Trump: Putin 'does care' about battlefield losses & EU states turn off Russian electricity forever
Feb 10, 2025
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Tatiana Podchernina, the founder of Kharkiv Aid, reveals her organization's remarkable work providing essential supplies to civilians and the military in Kharkiv during the ongoing conflict. The discussion also covers a shocking explosion of a Russian tanker in the Baltic Sea as nations sever energy ties with Russia. Additionally, Trump shares insights from his conversations with Putin, emphasizing battlefield dynamics. The resilience of the Ukrainian community shines through as innovative solutions emerge amid the war's challenges.
The Baltic States are severing energy ties with Russia amidst concerns over geopolitical vulnerability and environmental threats from incidents involving shadow tankers.
Ukraine is adjusting its military recruitment strategy to include younger volunteers, reflecting ongoing pressures to bolster its forces as the conflict continues.
Deep dives
Stalemate on the Ground
There has been minimal movement in combat zones recently, particularly in Ukraine’s southeastern region. Areas like Kursk Oblast have seen an exchange of territory between Russian and Ukrainian forces, but no significant advances for either side. The Ukrainian push into the southeast remains intact despite efforts from Russian and North Korean forces. Overall, the situation in both ground and air operations has remained relatively stagnant, with repeated drone attacks resulting in minimal casualities.
Man-Made Incident Involving Russian Tanker
A Russian tanker in the Baltic Sea recently experienced a series of explosions while docked, described by authorities as a 'man-made incident.' This peculiar categorization raises questions, especially since the vessel, suspected to belong to Russia's shadow fleet, was reportedly preparing to depart when the blasts occurred. The incident prompted concern among Finnish authorities about potential environmental damage, as the tanker could have been filled with a significant amount of oil. The event adds to a recent trend of reported explosions associated with shadow fleet vessels, possibly invoking tighter regulations and scrutiny from shipping companies.
Recruitment Initiatives and Military Focus
Ukraine is set to introduce new contracts for military volunteers aged 18 to 24, expanding its recruitment efforts amid ongoing pressures to address manpower shortages. Currently, conscription applies to men aged 25 to 60, but President Zelensky indicated a shift towards allowing younger individuals to enlist voluntarily. These contracts are expected to offer significant benefits, including higher monetary compensation, to attract younger recruits. The focus on recruitment aligns with growing discussions among NATO and other allies regarding Ukraine's military needs as the conflict persists.
Economic Sanctions and Global Influence
Discussions among European nations are underway regarding large-scale seizures of Russian oil tankers in the Baltic Sea, aiming to strengthen sanctions against Russia. Recent incidents, such as undersea cable damages linked to Russian vessels, have heightened concerns about Russia's geopolitical leverage through energy supplies. Ukrainian officials emphasize the need for comprehensive sanctions to disrupt Russia's economy effectively, with calls for the international community to address the shadow fleet's operations. The complexities of enforcing these measures highlight the broader challenges of maintaining unity and resolve among Western nations in their approach to the conflict.
Today, we look to the Baltic Sea, where a Russian Shadow tanker exploded in “man-made incident”, as states disconnect the cables between Russia and Europe's power grid. Plus, Trump claims to have spoken to Vladimir Putin.
Contributors:
Adélie Pojzman-Pontay (Narrative Podcast Producer). @adeliepjz on X.
Dominic Nicholls (Associate Editor of Defence). @DomNicholls on X.
Francis Dearnley (Executive Editor for Audio). @FrancisDearnley on X
With thanks to Tatiana Podchernina (Founder, Kharkiv Aid). tatiana_podchernina on IG.
Content Referenced:
Trump reveals he’s spoken with Putin by phone (New York Post):