Ukraine War Update NEWS: Military Aid & Geopolitical News

"You only do things like that if you're at war. So if you're ramping up to produce 32,000 civilian drones for the Russian armed forces by 2030, you're envisaging, you are predicting that your own nation will be at this kind of level of war in 2030."

Hello Team🎦 00:00-00:17⏩

Jonathan welcomes everyone to the second part of his Ukraine war news update for the 6th of January 2024, focusing on military aid and geopolitical developments.

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EU Seeks Alternative Ukraine Aid Solutions🎦 00:17-00:54⏩

The European Commission is exploring alternative ways to deliver aid to Ukraine in case the proposed $55 billion package is blocked. This comes as Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban continues to threaten a veto on any military aid package for Ukraine. Jonathan notes that, unfortunately, there's been no significant progress on this issue.

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Delays Plague F-16 Transfers & Air Defence for Ukraine🎦 00:54-01:51⏩

Jonathan highlights concerning news regarding air support for Ukraine. While Norway is sending two F-16 fighter jets to Denmark to train Ukrainian pilots, the delivery of Danish F-16s to Ukraine faces potential delays of up to six months, posing a significant challenge for the Ukrainians.

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Details on Danish F-16 Delays and Ukrainian Pilot Training🎦 01:51-03:18⏩

Jonathan provides more details on the potential delays in delivering 19 Danish F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, clarifying that while delays are possible, they are not definite. He mentions six Ukrainian pilots are currently undergoing training in Denmark, with Belgium and Norway contributing additional F-16s and personnel. Jonathan explains that Denmark is phasing out its F-16s in favor of F-35s, enabling them to donate the older jets. He also notes that the Netherlands has pledged to send 18 F-16s, though the handover depends on various unspecified criteria.

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Ukraine Acquires T-55 Based Demining Vehicle🎦 03:18-03:37⏩

Ukraine has acquired yet another demining vehicle, this time based on a T-55 tank chassis. Jonathan emphasizes the impressive variety of demining equipment Ukraine has amassed, ranging from small unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) to large automated systems, in addition to those mounted on tanks.

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Commentator Suggests Geo-Fencing as Solution for Taurus Missile Concerns🎦 03:37-04:47⏩

Jonathan discusses a comment from viewer Frank van der Stan regarding the potential delivery of Taurus missiles to Ukraine. Frank argues that concerns about the missiles reaching Russian territory are unfounded, as the manufacturer could easily geo-fence them, limiting their range to within Ukraine's borders. Jonathan adds that the real concern for Germany and NATO is the risk of Russia, along with its allies China and North Korea, obtaining the technology, making interception a significant worry. He further highlights a worrying revelation: Germany lacks sufficient Taurus missiles to fulfill its NATO defense commitments, with no additional units currently on order.

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US Patriot Missile Supplies to Ukraine Dwindling🎦 04:47-08:04⏩

Jonathan delivers more concerning news: the US will soon be unable to provide Ukraine with Patriot missiles due to a funding shortage. With interceptor missiles costing between $2-$4 million each, the cost is a significant factor. Jonathan stresses the gravity of this situation, as Russia continues to barrage Ukraine with missiles and drones. He provides figures for aerial targets destroyed in 2023: 887 cruise missiles, 15 Kinzhal aeroballistic missiles, 41 other ballistic missiles, and a staggering 2,691 drones. Given the sheer volume of threats, Jonathan argues that while Patriot systems are effective, their high cost necessitates the use of more affordable, mobile air defense units whenever possible. He underscores the urgency of the situation, as Ukraine desperately needs these missiles now, especially during the winter months when Russia is intensifying its attacks. Existing stockpiles are crucial while waiting for a long-term coalition commitment of 1,000 Patriot missiles to materialize.

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Russia's Plan for 32,000 Civilian Drones Raises Questions🎦 08:04-10:05⏩

In a surprising turn of events, Russia has announced plans to produce 32,000 civilian drones annually by 2030. This follows Jonathan's recent discussion of Ukraine's successful program for civilian drone production. Jonathan finds the timing of Russia's announcement interesting, suggesting it highlights the program's effectiveness in Ukraine. However, he questions the logic behind Russia's long-term goal, as it implies an expectation of continued warfare until 2030. He humorously compares it to the UK suddenly deciding to produce thousands of civilian drones despite being at peace. Jonathan concludes that this announcement reveals a concerning mindset within the Russian government, indicating a belief that the current level of conflict will persist for years to come.

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Nepal Halts Work Permits for Russians Due to Ukraine War Casualties🎦 10:05-12:30⏩

Jonathan reports on Nepal's decision to stop issuing work permits to Russian citizens due to the deaths of Nepalese citizens fighting for Russia in Ukraine. This is linked to Russia's "kleptomobilization" strategy of enticing individuals from poorer countries with promises of citizenship or visas in exchange for military service. He criticises this practice, pointing out that those who are recruited are often misled about their roles and end up on the front lines, where they face death. The Nepalese government, facing pressure and criticism, has taken action by halting work permits to prevent further exploitation of its citizens.

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Sweden Cuts Aid to Mali Over Pro-Russia Stance🎦 12:30-14:19⏩

Sweden is taking a stand against countries supporting Russia's actions by withdrawing aid to Mali. Jonathan commends this decision, questioning why countries like Mali consistently side with Russia in UN votes despite having no direct geopolitical connection to the conflict. He highlights the influence of the now-disbanded Wagner Group in Mali and the Sahel region and its role in extracting resources for Russia. Jonathan believes that more countries should follow Sweden's lead and use their aid budgets to send a clear message: supporting Russia will have consequences. He acknowledges the potential impact on ordinary citizens in Mali but emphasizes the need to hold governments accountable for their choices.

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Zelensky and Erdogan Discuss Peace Formula and Prisoner Exchange🎦 14:19-16:29⏩

Turkish President Erdogan and Ukrainian President Zelensky have discussed the ongoing war in a telephone conversation. Zelensky invited Erdogan to a meeting in Davos. They also discussed elements of Zelensky's peace formula, particularly the return of prisoners and deportees. Jonathan emphasizes the significance of a strong relationship between Turkey and Ukraine, highlighting Erdogan's role as a key mediator between Russia and the West. He outlines Turkey's strategic importance, controlling the Bosphorus Straits and holding a unique position within NATO. Despite calls from some to expel Turkey from the alliance, Jonathan argues against it, stating that Turkey, even with its complexities, remains a crucial ally, particularly in the current geopolitical climate.

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Royal Marines Face Uncertain Future as UK Mothballs Assault Ships🎦 16:29-18:37⏩

Shifting to UK news, Jonathan discusses an exclusive report revealing plans to mothball two Royal Navy assault ships, HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark, due to a severe sailor shortage. This decision is expected to mark the end of the Royal Marines. Jonathan, residing near Portsmouth, reflects on the significance of this news, lamenting the decline of one of the world's most renowned navies. He connects this to a broader challenge facing Western nations, namely the struggle to recruit young people into the armed forces, potentially linked to the increasing influence of technology and a shift in societal values.

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Ramaswamy's NATO Stance Raises Concerns About US Isolationism🎦 18:37-22:11⏩

Jonathan expresses concern over US presidential hopeful Vivek Ramaswamy's campaign promise to withdraw the US from NATO if elected. While acknowledging that Ramaswamy may be using this stance to appeal to a specific voter base, Jonathan finds it deeply worrying that such isolationist views resonate with a portion of the American electorate, particularly at a time when NATO's role is more critical than ever. He criticizes Ramaswamy's transactional approach to foreign policy and his lack of understanding of the benefits of alliances like NATO. Jonathan stresses the importance of collective security and the positive-sum nature of such partnerships. He views Ramaswamy's stance as detrimental to global security, the US's own interests, and its standing in the world order. He encourages viewers to seek out resources that explain the importance of alliances, particularly in the current geopolitical landscape.

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Nikki Haley Positions Herself as Pro-Ukraine Alternative to DeSantis🎦 22:11-26:39⏩

Jonathan shifts focus to another US presidential hopeful, Nikki Haley, who has been vocal in her support for Ukraine, using it to differentiate herself from rival Ron DeSantis. He notes Haley's criticism of DeSantis's inconsistent stance on Ukraine, which seems to fluctuate between support and skepticism depending on Donald Trump's position. Haley sees this as a weakness, arguing that DeSantis fails to grasp the vital national security interests at stake in supporting Ukraine. Jonathan commends Haley's clear and unambiguous messaging, emphasizing the need for moral clarity in the White House. He believes Haley's pro-Ukraine stance could resonate with traditional Reagan Republicans, potentially consolidating her support base. He encourages Haley to capitalize on her experience as former US ambassador to NATO and position herself as a strong advocate for global engagement and American leadership on the world stage.

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Polish Farmers and Truckers Resume Blockade, Agreement Expected🎦 26:39-27:13⏩

After a brief respite, Polish farmers and truckers are preparing to resume their blockade at a border crossing with Ukraine. However, there is a glimmer of hope as the Polish agriculture minister is expected to sign an agreement with the farmers to lift the blockade.

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US Sanctions Impact Russian Oil Shipments as India Seeks Alternatives🎦 27:13-29:25⏩

Jonathan provides an update on the effectiveness of US sanctions targeting Russian oil, highlighting reports of tankers carrying Russian oil experiencing disruptions. He points to a Bloomberg report identifying 14 tankers, carrying a total of 11 million barrels of oil, stranded at sea. Originally destined for India, the shipments have been impacted by India's decision to reduce Russian oil imports due to unfavorable pricing. While India denies any payment difficulties, the disruptions coincide with the US Treasury Department's latest sanctions on Russian oil traders and shipping companies. Jonathan notes that some tankers have gone "dark," disabling their transponders to conceal their activities and evade the G7 price cap. While Russia remains India's largest crude oil supplier, imports have declined since the summer, prompting India to seek alternative sources like Abu Dhabi. Jonathan acknowledges the delicate balance between pressuring Russia and avoiding market shocks that could trigger another energy crisis.

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Moscow Region Grapples with Power Outages Amidst Freezing Temperatures🎦 29:25-31:27⏩

Jonathan reports on the dire situation in the Moscow region, where a state of emergency is in its third day following damage to a power substation. Citing information from Twitter user PS11, he describes residents facing freezing temperatures, with some apartments plummeting to 6 degrees Celsius. He details burst pipes, lack of heating, and widespread power outages, even affecting livestock. While acknowledging the potential connection to the war effort, Jonathan points to incompetent leadership as a contributing factor. However, he criticizes the Russian public's tendency to blame mid-level officials while shielding Putin from criticism. He argues that this "divine pedestal" upon which Putin is placed allows him to evade accountability, perpetuating a system where the root cause of their problems remains unaddressed.

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Wrap Up🎦 31:27-31:41⏩

Jonathan concludes the video, urging viewers to like, subscribe, and engage with the content to help with those ever-mysterious algorithms. He bids farewell, promising to speak to his audience again soon.

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