US closes Kyiv embassy in anticipation of Russian retaliation after Biden authorises cross-border strikes
Nov 20, 2024
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Hamish de Bretton-Gordon, a chemical weapons expert and former tank commander, shares his insights on the escalating tensions between the US and Russia. He delves into the implications of the US closing its embassy in Kyiv and the evolving Russian nuclear doctrine. The conversation highlights the controversial military strategies of both nations, including Ukraine's deployment of anti-personnel mines. Hamish emphasizes the ethical dilemmas in current warfare and the impact of disinformation on public perception during this ongoing conflict.
The U.S. embassy's closure in Kyiv reflects heightened security concerns due to potential Russian military retaliation against ongoing support for Ukraine.
The Biden administration's provision of non-persistent anti-personnel mines signifies a controversial evolution in military support amid escalating warfare dynamics.
Deep dives
Escalating Tensions and Security Alerts in Ukraine
The recent security developments in Ukraine highlight escalating tensions, with the U.S. embassy closing in Kyi over threats of significant air attacks from Russia. In response to persistent drone strikes and missile threats, citizens and U.S. personnel are urged to prepare for emergencies, including potential blackouts and loss of essential services. The State Department's security alert emphasizes the dangers posed by Russian military actions, including targeting civilian infrastructure, which has intensified concerns about safety and security throughout the country. This heightened risk underscores the precarious situation as the conflict continues to evolve with ongoing military engagements.
Russian Military Strategies and Advancements
Recent military activities demonstrate a pattern of Russian drone attacks targeting civilian areas and advancing military objectives, particularly in the regions of Kherson and Zaporizhia. While operational movements have shown minimal territorial gain for Russian forces, the reliance on drone warfare raises alarms over the impact on civilians and humanitarian efforts. There are reports of Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepting numerous Russian missiles and drones, highlighting both the effectiveness and challenges faced by Ukrainian forces in countering these assaults. The strategic use of drones further complicates the battlefield dynamics, indicating a shift toward technology-driven warfare.
Western Military Support and Response Strategies
The Biden administration's decision to provide anti-personnel mines to Ukraine reflects a significant shift in military support as Kyiv navigates the complexities of ongoing conflict. These mines are characterized as non-persistent, meaning they become harmless after a predetermined period, which aims to mitigate long-term risks to civilians. The tactical use of these mines is intended to strengthen Ukraine's defensive capabilities amid increasing pressure from Russian forces. This move signals a willingness to modify traditional norms regarding military engagement in response to the evolving dynamics of warfare in the region.
International Relations and Disinformation Campaigns
Diplomatic interactions amidst the ongoing warfare are increasingly strained, particularly as both NATO and Russian narratives clash in the international arena. The rhetoric surrounding nuclear threats from Russia is viewed as a strategic tool to intimidate Western nations and deter military support for Ukraine. Observers note that the frequent escalation of nuclear rhetoric lacks substantive action, indicating a degree of psychological warfare rather than imminent nuclear engagement. Furthermore, the presence of disinformation campaigns highlights the challenges faced in discerning factual narratives from propaganda, complicating international responses to the conflict.
Today, as the US closes its embassy in Kyiv in anticipation of Russian retaliation for Joe Biden’s recent policy shifts, we examine in more detail Russia’s new nuclear doctrine and ask: is it just the same old wine in a slightly newer bottle?.
Contributors:
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Hamish de Bretton-Gordon (Chemical Weapons Expert and Former Tank Commander). @HamishDBG on X.