In Moscow's Shadows In Moscow's Shadows 181: Strap in for a Bumpy 2025
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Dec 29, 2024 The discussion covers intriguing incidents like a tragic misidentification of a civilian aircraft by Russian air defenses, prompting a rare apology from Putin. It delves into Russia's vulnerabilities, highlighting how retirees are being manipulated into acts of sabotage. Cyber warfare tactics employed by Ukrainian hackers are also examined, showcasing the tense energy dynamics with Moldova. The outlook for Russia's future is bleak, with concerns about its reliance on China and internal trust issues, setting the stage for a tumultuous 2025.
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Accidental Missile Strike
- An Azerbaijan Airlines plane heading to Grozny was likely hit by a Russian missile.
- The pilots, despite the damage, tried to land in Akhtau, Kazakhstan, but tragically crashed.
Putin's Apology
- Putin's apology for the plane crash, though not a full admission of guilt, is unusual for him.
- He typically avoids apologies, blaming errors on others, maintaining an image of infallibility.
Geopolitical Pressure
- Putin's apology was likely influenced by the involvement of Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.
- These countries hold strategic importance for Russia, particularly in gas trade and sanctions evasion.