Battleground 332. Is the Net Closing in for Ukraine in Donetsk?
Oct 10, 2025
Arnaud de Decker, a Belgian war reporter with firsthand experience in the Donbas, shares critical insights from his recent trip. He discusses the alarming advance of Russian forces towards Slovyansk and Kramatorsk, highlighting the threats posed by FPV drones and the targeting of both civilians and military. Arnaud paints a picture of overcrowded cities filled with refugees and military presence, revealing the rising tension and anxiety among civilians. He also reflects on the high casualty rates among Russian forces and his plans for a return to the region.
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Russian Messaging Aims To Intimidate Europe
- Dmitry Medvedev publicly floated Russian responsibility for European drone incidents and framed them as a lesson for Europeans.
- His rhetoric aims to intimidate NATO and erode Western support for Ukraine.
Blame Debate Over Prewar EU Policy
- Angela Merkel suggested Poland and the Baltics slowed EU dialogue with Putin, drawing fierce criticism.
- Critics argue past EU appeasement and energy dependence enabled Russian aggression more than those states did.
Long-Range Missiles Could Shift The War
- Tomahawk missiles would let Ukraine strike deep Russian logistics and ammunition depots, altering battlefield dynamics.
- Putin warns of escalation because such strikes would pressure Russia's rear areas he relies on.
