Ukraine War Update BUMPER NEWS: Military Aid & Geopolitical News

"They are thinking less about U.S. national security, European security and international security and foreign policy, and much more about how they can humiliate Biden."

Hello Team

🎦 00:00-00:20⏩

Jonathan welcomes viewers to part 2 of his Ukraine War Update, noting that he has a lot to get through as he has a live stream scheduled with Greg Terry shortly.

Return to top⤴️

Zelensky's US Trip: Fails to Sway Republicans on Ukraine Aid

🎦 00:20-02:58⏩

Jonathan discusses Zelensky's visit to Washington and his meetings with Joe Biden, Kamala Harris and Mike Johnson, the GOP speaker. Despite Zelensky's efforts, Republicans remain unwilling to budge on Ukraine aid. Jonathan expresses frustration with Republicans for using Ukraine aid as leverage in unrelated political negotiations. He highlights Mitch McConnell's statement that Congress is unlikely to approve additional Ukraine funding by Christmas. Jonathan also criticises some Democrats for not being willing to compromise on border issues to secure the aid.

Return to top⤴️

US Military Aid: Biden Authorises $200m in Aid, Including Ammunition and Equipment

🎦 02:58-03:43⏩

Jonathan outlines the details of the $200 million aid package from the US, authorised through Biden's presidential drawdown authority. He lists the military equipment included, mainly ammunition, missiles and other essentials.

Return to top⤴️

Finland: Doubles Heavy Ammunition Production, Supporting Ukraine and Strengthening Defence

🎦 03:43-07:01⏩

Jonathan discusses Finland's decision to double its heavy ammunition production. He highlights comments made by Andrew Perpetua, who claims that NATO has significant ammunition stockpiles and that concerns about shortages are Russian propaganda. Jonathan questions whether individual NATO nations may be overestimating their own needs, leading to an exaggerated perception of overall shortages. He believes that with increased production, ammunition should not be a significant issue for NATO in the future. Despite this, he observes that there is still hesitancy among some nations to provide Ukraine with large quantities of ammunition, attributing this to unknown factors beyond financial constraints.

Return to top⤴️

Germany: Delivers Second Patriot Battery to Ukraine; GCS Increases Demining Equipment Supply

🎦 07:01-08:46⏩

Jonathan announces his upcoming interview with "Germany to Ukraine" about German aid. He mentions the delivery of a second Patriot battery from Germany to Ukraine, confirming this with a German Luftwaffe spokesperson. He notes the system's components and speculates about its potential deployment location. Jonathan highlights the work of John Ridge in providing detailed information on Ukraine's air defense needs and expresses his desire to interview him.

Return to top⤴️

Ukraine Air Defence: John Ridge Estimates 14+ Patriot Batteries Needed for Effective Protection

🎦 08:46-10:30⏩

Jonathan cites John Ridge's assessment that Ukraine needs at least 14 more Patriot batteries to protect critical assets effectively. Jonathan agrees with Ridge's view and emphasises the importance of deploying air defence systems closer to the front lines. He reiterates his belief that once Ukraine establishes a robust air defence network in the rear, they can redeploy some systems to counter Russian air threats more effectively.

Return to top⤴️

Czech Republic: Approves 4.7bn Euros in Military Equipment Supply, Supporting Ukraine's Defence

🎦 10:30-12:05⏩

Jonathan reports that the Czech Republic's Ministry of Defence has approved licenses for supplying 4.7 billion euros worth of military equipment to Ukraine. He praises this move and connects it to Zelensky's meetings with US defence industry leaders. Jonathan argues that such partnerships are mutually beneficial, providing Ukraine with necessary equipment while sustaining the defence industries and creating jobs in supporting nations. He emphasises that the greater good served is the defence of democracy and the preservation of the current global order against a potential Russo-Chinese axis.

Return to top⤴️

Global Military Spending: US Remains Top Spender, Followed by China and India

🎦 12:05-14:53⏩

Jonathan delves into global military spending figures, noting that the US remains the top spender at $3.87 trillion over the past five years. However, he points out the significant increase in China's defence spending, reaching $1.31 trillion, placing them in the top three. He observes that the US previously outspent the next several nations combined and that defence spending has become integral to the US economic model, making it difficult to reduce without negative consequences. Jonathan lists other high-spending nations, including India, Russia, Saudi Arabia, the UK, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Israel, Spain, Turkey, Iran, and Poland. He concludes with an observation that Poland's military spending has increased significantly in recent years.

Return to top⤴️

EU: Explores Emergency Ukraine Funding Outside Shared Budget Due to Hungary's Veto

🎦 14:53-15:24⏩

Jonathan reports that EU officials are exploring emergency funding for Ukraine outside the bloc's shared budget due to Hungary's veto on Kiev's aid package. He criticises Hungary's stance, noting its opposition to both Ukraine's EU accession and the provision of EU aid to the country. Despite these obstacles, Jonathan highlights the EU's determination to find alternative ways to support Ukraine.

Return to top⤴️

Latvia: Forms Drone Coalition with Ukraine, Strengthening Strategic Partnership

🎦 15:24-17:17⏩

Jonathan shifts focus to Latvia's decision to join a drone coalition with Ukraine. He stresses that this move is not solely about charity but serves Latvia's interests, both economically and strategically. He highlights the Baltic states' vulnerability to Russian disinformation campaigns, drawing parallels with election interference and social media manipulation in other countries. Jonathan references Jessica Arrow's book "The Little Black Book of Putin" and emphasises the Baltic states' position on the front lines of information warfare. He praises Latvia's Defence Minister for establishing the drone coalition and quotes Ukraine's Defence Minister, Oleksii Reznikov, expressing gratitude for Latvia's support from the outset of the conflict. Jonathan reiterates the critical importance of technological superiority, particularly in electronic warfare, and highlights the discussion of expanding training programs for the Ukrainian military by Latvian instructors.

Return to top⤴️

Zelensky-Biden Meeting: Leaders Discuss 2024 Goals, Including Air Defence, Weapons Production, and Russian Asset Seizures

🎦 17:17-19:04⏩

Jonathan discusses Zelensky's meeting with Biden, describing their talks as "important." He notes Biden's age and suggests younger alternatives like Gavin Newsom for the Democrats and Nikki Haley for the Republicans in future presidential elections. Jonathan quotes Zelensky's summary of the meeting, which focused on 2024 goals, including strengthening Ukraine's air defences, joint weapons production, isolating Russia further, and using frozen Russian assets. Jonathan praises Zelensky for consistently emphasising the importance of air superiority, which aligns with his own views.

Return to top⤴️

Zelensky: Rejects Calls for Territorial Concessions, Questions Peace Deal Advocates

🎦 19:04-20:26⏩

Jonathan highlights Zelensky's firm stance against territorial concessions, quoting his rhetorical question: "How can Ukraine simply give up its territories?" Zelensky equates such calls to handing over children to terrorists, further solidifying his portrayal of Russia as a terrorist state. Jonathan supports Zelensky's position, arguing against pressuring Ukraine into peace deals with Russia.

Return to top⤴️

Zelensky-Harris Meeting: Leaders Reaffirm US Support, Discuss Power Equipment and Economic Resilience

🎦 20:26-21:26⏩

Jonathan briefly touches on Zelensky's meeting with Vice President Kamala Harris, where Zelensky expressed gratitude for the US support. He quotes Zelensky's statement regarding the positive impact of American air defenses and power equipment during the winter period. Jonathan also highlights the discussion of Zelensky's peace formula and the grain corridor's role in global security.

Return to top⤴️

Zelensky-Johnson Meeting: Leaders Discuss Bipartisan Support and Ukraine's Achievements

🎦 21:26-23:35⏩

Jonathan moves on to Zelensky's meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson, pointing out the diplomatic language used despite the lack of progress on securing further aid. He quotes Zelensky's emphasis on Ukraine's achievements, such as liberating occupied territories, securing the Black Sea, and implementing reforms for future self-sufficiency. Jonathan analyses Johnson's response, particularly his call for a "clear articulation" of the US strategy for Ukraine. He criticises the double standard of demanding such clarity for Ukraine aid while not applying the same scrutiny to aid for Israel or the Indo-Pacific region. Jonathan argues that this selective approach exposes a deliberate attempt to hinder aid to Ukraine, playing into Putin's hands. He draws an analogy of witnessing a mugging and refusing to help until receiving a detailed plan, highlighting the absurdity of the situation.

Return to top⤴️

US Political Landscape: Fiona Hill and Marjorie Taylor Greene Offer Contrasting Views on Ukraine Aid

🎦 23:35-26:47⏩

Jonathan brings up contrasting opinions within the US political landscape, quoting Fiona Hill's assertion that some Republicans are prioritising the humiliation of Biden over national and international security concerns. He supports this view, citing Marjorie Taylor Greene's statement opposing any deal linking Ukraine aid to border security as evidence of partisan politics overshadowing national interests. He laments the extreme positions taken by some politicians, contrasting them with the more reasoned approach of figures like Mitt Romney, who understands the importance of supporting Ukraine. Jonathan plays a clip of Romney advocating for continued aid, highlighting his understanding of foreign policy and the potential consequences of failing to support Ukraine.

Return to top⤴️

Elon Musk and the Spread of Disinformation: Musk's Endorsement of Pro-Kremlin Narratives Raises Concerns

🎦 26:47-28:35⏩

Jonathan expresses his disappointment with Elon Musk for endorsing pro-Kremlin narratives, particularly those espoused by David Sachs. He reads out Sachs's assertions about Ukraine's alleged territorial losses and the futility of continued resistance. Jonathan vehemently challenges these claims, labelling Sachs a "Kremlin mouthpiece" and a "paid-up stooge." He criticises Musk's uncritical acceptance of such narratives, arguing that it lends them undue legitimacy, particularly given Musk's influence and control over platforms like Twitter and Starlink.

Return to top⤴️

Zelensky's Speech to Congress: Receives Standing Ovation, Outlines Plans for 2024

🎦 28:35-29:25⏩

Jonathan acknowledges Zelensky's speech to Congress, noting the standing ovation he received. He highlights Zelensky's determination to "smash the enemy like the Berlin Wall" in 2024 and his warning about Putin's militarisation of the Russian economy, targeting Europe.

Return to top⤴️

US Announces New Sanctions: Targets Companies in Multiple Countries for Supporting Russia's Military

🎦 29:25-29:30⏩

Jonathan briefly mentions the US announcement of new sanctions targeting companies in China, Turkey, the UAE, Singapore, Switzerland, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and the Maldives for aiding Russia's military industrial complex. He welcomes this move, emphasising the need for sustained pressure on Russia and the closure of any loopholes exploited to circumvent sanctions.

Return to top⤴️

The New Cold War: Geopolitical Alignments Resemble a "Board Game of Twilight Struggle"

🎦 29:30-32:26⏩

Jonathan delves into the current geopolitical landscape, expressing his belief that the world is entering a new Cold War. He draws parallels to the board game "Twilight Struggle," where countries are designated as either pro-US or pro-Soviet. He argues that a similar dynamic is emerging today, with clear divisions between countries aligned with the US-led bloc and those leaning towards Russia and China. Jonathan suggests mapping countries based on their geopolitical allegiances, highlighting Ukraine's position as a "beacon of blue" amidst a sea of red representing Russian influence. He expresses concern over the positions of leaders like Lukashenko in Belarus, Vucic in Serbia, Orban in Hungary, and Fico in Slovakia. He also questions the true allegiances of Turkey and Brazil, noting their seemingly contradictory stances. Jonathan concludes that the world is witnessing a resurgence of Cold War-era power struggles, driven in part by Russia's actions in Ukraine.

Return to top⤴️

Hungary and Ukraine: Orban Offers "Strategic Partnership" as Alternative to EU Membership

🎦 32:26-34:01⏩

Jonathan discusses Viktor Orban's response to Ukrainian-Hungarians advocating for Ukraine's EU membership. Instead of supporting their plea, Orban proposes a "strategic partnership" as a less demanding alternative. Jonathan points out Orban's previous criticisms of the EU's handling of Ukraine's accession process and his claims that it is not the right time for such talks. However, Jonathan also notes Bloomberg's report suggesting that Orban might be open to unblocking the EU's 50 billion euro aid package for Ukraine in exchange for the release of EU funds earmarked for Hungary. This potential bargaining chip underscores the leverage Orban holds due to the EU's concerns over Hungary's democratic backsliding and close ties to Russia.

Return to top⤴️

Slovakia: Shifts Stance, Now Supports Launch of Ukraine's EU Accession Talks

🎦 34:01-34:40⏩

In a positive development, Jonathan reports that Slovakia's foreign minister has expressed support for the launch of EU accession talks with Ukraine. This marks a shift from Slovakia's previous stance, aligning with Hungary and Austria in opposing Ukraine's EU membership. Jonathan speculates that behind-the-scenes negotiations might have influenced this change of heart. He highlights the significance of this development, particularly given the ongoing debates surrounding Ukraine's future within the EU.

Return to top⤴️

France and Poland: Take Strong Stances in Support of Ukraine

🎦 34:40-36:13⏩

Jonathan contrasts the positions of France and Poland, highlighting their unwavering support for Ukraine. He quotes the French ambassador's strong statement: "Now is not the time for negotiation, now is the time for war," emphasising France's commitment to confronting Russian aggression. He then discusses the recent change in government in Poland, with Donald Tusk now at the helm. Jonathan reads a comment from a Ukrainian expressing optimism about Tusk's leadership and his proactive stance in addressing issues such as the border blockade that has hampered Ukraine's economy.

Return to top⤴️

Donald Tusk's Vision for Poland: Prioritises Unity with Ukraine and Defence of Democratic Values

🎦 36:13-38:26⏩

Jonathan delves into Donald Tusk's vision for Poland, highlighting his commitment to supporting Ukraine while addressing the concerns of Polish citizens. He notes Tusk's efforts to align Poland's foreign and European policies, presenting a united front on issues such as the border situation. Jonathan quotes Tusk's speech to the Polish parliament, underscoring the need for continued support for Ukraine and the importance of Western unity in the face of Russian aggression. Tusk criticises politicians who express "Ukraine fatigue," vowing to prioritise aid to Ukraine from "day one." However, Jonathan acknowledges the challenges Tusk faces in balancing support for Ukraine with domestic concerns, such as the impact of cheap Ukrainian grain on Polish farmers.

Return to top⤴️

EU and Hungary: Luxembourg's Bettel Warns Orban Against "Buying and Selling" EU Membership

🎦 38:26-39:51⏩

Jonathan discusses the tension between Hungary and the EU, reporting that Luxembourg's Deputy Prime Minister, Xavier Bettel, has criticised Viktor Orban's attempts to leverage Ukraine's EU membership bid for financial gain. Bettel reminds Orban that the EU is not a marketplace where membership can be bought and sold. He highlights the importance of solidarity and rule of law within the bloc, challenging Orban to provide genuine reasons for opposing Ukraine's accession beyond self-serving motives. Jonathan interprets Bettel's remarks as a veiled criticism of Hungary's corruption record, suggesting that Orban lacks the moral high ground to block Ukraine's progress based on such criteria.

Return to top⤴️

Latvia: Defence Minister Highlights Russia's Hybrid Warfare Tactics

🎦 39:51-40:57⏩

Jonathan circles back to Latvia, quoting Defence Minister Artis Pabriks's statement about Russia's ongoing hybrid warfare campaign against the country. Pabriks highlights the use of cyberattacks and disinformation as key tactics employed by Moscow. This reinforces Jonathan's earlier point about the Baltic states' vulnerability to such tactics and their crucial role in countering Russian information warfare.

Return to top⤴️

Georgia: Russia's New Black Sea Naval Base Raises Concerns

🎦 40:57-43:20⏩

Jonathan turns his attention to Georgia, where Russia's establishment of a new Black Sea naval base in the breakaway region of Abkhazia is causing alarm. He criticises Russia's annexation of Georgian territories, drawing parallels to their actions in Ukraine. Jonathan condemns those who justify Russia's imperialistic behaviour. He explains that the new naval base in Abkhazia, particularly the construction of a large port in Ochamchira, is a strategic move by Russia to secure alternative access to the Black Sea, especially if their control over Crimea is threatened.

Return to top⤴️

South Korea: Detects Signs of North Korea Sending Workers to Russia Amidst Labour Shortages

🎦 43:20-44:02⏩

Jonathan shifts focus to South Korea, reporting that their intelligence service has detected signs of North Korea sending workers to Russia. He connects this to Russia's labour shortage, caused by the exodus of young men fleeing mobilisation and the war in Ukraine, as well as the high casualty rate among Russian troops. Jonathan speculates that North Korea is filling the void, highlighting the deepening cooperation between these two nations.

Return to top⤴️

Robert F Kennedy Jr: Criticises Zelensky's Meeting with Defence Contractors, Sparks Outrage

🎦 44:02-49:13⏩

Jonathan expresses his strong disapproval of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s criticisms of Zelensky's meeting with US defence contractors, labelling Kennedy a "conspiracy theorist." He takes issue with Kennedy's characterisation of the meetings as evidence of a "military-industrial complex grift" and his questioning of Zelensky's motives. Jonathan defends Zelensky's actions, arguing that he is simply seeking essential support for Ukraine's survival. He passionately challenges Kennedy's simplistic understanding of the conflict and his failure to acknowledge the atrocities committed by Russia. Jonathan compares the situation to World War Two, arguing that it was also a fight against a tyrannical regime and that criticising support for Ukraine based on the involvement of defence contractors is misguided and morally questionable. He condemns Kennedy's lack of attention to war crimes committed by Russia, citing the Bucha massacre as an example. Jonathan concludes by expressing his disappointment in Kennedy's stance and his loss of respect for him.

Return to top⤴️

European Court of Human Rights: Russia Fails to Appear for Historic Hearing with Ukraine

🎦 49:13-49:17⏩

Jonathan concludes the video with a brief but significant piece of news: Russia has failed to appear for a hearing with Ukraine at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) for the first time in the court's history. This unprecedented move underscores Russia's disregard for international law and its growing isolation on the world stage.

Return to top⤴️

Wrap up

🎦 49:17-49:21⏩

Jonathan thanks his viewers for watching and encourages them to like, subscribe, and share the video. He signs off, promising to speak to them soon.

Return to top⤴️