Strike on Russian gunpowder factory sparks massive explosion & Kremlin 'diplomats' break into UK Parliament
Jan 17, 2025
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In this engaging discussion, Dominic Nicholls, Associate Editor of Defence at The Telegraph, and Simon Schuster, Senior Correspondent at Time, delve into recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian military facilities. They analyze the potential implications of North Korean troops joining the conflict and the shocking breach of UK Parliament by Russian diplomats. The guests unpack the complexities of U.S. foreign policy towards Ukraine amidst rising tensions and the evolving nature of President Zelensky's leadership while emphasizing the need for a decisive victory in the battle against Russia.
Ukrainian drone strikes on a Russian oil refinery and gunpowder plant exemplify Kyiv's tactical reach and commitment to sustaining pressure on Moscow.
The integration of approximately 11,000 North Korean troops in Russia raises concerns over their effectiveness and high casualty rates under challenging battlefield conditions.
Lithuania's planned increase in defense spending reflects a shifting commitment among NATO members to enhance military readiness amidst evolving global security challenges.
Deep dives
Ukrainian Strikes on Russian Targets
Ukrainian forces targeted key Russian facilities in Voronezh and Tambov Oblasts, striking an oil refinery and a gunpowder plant using drones. Reports indicate that the drone strikes caused significant fires, with locals hearing the drones overhead before Russian forces managed to shoot down several of them. These attacks highlight Ukraine's tactical capability to reach deep into Russian territory, which Kyiv aims to maintain pressure on Moscow. Such operations reinforce the ongoing conflict and showcase Ukraine’s willingness to take the fight to its adversary's backyards.
North Korean Troops in Russia
Approximately 11,000 North Korean troops have been deployed to Kursk, Russia, with reports suggesting they suffer significant casualties due to poor command and unfamiliarity with modern warfare. There are indications that North Korean soldiers have had to withdraw for additional training, particularly in drone operations. Moreover, some North Korean troops reportedly prefer suicide over capture, indicating extreme loyalty to their regime and highlighting their dire situation on the battlefield. The integration and effectiveness of these forces within the Russian military framework remain uncertain and problematic.
Changes on the Eastern Front
The eastern front in Ukraine is seeing shifts with Russian advances reported, particularly around the town of Turetsk, where they now control about 80% of the area. Despite continued pressure from Russia, Western officials believe Ukraine can withstand current assaults without collapsing. Strategic supply routes to towns such as Velika Novosilka are under threat, increasing the difficulty for Ukrainian fighters to resupply. However, Russian forces lack momentum for a significant breakthrough, primarily relying on infantry tactics rather than armored advances.
NATO Spending and Future Defense Changes
Lithuania announced plans to increase its defense spending from just over 3% to between 5% and 6% of its GDP, reflecting a broader commitment among NATO members to bolster military capabilities. In contrast, the UK has yet to establish a solid path to increase its defense spending beyond the current 2.32%. The urgency for these discussions is intensified by evolving global security dynamics and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This could lead to significant changes in military readiness among NATO allies as they seek to improve capabilities against potential threats.
US Political Climate and Ukraine Strategy
The incoming Trump administration is expected to bring uncertainty regarding its strategy on Ukraine, as conflicting views among Republican figures are surfaced. Some leaders advocate continued support for Ukraine, while others exhibit skepticism about foreign involvement in the conflict. The Biden administration's approach focused on avoiding direct confrontation with Russia, leading some to criticize its efficacy in facilitating Ukrainian victory. As policy discussions unfold, the relationship dynamics between Trump, his advisors, and Ukraine's future involvement could usher in pivotal shifts in U.S. foreign policy.
Today, we cover Ukrainian hits on a Russian refinery and gunpowder plot, reports of North Korean suicide troops, and Russian diplomats infiltrating the UK parliament. And we interview senior correspondent and author, Simon Shuster, on key decisions made by the outgoing Biden administration over the past three years.
Contributors:
Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Narrative Podcast Producer). @adeliepjz on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor, Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X.
With thanks to senior correspondent at TIME Magazine and author, Simon Shuster. @shustry on X.