"The flight of $239 billion from #Russia last year, including $13 billion in the pre-invasion month of January, was four times the amount that was pulled out of the country in 2021, according to the analysis." #UkraineWar

Russia Loses Record $253Bln in Wartime #CapitalFlight
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/07/24/russia-loses-record-253bln-in-wartime-capital-flight-a81948

Russia Loses Record $253Bln in Wartime Capital Flight

A record $253 billion has been pulled out of Russia since the start of its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Russian Central Bank has said.

The Moscow Times

"Wojciechowski said 60% of #Ukraine’s exports were shipped via #SolidarityLanes and 40% went via the #BlackSea while the #UN backed grain deal was in operation.

The collapse of the deal is expected to take a particularly heavy toll on countries in #Africa that depended on deliveries by sea." #UkraineWar #Russia #BlackSea

EU ready to move almost all of Ukraine’s grain exports via solidarity lanes
https://www.rappler.com/world/europe/european-union-ready-move-almost-all-ukraine-grain-exports-solidarity-lanes/

EU ready to move almost all of Ukraine's grain exports via solidarity lanes

Solidarity lanes are rail and road transport connections through EU member states that border Ukraine

RAPPLER

This is a great video showing the evolution and capabilites of the Black Hornet drones soon heading to Ukraine.
----
"The PD-100 #BlackHornet is a nano UAV developed by Prox Dynamics. The Black Hornet offers intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance support to armed forces in mission critical operations. The UAV gives access to remote locations and provides situational awareness on the battle field." #Ukraine #UkraineWar

Nano UAV - Black Hornet - PD-100 PRS
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4o7mRg74qcY

Nano UAV - Black Hornet - PD-100 PRS

YouTube

This is definitely aimed at #Turkey.

"#Sweden's government has accused #Russia of running a disinformation campaign around the recent #QuranBurning protests, saying that it was intended to make it more difficult for the country to join the #Nato alliance." #Ukraine #UkraineWar

Sweden accuses Russia of inflaming Quran-burning crisis
https://www.thelocal.com/20230726/sweden-accuses-russia-of-inflaming-quran-burning-crisis/

Sweden accuses Russia of inflaming Quran-burning crisis

Sweden's government has accused Russia of running a disinformation campaign around the recent Quran-burning protests, saying that it was intended to make it more difficult for the country to join the Nato alliance.

The Local

"The New York Times cited unnamed #Pentagon officials as saying the 'main thrust' of the counteroffensive had now begun, with the Ukrainian army pouring thousands of western-trained and equipped reinforcements into a perceived weak spot in Russian defences in the #Zaporizhzhia region. " #CounterOffensive

#Ukraine steps up counteroffensive with new push south and around #Bakhmut | #UkraineWar | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/26/ukrainian-forces-appear-to-advance-closer-to-bakhmut

Ukraine steps up counteroffensive with new push south and around Bakhmut

Ukrainian official says every type of weapon in use, including US cluster munitions, as troops push forward

The Guardian

Erik Tollefsen, head of the committee's weapon contamination unit, said, "In one day, the flying machine can do the work of a dog in six months."

"While a #deminer will identify mines over an area of around 50 square meters in one day, the #drone will be able to do it in four flights and will have done the same work over 100,000 sq meters," Tollefsen said. #UkraineWar

#RedCross seeking to use #Japan #AI to detect #landmines in #Ukraine
https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20230727/p2g/00m/0sc/008000c

Red Cross seeking to use Japan AI to detect landmines in Ukraine - The Mainichi

GENEVA (Kyodo) -- The International Committee of the Red Cross seeks to utilize Japan-developed artificial intelligence technology to speed up the det

The Mainichi

“If they are granted, we are going to face some days where there is a clear risk of something serious happening,” he said. “I am extremely worried about what it could lead to.”

#Sweden’s embassy in #Baghdad was stormed and set on fire on 20 July by protesters angered by a planned #QuranBurning. #Russia #NATO #Ukraine

Swedish PM ‘extremely worried’ as more apply to burn #Quran https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/jul/27/swedish-pm-extremely-worried-about-quran-burning-protests

Swedish PM ‘extremely worried’ as more apply to burn Qur’an

Ulf Kristersson says ‘there is a clear risk of something serious happening’ amid growing Muslim anger at the attacks on Islam’s holy book

The Guardian

"The latest sanctions follow similar embargoes announced by the #UnitedStates and #EU, Kuroda said.

Other items added to the export ban list include #steel, #plastic products, and #ElectronicParts 'that can be diverted to military use,' he added." #UkraineWar

#Japan on Friday announced an expanded list of $sanctions against #Russia that includes an export ban on hybrid and #ElectricVehicles.
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/07/28/japan-expands-sanctions-on-russia-over-ukraine-invasion-a81988

Japan Expands Sanctions on Russia Over Ukraine Invasion

Japan on Friday announced an expanded list of sanctions against Russia that includes an export ban on hybrid and electric vehicles.

The Moscow Times

"#Russia's #WarInUkraine has disrupted the global supply of parts and raw materials needed to complete a variety of products - from #cars to #ComputerChips." #UkraineWar

#India and #Japan look to collaborate in building #semiconductors and resilient #SupplyChains
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/07/28/japan-expands-sanctions-on-russia-over-ukraine-invasion-a81988

Japan Expands Sanctions on Russia Over Ukraine Invasion

Japan on Friday announced an expanded list of sanctions against Russia that includes an export ban on hybrid and electric vehicles.

The Moscow Times

"Those taking part in the summit will include #Ukraine, as well as #Brazil, #India, #SouthAfrica and several other countries, the official said. A high-level official from #JoeBiden’s administration also is expected to attend, the official said." #UkraineWar

The Associated Press is reporting that #SaudiArabia will host a Ukrainian-organised #PeaceSummit in early August seeking to find a way to start negotiations
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/jul/30/russia-ukraine-war-live-drones-damage-moscow-buildings-in-early-morning-attack-putin-says-he-does-not-reject-peace-talks?page=with:block-64c5e8d38f085120bb1d979a#block-64c5e8d38f085120bb1d979a

Russia-Ukraine war live: drones damage Moscow buildings; Putin says Kremlin ‘building up the power of its navy’

Night-time drone attack damages two office blocks, one injured, say Russian officials

the Guardian

"The Swedish government said this month that it would examine whether it could change #Sweden's Public Order Act to give police the possibility to stop demonstrations that threatened Sweden's security." #NATO #Quran #QuranBurning

#Turkey urges Sweden to take steps to stop #KoranBurnings
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/other/turkey-urges-sweden-to-take-steps-to-stop-koran-burnings/ar-AA1eyNMx

MSN

"The towers, often unoccupied at night, are located further from the #Kremlin than other highly-defended government targets like the #MinistryOfDefence, where #Russia had stationed a Pantsir S-1 air defence system on the roof last year, and present a large, tall target." #UkraineWar #Ukraine

#Moscow tower hit for second time in fresh #DroneStrike, says mayor
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/aug/01/moscow-hit-by-fresh-drone-strike-says-mayor

Drone hits Moscow tower housing ministries for second time, says mayor

Russian defence ministry blames Kyiv for attack as Ukrainian presidential adviser says Kremlin should expect ‘more war’

The Guardian

"A flock of #NATO aircraft carefully monitored the ships as they sailed toward #Izmail, a small Ukrainian port just across from #Romania on the #DanubeRiver. The vessels presumably will load grain in Izmail then sail back into the #BlackSea and onward to foreign ports." #UkraineWar

NATO Planes Watched As Three Civilian Ships Ran #Russia’s #NavalBlockade Of #Ukraine

https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidaxe/2023/07/31/nato-planes-watched-as-three-civilian-ships-ran-russias-naval-blockade-of-ukraine/?sh=31453e2c1b72

NATO Planes Watched As Three Civilian Ships Ran Russia’s Naval Blockade Of Ukraine

Sunday’s successful blockade run could signal to international shippers that it’s reasonably safe to resume operations from Ukrainian ports.

Forbes

"People living around the eastern Polish village of #Białowieża, close to the #Belarus border, shared accounts on social media of what they said were border violations before the defence ministry issued its statement." #Poland #NATO #Wagner

#Warsaw sends troops to border, accusing Belarus of violating its airspace
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/aug/01/warsaw-sends-troops-to-border-accusing-belarus-of-violating-its-airspace

Warsaw sends troops to border, accusing Belarus of violating its airspace

Polish military says army helicopters crossed eastern flank, adding to tensions caused by proximity of Wagner fighters

The Guardian

Izmail port was hit again.

"In late July, Russian drones targeted the #Izmail, destroying a grain warehouses. And on Sunday, Ukrainian media reported several foreign cargo ships had arrived at the port from the #BlackSea for the first time since the expiration of the grain deal." #UkraineWar #Russia

Russian drones hit port, grain storage in #Ukraine’s #Odesa region – official
https://www.rappler.com/world/europe/russia-ukraine-crisis-updates-august-2-2023/

Russian drones hit port, grain storage in Ukraine's Odesa region – official

'Russia is trying to cut Ukraine out of the future grain agreement and, most importantly, to strategically displace our country from the global food market,' says Serhiy Bratchuk, speaker of the Ukrainian Volunteer Army South

RAPPLER
Russia-Ukraine war live: Russian strikes cause fire at grain store in Odesa after drones shot down over Kyiv

Russia attacks port and grain storage facilities in Izmail after drones downed during an overnight attack on Kyiv

the Guardian

"This isn’t the first time an ally has insinuated #Ukraine needed to be more grateful to its allies.

Speaking to reporters at the #NATO summit in #Vilnius earlier this summer, British Defense Secretary #BenWallace said Ukraine must show 'gratitude' to its allies in order to maintain long-term Western public and political support." #Poland #UkraineWar

Ukraine summons Polish ambassador over ‘unacceptable’ comments about gratitude https://www.politico.eu/article/ukraine-summons-polish-ambassador-bartosz-cichocki-kyiv-over-unacceptable-comments/

Ukraine summons Polish ambassador over ‘unacceptable’ comments about gratitude

Polish official said Kyiv should ‘start appreciating the role Poland has played for Ukraine in recent months and years.’

POLITICO

“The summoning of the Polish ambassador — a representative of the country that was the only one left in #Kyiv on the day of #Russia’s invasion of #Ukraine — to the Ukrainian foreign ministry should never have happened,” Morawiecki said. #UkraineWar

#Zelenskyy urges cool heads as #Poland lashes out at Ukraine in gratitude spat
https://www.politico.eu/article/zelenskyy-restraint-poland-ukraine-agriculture-gratitude-spat/

Zelenskyy urges cool heads as Poland lashes out at Ukraine in gratitude spat

Polish PM slaps Kyiv down for summoning Warsaw’s ambassador.

POLITICO
Turkish President Recep Tayyip #Erdogan urged his Russian counterpart Vladimir #Putin in a call on Wednesday not to further escalate tensions, after #Moscow struck facilities vital for grain shipments from #Ukraine. #UkraineWar
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/08/02/erdogan-urges-putin-not-to-escalate-ukraine-war-tensions-a82038
Erdogan Urges Putin Not to Escalate Ukraine War Tensions

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in a call on Wednesday not to further escalate tensions, after Moscow struck facilities vital for grain shipments from Ukraine.  Erdogan was a key player in the now-collapsed deal that allowed for safe passage of Ukraine grain shipments on the Black Sea, and has positioned himself as an intermediary in the conflict.  The Turkish leader said "no steps should be taken that will escalate tensions in the Russia-Ukraine war."

The Moscow Times

The detailed training syllabus still has to be finalized and approved by the #US and it isn't clear yet which countries will actually transfer fighter jets to #Ukraine. #UkraineWar

#F16 questions remain as Ukrainian pilots set to start training this month
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/f-16-questions-remain-as-ukrainian-pilots-set-to-start-training-this-month/ar-AA1eDN4z

MSN

"Meanwhile, #Romania said on Thursday it will clear customs for up to 30 ships waiting to enter the country from Ukrainian ports on the River #Danube over the next two days, a sign that trade has not halted despite a Russian attack on #Ukraine’s main river port." #GrainCorridor #UkraineWar
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/aug/03/russia-ukraine-war-live-russia-deliberately-using-food-as-a-weapon-says-eu-massive-drone-attack-on-kyiv?page=with:block-64cb9e8b8f082f4d589125b8#block-64cb9e8b8f082f4d589125b8
Russia-Ukraine war live: Ukraine investigating Russia’s attacks on agriculture infrastructure as potential war crimes

Ukraine’s prosecutor general is investigating attacks on civilian infrastructure

the Guardian

"In 2023, #Ukraine supplied 80% of the wheat procured to support humanitarian operations in the most #FoodInsecure countries such as #Afghanistan, #Djibouti, #Ethiopia, #Kenya, #Somalia, #Sudan and #Yemen." #UkraineWar #BSGI #GrainCorridor #BlackSea

#Putin is using food as a weapon – but his cynical attempts to drum up forced allies will fail | Joseph Borrell
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/aug/03/russia-food-vladimir-putin-black-sea-grain-initiative-eu-aid

Putin is using food as a weapon – but his cynical attempts to drum up forced allies will fail

By reneging on the Black Sea grain deal, Russia has driven up food prices around the world, says Josep Borrell, the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs and security policy

The Guardian
Russia-Ukraine war live: EU bans drone sales to Belarus and adds state TV presenters to sanctions list

Belarusian leader, Alexander Lukashenko, is close ally of Vladimir Putin and EU says regime is ‘accomplice in Russia’s unprovoked war’

the Guardian

"Experts given access to two units at Russian-held site one month after #Ukraine claimed there were devices on roofs" #IAEA #NuclearPlant #UkraineWar

#UN nuclear watchdog finds no explosives at #Zaporizhzhia plant
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/aug/04/un-nuclear-watchdog-searches-for-explosives-at-zaporizhzhia-plant

UN nuclear watchdog finds no explosives at Zaporizhzhia plant

Experts given access to two units at Russian-held site month after Ukraine claimed there were devices on roofs

The Guardian
Russia-Ukraine war live: chemical tanker hit near Crimea as UK reports ‘significant blow’ to Russian fleet

Ukrainian drones said to strike ship in Kerch Strait just one day after Russian Black Sea fleet vessel struck

the Guardian

"#JPMorgan had handled some Russian #GrainExport payments for the past few months with reassurances from #Washington. However, that cooperation stopped this week, Russia's Foreign Ministry said Friday." #Ukraine

#Russia says JPMorgan Stopped Processing Its Grain Payments https://www.voanews.com/a/russia-says-jpmorgan-stopped-processing-its-grain-payments-/7212697.html

Russia Says JPMorgan Stopped Processing Its Grain Payments

Moscow demands action from Washington to help Russian grain and fertilizer reach global markets

Voice of America (VOA News)
Russia-Ukraine war live: chemical tanker hit near Crimea as UK reports ‘significant blow’ to Russian fleet

Ukrainian drones said to strike ship in Kerch Strait just one day after Russian Black Sea fleet vessel struck

the Guardian

#BlackSea is becoming a decisive frontline after #Moscow pulled out of the UN grain deal and bombarded #Ukraine’s ports. #UkraineWar

Drone attack on tanker shows #Kyiv’s intent to hit Russian energy shipments https://www.politico.eu/article/drone-attack-russia-tanker-kyiv-hit-energy-shipment-naval-base-crimea-black-sea-ukraine-war/

Drone attack on tanker shows Kyiv’s intent to hit Russian energy shipments

Black Sea is becoming a decisive frontline after Moscow pulled out of the UN grain deal and bombarded Ukraine’s ports.

POLITICO

"The Swedish authorities have accused #Russia of trying to influence how #QuranBurnings are viewed around the world through #disinformation campaigns written in Arabic. It is believed to be part of an attempt to disrupt #Sweden’s #Nato membership process, which is still waiting for approval by #Turkey and #Hungary."

Russia spreading false claims about Qur’an burnings to harm Nato bid, says Sweden
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/aug/06/russia-spreading-false-claims-about-quran-burnings-to-harm-nato-bid-says-sweden

Russia spreading false claims about Qur’an burnings to harm Nato bid, says Sweden

Defence agency says Moscow is using the protests in Stockholm to stir tensions between Arab countries and the west

The Guardian
Russia-Ukraine war live: Ukraine detains informer accused of helping Russia plot attack on Zelenskiy, says security service

SBU security service says detained woman was gathering intelligence on Ukrainian president’s itinerary as he visited Mykolaiv region

the Guardian

"The shift to stand-off attacks—all Ukrainian jets except the Su-25s can fire munitions from beyond the range of most of #Russia’s ground-based air-defenses—greatly has boosted the life-expectancy of Ukrainian pilots."
#UkraineWar #Ukraine

The Ukrainian Air Force Lost 62 Planes In 2022. So Far In 2023, It Has Lost Just Seven.

Border policing is not going to cut it, this will get worse.

"The #SwedenDemocrats have staked out a position as an immigration-sceptical party claiming to stand up for traditional Swedish culture. The party is especially culturally dogmatic when it comes to #Islam, which senior figures including leader Jimmie Åkesson have frequently suggested is incompatible with 'Swedishness' " #NATO #Turkey

#Sweden struggles to handle the fallout from repeated #QuranBurning protests https://www.euronews.com/2023/08/08/sweden-struggles-to-handle-the-fallout-from-repeated-quran-burning-protests

Sweden struggles to handle the fallout from Quran-burning protests

A series of government-authorised protests have put questions of free speech and Swedish identity up for grabs, while the government warns national security is under threat.

euronews

"Elements of the political system are pushing #Islamaphobia, and pockets of the Swedish media have produced an 'extremely negative' stereotype of #Muslims.

He also finds himself explaining why the #Quran is so important for Muslims to baffled Swedes, who are used to living in one of the most secular societies."

Chocolates and a chat: A peaceful response to #QuranBurnings in #Sweden
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/8/8/counter-protests-quran-burning

Chocolates and a chat: A peaceful response to Quran burnings in Sweden

Muslims present at the burnings refuse to be provoked as they hand out chocolates and seek dialogue with onlookers.

Al Jazeera

"These latest assessments represent a marked change from the optimism at the start of the #counteroffensive. These officials say those expectations were 'unrealistic' and are now contributing to pressure on #Ukraine from some in the West to begin peace negotiations, including considering the possibility of territorial concessions."#UkraineWar

Western allies receive increasingly ‘sobering’ updates on Ukraine’s counteroffensive:‘This is the most difficult time of the war’
https://edition.cnn.com/2023/08/08/politics/ukraine-counteroffensive-us-briefings/index.html

Ukrainian special services have foiled an attempt by Russian #hackers to penetrate the Ukrainian armed forces’ combat information system, the #SBU security service said on Tuesday. #Ukraine #UkraineWar #Russia
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/aug/08/russia-ukraine-war-live-updates-moscow-missile-attack-pokrovsk-injuries-deaths?page=with:block-64d24d838f088246c330746b#block-64d24d838f088246c330746b
Russia-Ukraine war live: Kyiv claims to have foiled Russian hacking of armed forces combat system

Ukrainian special service says it has ‘blocked the illegal actions of Russian hackers who tried to penetrate military networks’

the Guardian

"The #ruble has weakened by 23% against the #dollar so far this year, placing it among the three worst emerging-market performers with the #TurkishLira and the #ArgentinePeso.

The ruble was trading below 97 per dollar on Wednesday and is nearing 100 to the greenback, a level last seen during the first month after President Vladimir #Putin ordered the February 2022 invasion." #Russia #UkraineWar #Ukraine

Ruble Weakens Toward 100 Per Dollar for First Time in 16 Months
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/ruble-weakens-toward-100-per-081721407.html

Yahooist Teil der Yahoo Markenfamilie

Why is there a pyrotechnics warehouse within the grounds of a critical optical devices manufacturing plant???
---
"The #Zagorsk Optical-Mechanical Plant, referred to as 'ZOMZ' produces night vision devices and binoculars for the Russian military as part of #Russia’s defense conglomerate #Rostec." #ZagorskPlant #UkraineWar #Ukraine

https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/08/09/powerful-blast-at-optical-plant-near-moscow-triggers-total-evacuation-a82098

Powerful Blast at Optical Plant Near Moscow Triggers ‘Total Evacuation’

Updated with new injury count.

The Moscow Times

A former #EuropeanCouncil President, #Tusk’s victory would see #Poland moving closer to European allies and reviving support for #Ukraine. His Civic Coalition (KO) party ran with Third Way and the New Left on separate tickets but with a shared commitment to restoring ties with #Europe. #EuropeanUnion

New era’: Tusk celebrates exit polls suggesting opposition win in Poland
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/10/16/new-era-tusk-celebrates-exit-polls-suggesting-opposition-win-in-poland?traffic_source=rss&utm_source=press.coop

‘New era’: Tusk celebrates exit polls suggesting opposition win in Poland

Poland should see official election results from Monday but exit polls suggest an end to eight years of nationalist rule

Al Jazeera

The final count showed #PiS had received 35.4% of the vote, while #CivicCoalition, led by #Tusk, a former prime minister and #EuropeanCouncil president, had 30.7%. With the centre-right #ThirdWay, on 14.4%, and leftwing #Lewica, on 8.6%, the three groupings should be able to put together a coalition that would form a comfortable majority in the 460-seat parliament. #DonaldTusk #Ukraine

#Poland election: votes counted as country awaits Tusk-led coalition
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/oct/17/poland-election-votes-counted-tusk-coalition-law-justice-party?utm_source=press.coop

Poland election: Tusk urges president to allow for swift formation of government

Civic Coalition leader calls for ‘quick decisions’ after coalition of opposition groups win enough votes for parliamentary majority

The Guardian

The group brings together more than 160 intelligence units from around the world, including the US Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, to cooperate and share information on #MoneyLaundering, #TerroristFinancing and other related crimes. #Ukraine

#Russia Suspended From Global Financial Intelligence Group
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/russia-suspended-global-financial-intelligence-173808952.html

Yahooist Teil der Yahoo Markenfamilie

This is as good as done. Now it's Hungary's turn.

#Russia #Ukraine

#Turkey's president submits protocol for #Sweden's admission into #NATO to parliament for ratification
https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/turkeys-president-submits-protocol-swedens-admission-nato-parliament-104221981

Turkey's president submits protocol for Sweden's admission into NATO to parliament for ratification

The office of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan says he has submitted a protocol for Sweden’s admission into NATO to Turkey’s parliament for ratification

ABC News

Newsflash: The #BankOfRussia has raised its key interest rate from 13% to 15%, a larger rise than expected.

Announcing the 200 basis point hike, the Bank of Russia says current inflationary pressures have significantly increased to a level above its expectations. #UkraineWar #Ukraine

#Russia hikes interest rates to 15% to battle inflation
https://www.theguardian.com/business/live/2023/oct/27/natwest-grows-profits-and-admits-serious-failings-over-treatment-of-nigel-farage-business-live?page=with:block-653b91ca8f0880c248190818#block-653b91ca8f0880c248190818

Bank of Russia raises interest rates to 15% to fight inflation – business live

Russian central bank says current inflationary pressures have significantly increased to a level above its expectations

the Guardian

Two articles published this week give a stark assessment of #Ukraine’s prospects in its war with #Russia. One – by the commander in chief of the Ukrainian military – admits the battlefield has reached a stalemate and a long attritional war benefiting #Moscow beckons. The other portrays Ukrainian President Volodymyr #Zelensky as exhausted by the constant effort to cajole and persuade allies to keep the faith.

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/11/03/world/ukraine-president-warns-long-attritional-war/index.html

The marines have secured a beachhead that could allow #Ukraine to reclaim more of the #Kherson region that lies between Ukrainian territory and #Crimea, seized by #Russia in 2014, a fillip for a counter-offensive showing few gains elsewhere, but only if they can find a way to bring armoured vehicles and heavy weapons across the wide river separating the two militaries.

Ukraine troops defend vital foothold on Russian-controlled #DniproRiver
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/03/ukraine-troops-defend-vital-foothold-on-russian-controlled-dnipro-river

Ukraine troops defend vital foothold on Russian-controlled Dnipro River

Beachhead established on occupied side of river could allow Kyiv forces to reclaim more of Kherson region

The Guardian

The conversations have included very broad outlines of what #Ukraine might need to give up to reach a deal, the officials said. Some of the talks, which officials described as delicate, took place last month during a meeting of representatives from more than 50 nations supporting Ukraine, including #NATO members, known as the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, the officials said. #EU

U.S., European officials broach topic of #PeaceNegotiations with Ukraine, sources say
https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/us-european-officials-broach-topic-peace-negotiations-ukraine-sources-rcna123628

U.S., European officials broach topic of peace negotiations with Ukraine, sources say

U.S. and European officials have begun quietly talking to the Ukrainian government about what possible peace negotiations with Russia might entail to end the war, according to one current senior U.S. official and one former senior U.S. official familiar with the discussions.

NBC News
Russia-Ukraine war live: Nato allies condemn Russia’s withdrawal from key cold war-era security treaty

Russia withdraws from treaty of conventional armed forces in Europe, which was aimed at preventing cold war rivals from massing forces at borders

the Guardian

#Moldova, a country of about 2.5 million people situated between #Romania and #Ukraine, wouldn’t usually earn much international attention, but its vulnerability to Russian meddling has put it firmly on the #EU’s enlargement radar.

Like Ukraine, Moldova believes its future security lies with the EU,

EU expected to start process of Ukraine and Moldova becoming member states | #EuropeanCommission | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/07/eu-expected-to-start-process-of-ukraine-and-moldova-becoming-member-states

EU expected to start process of Ukraine and Moldova becoming member states

Key report will be first official stocktake of progress of nations in aligning themselves with the bloc

The Guardian

In a 1,200-page report on future enlargement of the 27-member bloc, the #EU said talks should formally be launched once #Kyiv satisfied remaining conditions related to stepping up the fight against corruption, adopting a law on lobbying in line with EU standards and strengthening national minority safeguards.

#EuropeanCommission backs talks on #Ukraine and #Moldova EU membership | #EuropeanUnion | The Guardian

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/08/european-commission-endorses-membership-talks-with-ukraine-and-moldova

European Commission backs talks on Ukraine and Moldova EU membership

Negotiations with Kyiv should formally be launched when it fulfils conditions in areas such as fighting corruption, report says

The Guardian

#Ukraine #Israel

My Mastodon feed on the #UkraineWar has slowed to a bare trickle.

With World’s Attention Locked On Gaza, Ukrainian Soldiers Fear Being Forgotten - The Moscow Times
https://www.themoscowtimes.com/2023/11/08/with-worlds-attention-locked-on-gaza-ukrainian-soldiers-fear-being-forgotten-a83033

With World’s Attention Locked On Gaza, Ukrainian Soldiers Fear Being Forgotten

ZAPORIZHZHIA REGION, Ukraine — Kaneki, a 24-year-old soldier attached to the Ukrainian Ground Forces’ Reco Kilo unit, sits behind the wheel of his pickup truck, taking a long drag on his cigarette.

The Moscow Times

A Russian missile damaged a Liberia-flagged civilian vessel entering a Black Sea port in #Odesa region, killing one and injuring four people including three #Filipinos, Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday.

#Ukraine says Russian missile hits civilian vessel in #BlackSea, injures 3 Filipinos
https://globalnation.inquirer.net/222278/ukraine-says-russian-missile-hits-civilian-vessel-in-black-sea-injures-3-filipinos?utm_source=(direct)&utm_medium=gallery

Ukraine says Russian missile hits civilian vessel in Black Sea, injures 3 Filipinos

A Russian missile damaged a Liberia-flagged civilian vessel entering a Black Sea port in Odesa region, killing one and injuring four people including three Filipinos, Ukrainian officials said

INQUIRER.net

“I mean #space, including high-orbit assets, and new prospective types of weapons that will ensure strategic security of both #Russia and the People's Republic of #China,” Putin said without elaboration. #Ukraine

Putin calls for closer Russia-China cooperation on military #satellites and prospective weapons - ABC News
https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/top-chinese-military-official-visits-moscow-talks-expanding-104714262

Putin calls for closer Russia-China cooperation on military satellites and prospective weapons

Russian President Vladimir Putin has told a senior Chinese military official that Moscow and Beijing should expand their cooperation on military satellites and other prospective defense technologies

ABC News

Border defense? What border defense? 🙄

The #Ukraine conflict is overextending #Russia’s military and straining its ability to maintain secure defence of its borders, the #UK’s Ministry of Defence has said.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/nov/09/russia-ukraine-war-live-troops-avdiivka-encirclement-zelenskiy-putin?page=with:block-654cc0b48f0898cc3cb04266#block-654cc0b48f0898cc3cb04266

Russia-Ukraine war live: overextended Russian military struggling to maintain border defences, says UK

UK Ministry of Defence says Russia diverting military resources away from border to help with war in Ukraine

the Guardian
War Mapper (@[email protected])

Attached: 4 images Ukraine update for the past week: Ukraine has retained previously captured positions on the Southern bank of the Dnipro and expanded its control within Krynky. South of Bakhmut, Ukraine has made advances around the rail line. West of Bakhmut, Russia has attacked along the edge of the Bohdanivka reservoir. Around Robotyne, Ukraine has captured positions on the Eastern flank of the salient.

Mastodon 🐘

#Czechoslovakia #Taiwan

The Czech and Taiwanese governments signed an agreement on Friday to work together to help reconstruction work in #Ukraine, with a senior Czech envoy praising #Taipei as a “great ally” despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2023/nov/10/russia-ukraine-war-live-russia-intensifying-assault-on-avdiivka-says-ukraine-military?page=with:block-654df93e8f08a95ef07ebc87#block-654df93e8f08a95ef07ebc87

Russia-Ukraine war live: Russia intensifying assault on Avdiivka, says Ukraine military

Wet ground holding Russians back for now, says Ukrainian official; private abortion clinics in illegally occupied Crimea ‘voluntarily’ close

the Guardian

Russian judge Kirill Gevorgian, who joined the #UN’s International Court of Justice (#ICJ) in 2015, has failed to win reelection, leaving the court without a representative of #Russia or the #USSR for the first time since it began working in 1946. #Ukraine

https://meduza.io/en/news/2023/11/10/russia-loses-international-court-of-justice-seat-for-the-first-time-in-history

Russia loses International Court of Justice seat for the first time in history — Meduza

Russian judge Kirill Gevorgian, who joined the U.N.’s International Court of Justice (ICJ) in 2015, has failed to win reelection, leaving the court without a representative of Russia or the USSR for the first time since it began working in 1946.

Meduza

Medics work in makeshift conditions, even while targeted by Russian bombs, to stabilise patients before they can be taken to hospitals

‘We save 98% of our patients’: inside a frontline Ukrainian field hospital | #Ukraine | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/13/im-focused-on-my-work-inside-a-frontline-ukrainian-field-hospital

‘We save 98% of our patients’: inside a frontline Ukrainian field hospital

Medics work in makeshift conditions, even while targeted by Russian bombs, to stabilise patients before they can be taken to hospitals

The Guardian
Major implications for #Ukraine, this is only the 2nd time in #UK's history that a former prime minister has become a member of the current Cabinet. Lord Cameron will have a lot of clout at home and internationally.

The last former #PrimeMinister to serve in one of his successor’s parliaments is believed to be Alex Douglas-Home, who served in #EdwardHeath’s government as foreign secretary six years after leaving Number 10. #Ukraine

How can #DavidCameron return as Foreign Secretary while not being an MP?
https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/uknews/how-can-david-cameron-return-as-foreign-secretary-while-not-being-an-mp/ar-AA1jPKxU

MSN

Cameron posted on #X, formerly known as #Twitter: “We are facing a daunting set of international challenges, including the war in #Ukraine and the crisis in the #MiddlEast. At this time of profound global change, it has rarely been more important for this country to stand by our allies, strengthen our partnerships and make sure our voice is heard." #Israel

#DavidCameron returns to #UK government as foreign secretary | David Cameron | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2023/nov/13/david-cameron-returns-to-uk-government-as-foreign-secretary

David Cameron returns to UK government as foreign secretary

Former PM makes surprise comeback as part of reshuffle in which Suella Braverman replaced by James Cleverly as home secretary

The Guardian
David Cameron appointed foreign secretary as James Cleverly confirmed as home secretary – UK politics live

Former PM will take seat in House of Lords; Suella Braverman says she will have ‘more to say in due course’

the Guardian

#XiJinping and #Biden expected to discuss #UkraineWar at #Apec meeting; #Germany says aid to #Ukraine will be ‘massively expanded’ in 2024

#RussiaUkraineWar at a glance: what we know on day 629 | Ukraine | The Guardian
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/nov/14/russia-ukraine-war-at-a-glance-what-we-know-on-day-629

Russia-Ukraine war at a glance: what we know on day 629

Xi and Biden expected to discuss Ukraine war at Apec meeting; Germany says aid to Ukraine will be ‘massively expanded’ in 2024

The Guardian