

Silicon Curtain
Jonathan Fink
Become a Paid Subscriber: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/siliconcurtain/subscribe
A podcast about propaganda, digital disinformation, politics, corruption, hybrid warfare, weaponised conspiracy theories, social echo chambers and digital dystopias.
1984, Authoritarian, Autocracy, Autocrat, Big Brother, Brainwashing, Cold war, Cold war propaganda, Communism, Conflict, Conspiracy theories, Control, Cults, Cyber warfare, Deception, Dictator, Dictatorship, Digital dystopia, Digital media, Disinformation, Echo chambers, Economic sanctions, Fascist, Fake news, Foreign correspondents, Foreign policy, Fossil fuel sanctions, George Orwell, History, Hybrid warfare, Industrial disinfo
A podcast about propaganda, digital disinformation, politics, corruption, hybrid warfare, weaponised conspiracy theories, social echo chambers and digital dystopias.
1984, Authoritarian, Autocracy, Autocrat, Big Brother, Brainwashing, Cold war, Cold war propaganda, Communism, Conflict, Conspiracy theories, Control, Cults, Cyber warfare, Deception, Dictator, Dictatorship, Digital dystopia, Digital media, Disinformation, Echo chambers, Economic sanctions, Fascist, Fake news, Foreign correspondents, Foreign policy, Fossil fuel sanctions, George Orwell, History, Hybrid warfare, Industrial disinfo
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 6, 2025 • 1h 14min
761. This is what Russians Really Think of the War
Elvira Bary is an author, researcher, and creator working at the intersection of storytelling, self-discovery, and political insight. She also runs an insightful YouTube channel on Russian politics, history, and culture, where she explores how Russia’s history continues to shape the choices that the country makes today. Elvira writes historical fiction and dark fantasy rooted in Russian history and imagination, blending rich detail with unexpected twists, very much in accordance with Russian history itself, narrative that are being reshaped and challenged in the light of Putin’s decision to invade Ukraine full-scale in 2022.----------LINKS:https://elvirabary.com/about-elvira/ https://www.youtube.com/@elvirabary https://x.com/elvirabary ----------DESCRIPTION:Exploring Russian History, Culture, and Contemporary Politics with Elvira BarryIn this episode, Jonathan interviews Vera Barry, an author, researcher, and creator who specializes in Russian history, culture, and politics. They discuss the intricacies of Russian historical fiction, the current socio-political climate in Russia, and the far-reaching implications of Putin's regime. Vera shares her personal experiences, including her career challenges following her anti-war stance, her battle with cancer, and her journey as an immigrant in the United States. The conversation also delves into the cultural isolation caused by the Iron Curtain, the psychology of Russian wartime narratives, and the lack of Western integration for Russian literary talent.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Elvira Barry00:38 The Impact of Russian History on Modern Politics00:58 Support and Gratitude01:45 Elvira's Background and Motivations03:41 Challenges Faced by Russian Intellectuals05:20 The Emotional Toll of War08:13 The Struggle of Russian Dissidents09:32 Elvira's Journey to YouTube12:14 Exploring Russian History Through Fiction13:42 The Dark Legacy of Russian History17:21 The Russian Revolution and Its Aftermath17:41 Russian Immigrants in China20:50 The Rise of Totalitarianism in Russia24:48 Western Misunderstandings of Russian Intentions28:12 The Philosophical Divide Between Russia and the West31:22 The Legacy of Soviet Intellectual Property34:38 The Cultural Impact of Russian Literature37:35 Cultural Erasure and Fabricated Confidence38:24 A Father's Inventive Spirit41:46 Struggles and Sacrifices in Russia42:28 Conformity and Non-Conformity in Putin's Russia46:10 The War in Ukraine and Its Impact49:42 Life in Small Towns and Military Contracts53:16 Escaping Russia: A Hairdresser's Story57:22 The Psychology of Vatniks and Propaganda01:02:17 Fantasy Literature and Male Identity in Russia01:06:29 Challenges for Russian Authors in the West01:09:57 Promoting Russian Culture and Experience01:13:05 Conclusion and Future Topics----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

Jul 5, 2025 • 13min
BREAKING NEWS: Who is Sabotaging Russia's Grey Fleet Oil Tankers?
Edition No179 | 05-07-2025 - The number of incidents befalling Russia’s sanctions-busting grey fleet of oil tankers is increasing. Is a pattern emerging, or are these accidents inevitable for a vast fleet of vessels that have outlived their mandated lifespans? Or is Ukraine enforcing oil sanctions in the only way that works – by physically disabling Russian ships on the high seas? Today, we will revisit the topic of oil sanctions by other means — and ask if grey fleet incidents, are covert military cover, and the strategic pain that may be inflicted on Moscow’s war machine. We dig deeper into each maritime event, unpack Europe’s response, and trace the illicit oil trading that is bringing in vast sums of money to power Putin’s war machine.----------DESCRIPTION:Targeting Russia’s Gray Fleet: An Inside Look at Covert Maritime WarfareIn this episode of Silicon Bites, we delve into the targeting of Russia’s 'gray fleet'—a clandestine fleet of oil tankers sustaining Putin’s economy and war efforts. We examine various incidents involving these vessels, potential acts of sabotage, and how Ukraine and Europe are responding. Detailed events such as the Eagle S incident, the Koala’s hull blast, and mediteranean attacks on Sea Charm, Sea Jewel, and Grace Phem are discussed. Additionally, we analyze the strategic economic impact of these actions and the need for a united NATO and EU stance to choke off Russia's illegal oil trade support, implicating higher necessary pressure on Putin’s war economy.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Russia's Gray Fleet01:43 Incidents Involving Russian Ships04:58 European Response to the Gray Fleet06:28 Russia's Countermeasures11:33 Strategic Importance and Conclusion----------LINKS: https://www.ft.com/content/b2671301-d71f-4781-8d8d-86f7b350ff3c https://www.reuters.com/world/germany-launches-additional-measures-against-russias-shadow-fleet-2025-07-01/https://www.reuters.com/markets/commodities/key-points-about-russias-shadow-fleet-oil-tankers-2025-05-15/ https://apnews.com/article/5e74109e5b1d84dc73ac2592068d4689 https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/may/18/eu-foreign-ministers-call-for-coordinated-action-on-russian-shadow-fleet-in-baltic-sea https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/05/20/russia-shadow-fleet-sanctions-baltic-sea/ ----------Car for Ukraine has once again joined forces with a group of influencers, creators, and news observers during this summer. Sunshine here serves as a metaphor, the trucks are a sunshine for our warriors to bring them to where they need to be and out from the place they don't.https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtainThis time, we focus on the 6th Detachment of HUR, 93rd Alcatraz, 3rd Brigade, MLRS systems and more. https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtain- bring soldiers to the positions- protect them with armor- deploy troops with drones to the positions----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgkharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyslhttps://kharpp.com-----------

Jul 5, 2025 • 1h
760. Is the Russian Economy Collapsing? If so, Putin is Toast.
Welcome to our monthly conversation with Konstantin, who is one of the most respected voices on YouTube about what is happening Inside Russia. Konstantin Samoilov is a well-known YouTuber whose channel ‘Inside Russia’ comments insightfully on Russia’s decent into authoritarianism over the last few years. But now, like many others, he’s outside Russia, with no idea of when he can return there. ----------DESCRIPTION:The Economic Collapse and Political Uncertainty in Russia: In-Depth Analysis with ConstantinJoin us as we welcome Constantin back to the channel for an in-depth discussion about the accelerating economic chaos in Russia. The conversation covers the surprising openness at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum, contrasts between Putin's statements and his officials' harsh economic realities, and the broader geopolitical fallout affecting Russia's influence globally. We delve into the critical state of Russia's economy, soaring consumer credit defaults, and significant industries facing collapse. Additionally, we examine the potential political scenarios post-Putin, the possible reactions of Russian society, and the cues from historical precedents of regime changes. This episode offers a comprehensive analysis of the current and future state of Russia's economy and political landscape.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:30 Economic Chaos in Russia01:09 St. Petersburg Economic Forum Insights02:09 Contradictions in Putin's Regime04:06 Signs of Economic Collapse04:34 Impact on Various Industries10:13 Russia's Geopolitical Struggles20:10 Putin's Delusional Statements25:15 Potential Scenarios for Russia's Future28:57 Revelations from Secret Documents29:13 Putin's Long Reign and Public Perception29:47 Historical Context: Boris Yeltsin's Transformation32:45 Economic Realities and Criticisms35:33 The Blame Game and Putin's Isolation37:45 Speculations on Russia's Future Leadership41:31 The Precarious State of Putin's Inner Circle45:45 The Anticipated Shift in Power52:06 Concluding Thoughts and Future Predictions----------LINKS: @INSIDERUSSIA https://www.patreon.com/insiderussiaINSIDE RUSSIA is a source of current news on Russia - Konstantin carefully selects 9 news stories that are important and really matter, with commentaries and analyses by Konstantin delivered daily to channel patrons at Patreon.comGet your access to daily news updates at patreon.com/INSIDERUSSIA----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------

Jul 5, 2025 • 16min
How did Tucker Carlson Become a Mouthpiece of Kremlin Propaganda?
Edition No178 | 04-07-2025 - Earlier this year, former Fox News host Tucker Carlson conducted an interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin—a move that drew swift condemnation, not just from pro-democracy advocates, but also from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. "He works for Putin," Zelenskyy declared in a direct rebuke, calling Carlson’s rhetoric nothing less than propaganda laundering for Moscow. He has a point. Carlson has become the most vociferous, unfiltered and effective megaphone for Russian disinformation in the Western world. But outside of the US he has little impact. But how toxic is his impact within the US? And might his views have helped to inform the decision to withdraw US military support to Ukraine? .----------DESCRIPTIONThe Role of Tucker Carlson in Spreading Kremlin Propaganda | Silicon BitesIn this episode of Silicon Bites, we're examining Tucker Carlson's role in propagating Russian disinformation. Through interviews with Vladimir Putin and framing controversial narratives, Carlson has become a significant voice for Kremlin-aligned messages in the West. This deep dive explores how his rhetoric may have influenced the US's recent withdrawal of military support to Ukraine and what this means for international relations. We also discuss the broader implications of such disinformation campaigns and their impact on the global stage, particularly in the context of the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia.----------CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview00:51 Tucker Carlson's Controversial Interview with Putin02:08 Debunking Carlson's Claims on Ukraine03:21 Carlson's Interview with Ukrainian Oligarch06:37 Carlson's Propaganda and Influence11:34 Trump's Involvement and Secret Talks14:47 Conclusion: The Stakes for Ukraine----------LINKS: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/zelensky-tucker-carlson-putin-russia-b2692257.htmlhttps://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/tucker-carlson-putin-zelensky-b2711134.htmlhttps://unn.ua/en/news/tucker-carlson-again-spreads-a-refuted-fake-about-the-sale-of-ukrainian-weapons-to-mexican-cartelshttps://www.foxnews.com/video/6368078173112https://www.foxnews.com/world/zelenskyy-warns-peace-talks-without-ukraine-dangerous-after-trump-claims-meetings-russia-going-wellhttps://www.foxnews.com/world/trump-no-one-else-can-end-ukraine-russia-war-us-ally-sayshttps://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-plans-meet-zelenskyy-he-looks-end-ukraine-warhttps://nypost.com/2025/02/10/us-news/trump-says-ukraine-has-essentially-agreed-to-allow-the-us-access-to-500b-in-rare-earth-minerals/https://kyivindependent.com/he-works-for-putin-zelensky-slams-tucker-carlsons-pro-russian-commentary/https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/10/business/media/fox-red-seat-ventures.htmlhttps://lansinginstitute.org/2025/05/29/orthodoxy-and-propaganda-analyzing-tucker-carlsons-interview-with-vadim-novinsky/----------Car for Ukraine has once again joined forces with a group of influencers, creators, and news observers during this summer. Sunshine here serves as a metaphor, the trucks are a sunshine for our warriors to bring them to where they need to be and out from the place they don't.https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtainThis time, we focus on the 6th Detachment of HUR, 93rd Alcatraz, 3rd Brigade, MLRS systems and more. https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtain- bring soldiers to the positions- protect them with armor- deploy troops with drones to the positions----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------

Jul 3, 2025 • 10min
BREAKING NEWS: What Happened in the Trump Putin Phone Call?
Edition No177 | 03-07-2025 - Today we examine what is known so far about the back to back phone calls involving Trump and Putin, Putin and Macron, and the forthcoming call with Zelenskyy, and as well and the backdrop of topics happening in the last days and week. The halting of weapons shipments to Ukraine, and the restatement of Putin’s maximalist war aims. Does the future of Ukraine hang by a thread, or did they foresee these complications and the abandonment of their cause by the Trump administration. I suspect that what’s happening is not a huge surprise, or such a strategic shock.----------LINKS: [ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/edac806d-5ece-439f-91a8-9769db5828b6?utm_source=chatgpt.com)[theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/jul/03/europe-heatwave-live-news-latest-updates-crete-wildfire?utm_source=chatgpt.com)[reuters.com](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/us-halts-some-missile-shipments-ukraine-over-low-stockpiles-politico-reports-2025-07-01/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------PLATFORMS:Twitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSiliconInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/siliconcurtain/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqmLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------

Jul 3, 2025 • 47min
759. Has Putin's War Machine Run out of Gas as the Russian Economy Stagnates?
GUEST: Anders Puck Nielsen - YouTuber and military analyst. Today I’m speaking with Anders Puck Nielsen, military analyst and influential YouTuber based in Denmark. He specialises in naval warfare and strategy; in today’s video we are going to be talking about the Ukrainian withdrawal from Kursk, the state of NATO and repetition of Kremlin narratives coming from the White House and Trump's inner circle. ----------LINKS:https://www.youtube.com/@anderspuck https://twitter.com/anderspuckhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/anderspucknielsen/https://apnielsen.info/en/frontpage/----------DESCRIPTION: NATO's Defense Strategy, US Munition Withdrawal, and Europe's Path Forward with Anders Puck NielsenIn this episode, military analyst and YouTuber Anders Puck Nielsen delves into pressing topics concerning global military strategy. The conversation opens with an analysis of NATO's 5% defense budget increase for member states and segues into the implications of the US halting munitions supplies to Ukraine. The episode covers the strategic fallout of these actions, the impact on European security, and the historical and geopolitical underpinnings of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Nielsen emphasizes the need for Europe to adopt a leadership role in defense strategies, touching upon the complexities of nuclear deterrence and the resilience required to counteract Russian aggression. Finally, the discussion reflects on the transformative resilience within Ukraine, underscoring the nation's strong civic society and innovative defense measures.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:07 NATO's Defense Increase and US Munitions Withdrawal01:47 Implications of US Policy on European Security04:34 European Defense Spending and Strategic Independence09:42 Nuclear Deterrence and European Security20:20 Putin's Perspective and Russian Economy34:27 Potential Escalation and European Leadership42:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------PLATFORMS:Twitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSiliconInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/siliconcurtain/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqmLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------Welcome to the Silicon Curtain podcast. Please like and subscribe if you like the content we produce. It will really help to increase the popularity of our content in YouTube’s algorithm. Our material is now being made available on popular podcasting platforms as well, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Jul 2, 2025 • 13min
BREAKING NEWS: Has the US Turned its Back on Ukraine?
Edition No176 | 02-07-2025 - The arsenal of democracy is going dark, as the US withdraws promised military support for Ukraine, a young and vibrant democracy as risk of erasure by one of the world’s most vicious empires, and a historically authoritarian society. Today we have seen a chilling shift in the geopolitical order: The United States has halted key weapons shipments to Ukraine. This is not new aid, but military aid that had already been promised and mandated by the Biden administration. Elbridge Colby, head of the Pentagon's policy department — is a long-time advocate of a narrow America First doctrine—has been installed in a top Pentagon policy role. Under is guidance, the U.S. has suspended sending some anti-aircraft missiles and ammunition to Ukraine due to concerns about depleting its own stockpiles. The decision was made by Colby after reviewing the Pentagon's ammunition reserves.----------DESCRIPTION:Betrayal of Ukraine: US Withdraws Military Support Amid Escalating CrisisIn this episode of Silicon Bytes, we delve into the troubling latest developments surrounding Ukraine. The United States has halted crucial military aid, including anti-aircraft missiles and ammunition, previously promised to Ukraine. This decision, led by Elbridge Colby of the Pentagon, is rooted in a controversial strategic shift focusing on China over Europe. Meanwhile, North Korea has begun to support Russia with troops and munitions, escalating the conflict. This episode explores the implications of these actions on the geopolitical order, the future of Western alliances, and the moral and strategic failures of current US policy towards Ukraine.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Channel Support00:50 US Withdraws Military Support for Ukraine01:22 Elbridge Colby's Influence on US Policy01:56 North Korean Involvement in the Ukraine Conflict02:18 Global Reactions and Strategic Implications02:42 The Halt of US Military Aid03:56 Strategic Realignment and Its Consequences06:53 North Korea's Alliance with Russia08:36 The Emerging Axis of Authoritarian Powers10:36 Conclusion: A Call to Action----------LINKS: https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-says-it-was-not-officially-notified-of-a-halt-in-us-weapons-shipments/ https://kyivindependent.com/nato-chief-urges-continued-us-support-for-ukraine-as-pentagon-halts-arms-shipments/ https://kyivindependent.com/us-halts-promised-air-defense-shipments-to-ukraine-politico-reports/ https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/02/europe/north-korea-troops-russia-ukraine-intl-cmd https://kyivindependent.com/kim-jong-un-meets-russian-culture-minister-amid-deepening-north-korea-russia-ties/ https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-ato/4010457-russia-hands-dprk-air-defense-systems-drone-tech-ukraines-defense-intel-chief.html https://www.lbc.co.uk/world-news/north-korea-troops-putin-ukraine-offensive/ https://www.npr.org/2025/06/16/g-s1-71531/north-korea-soldiers-russia-ukraine-war-drones https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14804157/AUKUS-review-Elbridge-Colby-submarines.html https://www.ft.com/content/53f646e7-b4e7-4bf4-8d5d-7142b4460080 https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/01/pentagon-munitions-ukraine-halt-00436048?nid=0000014f-1646-d88f-a1cf-5f46b7bd0000&nname=playbook&nrid=00000159-cc8a-dde5-a35b-eccf12480001 https://unn.ua/en/news/pentagon-suspends-supply-of-some-air-defense-missiles-and-precision-weapons-to-ukraine https://kyivindependent.com/pentagon-may-downgrade-ukraine-focused-office-amid-policy-restructure-media-reports/ https://responsiblestatecraft.org/elbridge-colby-pentagon-trump/ https://breakingdefense.com/2025/03/nominee-for-top-dod-policy-job-sidesteps-questions-on-russian-invasion-of-ukraine/ ----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------

Jul 2, 2025 • 56min
575. What Surprising Tech Is Helping Ukraine Right Now?
Dimko Zhluktenko is an ordinary Ukrainian trying to help his country. He runs Dzyga's Paw to purchase tech equipment for 🇺🇦 Ukrainian Defenders. He is a former software engineer, in civilian life. ----------LINKS:https://dzygaspaw.com/galka-uas-to-14th-regimenthttps://dzygaspaw.com/supporthttps://www.patreon.com/dimkohttps://x.com/dim0kq----------DESCRIPTION:The Frontline Reality: Ukrainian Drone Warfare and Technological InnovationsIn this in-depth interview, Jonathan talks with Dimko Zhluktenko, a key innovator in Ukrainian drone warfare and a member of the Ukrainian armed forces. Dimko provides a detailed look at the day-to-day operations and realities of serving in Ukraine's unmanned systems forces, discussing reconnaissance missions, technological advancements, and the significant impact of UAVs on the battlefield. The conversation also touches on the role of international support, the challenges of relying on Chinese components, and the importance of innovation driven by both government and civic society. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in modern warfare, technological innovation, and the resilience of Ukraine's defense forces.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:08 Dimko's Role in the Armed Forces01:54 A Day in the Life of a UAV Operator05:18 Challenges and Dangers on the Frontline08:39 Russian Tactics and Their Impact20:01 Technological Innovations in Warfare23:10 Data-Driven Warfare: Transparency and Innovation27:08 Challenges of Truthful Reporting in Military Operations28:53 Civic Society and Government Collaboration in Drone Innovation31:36 Ukraine's Struggle with Military Production and Scale33:57 Western Support and Frustrations38:59 Adapting Military Equipment for Battlefield Conditions47:51 The Role of AI and Autonomous Systems in Warfare51:46 Conclusion and Call to Action----------Car for Ukraine has once again joined forces with a group of influencers, creators, and news observers during this summer. Sunshine here serves as a metaphor, the trucks are a sunshine for our warriors to bring them to where they need to be and out from the place they don't.https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtainThis time, we focus on the 6th Detachment of HUR, 93rd Alcatraz, 3rd Brigade, MLRS systems and more. https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtain- bring soldiers to the positions- protect them with armor- deploy troops with drones to the positions----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUkrainian Freedom Newshttps://www.ukrainianfreedomnews.com/donation/UNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 35min
758. US Aligns with Russia to Enable the Erasure of Ukraine
Livestream with Jonathan MS Pearce - Covering US alignment with Russia to force Ukraine to capitulate or to enable the erasure of Ukraine by Russia. ----------Car for Ukraine has once again joined forces with a group of influencers, creators, and news observers during this summer. Sunshine here serves as a metaphor, the trucks are a sunshine for our warriors to bring them to where they need to be and out from the place they don't.https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtainThis time, we focus on the 6th Detachment of HUR, 93rd Alcatraz, 3rd Brigade, MLRS systems and more. https://car4ukraine.com/campaigns/summer-sunshine-silicon-curtain- bring soldiers to the positions- protect them with armor- deploy troops with drones to the positions----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyslhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/-----------

Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 25min
754. Is Trump Really a Russian Asset? Glenn Carle
Glenn Carle is an American writer and former intelligence officer. He is the author of The Interrogator: An Education (2011), which describes his involvement in the interrogation of a man at the time believed to be one of the top members of al-Qa'ida. Johns Hopkins Magazine has found The Interrogator to be "unusually candid in its portrayal of the CIA's internal workings—and the toll the agency's moral grey zones take on its operatives".Glenn spent 20 years in clandestine field operations with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Carle retired as Deputy National Intelligence Officer for Transnational Threats from the National Intelligence Council. Carle has been critical of President Donald Trump, particularly after Trump began to disparage American intelligence agencies' assessment of Russian influence over the 2016 presidential election. He told Newsweek, in an article dated December 21, 2017, that he believed that President Donald Trump was "actually working directly for the Russians."Among other roles, Glenn is a Columnist for Newsweek Japan, providing commentary and analysis of international relations, Geo-strategic, and US political issues, and foreign policy and intelligence issues.----------DESCRIPTION:The Shadow Wars: Glenn Carl on Russian Influence, U.S. Intelligence, and Global AuthoritarianismIn this episode, former CIA officer and author Glenn Carl discusses his career in intelligence, focusing on themes such as the internal workings of the CIA, the impact of moral gray zones on operatives, and the nuances of Russian active measures. Carl critiques President Trump's stance on U.S. intelligence agencies and comments on Russian tampering in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. The conversation delves into the strategic shift from focusing on Russia to China, Putin's KGB background, and how Russian tactics destabilize Western democracies. The episode also explores the erosion of U.S. democratic norms through internal and external influences, the complexity of intelligence operations, and the enduring legacy of Carl Schmitt's authoritarian ideas in contemporary U.S. politics.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Glenn Carl00:36 Glenn Carl's Career and Criticism of Trump01:24 Thanking the Supporters01:54 Discussing Russia and the Cold War04:40 Shift in US Strategic Focus06:00 The Role of Russian Intelligence06:49 Putin's Influence and Russian Nationalism18:09 The Struggle in Ukraine24:05 Putin's Background and Russian State Dynamics41:25 The Influence of Vladislav Surkov44:54 Russian Strategy to Undermine the US46:53 Recommended Reading on Russian Influence48:09 Authoritarian Toolkits and Their Impact49:02 US Vulnerabilities and Russian Exploitation49:48 Russian Influence in Europe01:00:24 Traditionalism vs. Modernism01:08:21 Trump's Motivations and Russian Influence01:12:10 Historical Intelligence Operations01:20:01 The Current State of US Democracy01:24:07 Conclusion andhttps://glenncarle.com/ Final Thoughts----------LINKS:https://glenncarle.com/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glenn_Carlehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-carle-2031706/https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0134b2dhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Interrogator-An-Education/dp/B005UVQIAU----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------