Conversations Among The Ruins

Charles Erickson
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Jun 26, 2024 • 49min

6-26-24: Russia at War With America; Global Power Shifts; Real Nuclear Threats

The conversation discusses the escalating tensions between Russia and the United States, with Russia deeming the US as an enemy and making moves to arm US adversaries like Iran. The balance of power in the world is shifting towards a multipolar order, with countries like Russia, China, India, and Brazil gaining economic and military strength. The US is losing its dominance and facing challenges in military production and skilled labor. The conversation also touches on the lack of popular support for war in the US and the potential danger for American servicemen deployed overseas. The conversation discusses the possibility of a nuclear conflict between Israel and Lebanon, as well as the potential consequences for the world. It also touches on the decline of the US empire and the role of politicians in effecting change. The conversation concludes with a mention of the recent tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
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Jun 24, 2024 • 57min

6-24-24: Terrorist Attacks in Russia; Israel Moving Against Hezbollah; WWIII More Likely

Over the weekend, there were two attacks in Russia, one in Dagestan and one in Crimea. The Dagestan attack targeted Orthodox churches and a synagogue, and the attackers were likely local jihadists. The attack in Crimea involved missiles fired by the US, with one missile exploding over a beach and causing civilian casualties. The US has denied involvement, but Russia blames the US for the attack. The situation has escalated tensions between Russia and the West, with Russia vowing to respond. The conversation discusses the possibility of Israel using nuclear weapons in a potential war with Hezbollah in Lebanon. It is suggested that Israel may feel pressured to use nuclear weapons if they believe they are losing the war. The conversation also highlights the depleted stockpiles and limited capabilities of the US military, raising concerns about its ability to wage a real war. The lack of serious-mindedness and understanding of the consequences of conflict in the current political and media establishment is also noted. The conversation concludes with the acknowledgement that the situation in the Middle East is becoming increasingly dangerous and the likelihood of a wider conflict and the use of nuclear weapons is growing.
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Jun 21, 2024 • 54min

6-24-24: Lebanese Tinderbox; Putin's Chess Moves

The conversation discusses the possibility of two imminent major events: Israel invading Lebanon to go after Hezbollah and a major Russian offensive. The US government is trying to dissuade Israel from expanding the war, but it is unclear if they have any leverage. The conversation explores the potential consequences of an Israeli invasion, including the use of naval bombardments and airstrikes, Hezbollah's retaliatory capabilities, and the involvement of Iran, Russia, and China. The conversation highlights the dangers and uncertainties of war and the potential for escalation. The conversation covers the potential escalation of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, the changing dynamics in North Korea and Russia's military alliance with North Korea, and the ongoing situation in Ukraine. The main themes include the possibility of a major conflict in the Middle East, the shifting balance of power in Northeast Asia, and the Russian advance in Ukraine. The conversation also highlights the failure of US policy in North Korea and the impact of sanctions on Russia. The potential timing of events, such as a Lebanese invasion before the presidential debate, is also discussed.
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Jun 19, 2024 • 53min

6-19-24: The West's Blind Eye: Ignoring the Signs of Impending Conflicts

The conversation discusses the potential for a major offensive from Russia and a war between Israel and Hezbollah. The speaker believes that there are indications of a Russian buildup in Ukraine and that Putin's recent speech suggests a major event is imminent. In the case of Israel and Hezbollah, there is increased talk of a conflict, with Israel poised for air attacks and a ground invasion. The speaker acknowledges that the West may not be fully aware of the situation or may choose to ignore it. The conversation also highlights the challenges and limited options for Ukraine and NATO in the face of a Russian offensive, as well as the potential consequences of an Israel-Hezbollah war. The conversation explores the consequences of US involvement in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, and the impact on domestic politics in these countries. It highlights the role of the United States in supporting extremist factions and warping the political landscape. The speakers discuss the potential shift in global power dynamics if Russia were to achieve a decisive victory in Ukraine, and the implications for Taiwan and Israel. They also touch on the dangers of trying to break up Russia and the importance of a multi-civilizational approach. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the potential catastrophic outcomes of current geopolitical tensions.
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Jun 17, 2024 • 56min

6-17-24: Western Propaganda & Putin's Peace Proposal

What is the state of propaganda in the Collective West? Why are all legacy media organizations beholden to the Deep State? What is the future of media? What was Putin's peace proposal? Is this Ukraine's last chance at peace? What happens when Russia conducts a major offensive? Will democracy prevail in the West or will Western nations slip into authoritarianism?
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Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 10min

6-14-24: What a Multipolar World Means; Ukraine's Nazi History

Israel's survival in a multipolar world is uncertain without the backing of the US The world is transitioning from a unipolar to a multipolar world, which is evident in conflicts like Gaza and Ukraine Economic sanctions on Russia have not been effective and have instead accelerated the development of alternative systems The US dollar's status as the world's reserve currency is at risk due to geopolitical mistakes and the lack of a tangible backing The short-sightedness of the US political system hinders long-term planning and contributes to economic vulnerabilities Long-term leadership in companies and governments can provide stability and confidence in the system. Short-termism in economic policies can lead to misallocation of resources and boom-bust cycles. There are neo-Nazi groups in Ukraine that have historical roots and continue to influence policies. The horrors of war and the importance of understanding history to prevent it from happening again. The loss of legitimacy of leaders and increasing skepticism among the population can make it difficult to rally support for war.
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Jun 12, 2024 • 35min

6-13-24: Bogus Ceasefire Deal; Navigating a Fragmented Media Landscape

Why is Russia sending ships to Cuba? What is going on with the purported ceasefire deal between Israel & Hamas? Is Israel using white phosphorous against civilian populations in Lebanon? What is going on with Western media? How fragmented has our information landscape become? How exposed is Israeli influence in the US government?
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Jun 10, 2024 • 1h 1min

6-10-24: European Elections, Israeli Hostage Rescue & AIPAC

The conversation covers various topics including the European elections, the role of the European Parliament, the shift to the populist right, Macron's call for an election, Benny Gantz's resignation, the hostage rescue operation in Israel, and the influence of AIPAC in US politics. The conversation explores the influence of the Israeli lobby and the creation of Israel, as well as the parallels between the situations in Kosovo and Palestine. It highlights the power dynamics and manipulation involved in these processes. The hope is expressed that more politicians will have the bravery to stand up against these influences and that the grassroots support for anti-war foreign policies will continue to grow.
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Jun 7, 2024 • 59min

6-7-24: New Cold War Not So Cold; BRICS vs USA

The conversation covers various topics including the confidence of Putin, the nuclear doctrines of Russia and the US, the possibility of Russia arming other countries, the escalating tensions in the Middle East, and the dangers of a new Cold War. The main takeaways include the need for caution and careful consideration in international relations, the potential consequences of reckless actions, and the importance of understanding the power dynamics and nuclear capabilities of different countries. The conversation explores the potential consequences of the US maintaining military bases around the world and the rise of the BRICS alliance as an alternative to the US-led global order. It also discusses the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with a focus on the potential for a major offensive in the Kharkiv region. The conversation ends with a prediction that Ukrainian President Zelensky may not last more than four months in office.
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Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 5min

6-5-24: Navigating the Brink: Diplomacy and Deterrence in a World on Edge

What are the growing tensions between the United States and Russia, and how do they raise concerns about the potential for nuclear war? How do the technological capabilities of both countries, particularly in the context of red lines, contribute to the risk of unintentional escalation? What are the limitations of military power, and how do electronic warfare and the need for diplomatic engagement play a role in preventing further escalation? Why is it crucial to understand and respect the red lines set by Russia, and how can this help avoid unintended conflict and promote diplomatic solutions? How is the lack of diplomacy and dangerous brinkmanship by world powers escalating tensions and increasing the potential for global conflict? What roles do major players such as the US, Russia, China, Israel, and Iran play in either preventing or exacerbating the situation? Which regions, including Ukraine, the Middle East, and Asia, are at risk of conflict, and why do they require careful consideration and strategic planning? Why is a more nuanced and diplomatic approach to international relations necessary to avoid the catastrophic consequences of global conflict?

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