Ukraine: President Zelensky’s important message on Day 16 of the invasion

We have already reached a strategic turning point. We are already moving towards our goal, our victory” (…) We need time, patience, our wisdom, energy, we need to do our job to the best of our abilities” (…) “Ukrainians are proud people who always defend their land, and will not give the occupier a single piece of this land, not a single percent of their freedom” (…) “If this continues, then sanctions packages against Russia are not enough, and I expect — we are already working on this today — new sanctions from our partners” (…) “Russia must pay for this terrible war, pay daily” (…) “A humanitarian catastrophe are two words that have become fully synonymous with the other two words, the Russian Federation” – Presidenet Volodymyr Zelensky (The Kyiv Independent, 11.03.2022).

Today is the 16th Day of the Russian-Belorussian invasion of Ukraine. President Zelensky is speaking of what is happening and he will of Ukraine. The Ukrainian President is showing the world and being the voice of the Republic, which is defending itself heroically. They are able to stop and block the advances of the Russian forces.

However, in a war there isn’t only the destruction and devastating ramification hitting the font-lines and the battlegrounds. No, these are coming home and places of security becomes scarce. There is clear evidence of civilian casualties and people being harmed. Public buildings being bombed, schools, universities, museums and kindergartens even. No, place is safe from the missiles, bombs and artillery fire towards the towns and cities of Ukraine. The Russian forces don’t mind the damage and suffering, as it is done to an enemy.

The UN States this very clearly today…

We remain gravely concerned by the rising death toll and human suffering in Ukraine and call for an immediate end to the attacks. We have so far recorded 549 civilian deaths and 957 injuries since the armed attack began on 24 February, although the actual figure could be much higher. Civilians are being killed and maimed in what appear to be indiscriminate attacks, with Russian forces using explosive weapons with wide area effects in or near populated areas. These include missiles, heavy artillery shells and rockets, as well as airstrikes. Schools, hospitals, and kindergartens have been hit – with hugely devastating consequences. On 3 March, 47 civilians were killed when Russian airstrikes hit two schools and several apartment blocks in Chernihiv. On 9 March, a Russian airstrike hit Mariupol Hospital No.3 injuring at least 17 civilians. We are still investigating reports that at least three civilians may have been killed in the airstrike. We spoke to different sources in Mariupol, including local authorities, indicating consistently that the hospital was both clearly identifiable and operational when it was hit” (UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights – ‘Press briefing notes on Ukraine, 11 March 2022’ 11.03.2022).

The words of President Zelensky is powerful and inspirational. It is in the midst of need. That he asks the world to punish the ones who make his nation suffer. This is easy to grasp and understand, as his Republic is battling the Russians and their armed forces. They are bombing from the sky and attacking them on several fronts. The damage, the pain and suffering is happening on continuing basis. There is no stop of plights and heartache.

The Ukrainian are getting assaulted and facing the worst sort of brutality, as citizens are fleeing and others are behind to defend the Republic. The invader is here and they have no heart. They are only in it to get the Ukrainians to surrender and take over Kyiv. That’s what Putin and Kremlin is up too now.

Zelensky is right: “Russia must pay for this terrible war”. Not only the ammunition, the loss of lives and the current sanctions, but they need to feel the pinch and consequences of putting Ukraine in this here place. It shouldn’t get over with without a price and cost. The Russians has to pay a price and it should ensure the stagnation and ability to wage war ever again. That is a righteous cause, since Putin was willing to do this. The Republic he runs should be touched and it is. Not only symbolic, but in such a manner that the Kremlin wouldn’t dare to do this again. Peace.

Ukraine: UNICEF, Global Nutrition Cluster & IFE Core Group – Joint Statement – Protecting Maternal and Child Nutrition in the Ukraine Conflict and Refugee Crisis (10.03.2022)

Ukraine: Civilian casualties as of 24.00 9 March 2022 (10.03.2022)

Ukraine: Lavrov is proving the talks was a waste, as the results was prefixed before meeting in Antalya

We are not planning to attack other countries. We didn’t attack Ukraine in the first place” – Minister of Foreign Affairs Sergey Lavrov (10.03.2022)

Today is the 14th Day of the Russian-Belorussian invasion of Ukraine. The talks in Antalya is done on good faith by the Turkish diplomatic community. However, it is totally pointless. As Russian Foreign Minister is powerless and cannot stop President Vladimir Putin’s plan to annex and install a puppet government in Kyiv. That is what the government of Moscow wants and their brief war hasn’t succeeded.

They are the ones that wants to get rid of the current President Voldomyr Zelensky and the others in-charge in Kyiv. Since they are wanting to have the former President who fled to exile and is currently in Belarus in-charge. Therefore, there is no reason to discuss or try. The Ukrainian delegation is doing this to prove there is a will, but they are not backing down on their rights of sovereignty and territorial integrity, which Putin and Russia doesn’t even value. It is just another district or piece of land, which is supposed to be enslaved to the will of Moscow.

That’s why Kuleba is right here:

Russia is not in a position at this point to establish a ceasefire. They seek a surrender from Ukraine. This is not what they’re going to get. Ukraine is strong, Ukraine is fighting. Ukraine made Russia’s initial plans fail. We are seeking a diplomatic solution to this war. But we will not surrender” – Minister of Foreign Affaris Dmytro Kuleba (10.03.2022).

This is the same truth as when Putin said it. He even stated the Ukrainian doesn’t even have a history or statehood. Putin doesn’t value Ukraine and that’s why he wanted them to surrender. He though the public wanted to become Russian overnight and that the majority of the people of Ukraine wanted that as well. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

The warfare and conflict… will only ensure the Ukrainian will get stronger and their hatred for Putin and Russia will only get stronger. Kremlin and Moscow cannot see what it’s doing wrong. As they are just trying to force itself. Either by total destruction or by genocide. The Russian armies and allies are willing to bring cities to the ground.

Just to further the insult. Lavrov said his about the bombing of a children hospital in Mariupol yesterday: “It is not the first time we see pathetic outcries concerning so-called atrocities” (Lavrov, 10.03.2022).

He extended it also saying the Azov battalion was supposed to be stationed in the hospital. That’s how they lie and defend their atrocities. It is like nothing and just like this is “special military operation” and not a “war”. Just further their aims and objectives to nullify any transgressions or crimes against humanity. The suffering and plights of Ukrainians doesn’t matter, because it is just part of the plan to conquer Kyiv and takeover the territory.

However, their short blitzkrieg haven’t succeeded. They we’re supposed to have taken majority of the territory now. Nevertheless, the ability to defend and outsmart the Russians have been apparent. Secondly, the tactics and the strategy of the Russians haven’t been up to scratch either. That’s why the Ukrainian army can use vehicles, military equipment and ammunition, which they took from the Russians. Therefore, the Ukrainian army has been replenished with needed tanks and equipment thanks to the invader. That is really showing how lacking and bad planning the Russians had with this. Even when they were stationed at the borders for weeks before invading. Peace.

Ukraine: U.S. blocks the transfer of Polish MIG-29 Jets to defend Ukraine

We are now in contact with the Polish government following the statement issued today. As we have said, the decision about whether to transfer Polish-owned planes to Ukraine is ultimately one for the Polish government. We will continue consulting with our Allies and partners about our ongoing security assistance to Ukraine, because, in fact, Poland’s proposal shows just some of the complexities this issue presents. The prospect of fighter jets “at the disposal of the Government of the United States of America” departing from a U.S./NATO base in Germany to fly into airspace that is contested with Russia over Ukraine raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance. It is simply not clear to us that there is a substantive rationale for it. We will continue to consult with Poland and our other NATO allies about this issue and the difficult logistical challenges it presents, but we do not believe Poland’s proposal is a tenable one” (U.S. Department of Defence – ‘Statement by Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby on Security Assistance to Ukraine’ 08.03.2022).

It seems like Warsaw and Washington D.C. isn’t on accord on how to negotiate or transfer the needed fighter jets to boost the Ukrainian self-defence against the Russian invasion. As the Ukrainian government, President and army has asked for a “no-fly-zone” which isn’t happening. Now, within hours and during the same day as the Polish announces the possibility of transferring MIG-29 Jets to Ukraine. Pentagon is calling it “not a tenable one”.

It shows that U.S. isn’t that interested or invested into helping the Ukrainian army. Neither are they are willing to risk anything. It is just a waiting game for the U.S. at this point. They are not that billed up or spending on it. The U.S. is only giving surplus stock and donations to cover up the negligence of it all. While they hope other parties can come to the direct aide of Kyiv.

This is showing that Blinken and Biden isn’t all that serious about it. They can let bygones by bygones. It isn’t hurting Wall Street or an avenue near you. So, why bother risking anything and anybody. While the cities and zones near the invasion forces of Russian-Belorussian forces are bombed, war-torn and destroyed on a daily basis. Who minds the death and destruction from the air, as long as the deaths and destruction is happening thousands of miles away. That’s how this seems.

As the EU Member State and NATO ally, Poland was willing to give up its air-fleet of fighter jets to boost the Ukrainian self-defence. The U.S. and NATO is cowering away. In stead of showing up in the hour of need. As it doesn’t mind or worried about the “no-fly-zone” and can’t even stomach the possibility of flying into and support directly the war.

Instead of the planes, the U.S. offers this:

Pentagon will deploy two Patriot missile defense batteries to Poland, U.S. military says in statement tonight. They include not only the missiles, but powerful radar designed to spot incoming fire. As of Tuesday, Russia has launched 670~ missiles at Ukraine since invading” (Ponder It, 09.03.2022).

So, the ones taking U.S. serious and as a possible ally to Kyiv it is hard to take it serious. Poland was willing to give away all of their current air-force to boost Ukraine. In the middle of a war and give them power in the air. However, Pentagon is blocking that move and it’s really tragic. Instead of serving the needs of the defending nation. It is giving it minor military equipment, which yes will help, but not anywhere near what Poland was willing to do yesterday.

Zelensky and Ukrainian people are allowed to be infuriated at this. As their nation is bombed and the West is clearly not taking that seriously. Peace.

Opinion: The Russian economy is tanking when the pension fund is used to save Russian companies

Putin signed a law allowing the placement of NWF funds in shares of Russian companies and government securities” (RIA Novosti, 09.03.2022).

What is the National Wealth Fund:

The National Wealth Fund (NWF) is a part of federal budget assets. NWF is dedicated to support pension system of the Russian Federation to guarantee long-term sound functioning of the system. Fund’s primer assignments are to co-finance voluntary pension savings of Russian citizens and to balance budget of Pension Fund of the Russian Federation” (NWF – About).

Things are not looking good financially in Moscow or in the Russian Federation. As the Russian invasion of Ukraine is costing the Russian a fortune. They are losing contracts, businesses and ability to trade like never before. Foreign companies are stopping to trade or even do business in Russia. Everything from importing vehicles to having a latte at Starbucks. All sort of European and Multi-National Corporations are stopping. They cannot even listen to Spotify anymore. That’s how things have moved.

This is taken to such an extent that the financial inclusion with the rest of the world is gone within 14 days. It took only two weeks from the Western corporation to see the light and bail out. They are ensuring the Russians doesn’t have the liquidity or equity, heck even the ability to transfer funds to cover the basics. The rouble is devalued and the rating of government bonds is also failing.

So, things are grim when the Russian Federation is blocking the ability to take currency across the border. Neither is the SWIFT working in various of banks. The U.S. is planning to stop the imports of oil. While there is still in the works to stop gas from being exported to Europe. If that all succeed the Russian will have less or lack foreign exchange. The dollarization of the economy is just gone. The Petrodollars and whatnot just vanished.

Yes, the Russians are connecting to the MIR System instead of VISA/Mastercard/American Express, but that is only by default and not because the Russians wants to. Yes, the Eurasia enterprise between Russian and China is good for business there. However, it will not be accessible in the West. This will only be with the few partners of Russia, which is a few former USSR republics and China. Not a giant market or a way of patching the obvious hurt.

You know things are bad when the President has to order the spending of the pension funds to salvage the Russian corporations. That shows there is severe problems and crippling financial structure only after a two weeks. This is really costing the companies and the state. As the NWF hav to cover the sudden lack of cash flow and keep things a float.

I am sure not all people will cry over the loss of Coca-Cola or McDonalds. However, it is a sign of the times ahead. The Russian economy isn’t boosted or been prepared for the severity of sanctions this time around. If they were.. the NWF wouldn’t be accessible as a form of covering over the lack of funding and saving companies. It is not done in good will, but of necessity. You don’t spend the collected pensions of your citizens on failing corporations for fun, but because you have too.

This is showing what sort of consequences the war has on the markets. As they are failing and now the state has to bail it out. That is a financial crisis and you have resorted to these means, if you didn’t have too. Peace.

Ukraine: Poland offers all their MIG-29 Jets to Ukraine – answering a call but also opening up another door…

The authorities of the Republic of Poland, after consultations between the President and the Goverment, are ready to deploy – immediately and free of charge – all their MIG-29 jets to the Ramstein Air Base and place them at the disposal of the Government of the United States of America. At the same time, Poland requests the United States to provide us with used aircraft with corresponding operational capabilities. Poland is ready to immediately establish the conditions of purchase of the planes. The Polish Government also requests other NATO Allies – owners of MIG-29 jets – to act in the same vein” (Republic of Poland – ‘Statement of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland in connection with the statement by the US Secretary of State on providing airplanes to Ukraine’ 08.03.2022).

The Polish Government are now offering the MIG-29 Jets of their Republic and Defence. In such a manner and at a rate, which should be at relief and huge help of Kyiv. However, the Polish Government and allies are risking a full out war here. As they might become next target of Russian-Belorussian war in Eastern Europe. Since, this can be seen as a participation in the war. However, then is all sales of military equipment, ammunition and help, which the European Union and NATO states has given already to Ukraine.

What is obvious here is that Warsaw is defying both NATO and EU. Heck, Warsaw is acting in cooperation and direct help of Kyiv without the possible recognition of Brussels. Therefore, the next few hours and day will be interesting.

Yes, Kyiv needs this and has asked for this. The President and his speeches has been directed at either a “no-fly-zone” or getting the jets. Now his offered the jets, but this will create a reaction in Moscow. We don’t know if Putin will act upon this or say this is a final strike. He has already sent a warning over talks of NATO cooperation with Sweden and Finland. While also saying financial sanctions is an act of war. Therefore, sending MIG-29 Jets might be interpreted as a direct participation and becoming an ally of Ukraine. So, for Russia it might turn into a Ukraine-Polish war now. I don’t know… but with such a leader as Putin on the throne. It is hard to know what makes him give way and what makes him furious.

Today is the 13th Day of the Russian-Belorussian Invasion. It is evident that the war isn’t going the way Kremlin or Putin wants. The mighty “Z” isn’t winning or advancing at a rapid pace. Neither is there a will of panic or anarchy, which would have been useful for the invading forces. Instead it has been resistance and a will to fight for own sovereignty. While the Russian forces have struggled with logistics and with the urban warfare of Ukraine. This is all clear, while the Russians instead resorts to brutally bombing, using artillery and sending missiles into crowded areas. That’s what you do… when you cannot win on own morale or own strategic judgments.

The Polish government is doing the right for and supporting Ukraine in the hour of need. We know Kyiv needs this … and they have waited for it. This is delivering what Zelensky wants, but we know Putin is going to react to this. We don’t know what he will or act. That is clear here. This is an escalation and NATO will be worried now. Stoltenberg wouldn’t offer this or make a “No-Fly-Zone” possible.

That this happens today. The 14th Day will open up now barriers … and possible new perspectives, which we didn’t see coming. Now, I am awaiting some sort of ramification and reaction from Moscow. However, we cannot know how that will addressed… until it happens. We know that Kyiv will be happy, but they are getting vital air-support and strengthening their defence. They got all the reasons for getting a bargain in the middle of war. Peace.

Ukraine: Civilian casualties as of 24.00 – 7 March 2022 (08.03.2022)

Opinion: Yanukovych is proving the world that his Putin’s little bitch

MOSCOW, March 8 — RIA Novosti. Former President of Ukraine Viktor Yanukovych appealed to Volodymyr Zelensky with an appeal to stop the bloodshed at any cost. “I am well aware that you have many ‘advisers’, but you personally owe it to stop the bloodshed at all costs and reach a peace agreement. This is expected of you in Ukraine, Donbass and Russia, “the appeal says, the text of which was received by RIA Novosti” (…) ““I want to call out to Volodymyr Zelensky in a presidential and even a little paternal way. Vladimir Alexandrovich, you probably dream of becoming a real hero! But heroism is not ostentatious, it is not about fighting to the last Ukrainian. He is in self-sacrifice, in defeating his own pride and ambitions for the sake of saving people’s lives,” the ex-president said” (RIA Novosti – ‘Yanukovych appealed to Zelensky’ 08.03.2022).

It is the 13th Day of the Russian-Belorussian Invasion of Ukraine. Just like the invasion isn’t going forward in the speed that the Russian need. The advances isn’t as great or the results aren’t to the fitted programme. As it was reported that they needed to take Ukraine by the 15th Day. However, by today’s standing… the amounting battlefields are far from easy picking and neither is the resolve of the Russian army up to par.

It is really interesting that this letter is released in the Russian media, by the man that is the planned Russian successor of President Volodmyr Zelensky. This is the man that Putin trusts and wants in office. Because, he knows his corrupt and a gullible to the interests of Moscow. The letter itself proves that and he defends the Russian invasion of Ukraine here.

He is writing like it is President Zelensky’s fault for the bloodshed and the atrocities in Ukraine. Alas, the Russian army is the invaders and the ones coming in with the army to their territory. It is not the other way around. It is not Zelensky who order the bombing of Ukrainian cities or towns. No, that is the Russian-Belorussian armies, which does that on the regular now. They sending missiles, bombs and heavy artillery into urban areas. Which inflict harm, damage and destruction. That is not Zelensky’s fault, but Putin who has ordered this war.

Viktor Yanukovych is siding with the armies that is invading Ukraine. That is what this letter is implying. He has accepted that Russia can annex and take territory from Ukraine. This isn’t shocking, as he traded away the rights of Sevastopol to the Russian Federation back in 2010. So, this man is willing to trade away all the rights of Ukraine, as long as he has a personal standing and pivotal position in Kremlin. That’s the sort of fella he is and therefore, the letter he has written is tainted. A betrayal of the sovereignty of Ukraine.

While Yanukovych is speaking of heroics, his practically the villain or hired mercenary of Putin. His the pawn on the chess-set and the figurehead of the Kremlin. The former President isn’t loyal to Kyiv or Ukraine. That is so clear and his taunting words is only defending the Russian ideals of the war. Which shows where his heart lays.

He is Putin’s little bit… it is tragic, but that is the reality here. Yanukovych could have been his own man and carried himself. However, that’s the choice his made and it’s evident for the whole world to see. Peace.

Good Neighbors Statement on the Ukrainian Humanitarian Crisis: Urge global community solidarity to protect women and children (07.03.2022)