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Latvia Announces Support for Ukraine with Over 1,000 Drones Latvian Defense Minister, Andris Spruds, disclosed via social media on Dec. 28 that the country is committed to transferring more than a thousand varied types of combat drones to Ukraine. The operation will be facilitated via the international drone coalition. Enhancing Ukraine's Aerial Arsenal through the Drone Coalition The supplied drones, produced in Latvia, will be coordinated and dispersed through the U.K. and Latvian-led drone coalition. This organization's primary objective is to bolster Ukraine's collection of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In additional support, Latvia declared its intent to contribute a further 20 million euros ($20.8 million) to the coalition in 2025. Latvia, a notable supporter of Ukraine, has committed to providing military aid at a rate of 0.25% of its GDP annually, including the promise of thousands of drones. In August, Latvia declared its intention to grant 112 million euros ($126 million) in military aid to Ukraine within 2025 alone, while also playing a significant role in expanding the drone coalition initiative. Seven other nations have joined the drone coalition, alongside the founding states. These include Germany, Canada, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Sweden, Estonia, and Denmark. Previously, the coalition had set a goal to raise 1.8 billion euros ($1.8 billion) by the end of 2024 to extend support to Ukraine. In November, additional funding of $30 million for the drone coalition was announced by the U.K., Germany, Canada, and Luxembourg. Ukraine's Focus on Domestic Drone Production and Usage Ukraine is also aspiring to increase domestic drone production, with a target of manufacturing at least 1 million drones in 2024. On Dec. 29, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov stated that over 96% of all UAVs employed by the military in 2024 were of Ukrainian origin. Kyiv uses long-range drones to make deep strikes into Russian territory, mainly targeting military infrastructure such as airfields, logistics hubs, oil refineries, and depots. View full article

Potential Unconventional Russian Attack Poses Threat, Signals Top NATO Officer The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) may find itself on the precipice of a significant threat from suspected Russian hybrid aggressions, according to the organization's deputy assistant secretary general. These tactics would have been deemed profoundly intolerable just half a decade earlier, suggesting that NATO is situated in an increasingly precarious "boiling frog" situation. The NATO official shared with Sky News the serious possibility of unconventional Russian attacks on NATO - actions such as sabotage or arson - which may possibly precipitate "substantial" casualties. Redefining Grey Zone Warfare Response Strategy James Appathurai, entrusted with updating NATO's strategy to monitor and prevent 'hybrid warfare', has emphasized the necessity for increased solidarity and clarity among NATO allies and Moscow. The objective is to define which levels of grey zone hostility may demand an allied response, potentially including the utilization of military force. There has been a discernable surge in more "kinetic" acts, such as the incapacitation of critical undersea cables, building sabotage, and the installment of incendiary devices inside aircraft cargo since Russia initiated its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Ensuring Preparedness for Suspected Russian Hybrid Attacks Appathurai's concern lies in the possibility of an attack so significant that it could compel NATO to invoke its Article 5 collective response, which interprets an attack on one member as an attack on all. He cited the incident in 2018 when Russia attempted to assassinate former Russian double agent, Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia, using the potent nerve agent Novichok, displaying the potential devastation such unconventional attacks can cause. The need for effective preparation and response strategy is at the forefront of these concerns in order to minimize the damage in case of a significant attack. Updating Strategy to Deter Hybrid Warfare Appathurai and his team are working on refreshening NATO's strategy to understand, deter, and counter hybrid warfare, last reformed in 2015. This new effort involves the documentation of all suspected hybrid attacks, not only from Russia but also from other hostile actors like China, Iran, and North Korea. Scheduled for approval in 2025, the updated policy aims to equip NATO with the necessary knowledge and techniques to better deter aggression and decide on the most appropriate response. Establishing clarity over 'red lines' for hybrid warfare with Russia is crucial and this endeavor aims at marking out such 'no-go' areas and thresholds. The notable increase in subtle forms of aggression signifies a shift towards the 'boiling frog' scenario where today's unacceptable becomes tomorrow's norm. Acknowledging the escalated hybrid hostilities as potential triggers for collective response under Article 5, NATO aims to prevent escalation, manage it if it arises, while also striving to return to pre-conflict conditions. View full article

USS Carl Vinson Docks in Malaysia The USS Carl Vinson, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier belonging to the United States Navy, officially made her port call in Malaysia, marking a significant moment for international cooperation. This arrival happens just over a month after the USS Abraham Lincoln’s visit, highlighting consistent contact between the global naval powers. A Decade of Partnership: US and Malaysia The call marks the 10 years of a robust US-Malaysia partnership. Rear Admiral Michael Wosje, Carrier Strike Group One (CSG-1) commander, offered his remarks on the occasion, noting that the long-term security and military cooperation between both nations underlines their shared commitment to bolstering prosperity, security, and peace in the region. Beyond these shared objectives, the Rear Admiral pointed out how the visit by the world's largest warship facilitates further cooperation with the Royal Malaysian Navy. "This visit allows us to build upon our strategic and mutually beneficial partnership while also giving our sailors much-deserved rest and relaxation, exploring the rich cultural offerings of Kuala Lumpur and becoming closer to the local community," Wosje announced per NST. Wosje expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside the Royal Malaysian Navy. He repeated his commitment to deepening ties through joint exercises, reemphasizing the close cooperation that exists between the US and Malaysia on security matters. Enhancing Relations through Cultural Exchanges Captain Matthew Thomas, the ship's commanding officer, thanked the welcoming citizens of Port Klang and Kuala Lumpur, recognized for their hospitality. He revealed his delight in inviting Royal Malaysian Navy and government officials aboard the Vinson and the opportunity to embrace the diverse history and culture of Malaysia. The significant docking will see nearly 7,500 sailors from CSG-1 taking part in cultural exchanges, community events, and morale, welfare, and recreation-sponsored tours to foster cultural understanding and cooperation. The visit also included a media tour, where press members were shown the ship's vast flight deck, home to over 60 aircraft, and other key facilities such as its canteen and medical amenities. The USS Carl Vinson will remain docked at Port Klang for several days before continuing its operations in the region. The Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group operates within the territory of the US Seventh Fleet, preserving a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This naval giant, towering at approximately 244 feet tall from keel to mast, houses over 5,000 personnel. The US-Malaysia diplomatic relations began in 1957, following Malaysia's independence, culminating in a Comprehensive Partnership agreement in 2014. This latest port call by the USS Carl Vinson reaffirms this ongoing collaboration. View full article

Ukraine's Unique Plan to Prioritize Education Amid Conflict By 2025, Ukraine is revealing a rather unique blueprint for education, foreseeing the launch of over 150 underground educational facilities, as stated by Deputy Education Minister Nadiia Kuzmychova in a recent briefing. A Response to Unprecedented Challenges Ukraine has found itself entangled in a web of adversity resulting from continuous Russian aerial attacks. The relentless bombardment has severely impacted the nation’s civil infrastructure, compelling the government to ponder safer alternatives for its educational institutions. These underground schools and vocational training centers are, therefore, a calculated strategic move in response to the persistent threats. As detailed by Kuzmychova, the plan encompasses the building of 139 underground schools, alongside several vocational training institutions, as an efficacious way to ensure the provision of quality education amidst the crisis. The Journey of Construction As of now, there are 79 underground education facilities under construction, with most of them being built in regions that suffer the brunt of Russian shelling. Kuzmychova asserted that construction would continue vigorously, with an anticipated completion of all the facilities as early as September 1, 2025. Kharkiv, a city in Ukraine, has taken the lead by leveraging its metro stations to hold classes, thus pushing the boundaries and paving the way for a safe yet efficacious learning environment. Such initiative showcases the country's unwavering determination to keep educational opportunities alive despite turbulence. Impact of Russian Invasion on Ukraine's Education System The conflict with Russia has dramatically hampered Ukraine's educational foundation. Data published by the Education Ministry in February 2024 revealed that Russia's invasion had disrupted one in every seven Ukrainian schools, besides completely obliterating 400 educational institutions. Similarly, the commencement of the school year in September 2024 bore witness to the heartbreaking reality of conflict. Within the initial three days, at least 12 educational institutions were ravaged by Russian strikes, leading to many casualties. As such, Ukraine's innovative approach to its educational infrastructure underlines its commitment to the continuity of learning in the face of adversity. View full article

German-Made Leopard 1 Tanks Flood into Ukraine After Extended Delays It has taken a surprising period of 19 months for German industries to refurbish and deliver the first batch of 58 Leopard 1A5 tanks, out of a minimum of 155, pledged to Ukraine by a consortium led by Germany, including The Netherlands and Belgium. However, despite parts shortages, dispatch rates are finally on the rise. Since the initial delivery of the 58 Leopard 1A5 tanks, which arrived in Ukraine in early September, an additional 45 tanks have been shipped, increasing the pace significantly. The Impact of the Leopard 1A5 on Ukraine's Defense Capabilities The delivery schedule is significant to the Ukrainian's defense strategy. The Leopard 1A5, manned by a four-person crew, is set to become the most populous Western-made tank in Ukraine, outnumbering the Leopard 2 tanks (104 in total), the American-made M-1s (80 units), and surpassing the modest 14 British-made Challenger 2s. Currently, the Ukrainian general staff has already assigned the Challenger 2s, M-1s, and Leopard 2s to their designated brigades. This leaves the Leopard 1s, the only Western tanks, to equip the dozen or so new heavy brigades that the Ukrainians have formed recently. Each Ukrainian mechanized brigade typically houses a single tank battalion consisting of 31 tanks. Berlin announced the delivery of the most recent batch of 15 Leopard 1s on Monday. This delivery also included armored trucks, artillery, air-defense equipment, and a significant quantity of ammunition, adding to the nearly 7 billion Euros worth of aid that Germany has sent to Ukraine in the past 34 months since Russia intensified its warfare. The Key Features and Utility of the Leopard Tanks in Ukraine’s Warfare The Leopard 1 tank, a relic from the 1980s, is not the latest addition to the Ukrainian inventory, but it is not the oldest either. Its relatively light construction and armor compared to, for instance, the 69-ton M-1, should not detract from its powerful 105-millimeter main gun and robust EMES-18 fire-control system. Ukraine, recognizing the Leopard 1’s main flaw of thin protection, has added blocks of reactive armor and anti-drone netting to increase its defense capabilities. So far, the additions to the tanks appear to be constructive. Only six of the 58 Leopard 1s that Ukrainians received between July 2023 and early September have been confirmed as destroyed. However, it's noticeable that the Ukrainians tend to avoid sending the Leopard 1s to high-risk sectors. Despite some flaws, the Leopard 1 has inspired confidence in its crew members. Ukrainian units have developed tactics to reduce the risk of a catastrophic event, such as limiting the stowage of rounds in the turret to avoid ammunition explosion following an enemy hit. Ukraine's New Mechanized Brigade and Leopard 2 Tanks Strengthen Pokrovsk Ahead of Potential Russian Attack The eerie silence enveloping Pokrovsk, a transportation hub in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk Oblast, gives a chilling warning of an impending storm. The once-populated city has seen its residents shrink to a handful of Ukrainian military personnel since Russia escalated its war on Ukraine in February 2022. The looming threat is the Russian army’s 90th Guards Tank Division, which forms the powerhouse of a formidable force consisting of dozens of brigades and regiments in two field armies. This force, totaling nearly 70,000 troops, is preparing to capture Pokrovsk shortly. The Ukrainian garrison, much smaller in comparison, is expecting key reinforcements. The 155th Mechanized Brigade, equipped with the German-designed Leopard 2 tanks and French-made Caesar howitzers, is reportedly deploying near the city. The Russians, however, are closing in on Pokrovsk. Russian units south of Pokrovsk are reportedly pushing forward to form a defensive line, in an attempt to cut off Ukrainian support from the south. Ukrainians might respond by pulling back several brigades and battalions currently holding a small salient within the Russian-occupied territory. As the conflict escalates, the 155th Mechanized Brigade with its German tanks, French howitzers, and 2,000 new soldiers should be fully deployed in Pokrovsk. The question of whether they can hold the city against an onslaught is one of the pivots of this phase in the wider war that has, so far, claimed over a million casualties. View full article

AFN Now Streaming Service Reaches Unprecedented Milestones The Defense Media Activity (DMA) and the American Forces Network (AFN) have recently achieved a significant feat with their streaming service, AFN Now. Since its inception just two years ago, the Department of Defense's television streaming app has delivered over a million hours of content to military viewership globally, indicating its rising popularity due to its far-reaching accessibility and handiness. Kim Antos, the Associate Director of the AFN Broadcast Center, who has played a pivotal role in the expansion and adoption of AFN Now, commended the relentless efforts of the AFN team. "Our tenacity has not been in vain. It is gratifying to see that the military personnel based overseas can enjoy easy access to quality news, entertainment, and high-ticket sports events," Antos made this statement while reflecting on the app's success over the past year. Rapid Subscriber Growth and New Milestones Besides the one million hours streamed, Antos highlighted that AFN Now marked another significant milestone this year. Just two years since its launch, the app has garnered an impressive 100,000 subscribers in November. Antos attributes this achievement to the popular demand for simulcasting traditional satellite TV channels. “The live sports and newsreel viewers in, however, the excellent entertainment programming ensures they become loyal members," said Antos. Following AFN's partnership with the NFL, the network's authorization to stream each NFL game to military audiences overseas gave another spike to the app's popularity. Football enthusiasts from Korea to the Red Sea welcomed this development with open arms. Additionally, AFN Now offered Free Ad-Supported Television (FAST) channels for a tailor-made viewing experience, a feature that quickly became a favorite among the subscribers. AFN Now's Impact on Military Communities The smashing achievements of AFN Now go beyond the significant numbers it boasts. Antos emphasized the substantial benefits offered to troop morale, reenlistment, safety, and quality of life by the streaming service. The special partnership with the NFL and the provision of custom-made channels like FAST have considerably enhanced user engagement. This year, AFN Now added another feather to its cap by offering an extra five channels dedicated solely to holiday-themed content, much to the delight of military families stationed overseas. The streaming app also played a critical role in disseminating timely information regarding breaking news events and community updates. Alongside AFN’s radio streaming app, AFN Go, the app provided access to crucial information on events like natural disasters or high-risk episodes. AFN Now's Legacy and Future Applauding the staggering growth of AFN Now, Jim Alexander, Director of the AFN Broadcast Center, praised the team behind the outstanding success of the service. He pointed out that the continual refinement and robust testing of the app have immensely contributed to its success. With over a million hours streamed, it is evident that AFN Now is invariably meeting the distinctive needs of overseas military audiences. The AFN Now app continues the long-standing legacy of AFN, which has catered to U.S. forces since World War II. As the network's biggest technological advancement since introducing satellite-delivered television in 1997, it effectively embodies AFN's motto of 'We Bring You Home'. The free AFN Now app is readily available for download and registration at AFN Now Registration for service members, families, and retirees living overseas. The app supports various platforms including Apple iPhones, iPads, Apple TV, Android phones, Android TV and tablets, Amazon Fire, Roku, and smart TVs with app functionality. View full article

Lockheed Obtains $11.8 Billion F-35 Production Contract Bid from Pentagon The Pentagon has extended an approximately $11.8 billion contract to Lockheed Martin, securing the continued production of the globally-coveted F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The perceived progress in contract negotiations has been viewed favorably as both parties edge closer to a comprehensive agreement for the stealth fighter. This hard-won contract encompasses 145 instances of the tri-variant fighter, set to serve the US Air Force, Marine Corps, Navy, and various international clientele. It's noteworthy that the contract is in the undefinitized stage; where particulars regarding dollar amount and quantities could undergo adjustments as discussions persist. The contract exclusively caters to production lot 18 of the stealth fighter. Quest for Contract Finalization: Spring 2025 Lockheed deferred all queries to the Pentagon. Russ Goemaere, an F-35 Joint Program Office spokesperson, relayed to Breaking Defense that the objective is to finalize this lot 18 contract during the spring. Goemaere went on to announce that similar expectations are in place for the issuance of an undefinitized contract for lot 19 production, contingent upon the approval of the 2025 fiscal budget. However, this may not transpire until as late as March, given the last-minute, stopgap provision approved by legislators recently. Overcoming Negotiation Impediments and Coronavirus Challenges Despite the original plan to secure an agreement last year for production lots 18 and 19, the Pentagon and Lockheed, have warsawed in reaching a consensus due to inflation and further complications. Although a "handshake" deal for these two lots was agreed upon in November, the specifics of quantities or prices remained unshared. Nonetheless, Lockheed indicated positive progress could be made with the issuance of an undefinitized contract as talks continued. Lockheed previously attested that securing a contract was essential to provide a cash influx that the company had been partly funding out-of-pocket to ensure continued production. F-35 Stealth Fighter: Quarrels and Defenders Notably, the F-35 program has been variously scrutinized by Trump's supporter Elon Musk, who is expected to cochair a "Department of Government Efficiency" (DOGE). The commission could theoretically recommend expenditure reductions. Musk's sharp criticism of decision-makers for continuing to produce the jet and DOGE co-chair Vivek Ramaswamy's advocacy for redirecting funds from manned fighters to alternate platforms such as drones bring up valid questions concerning the Joint Strike Fighter's future under the new administration. Nevertheless, the fighter continues to have its own advocate in the outgoing Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall, who despite his well-known skepticism of the F-35 program, defended its continued production and upgrading in the face of Musk's critiques last Thursday. View full article

U.S. Defense Department Allocates Nearly $254 Million for Missile Production Boost The U.S. Defense Department announced on December 23 that it will award $253.7 million to Williams International. The funding, part of the Defense Production Act (DPA), aims to facilitate expanded missile production. The initiative will contribute towards military assistance programs for Ukraine, according to Pentagon reports. The declaration is pivotal as the Biden administration seeks to ramp up military assistance to Ukraine ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration as President-elect. This move follows escalating apprehensions that an incoming Trump administration could halt weapons shipments to Kyiv. Enhanced Production Capacity for Precision Strike Armaments The additional financing will empower Williams International to augment engine production capabilities, thereby meeting the Defense Department's demands. The increased production is a prerequisite for accelerating the manufacture of precision strike weapons such as Harpoon, Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM), Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM), and Tomahawk, among others. The bolstering of production capacity aligns with the objectives outlined in the National Defense Industrial Strategy, valid until 2024. The strategy envisions expanding domestic production and securing sustainable supply chains. Laura Taylor-Kale, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, stated, "This endeavor is a critical aspect of the DoD's strategy to expedite the capacity and availability of precision strike weapons that offer cutting-edge capabilities and options to our armed forces." Funding Sources and Future Plans The crucial funds for DPA procurements are sourced from the Indo-Pacific Supplemental Security Appropriations Act of 2024 and the Ukraine Supplemental Security Appropriations Act of 2024. These Acts emphasize increasing the production capacity of critical materials essential for defense against aggression. "This facilitization effort is critical for both the Air Force and the Navy's engine-dependent weapons and is a necessity to facilitate the rapid restocking of our Nation's long-range weapons of choice," as per the statement from the Pentagon. Under the Biden administration, the U.S. granted over $60 billion in military aid to Ukraine. Moreover, the Biden administration is reportedly preparing to announce a final aid package in the coming days. This package, part of the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), is estimated to be worth around $1.2 billion, as per reports from Reuters on December 20. View full article

Ruger Debuts Ultra-light 10/22 Rifle with Carbon Fiber Barrel Sleeve Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. is excited to reveal the newest addition to their renowned armory — a supremely lightweight 10/22 rifle. Assembled at Ruger's Newport, New Hampshire facility, the .22 LR rifle is surrounded by a flurry of standout features, creating a custom-aesthetic and user experience. Sitting Atop the Lightweight Ladder This revolutionary new piece underscores Ruger's commitment to innovative design, as they proudly present the lightest 10/22 rifle in the company's current repertoire. Tipping the scales at only 3.5 lbs, this agile rifle showcases a 16.1" cold hammer-forged barrel enveloped by a carbon fiber sleeve. This clever construction not only reduces weight but enhances rigidity due to the stainless-steel tensioned barrel. Ideal for users seeking reduced vibration alongside the option to add muzzle devices, the barrel is threaded 1/2"-28. Hardy Stock with Enhanced Grip and Design The Magpul MOE X-22 stock, renowned for its lightweight yet robust characteristics, encases the new rifle. The black aesthetic is elevated with a textured, weather-resistant splatter paint finish that assures improved grip even in challenging climatic conditions. Built for the modern user, the stock is equipped with M-LOK attachment slots positioned at 6 o’clock and integral locking sling swivel loops. The length of pull measures at 13.5". Trigger Configurations for Improved Firing Ruger has also added a distinctive touch to the new 10/22 model with their authentic Ruger BX-Trigger®. This encapsulates a pristine break, coupled with an approximate pull weight of 2.75 lbs. Ruger Custom Shop: Launching Chassis Models In addition to the lightweight 10/22 release, Ruger's Custom Shop is also introducing two unique 10/22 rifles enveloped in a Grey Birch chassis. Sporting a tensioned barrel with a carbon fiber sleeve, the BX-Trigger, and options for right-handed and left-handed shooters, these models exemplify versatility. The high-end Grey Birch chassis has adjustable configurations for length of pull and comb height. It folds effortlessly, ensuring easy transportation. The 10" forend accommodates M-LOK slots and an Arca-Swiss rail underneath. View full article

Derya Arms Sets Foot in U.S. with New Manufacturing Unit, Unveils Fresh E-Commerce Platform Derya Arms, a trusted name for 9mm pistols and 12-gauge shotguns, has extended its footprint to the United States, setting off a ripple of excitement among American firearm enthusiasts. This marked expansion involves the establishment of a primary 15,000-square-foot base in Jacksonville, Florida. The facility will serve as both the headquarters and the factory where the company will import firearms, with domestic shooting absolutely on the cards scheduled from 2025 onwards. Breathing Life Into American Manufacturing with Top-tier Firearms Abdullah Celer, president of South Derya Corporation dba Derya, conveyed the company's enthusiasm for this venture. "With an unflinching commitment to quality, we are thrilled to introduce the Derya brand to the United States. Our initial launch will feature two of our hallmark creations, the DY9 pistol and the DY12 shotgun," expressed Celer. He further highlighted the admirable dedication and proficiency of American labor, voicing his anticipation about expanding the product range in the future. The DY9 and DY12 introductions promise shooters a superior shooting experience with high-quality, versatile, and high-capacity 9mm-chambered guns and adaptable shotguns that offer tactical leverage. Both products have earned a commendation for their striking reliability, performance, and groundbreaking design. New Digital Interface to Bolster U.S. Presence Alongside this expansion, Derya Arms has also brought forth a revamped U.S. website. This digital avenue will connect enthusiasts and dealers directly to the brand, featuring comprehensive product information, exclusive U.S.-based promotions, news, upcoming launches, and a committed customer service division catering to product inquiries. A Legacy Carved from Years of Excellence Starting its journey in the Beysehir region of Turkey back in 1998, Derya Arms has risen to become a global brand, boasting a massive 250,000-square-foot factory and exporting its top-tier shotguns, pistols, and rifles to 65 countries worldwide. To continue meeting the escalating demand, the firm is on the brink of unveiling a second manufacturing facility of equivalent size in the Konya locale of Turkey. Derya Arms stands tall as the largest shotgun manufacturer and the second-largest small-arms producer in Turkey, as per website details. Fans can brace themselves for an early 2025 launch of Derya Arms guns, with the high-capacity DY9 primed to be the first off the shelves. View full article

Troubling Declarations About Alaska Cause Stir, Reflect Russian Sentiment Shocking, or perhaps more appropriately laughable, statements from a member of Russia's mercenary organization, the Wagner Group, have once again placed Alaska under the spotlight of international politics. The Group's officer, Aleksey Berezutski, issued a bold assertion via social media stating, "Alaska, we will definitely come back to you, Russia!" alongside AI-generated images of Russian paratroopers descending on Alaskan territory. Paratrooper Threat Gains Attention Worldwide This audacious claim rapidly gathered momentum, amassing an enormous audience of over 14 million viewers on X, the social media platform owned by business magnate Elon Musk. Though ostensibly improbable, these statements underscore an increasingly dominant narrative propagated by some Russian factions, including members of the State Duma, Russia's lower house of parliament. In fact, as early as June 2022, Vyacheslav Volodin, the Speaker of the Russian State Duma, cautioned the U.S. to acknowledge Russia's historical entitlement over Alaska. Volodin twice emphasized the importance of America's recollection of Alaska's initial ownership, a memory that erstwhile belonged to Russia before the land was sold to the United States in 1867 for $7.2 million, a deal formalized in the Treaty of Cession. Rekindling Old Flames: The Alaska Case Reopened? The legitimacy of this sale, entrenched in history though it may be, is currently being questioned in light of recent Russian pronouncements. In an unexpected turn of events in January 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin provisioned funds for the investigation and registration of Russian properties overseas. These properties encompass territories earlier governed by the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union. Despite the absence of explicit mention of Alaska, numerous military bloggers inferred that this decree targets the discrediting of the 1867 sale. American officials have largely dismissed such declarations as frivolous. Vedant Patel, Deputy Spokesperson for the State Department, outright ridiculed attempts to question Alaska's allegiance at a recent public briefing, causing the audience to erupt into laughter. Troublingly, Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President and current Deputy Chairman of Russia's Security Council, belittled the U.S. dismissals. He wrote on social media," We'll just wait for [Alaska's] return any day now. War is now unavoidable", a statement which he casually punctuated with a smiley face emoji. These comments from Berezutski and Medvedev have sparked apprehensions about the possible misuse of inflammatory speech for domestic politics. Despite their doubtful credibility as genuine military threats, such proclamations appear to manipulate and incite nationalist sentiment amidst Russia's persisting frictions with the West. View full article

Ukrainian Security Service Targets Alleged Russian War Criminal Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, commander of the Russian Armed Forces’ radiation, chemical, and biological defense troops, died under mysterious circumstances in Moscow on December 17. A source within the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) claimed responsibility for the operation. The Kyiv Independent reported this alleged operation. Assassination by Explosion: The Scenario Kirillov and another member of the Russian service lost their lives in an apparent explosion occurring in the Russian capital on the morning of December 17. Ukrainian prosecutors had previously accused Kirillov of deploying unlawful chemical weaponry against Ukraine during conflicts. The SBU informant disclosed that explosives strapped to a scooter detonated as Kirillov and his aide neared the entrance to a house on Ryazansky Prospect in Moscow. "It is inevitable that there will be retribution for war crimes," the source proclaimed, adding that "Kirillov was a war criminal and entirely justified target, having commanded the deployment of illegal chemical weapons on Ukrainian soldiers". However, external validation of these allegations remains unattained. Investigation Unfolds, Accusations Levied According to the Mash Telegram channel, the detonation took place at around 6 a.m. local time in the vicinity of a service car conveyed for Kirillov. Kommersant, a pro-state media outlet, uncovered that the purported murder weapon was a homemade explosive device carrying an equivalent of 300 grams of TNT. The Investigative Committee of Russia has opened a terrorism investigation into the incident. Reports by the Russian news agency RBC, citing anonymous sources, suggest investigators are most inclined to attribute the incident to Ukraine. This incident, if attributed to Ukraine, may heighten the already severe tensions between the two nations. An investigation by the Kyiv Independent in August showed escalating use of gas attacks by Moscow’s forces against Ukrainian troops. Anonymous interviews conducted by the Kyiv Independent also suggest these tactics have been effective for the Russian side. In addition to this, Kirillov had been subject to sanctions from the United Kingdom in October over allegations of chemical weapons deployment on Ukrainian battlefields. Having held high-ranking positions within the radiation, chemical, and biological defense troops since 2012, Kirillov was appointed as the department's chief in 2017, according to reports by Meduza. View full article