in Europe.
- President Zelenskyy, who stresses the urgent need for additional air defence systems and other military support.
Jonathan shares the growing sense of urgency and desperation within Ukraine as they struggle to defend against these relentless Russian attacks.
Return to top⤴️
Russian Attacks Cripple Ukraine's Energy Infrastructure
🎦 11:00-14:56⏩
Jonathan delves deeper into the impact of the recent Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, painting a bleak picture of the situation. He provides specific examples of the damage:
- DTEK Thermal Power Plants: At least two DTEK power plants were damaged, further crippling Ukraine's already strained energy grid.
- Tripilska Power Plant: Jonathan emphasizes the significance of the loss of the Tripilska plant, one of the largest power generation facilities in the region, which supplied electricity to Kyiv, Cherkasy, and Zhytomyr regions. He estimates the cost of replacing the facility to be around $1 billion.
- Centrenergo's Total Generation Capacity Destroyed: Jonathan cites information from Philip O'Brien, stating that 100% of Centrenergo's electricity generation capacity has now been destroyed. This includes:
- Tripilska thermal power plant
- Zmev thermal power plant (destroyed in a Russian strike on Kharkiv on March 22)
- An unnamed thermal power plant currently under Russian occupation.
- Zaporizhzhia Oblast Attack: Two out of four Kh-59 guided missiles struck an energy infrastructure facility in Zaporizhzhia Oblast.
Expert Analysis: Jonathan cites Eastern European expert Sergey Sumlenny, who warns that Ukraine's power production system is nearing collapse, with coal and gas-fired power stations, vital for balancing energy demand, being systematically destroyed by Russia. Consequences of Power Grid Collapse: Jonathan highlights the wider consequences of the attacks on Ukraine's power grid:
- Blackouts: Millions of Ukrainians face the prospect of prolonged blackouts amid a brutal war.
- Nuclear Disaster Risk: The loss of power to critical infrastructure increases the risk of a nuclear disaster as nuclear power plants require a stable energy supply to operate safely.
- Heating Shortages: With coal and gas-fired power plants also responsible for providing heat to major cities, millions of Ukrainians face a winter without adequate heating.
Jonathan's Frustration and Anger Jonathan's frustration with the lack of international support for Ukraine is palpable, and he directly criticises the Biden administration, certain US politicians, and those who fail to grasp the gravity of the situation.
Return to top⤴️
Jonathan's Outrage: MAGA, Trump, and the US House of Representatives
🎦 14:56-17:34⏩
In an emotionally charged segment, Jonathan expresses his anger and frustration towards specific US politicians and their role in hindering aid to Ukraine. Condemnation of MAGA and Trump: He accuses the MAGA movement and Donald Trump of complicity in Russian war crimes, arguing that their stance on Ukraine has emboldened Russia and exacerbated the situation. Direct Criticism of US Politicians: He calls out specific individuals:
- Mike Johnson (R-LA): Jonathan criticises Johnson for being a puppet of Marjorie Taylor Greene and Donald Trump and for hindering efforts to provide substantial aid to Ukraine.
- Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA): He labels Greene's stance as "pro-Russian propaganda" and accuses her of being a mouthpiece for Russian disinformation.
- Matt Gaetz (R-FL): Gaetz is grouped with Greene and Johnson as part of the problem.
Jonathan vehemently challenges the notion that he is spreading Chinese disinformation by criticising Trump and his supporters' stance on Ukraine. He asserts that Trump's lack of unequivocal support for Ukraine has directly contributed to the current crisis. Biden Administration Criticised: While acknowledging the complexities of the situation, Jonathan expresses his deep disappointment in the Biden administration for not providing more robust military aid to Ukraine. He believes that a more proactive approach, including a substantial aid package six months prior, would have significantly bolstered Ukraine's defence capabilities and potentially deterred further Russian aggression. The US House of Representatives' Inaction: Jonathan laments the current state of US politics, highlighting the House of Representatives' failure to pass meaningful legislation and its susceptibility to manipulation by individuals like Greene, Gaetz, and Johnson. Call for Accountability and a Public Reckoning: He calls for a public and transparent dialogue where individuals like Greene are held accountable for their pro-Russian stance. Jonathan believes it is imperative for the American public to understand that these politicians are echoing Russian propaganda and are actively undermining US national security and Ukrainian chances of success.
Return to top⤴️
The Human Cost of the Conflict: Civilian Suffering in Kharkiv and Odessa
🎦 17:34-18:11⏩
Jonathan reminds viewers of the devastating human cost of the ongoing war. He shares disturbing accounts of civilian suffering, citing:
- Refugee Crisis: Predictions suggest that Europe could face an influx of 10 million refugees this summer if Russia is allowed to continue targeting power plants and cities.
- Kharkiv Missile Attacks: He describes harrowing scenes of people trapped under rubble in Kharkiv, victims of relentless Russian missile attacks. The use of S-300 missiles in ground attack mode against civilian infrastructure is highlighted as a particularly brutal tactic.
- Odessa Ballistic Missile Attack: Jonathan reports a tragic incident where a Russian ballistic missile attack on the Odessa district killed four people, including a 10-year-old girl. He shares a heartbreaking account of a man who lost both legs in the attack, clinging to life in hospital.
Jonathan's anger and frustration are palpable as he implores Western nations to provide Ukraine with more Patriot missile defence systems, which he believes are essential for protecting civilians and saving lives.
Return to top⤴️
Russian Strikes on Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure Continue
🎦 18:11-19:58⏩
Jonathan provides further details of the ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine, focusing on the targeting of critical infrastructure. He reports:
- Nexter: Confirms Russian attacks on a range of critical Ukrainian infrastructure, including generation facilities and transmission systems in Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia, Lviv, and Kyiv.
- Kharkiv: At least 10 critical infrastructure facilities hit, resulting in power outages affecting over 200,000 residents.
- Kyiv: Missiles and drones targeted an infrastructure facility, causing a significant fire (likely referring to the Tripilska power plant mentioned earlier).
- Odessa: While debris from downed drones caused a fire at an energy facility, it was quickly extinguished.
Jonathan analyses a map showing the trajectory of Russian MiG-31K fighter jets launching Kinzhal missiles from the Astrakhan region towards targets in Ukraine, demonstrating the widespread nature of the attacks. He reiterates Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's pleas for increased air defence support, highlighting the urgent need for assistance. In a moment of despair, Olena Halushka, a Ukrainian activist, describes the situation as unbearable, emphasizing the constant threat of Russian missile attacks. Jonathan concludes this section by condemning Russia's continued attacks on Ukrainian hospitals, citing a recent incident in Ichnia, Chernihiv Oblast, as a prime example of Russia's disregard for international law and human decency.
Return to top⤴️
Jonathan's Fury at US Position on Ukrainian Strikes in Russia
🎦 19:58-26:15⏩
Jonathan launches into an impassioned critique of the Biden administration's stance on Ukrainian strikes inside Russia, specifically targeting Russian energy infrastructure. Condemnation of US Position: He strongly disagrees with the Biden administration's condemnation of Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries, arguing that these actions are justified self-defence against Russia's aggression. Two Wrongs Don't Make a Right Fallacy: Jonathan tackles the moral dilemma of Ukraine mirroring Russia's tactics by attacking critical infrastructure. He acknowledges the apparent hypocrisy but refutes the "two wrongs don't make a right" argument, emphasizing the distinction between the aggressor (Russia) and the defender (Ukraine). Distinction Between Types of Energy Infrastructure: Jonathan draws a crucial distinction between different types of energy infrastructure, arguing that:
- Russian attacks on Ukrainian power plants: Constitute attacks on purely civilian infrastructure designed to inflict suffering on the Ukrainian population.
- Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries: Constitute legitimate military targets, as oil refineries directly contribute to funding and fuelling the Russian war machine. Attacking them hinders Russia's war effort.
US Department of Defense Law of War Manual: Jonathan supports his argument by referencing the US Department of Defense Law of War Manual, which states that economic objects directly linked to military operations or war-supporting industries are considered legitimate military objectives. He argues that Russian oil refineries clearly fall under this definition. Moral Consequentialism: Jonathan's frustration stems from what he sees as the US government's inconsistent approach to the conflict. He argues that the US is applying a form of "moral consequentialism," prioritizing the perceived moral high ground over the effective defence of Ukraine. Jonathan contends that the potential consequences of inaction, including a protracted war, further suffering in Ukraine, and the potential collapse of Ukrainian resistance, far outweigh the moral concerns over striking Russian oil refineries. Congressman Austin Scott's Challenge: Jonathan praises Congressman Austin Scott (R-GA) for directly challenging the Biden administration's position during a congressional hearing. He plays a clip of the exchange where Scott questions why the US condemns Ukraine for striking Russian energy infrastructure while Russia continues to target Ukrainian energy facilities. Jonathan applauds Scott's argument, stating that "if you're going to win a war, you can't sit back and take punches and not deliver punches." NATO's Position: Jonathan highlights the dissonance between the US position and that of NATO, quoting Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, who stated that Ukraine has the right to strike legitimate Russian military targets outside of Ukraine in self-defence. Jonathan concludes by expressing his profound frustration with what he perceives as the US government's contradictory and unhelpful stance on the issue. He believes that by denying Ukraine the means to defend itself effectively, the US is prolonging the conflict and contributing to further suffering.
Return to top⤴️
Russian Reactions to US Condemnation
🎦 26:15-27:59⏩
Jonathan shares observations on the reactions within Russia to the US's condemnation of Ukrainian strikes on Russian soil:
- Dmitry (Commentator): He highlights the irony of Russian propagandists, such as Dmitry, who ridicule the US for condemning Ukrainian attacks while Russia continues to target civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.
- Russian Propagandists' Mockery: Jonathan finds it "insane" that Russian propagandists are criticising the US for not being tough enough on Ukraine, demonstrating the absurdity of the situation.
This section underlines the discord between the US's attempts to impose a moral framework on the conflict and the realities on the ground, which see Russia exploiting any perceived weakness or hesitation.
Return to top⤴️
Overview of Ukrainian Strikes Inside Russia
🎦 27:59-32:00⏩
Jonathan provides a brief overview of recent Ukrainian strikes within Russia, listing several incidents:
- Kazan: An unexplained explosion and fire in Kazan, with limited information available.
- Zheleznogorsk Mining and Processing Plant (Kursk Region): A reported attack on a significant iron ore processing plant. Jonathan highlights the significance of this attack if confirmed, linking it to the debate surrounding Ukraine's right to strike Russian infrastructure.
- Tambov Region: Drone attacks targeting a powder mixing workshop in Kutovsk, with Russia claiming to have intercepted all three drones.
- Borisov-Glesk Air Base: Jonathan references satellite imagery showing damage to an aviation training centre at the base, though the extent of the impact on Russian capabilities is unknown.
Despite the lack of detailed information, the recurring theme of Ukrainian strikes inside Russia further emphasizes the evolving nature of the conflict and Ukraine's increasingly proactive approach to defence.
Return to top⤴️
General Cavoli Warns of Ukrainian Ammunition Shortages
🎦 32:00-33:14⏩
Returning to General Cavoli's testimony before Congress, Jonathan emphasizes his warning that Ukraine will rapidly deplete its ammunition and air defence interceptors without increased support from the US and allies. Jonathan expresses his exasperation with US politicians like Mike Johnson and Marjorie Taylor Greene, calling for them to be confronted with the harsh realities of the situation in Ukraine and for their pro-Russian stance to be publicly challenged and debunked. He believes it is crucial for the American public to understand the extent to which these politicians are disseminating Russian propaganda and undermining national security.
Return to top⤴️
German Military Aid to Ukraine: A Detailed Overview
🎦 33:14-38:51⏩
Jonathan shifts focus to Germany's military aid contributions to Ukraine, acknowledging the demand for information on this topic. He provides a detailed breakdown of German-supplied weapons systems: Air Defence Systems:
- RST SLM (Medium-Range Missile Systems): 3 delivered, 9 pledged. Two are reportedly operational in Kyiv with a near-100% hit rate.
- RST SLS (Short-Range Missile Systems): 1 delivered, 11 pledged. Designed for use against cheaper targets like drones. Concerns remain about the slow pace of deliveries.
- IRIS-T SLS Launchers: Initially 24 pledged, later revised to 12 delivered and pledged. Confusion surrounds whether Germany is providing complete IRIS-T SLS systems or just launchers.
- Gepard Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Guns (SPAAGs): 52 delivered, 15 pledged. Jonathan praises Germany's efforts to refurbish and supply these decommissioned systems, noting:
- Establishment of a new production line for ammunition specifically for Ukraine
- Diplomatic efforts to secure additional Gepard systems, including buybacks from Qatar and Jordan.
- MIM-104 Patriots: 2 complete systems delivered, plus 2 additional launchers and 1 extra radar. Germany is not currently planning to send further Patriot systems from its stocks, although this remains a possibility.
- Skynex Air Defence System: 1 delivered, 3 pledged. The prototype Skynex system has been delivered, with two more pledged for delivery next year.
- Mantis Air Defence System (Similar to Skynex): Two Mantis systems were given to Slovakia in exchange for their S-300, which was subsequently provided to Ukraine.
Delays and Production Issues: Jonathan acknowledges delays in deliveries and potential production bottlenecks, highlighting:
- RST SLM Missile Production: Limited production capacity for the highly effective imaging infrared seeker heads used in the RST SLM missiles.
- Gepard Ammunition: Despite efforts to secure ammunition, concerns remain about long-term supply.
- Patriot Systems: Long lead times for new Patriot systems (deliveries expected until 2029) and missiles (deliveries between 2027-2033) pose challenges.
Positive Developments:
- New Patriot Missiles for Ukraine: Germany recently announced a new delivery of Patriot missiles from its stocks.
- Patriot Procurement Fund: Germany, in collaboration with Ukraine and European partners, is establishing a fund to purchase Patriot systems globally and supply them to Ukraine.
Jonathan commends Germany's contributions, particularly their efforts to overcome logistical and production hurdles to provide Ukraine with vital air defence capabilities. Despite these efforts, he acknowledges the significant disparity between available Patriot systems among allies (over 100) and those delivered to Ukraine, echoing Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba's plea for at least seven more systems to bolster Ukraine's defences.
Return to top⤴️
Ukraine's Desperate Need for Air Defence and the Escalating Threat
🎦 38:51-40:06⏩
Jonathan reiterates Ukraine's dire need for increased air defence capabilities, emphasizing the growing disparity between available resources and the scale of the Russian threat. He points out that:
- Ukraine has identified over 100 available Patriot systems held by allies.
- Despite this, only a fraction of these systems have been provided to Ukraine.
Jonathan echoes the sentiment of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, who expressed frustration and a sense of urgency, stating that "people in Ukraine are desperate." Jonathan argues that the situation will only worsen if allies continue to hesitate in providing comprehensive air defence support, predicting:
- Unrelenting Russian Strikes: Russia shows no signs of relenting in its campaign to cripple Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
- Escalating Attacks: The use of hypersonic Kinzhal missiles demonstrates Russia's willingness to escalate the conflict.
Jonathan concludes that Russia senses weakness and is exploiting the lack of decisive action from the West, urging allies to respond with urgency and decisiveness before the situation deteriorates further.
Return to top⤴️
Debunking Russian Propaganda: Persecution of Christians
🎦 40:06-41:00⏩
Jonathan addresses and debunks Russian propaganda, specifically claims made by US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene that Russian Christians are being persecuted in Ukraine. Exposing the Lie: He labels Greene's statement as a "massive Russian lie" and "complete projection," highlighting the absurdity of her claim. Evidence of Russian Persecution of Ukrainian Christians: Jonathan counters Greene's propaganda with evidence of widespread persecution of Ukrainian Christians by Russian forces, citing:
- Systematic Persecution in Occupied Territories: Reports of widespread persecution of Ukrainian Christians in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine.
- PBS Report: A recent PBS report titled "Ukrainian Christian Groups Face Violent Crackdown from Russian Forces" which provides detailed accounts of persecution.
Calling Out Greene's Dangerous Rhetoric: Jonathan expresses deep concern about the spread of Russian disinformation within the US political system and calls for accountability. He labels Greene as "dangerous" and accuses her of undermining both US national security and Ukrainian chances of success in the war.
Return to top⤴️
Starlink Disruptions in Russian-Occupied Territory
🎦 41:00-41:34⏩
Jonathan discusses reports of Starlink terminals experiencing disruptions in Russian-occupied territory. He emphasizes the unconfirmed nature of these reports, stating that information is based on:
- Intercepted Communications and Social Media Posts: Accounts from Russian soldiers claiming that their Starlink systems are being blocked.
Jonathan acknowledges the potential significance of these disruptions if confirmed, suggesting that it could significantly hinder Russian communication and coordination efforts. However, he cautions against premature conclusions until more reliable information becomes available.
Return to top⤴️
Sanctions Evasion: The Case of the Laodicea Cargo Ship
🎦 41:34-42:24⏩
Jonathan shifts focus to Russia's efforts to evade international sanctions, highlighting the case of the Laodicea cargo ship:
- False Flag Operation: The Laodicea, initially sanctioned, changed its name to San Cosmas and its flag to Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) to evade scrutiny.
- Stolen Grain Shipment: The ship transported stolen Ukrainian wheat from occupied Sevastopol to the Middle East.
- Transit Through Turkish Straits: After delivering its illicit cargo, the vessel, now deflagged, transited the Turkish Straits (Bosphorus) towards the Black Sea.
Jonathan criticizes the exploitation of loopholes in international law and maritime regulations, calling for greater vigilance and stricter enforcement of sanctions against:
- Ghost Ships: Vessels that operate without proper identification or with their transponders turned off.
- Ghost Fleets: Groups of ships engaged in illicit activities while attempting to evade detection.
He underscores the need for the international community to effectively counter these tactics to maintain the integrity of sanctions against Russia.
Return to top⤴️
Jonathan's Closing Thoughts: Anger, Frustration, and a Call for Action
🎦 42:24-43:54⏩
In an impassioned and visibly frustrated conclusion, Jonathan reiterates his anger and disappointment over the inadequate response to the crisis in Ukraine. Anger and Frustration: He expresses his deep frustration with the current state of US politics, highlighting the dysfunction and gridlock that he believes is preventing effective action to support Ukraine. Condemnation of US Political Inaction: Jonathan blames the gridlock on specific individuals within the US political system:
- Mike Johnson
- Marjorie Taylor Greene
- Matt Gaetz
- Donald Trump
Criticism of False Narratives: He dismisses criticism levelled at the Biden administration by those who oppose aid to Ukraine, characterizing these arguments as Russian disinformation. Call for Support for Ukraine: He questions the motivations of those who prioritize supporting Russia over Ukraine, arguing that their stance is deeply disturbing and detrimental to US interests. Jonathan urges his viewers to engage in critical thinking and recognize the gravity of the situation, concluding with a powerful message: "If you don't find that deeply disturbing, then we need to have a discussion." Need for a Cup of Tea: In a moment of British understatement, Jonathan signs off by saying, "Anyway, I need a cup of tea. Take care. Speak soon."
Return to top⤴️
Wrap up
🎦 43:54-43:57⏩
Jonathan signs off, clearly needing a cup of tea after that!
Return to top⤴️