Russian Defence Ministry report on the progress of the special military operation in Ukraine
(26 October 2022)

◽️The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation.

◽️In the Kupyansk direction, the enemy with the forces of a battalion tactical group and a company of foreign mercenaries, totaling up to 500 people, launched 5 consecutive attacks on the positions of Russian troops on a narrow front in the direction of the settlement of Kuzemovka (Lugansk People's Republic). All the enemy attacks have been repelled. The enemy was driven back to the initial positions by Russia's troops, artillery fire, army and ground-attack aviation, and heavy flamethrower systems. More than 160 militants, 5 tanks, 9 armoured fighting vehicles, and 10 pickup trucks have been neutralised.

◽️In the Krasny Liman direction, Russia's troops eliminated over 70 Ukraine's personnel, 2 tanks, 5 infantry fighting vehicles, an armoured personnel carrier, and 5 pickup trucks.

◽️In the Nikolayev–Krivoy Rog direction, the enemy, with up to 2 battalion tactical groups, failed attempts to attack in the directions of Ishchenka, Bruskinskoye, Pyatikhatki, and Koshara (Kherson region). The defeat resulted in destroying up to 125 Ukrainian servicemen, seven armoured fighting vehicles, and 13 vehicles.

✈️ Operational-tactical and Army Aviation, missile troops and artillery annihilated 2 command posts in Artemovsk (Donetsk People's Republic) and Konstantinovka (Zaporozhye region) as well as 59 artillery units in firing positions, manpower, and military hardware in 177 areas.

💥 A signal node of a Ukrainian group of troops has been destroyed near Prikolotnoye (Kharkov region). Close to Dnepropetrovsk, an oil terminal was destroyed, from which diesel fuel was supplied to the troops in Donbas.

💥 Russia's air defence systems shot down 10 Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles over the settlements of Egorovka, Zeleny Gai, Pavlovka, Nikolskoye, Zavitne Bazhannya, Kirillovka (Donetsk People's Republic), Poltava (Lugansk People's Republic), Novaya Tarasovka (Kharkov region) and Novaya Kamenka (Kherson region).

◽️Moreover, 13 shells of the U.S. HIMARS MLRS were shot down over the settlements of Burgunka, Olgovka, Nikolayevka, Novaya Kakhovka, Ponyatovka, Nikolskoye (Kherson region) and Novonikolskoye (Lugansk People's Republic).

📊 In total, 326 airplanes and 162 helicopters, 2,349 unmanned aerial vehicles, 383 anti-aircraft missile systems, 6,084 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 874 combat vehicles equipped with multiple rocket-launching systems, 3,527 field artillery cannons and mortars, as well as 6,791 units of special military hardware have been destroyed during the special military operation.

Posted by: ctiger | Oct 26 2022 11:19 utc | 1

There must be sensitivities, but I'd like to see evidence of this dirty bomb. I suppose it will be dismissed anyway, but still I'd like to see it put out there.

Posted by: chunga | Oct 26 2022 11:29 utc | 2

☢️🇺🇸🇬🇧🇪🇺🇫🇮🇷🇺Literally the most dangerous thing that could happen in the future for the global security

The draft law on Finland's membership in NATO, prepared by the Government of the Republic, does not exclude the deployment of nuclear weapons on its territory. This was reported by the Iltalehti newspaper on Wednesday, citing sources in the field of foreign policy and security of the country.

According to the paper, the document on Finland's accession to the alliance "is almost ready and will be submitted within two weeks for discussion and consultations." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Defense, as well as the Office of the President, participate in its preparation. The bill does not impose a ban on the deployment of military bases and the NATO military contingent.

"It would be foolish to impose restrictions that could actually complicate the defense of Finland," the publication quotes one of the sources as saying.

Nuclear weapons, according to him, can be placed, for example, on F-35 fighter jets. Helsinki had previously ordered 64 such aircraft. They will be put into service by 2030.
https://www.iltalehti.fi/politiikka/a/79b81501-689d-4ad8-bf69-c6aabab71985

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 11:45 utc | 3

☢️🇺🇸🇬🇧🇪🇺🇫🇮🇷🇺Literally the most dangerous thing that could happen in the future for the global security

The draft law on Finland's membership in NATO, prepared by the Government of the Republic, does not exclude the deployment of nuclear weapons on its territory. This was reported by the Iltalehti newspaper on Wednesday, citing sources in the field of foreign policy and security of the country.

According to the paper, the document on Finland's accession to the alliance "is almost ready and will be submitted within two weeks for discussion and consultations." The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Ministry of Defense, as well as the Office of the President, participate in its preparation. The bill does not impose a ban on the deployment of military bases and the NATO military contingent.

"It would be foolish to impose restrictions that could actually complicate the defense of Finland," the publication quotes one of the sources as saying.

Nuclear weapons, according to him, can be placed, for example, on F-35 fighter jets. Helsinki had previously ordered 64 such aircraft. They will be put into service by 2030.
https://www.iltalehti.fi/politiikka/a/79b81501-689d-4ad8-bf69-c6aabab71985

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 11:45 utc | 4

🇩🇪 🇫🇷 Relations between France and Germany are "at the very bottom" – Die Welt

Relations between France and Germany are facing a final break against the background of disagreements between their leaders, President Emmanuel Macron and Chancellor Olaf Scholz.

"Franco-German relations are at the bottom: eternal disputes about energy prices, military projects and the MidCat pipeline from Spain to France," writes columnist Martina Meister.

Die Welt also added that Paris criticized the decision the German politician to allocate €200 billion to support the economy of his country.

According to her, Macron tried to corner Scholz with criticism to show that the opinion of Paris should be taken into account.

In addition, the French media in a rude tone describe the end of the idyll in bilateral relations: Germany is called a "lonely racer, an egoist country" that does not care about its partners.

"Now they say (in France about Germany) "Germany first of all," and, as a result, disappointment, irritation, bitterness," the article says.

The observer predicts an "ice age", if not an "unexpected divorce" of a German-French couple, which, significantly, is so called only on the left bank of the Rhine.

Earlier it was also reported that France and Germany could not agree on the issue of a press conference during the German Chancellor's visit to Paris.

https://www.welt.de/politik/ausland/article241778509/Scholz-und-Macron-Jetzt-bestaetigt-sich-eine-alte-Angst-der-Franzosen.html

According to Politico Elysee Palace did not confirm the meeting of the leaders with journalists after the talks, although Berlin had previously announced it.
https://www.politico.eu/article/olaf-scholz-emmanuel-macron-meet-amid-tensions-energy-crisis-defense/
The publication also notes that Macron's refusal from the press conference will be "a great insult to Scholz."

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 11:50 utc | 5

🇩🇰🇩🇪🇸🇪Denmark, Germany and Sweden will not disclose the results of the investigation of the terrorist attacks on the "Nord Streams" until they receive indisputable evidence, said the commander of the Danish Navy Kristoffersen

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 11:55 utc | 6

Under the leadership of President Putin, training is being conducted to deliver a massive nuclear strike in response to an enemy nuclear strike - Shoigu

Today, exercises were held at military training grounds to practice a nuclear strike against enemy forces that carried out a nuclear attack against the Russian Federation.

Various intercontinental and cruise missiles were launched. All the targets planned within the framework of the exercises were hit.

Launches from nuclear submarines, mobile missile systems and long-range aircraft were practiced.

All the tasks envisaged during the training of the strategic deterrence forces have been completed
"The Yars intercontinental ballistic missile was launched at the Kura test site in Kamchatka from the Plesetsk State Test cosmodrome and the Sineva ballistic missile from the Barents Sea. Tu-95MS long-range aircraft, which launched air-launched cruise missiles, were also involved in the implementation of tasks.

During the event, the level of preparedness of the military administration bodies and the skills of the management and operational staff in organizing the management of troops were checked.

The tasks envisaged during the training of the strategic deterrence forces have been completed in full, all missiles have reached their targets, confirming the specified characteristics"

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 12:00 utc | 7

Various intercontinental and cruise missiles were launched. All the targets planned within the framework of the exercises were hit.

All the tasks envisaged during the training of the strategic deterrence forces have been completed.
...

Yes, it was to be expected as a show of force and kind of skirt lifting and mooning the West.

While NATO is flying about European skies and mocking attacks with passive dumb bombs, running simulations, RF shows that its missiles work.

I am sure all the eyes and ears of the West were focused at RF performance. Perhaps it could be interpreted as an event to show the thickness of RF red lines.
Message is very clear: RF is dead serious on those issues and do not think they are bluffing.

I still hope for some sane people within NATO forces are able to interpret this as it is intended and turn the doubling-down into standing down.
It would be wise and beneficial to admit that RF got Ukraine just about where it wants it and force civilian powers to sit and talk about ending the war and destruction of Ukraine, EU, and NATO in general.

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 12:16 utc | 8

You’ve heard how the Russians are ripping chips out of washing machines to put into their missiles? I’m listening on Roundtable how the US is short of cars for sale because of a chip shortage. Whatever happened those can-do Yanks of my youth? Can they not raid their washing machines for chips? Like the Russians.

Posted by: Guy L’Estrange | Oct 26 2022 12:22 utc | 9

Putin: Ukraine has become an instrument of US foreign policy, has practically lost its sovereignty, the Ukrainian territory has been turned into a testing ground for biological experiments, and now they are pumping weapons

Before our eyes, the world is becoming multipolar

The world is becoming multipolar, but some are trying to "preserve their tottering hegemony,"

The conflict potential in the world and the region remains very high.

The US is using Ukraine as a battering ram against Russia

Putin after the sabotage on the "Northern Streams": the pan-European energy network is being destroyed

Putin on the spread of weapons from the "black market" of Ukraine: the risks of MANPADS and high-precision weapons falling into the hands of terrorists remain

The "spread" of foreign mercenaries with combat experience poses a threat to the CIS countries

Putin: We are aware of Ukraine's plans to use a "dirty bomb"

The incident on the Crimean Bridge, the attempted sabotage at the Kursk NPP, show that increased security measures should be taken at the country's energy and transport infrastructure facilities

https://twitter.com/AZgeopolitics/status/1585236671359950848

Posted by: unimperator | Oct 26 2022 12:28 utc | 10

Posted by: Guy L’Estrange | Oct 26 2022 12:22 utc | 25

Only dumb people would believe the Russians are raiding washing machines for chips. Nice try at anti-Russian propaganda though.

Posted by: Jax | Oct 26 2022 12:29 utc | 11

>>>>>: Guy L’Estrange | Oct 26 2022 12:22 utc | 25

"Whatever happened those can-do Yanks of my youth?"

It's an Anglo thing. Back in early 19th century Great Britain was a can-do society then they created an empire, got lazy and became "could do". Same with US now, they've created an empire, got lazy and became "could do".

Posted by: Ghost Ship | Oct 26 2022 12:43 utc | 12

The South African government has refused to seize a superyacht belonging to a sanctioned Russian oligarch attempting to dock in Cape Town, with a government spokesperson adding the country has 'no reason' to comply with Western sanctions.The $500million superyacht belongs to Alexey Mordashov, a 57-year-old billionaire.
'South Africa has no legal obligation to abide by sanctions imposed by the US and EU,' said Vincent Magwenya, spokesman for South Africa's president. 'We have no reason to prevent their entry into South Africa.

'South Africa’s obligations with respect to sanctions relate only to those that are specifically adopted by the United Nations. Currently, there are no UN-imposed sanctions on the particular individual.'

Posted by: Spyder | Oct 26 2022 12:55 utc | 13

Posted by: Spyder | Oct 26 2022 12:55 utc | 24

Now it is South Africa stepping up. What wonderful news. It is the Beginning of the End for a Unipolar US hegemony.

Posted by: Brother Ma | Oct 26 2022 13:27 utc | 14

https://twitter.com/Circonscripti18/status/1585244396739784704

Haitians are showing their support for Russia by waving the Russian flag at protests at the prospect of the US sending an intervention force to the island. The US motivation to send troops to Haiti is to keep things stable enough so that Haitians don't flee the island and arrive at Florida in boats. I believe this is a good opportunity for Russia to show its solidarity with the rest of the third world by sending boats and lifejackets to Haiti. Give the Haitians the freedom to choose to migrate safely.

Posted by: beleeaa | Oct 26 2022 13:28 utc | 15

Ukrainian military expert, Oleg Zhdanov, said that the Armed Forces of Ukraine have nothing to attack Kherson

“The Ukrainian army is suffering huge losses. There is a shortage of personnel, insufficiently mobilized, a shortage of military equipment.

https://twitter.com/SprinterMonitor/status/1585241881604403202

Posted by: unimperator | Oct 26 2022 13:28 utc | 16

🇵🇱🇷🇺🇬🇧🇪🇺🇺🇸🇨🇳🇯🇵Interesting view by Polish politican Paweł Kowal former Polish politician

Paweł Kowal said that the main goal of the West is to achieve the collapse of Russia, and the task of Poland is to take part of Ukraine and Moldova.

The West is betting that Russia will collapse, be decentralized and partially controlled by the victorious West. China will increase its influence in the Siberian part of the Russian Federation. Japan can also play a role in the Russian Far East.

"Russia and its future are at stake. But if the temperature in the apartments in Berlin and Paris is low, a lot more can happen. Two or three degrees down will already cause Westerners to be indifferent to Putin's policies," Koval said.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 13:29 utc | 17

Ghost Ship | Oct 26 2022 12:43 utc | 13

John Cleese nails it: "Can-do, but won't."

Guy L’Estrange | Oct 26 2022 12:22 utc | 25

That tale derives from a re-attribution of this Daily Mail story from April about some business leader's off-hand remark regarding scrapping finished mod cons for processors. It's not practical from a product quality standpoint. The used chips, having been heated and cooled thrice, once while wet, will have much shorter mean time to failure.

Really, it's waste porn for the upper-middle class who gets off on the idea of having cheap brown people suffering their laundry with human labor.

Posted by: sippy the shot glass | Oct 26 2022 13:36 utc | 18

De-nazification intensifies

There was an incident in the Limansk direction. After several unsuccessful attempts to go on the attack, the mercenaries from among the Poles refused to tempt fate and go forward.
Representatives of the national battalions came to them for analysis - the conversation did not work out and the Poles disposed of Bandera lovers.
Now there is planned a massacre between foreigners and Nazis.

Posted by: OttoE | Oct 26 2022 13:43 utc | 19

🇷🇺🇺🇦 The situation in the Starobelsky direction as of 16.00 on October 26, 2022

1)The Armed Forces of Ukraine went on the defensive in the Kupyansky sector, there are no significant changes in the front line.

2)In the Svatovsky sector of the AFU, with the help of a reinforced consolidated battalion tactical group,AFU tried five times to storm the positions of the RF Armed Forces in the Kuzemovka area from the direction of Peschanoe. Russian troops repelled the blows.

3)In the Lyman sector, units of the 3rd motorized rifle division of the 20th Army, after successfully repulsing the attacks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, went on the counteroffensive in the previous days:

3)Parts of the Russian army drove out the Ukrainian formations from Makiivka and Novosadovoe. They destroyed the enemy's bridgehead on the eastern bank of the Zherebets River, from which attacks were carried out in the direction of the Svatovo-Kremennaya highway.

4)in the Lisichansky sector, the AFU command went on the defensive after several unsuccessful attempts to storm the positions of the Russian Armed Forces near Belogorovka.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 14:01 utc | 20

Tomorrow we intend to discuss in the UN Security Council the creation of a safe zone around the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant - IAEA Chief Grossi.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 14:03 utc | 21

Tomorrow we intend to discuss in the UN Security Council the creation of a safe zone around the Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant - IAEA Chief Grossi.

Down South @ 21

Oh, Grossi and his intends. What he forgot is that the Zaporozhye NPP is in Russian territory.

Posted by: Paulg | Oct 26 2022 14:11 utc | 22

@19 OttoE
I suppose this is just a prelude to Poland stepping into Lvov later and how they will have to deal with the Banderites

Posted by: leaf | Oct 26 2022 14:21 utc | 23

Propaganda: Russia using chips from washing machines to fix tanks ...

I tried looking for some propaganda examples and found it is now dishwashers and refrigerators ...

"As Business Insider reports, during the Senate Committee on Appropriations on Wednesday, commerce secretary Gina Raimondo explained, "We have reports from Ukrainians that when they find Russian military equipment on the ground, it's filled with semiconductors that they took out of dishwashers and refrigerators."

Well, this is an incredible pile of dung. I have a huge collection of components for prototyping electronic systems, so when I get rid of washers/dryers/microwaves Ovens/computers I always scavenge what I can. I would consider myself quite experienced with this and can state:

1) Used appliances are a great source of oddball parts that will probably never find a use - like a magnetron that could become a welding transformer. Often, there are no markings on the parts, and even a device tester can't figure out what it is. Almost every component can be purchased cheaply from Aliexpress anyway, so why would a manufacturer in Russia be de-soldering parts?

2) There is NO WAY anyone could look at something I prototyped and say "that is a relay / transistor / diode / small piece from a dishwasher". It isn't like they smell like laundry detergent or have labels like "I was a LG washer when I was young", or have LEDs that flash Morse code like ..- -.- .-. .- .. -. . .--. .. --. ...

The quote above specifically says filled with semiconductors. It is possible that they use commercial spec rather than military spec components when not critical for the design, but they idea they "took it out" of a dishwasher is extremely unlikely and rather comical.

Anything that comes out of a modern appliances (most likely made in China) is also made in China. Russia can get all the fundamental (transistors, diodes, resistors, capacitors, inductors etc.) electronics it wants directly from China without having to scavenge from anything.

Posted by: PP | Oct 26 2022 14:24 utc | 24

Funnily enough Germany has supply problems with white goods and cars and electronics goods simply because deliveries of semiconductors are not arriving from China………

Saturn is short of product from Siemens/Bosch and Miele for this reason

Fritzbox was in short supply because of semiconductors

Lots of empty spaces in German stores

US has Chinese semiconductors in F-35 ejector seats and quite a high casualty rate

I do wonder where China gets its semiconductors from for Dongfeng ? Taiwan or Korea ?

Posted by: Paul Greenwood | Oct 26 2022 14:42 utc | 25

PP@24...yes, but they also fail to mention all modern Russian armour comes with full function kitchens and bathrooms......a Canadian tank commander recently explained 'monkey bum' to me, and she doesn't even have a/c in the can.

Cheers M

Posted by: sean the leprechaun | Oct 26 2022 14:43 utc | 26

⚡️🇷🇺🇺🇦⚔️ Offensive near #Peski: Situation until 14:00 on 26 Oct 2022⚡️

🇷🇺 Russian Forces develop an offensive on #Vodyanoye, #Pervomayskoye and #Opytnoye near the settlement of #Peski.

▪️ Units of the Sparta Battalion and other units of the Russian Forces have occupied AFU strongholds on the #Donetsk Ring Road between #Peski and #Vodyanoye. They have cleared most of #Vodyanoye and are advancing towards #Pervomayskoye fighting.

▪️ From the village of #Spartak, units of the DPR People's Militia approached the outskirts of #Opytnoye, taking the forward positions of the AFU. The supply of the AFU forces in the settlement is difficult. Almost all roads to the settlement are occupied or under fire by Russian troops.

▪️ There are fierce battles in the western part of #Pervomayskoye and in the fields near #Nevelskoye, the enemy is trying to counterattack.

▪️ The final clearing of the villages of #Pervomayskoye and #Nevelskoye will allow the development of an offensive on #Netaylovo and #Krasnogorovka, while the advance to the north of #Vodyanoye and #Opytnoye will allow the development of an offensive on #Orlovka to encircle the fortified area of #Avdeevka. From these settlements, the AFU militants are shelling residential areas in the towns of the #Donetsk agglomeration on a daily basis.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 14:50 utc | 27

⚡️🇷🇺🇺🇦⚔️ Situation in #Starobelsk Direction until 16:00 on 26 Oct 2022⚡️

#Kupyansk Sector:

▪️ The AFU has switched to defence, there are no significant changes on the front.

#Svatovo Sector:

▪️ The enemy, with a reinforced combined battalion tactical group, has made five attempts to storm the Russian positions in the #Kuzemovka area from the #Peschanoye direction. Russian Forces repulsed the attacks.

#Lyman Sector:

🇷🇺 Units of the 3rd Motorized Rifle Division of the 20th Army went on the counter-offensive after successfully repulsing AFU attacks in the previous days:

▪️ The Russians drove Ukrainian formations out of #Makeevka and #Novosadovoye. They practically destroyed the enemy's bridgehead on the east bank of the #Zherebets River, from which attacks were launched in the direction of the #Svatovo - #Kremennaya highway.

▪️ Along the entire length of the river south of #Makeevka, Russian Forces pushed back the AFU to the coastal villages. Fighting is ongoing in #Terny, #Yampolovka and #Torskoye.

#Lysychansk Sector:

▪️ After several failed attempts to storm the Russian positions near #Belogorovka, the enemy command has gone on the defensive.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 14:52 utc | 28

Wouldn't it be simpler and quicker to use a trebuchet and an undismantled washing machine?
demo

Posted by: petra | Oct 26 2022 14:55 utc | 29

Briefly on the situation in the Kremenna area. At the moment there is an operational pause caused by the weather. Very heavy rain has been falling since overnight, and it hasn't stopped. The ground is 40 cm soaked, this has stopped active combat operations by both us and the Khokhla. Ukropians are trying to expand the captured bridgehead but to no avail. At night they tried to sneak up on us, and a small arms fight began, without using artillery, the opposing sides were too close to each other.

Our artillery strikes against suitable reserves of the enemy, yesterday, for example, we destroyed 2 Polish armored vehicles. Chervonopopovka is firmly held by us, Nevskoe is in the grey zone. The losses of the khokhla are very significant.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 14:56 utc | 30

Wouldn't it be simpler and quicker to use a trebuchet and an undismantled washing machine demo ?

Posted by: petra | Oct 26 2022 15:02 utc | 31

A notable change in the recent reports of Ukrainian equipment losses is the increasing number of civilian-type vehicles pressed into military service. These provide zero protection for attacking troops and are evidence of a serious shortage of armored vehicles. Infantry cannot survive on the modern battlefield without armored protection, and Ukraine is running out of armor.

Posted by: HH | Oct 26 2022 15:04 utc | 32

Paweł Kowal former Polish politician said the main goal of the West is to achieve the collapse of Russia

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 13:29 utc | 17

---

Duh? Smart money has moved on; everyone knows Russia won. So now its time to game play and place bets.

Let's consider Maslow and the effect of both supply restrictions and debased currencies on core essentials.

(Refresher of multiplicative effect: shortages paid with gold = high prices. Abundance paid with fiat = high prices. Shortages paid with fiat = hyperinflation.)

Reminder: Hyperinflation isnt merely just high prices. It's actually refusal to exchange goods for "money" that results hoarding and bartering

So what happens for high demand items, like say, food water shelter heating lighting cooking clothing transportation defensive tools earnings, etc?

Ah, this is what is referred to as social breakdown, the curtailment of law & order, the scene of desperate mass movement, some simply use the shorthand word, war.

Yep, little old Ukraine and the willingness of zato to test Russian resolve. Hate it when that happens.

Posted by: B9k9 | Oct 26 2022 15:07 utc | 33

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRdjsJISOAo

The elephant in the room: how long can NATO go on without admitting that they're being 'rope a doped' ? How can Ukraine go on with potshots and pickup trucks and no real offensives?

Posted by: Eighthman | Oct 26 2022 15:08 utc | 34

Guy l'estrange no. 9

Don't be daft. The "murricans" couldn't live without their washer/dryer/leaf blower/home tv station/etc.
But if NATO/USA/UK/EU don't stop being silly, then they might be in for a nasty shock.

Posted by: ThusspakeZarathustra | Oct 26 2022 15:09 utc | 35

You’ve heard how the Russians are ripping chips out of washing machines to put into their missiles?

Posted by: Guy L’Estrange | Oct 26 2022 12:22 utc | 9

On the theory there is often a kernel of truth to seemingly ridiculous stories, I'll indulge in some speculation:

My understanding is chips are often available in commercial, industrial, and military grades. Functionally the grades are identical but they differ in the temperature range and mechanical shock and vibration they are rated to withstand. What if ... having to resort to various chip smuggling/laundering schemes to obtain devices, Russia has gone through their weapon bill-of-materials and scrubbed them of over-specified chips. In those cases where they think the military grade version is overkill, they've downgraded to using the more readily obtained commerical/industrial version.

That would mean Russia is not using chips ripped from appliances (there's not a mountain of gutted washing machines out behind the Kalibr factory!) but they're using the same non-military grade chips as would be found in appliances because those are easier to obtain.

Posted by: Mike314159 | Oct 26 2022 15:12 utc | 36

The partial mobilisation turned the SMO into a Patriotic War, which the Russians didn't have since 1945. Now, most Russian Federation families are connected to the Patriotic War, one way or another. Country's industry cannot refuse any order to produce for the military. Anyway, they are happy to produce for the military. The Great Patriotic War was done for the nation's survival, rather than for victory, but on the way the victory was achieved. Now, for the second time, a Patriotic War is happening.

Also, just a few days ago, Xi Jinping stayed on as the Chairman for next 5 years. China also had a Great Patriotic War and that was against the USA. Just a few days ago Liz Truss was kicked out. Sunak doesn't even declare his support for Ukraine or say anything about sending arms there.

Russia is testing its nuclear armament, during which the tasks of delivering a massive nuclear strike by strategic offensive forces in response to an enemy nuclear strike will be worked out. Of course, The US is informed, just for the sake.

Posted by: Paulg | Oct 26 2022 15:21 utc | 37

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 13:29 utc | 17:
The West is betting that Russia will collapse, be decentralized and partially controlled by the victorious West.

Then good night! This would mean wars like in the Balkan in the 1990, only ten times worse and with nuclear weapons.

Posted by: Ruediger | Oct 26 2022 15:23 utc | 38

You’ve heard how the Russians are ripping chips out of washing machines to put into their missiles?

Posted by: Guy L’Estrange | Oct 26 2022 12:22 utc | 9

On the theory there is often a kernel of truth to seemingly ridiculous stories, I'll indulge in some speculation:

My understanding is chips are often available in commercial, industrial, and military grades. Functionally the grades are identical but they differ in the temperature range and mechanical shock and vibration they are rated to withstand. What if ... having to resort to various chip smuggling/laundering schemes to obtain devices, Russia has gone through their weapon bill-of-materials and scrubbed them of over-specified chips. In those cases where they think the military grade version is overkill, they've downgraded to using the more readily obtained commerical/industrial version.

That would mean Russia is not using chips ripped from appliances (there's not a mountain of gutted washing machines out behind the Kalibr factory!) but they're using the same non-military grade chips as would be found in appliances because those are easier to obtain.

Posted by: Mike314159 | Oct 26 2022 15:24 utc | 39

Biden stroked out during the summer, he is doing the half-step.
Announcement Jan?
Next in line, worse?
Ukraine policy change?

Posted by: meow | Oct 26 2022 15:27 utc | 40

regarding Zaporozhye and the nuclear plant.. i haven't been following the details of the war closely the past month.. what is the status of the nuclear plant and control of zaporozhye? thanks...

this rt article triggered my curiousity...

Kiev turning Zaporozhye into new Mariupol – Russian official

Posted by: james | Oct 26 2022 15:37 utc | 41

HH @ 32

Exactly. We have reached the shooting fish in a barrel stage. And the rats are deserting the ship. Ukraine is done, put a fork in it. Will be interesting to watch The Mighty Wurlitzer trying to finesse this one. Americans will believe anything they are told. I know people planning vacations in Ukraine next summer.

Posted by: oldhippie | Oct 26 2022 15:37 utc | 42

I would imagine they have a large stock of needed chips seeing how they didn't get cut off untill this year. Plus it's fairly easy to sneak items into a country that wants the items you have. Many countries are ignoring the EU sanctions making the idea that they can't find a few hundred here and there odd.

Posted by: OhhCanada | Oct 26 2022 15:42 utc | 43

oldhippie @ 42

Will be interesting to watch The Mighty Wurlitzer trying to finesse this one. Americans will believe anything they are told

Posted by: LightYearsFromHome | Oct 26 2022 15:45 utc | 44

Posted by: OttoE | Oct 26 2022 13:43 utc | 19

Just to name a source so that it does not remain a "rumour".

Tass - Battle erupts between Polish mercenaries, Ukrainian nationalists near Liman — LPR official

Posted by: Sparta78 | Oct 26 2022 15:52 utc | 45

james @ 41

Front line in Zapo has not moved in the month you looked away. NPP held by RF, city of Zapo still under Kiev. That 'foreigners' are being moved in at scale means Kiev/Washington wants to fight to the last Ukrainian and the last Pole. The Poles possibly still have better morale than the Uke Territorials, doesn't mean they can do anything but die. Just listened to a short video by a Kiwi merc who had figured out that being in Uke merely meant waiting to die. It will be same as Mariupol, they will be surrounded and starved out. Civilians will take the worst of it.

Posted by: oldhippie | Oct 26 2022 15:56 utc | 46

LOL Russia always 1 step behind,

US send 5000 special forces to Romania close to Russia and Russia do nothing!
Why have not Russia sent 5000 special forces to the border of the US?

"Kremlin responds to US troop deployment on Ukrainian border "
https://swentr.site/news/565376-russia-us-troops-romania/

Posted by: Zanon | Oct 26 2022 16:03 utc | 47

thanks oldhippie.. i appreciate the update... i have kind of lost track of the details, but see everything in wide sweeps..

Posted by: james | Oct 26 2022 16:03 utc | 48

thanks oldhippie.. i appreciate the update... i have kind of lost track of the details, but see everything in wide sweeps..

Posted by: james | Oct 26 2022 16:05 utc | 49

LOL!
Russia always 1 step behind,

US send 5000 special forces to Romania close to Russia and Russia do nothing!
Why have not Russia sent 5000 special forces to the border of the US?

"Kremlin responds to US troop deployment on Ukrainian border "
Source
https://swentr.site/news/565376-russia-us-troops-romania/

Posted by: Zanon | Oct 26 2022 16:05 utc | 50

i am getting a weird glitch with typepad and posting here today it seems...

Posted by: james | Oct 26 2022 16:08 utc | 51

>>>>>>: PP | Oct 26 2022 14:24 utc | 24

I always replied when confronted with tweets about washing machines being the only source of electronic components available to the Russians how inventive the Russians must be if they can recycle washing machines into cruise missiles and how the west should fear such a capable and inventive country. Used to shut up the Banderite trolls.

Posted by: Ghost Ship | Oct 26 2022 16:13 utc | 52

Zanon @51
LOL yourself. Russia is involved in adult business and have neither time nor reason to pay any notice to your "special forces". Thgose screaming chickens are soft and squishy and if they ever get the insane idea to enter Ukraine, they will be obliterated.
Happy now?

Posted by: Cribb | Oct 26 2022 16:13 utc | 53

Posted by: Ghost Ship | Oct 26 2022 12:43 utc | 12

We've passed the could do stage and moved onto the

Dindu stage.

Nordstream - Dindu it.

Posted by: Jimmy Flies By | Oct 26 2022 16:17 utc | 54

From Intel Slava Z on Telegram:

"🇷🇺🇺🇦⚡The Kiev regime has completed technical preparations for a provocation with a "dirty bomb" - RIA Novosti source

Specialists of the Ukrainian enterprise Yuzhmash have prepared a dummy missile of the Iskander complex, which is planned to be filled with radioactive material, and then allegedly shot down over the exclusion zone of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant by Ukrainian air defense forces and announce the launch of a nuclear charge by the Russian armed forces.

The source clarified that the model of the Iskander missile was made on the basis of a projectile from the Tochka-U missile system.

“After the dummy is knocked down, the Kiev authorities intend to show the Western and Ukrainian media fragments of the mock-up and electronics of the alleged Iskander missile in order to convince the Western public of Russia’s guilt,” the agency’s source claims."

I doubt they'll use a missile because Russia will more likely than not be able EU shoot it down en route. More likely is a van or lorry carried dirty bomb exploded in a Ukrainian city (one mostly populated by Russian speakers, naturally)

Posted by: Biswapriya Purkayast | Oct 26 2022 16:18 utc | 55

TASS this a.m.--
"It is reported that the entire industrial area of the city is being turned into bases of the Ukrainian military and foreign mercenaries."

Déjà vu.

Posted by: Elmagnostic | Oct 26 2022 16:33 utc | 56

TASS this a.m.. re: Zaporozhye--
"It is reported that the entire industrial area of the city is being turned into bases of the Ukrainian military and foreign mercenaries."

Déjà vu.

Posted by: Elmagnostic | Oct 26 2022 16:37 utc | 57

As previously explained, the 101st Airborne units are not special forces; they are essentially light infantry and incapable of doing the jobs assigned to regular or heavy infantry of the Russian variety. Second, they replaced the contingent of 82nd Airborne troops that were already there. The reality: BFD!

In the action reports, we read of IFVs and APCs, the latter likely being M-113s which are little better than the Toyota Tacomas favored by the Outlaw US Empire's Terrorist Foreign Legion. The descriptive clause, returned to defensive posture, means the units used have attrited to the point where they're no longer fit for offensive tactics but remain on the line.

It's not surprising to read of the Poles and Ukies fighting each other.

Posted by: karlof1 | Oct 26 2022 16:38 utc | 58

There is an uncanny resemblance between the situation now in Kherson and a similar situation the last time Russia was attacked, farther east. Then as now a beleaguered Russia army was backed up to a major river, holding a major city with most people evacuated. Then as now the bridges were down, then relying on heavily shelled barges, now a heavily shelled pontoon bridge. Then as now there was a firm bridgehead a ways north where the river bent northwest, then at a major Russian crossing, now over the dam at Novakakhovka. Then as now the river split into several small channels below the city, allowing crossings at night by pontoon bridge and barge. Then as now large numbers of Russian troops were being trained in the east and moving toward the city. Then as now there was a race for time before the river became impassable, then from freezing, now if the dam were blown up. Then the army was the 62nd, the river the Volga, the city Stalingrad. They say history never repeats, but sometimes it rhymes. Maybe it will again.

Posted by: Seward | Oct 26 2022 16:40 utc | 59

I doubt they'll use a missile
Posted by: Biswapriya Purkayast | Oct 26 2022 16:18 utc | 56

No, the text says that they want to claim to intercept a (dummy that looks like Iskander) missile in Chernobyl area and show it to the press while radiation levels will be high from the crap they put inside it.
If the general staff retreated from everywhere... tough luck now; call Biden and beg or go back to 90s.
The most important thing for nato is that Russia has no absolutely control over future events while they have 100% control. All they do is question the future they can't change "are they going to use a dirty bomb?" "are they going to explode the dam?" "is the ZNPP fuel storage going to explode?"

Posted by: rk | Oct 26 2022 16:57 utc | 60

Rather too much drawing parallels with history and warfare.

Satellite recon available to both sides makes this war unlike anything ever fought before. And another thing does, too.

There was once a series of white papers at Maxwell from Squadron Officer School describing the conflict of a need for battles and glory in order for officers to advance rapidly in rank vs. the purpose of warfare -- imposing one country's will on another.

This in the context of interdicting oil. More than anything else, oil. This can happen via electricity shut down because then trains can't haul oil, but make no mistake here, it is oil that puts food on shelves. Nothing else plants food, harvests food, or transports food.

In this perspective, commanders seeking glory must necessarily not kill opposing forces or civilians. They must keep them alive, to consume food that is running out. A few weeks without food and surrender is inevitable. The purpose of warfare is achieved. But without glory.

This appears to be unfolding with the destruction of train transport in Ukraine, a huge % of which is electric. Diesel doesn't reach trucks. Food doesn't reach shelves.

It's not about being cold and having resolve challenged by cold. It's about no food. It's not classical troop movement warfare. It's new.

Posted by: I Know Things | Oct 26 2022 17:12 utc | 61

https://t.me/azmilitary11/26831

🇺🇸🇬🇧🇪🇺🇺🇦🇷🇺☢️⚛️ Stoltenberg:"Russia often accuses others of what it intended to do themselve. We have already seen this scheme - from Syria to Ukraine. Russia should not use a false pretext for further escalation. The world is watching closely"

Every time something like this comes out, Geran production should be doubled.

Posted by: anon2020 | Oct 26 2022 17:13 utc | 62

Cribb

LOL you Yes-men get more and more denialist!

Russia is involved in adult business and have neither time nor reason to pay any notice to your "special forces"

Maybe you should read the actual link, it is Russia that pay notice and are worried about them.

Speaking to reporters, Peskov noted that “the closer American troops are to our borders, the greater danger we are in.” He went on to say that Moscow factors in such a military presence when developing its security framework.

Posted by: Zanon | Oct 26 2022 17:14 utc | 63

🇷🇺🇺🇦⚡The Kiev regime has completed technical preparations for a provocation with a "dirty bomb" - RIA Novosti source

Specialists of the Ukrainian enterprise Yuzhmash have prepared a dummy missile of the Iskander complex, which is planned to be filled with radioactive material, and then allegedly shot down over the exclusion zone of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant by Ukrainian air defense forces and announce the launch of a nuclear charge by the Russian armed forces.

The source clarified that the model of the Iskander missile was made on the basis of a projectile from the Tochka-U missile system.

“After the dummy is knocked down, the Kiev authorities intend to show the Western and Ukrainian media fragments of the mock-up and electronics of the alleged Iskander missile in order to convince the Western public of Russia’s guilt,” the agency’s source claims.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 17:34 utc | 64

@anon2020 | Oct 26 2022 17:13 utc | 63

That is how a Quisling talks.

Posted by: Norwegian | Oct 26 2022 17:36 utc | 65

Zelensky’s ‘Rude Behavior’ Raises Western Doubts Over Ukraine Aid

National Review columnist Bobby Miller has claimed Vladimir Zelensky is risking Western doubts over ramping up even more aid to Ukraine due to his rude behavior.

He believes that the President of Ukraine and his government are wasting their trust when they "plunge into the murky waters of the domestic politics of other countries."

Miller cites Zelensky criticizing Israel for insufficient support after it officially refused to supply Kiev with weapons, as well as his complaint on the eve of a conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction that his country "hasn’t got a cent" yet from the $17 billion quick recovery plan.

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 17:37 utc | 66

Looks like things are getting more specific...

The Kiev regime has completed technical preparations for a provocation with a "dirty bomb" - RIA Novosti source

Specialists of the Ukrainian enterprise Yuzhmash have prepared a dummy missile of the Iskander complex, which is planned to be filled with radioactive material, and then allegedly shot down over the exclusion zone of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant by Ukrainian air defense forces and announce the launch of a nuclear charge by the Russian armed forces.

The source clarified that the model of the Iskander missile was made on the basis of a projectile from the Tochka-U missile system.

“After the dummy is knocked down, the Kiev authorities intend to show the Western and Ukrainian media fragments of the mock-up and electronics of the alleged Iskander missile in order to convince the Western public of Russia’s guilt,” the agency’s source claims.

~ https://t.me/intelslava/40049

Posted by: Opport Knocks | Oct 26 2022 17:40 utc | 67

Zanon @51 Perhaps you should combine forces with the Hitler was a double agent troll to make one gigantic megatroll?

Posted by: Zanon-troll | Oct 26 2022 16:08 utc | 52

---

Now that shit right there is funny. double good +1

Howzabout unzanored, or perhaps censazon

Posted by: B9k9 | Oct 26 2022 17:42 utc | 68

https://t.me/azmilitary11/26831

🇺🇸🇬🇧🇪🇺🇺🇦🇷🇺☢️⚛️ Stoltenberg:"Russia often accuses others of what it intended to do themselve. We have already seen this scheme - from Syria to Ukraine. Russia should not use a false pretext for further escalation. The world is watching closely"

Every time something like this comes out, Geran production should be doubled.

Posted by: anon2020 | Oct 26 2022 17:13 utc | 63

I take this to mean that nothing will happen. The suggested narrative, "the world is watching", is that the resolve of NATO helps scare Russia off from using nukes and "dirty" weapons. The usual loser narrative. For every step taken backwards, NATO will continue to make pronouncements advertising its great resolve and unity.

I can't see that a false flag with a dirty bomb blamed on the Russians will fly now, with Russia having warned the entire world about it, called the major leaders, discussed it in the Security council. Maybe a majority of the population in the Western world would still believe it, but not the people in charge virtually anywhere.

Posted by: veto | Oct 26 2022 17:44 utc | 69

Solid state components rapidly become obsolete and supply can be volatile - a chip maker makes a run, then retools for some other device, etc.

It has been considered in my experience (under duress) that we would scaven components from existing assemblies to use to complete newer orders.

Whatever the Ruskies are using (Maytag missles), it seems to brown the meat.

Posted by: jared | Oct 26 2022 17:47 utc | 70

Solid state components rapidly become obsolete and supply can be volatile - a chip maker makes a run, then retools for some other device, etc.

It has been considered in my experience (under duress) that we would scaven components from existing assemblies to use to complete newer orders.

Whatever the Ruskies are using (Maytag missles), it seems to brown the meat.

Posted by: jared | Oct 26 2022 17:49 utc | 71

Speaking to reporters, Peskov noted that “the closer American troops are to our borders, the greater danger we are in.” He went on to say that Moscow factors in such a military presence when developing its security framework.

Sure thing and one logical conclusion.

That is what this war is about.

Therefore, RF factors this in order to neutralise this threat.
I think they do not care about some 'hurrah!-we-are-feared-101-airdropings', but US/NATO presence near its borders in any form or a shape.

In their security framework, the general idea is about the same as actually from the first days of SMO and it renders to the following:

'Do not cross red lines.'

Updating it recently to make it more clear addressing the 'special needs leadership of NATO and EU' as in not to measure thickness of those red lines.

I mean, it is really hard to talk to autistic, self-inflated, arrogant egos running the 'let us fight Russia' show from the West.

And btw. NATO lost this war badly and biggly.

Question is are they aware of it?
Nobody even cares what they are going to do about it.

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 17:51 utc | 72

Post #52;
I spit out my coffee as it perfectly fit Zelensky-ANON, who is definitely working out of one of the deep state offices or in Nazi lands. Thanks for the laugh, and ZANON, STFU as every one of your posts is full of nothing but crap.

Posted by: Arcticman | Oct 26 2022 17:52 utc | 73

Post #52;
I spit out my coffee as it perfectly fit Zelensky-ANON, who is definitely working out of one of the deep state offices or in Nazi lands. Thanks for the laugh, and ZANON, STFU as every one of your posts is full of nothing but crap.

Posted by: Arcticman | Oct 26 2022 17:53 utc | 74

Speaking to reporters, Peskov noted that “the closer American troops are to our borders, the greater danger we are in.” He went on to say that Moscow factors in such a military presence when developing its security framework.

Sure thing and only one logical conclusion.

That is what this war is about.

Therefore, RF factors this in order to neutralise this threat.
I think they do not care about some 'hurrah!-we-are-feared-101-airdropings', but US/NATO presence near its borders in any form or a shape.

In their security framework, the general idea is about the same as actually from the first days of SMO and it renders to the following:

'Do not cross red lines.'

Updating it recently to make it more clear addressing the 'special needs leadership of NATO and EU' as in:

'Do not to measure thickness of those red lines.'

I mean, it is really hard to talk to autistic, self-inflated, arrogant egos running the 'let us fight Russia' show from the West.

And btw. NATO lost this war badly and biggly.

Question is are they aware of it?

Nobody even cares what they are going to do about it.

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 17:53 utc | 75

Post #52;
I spit out my coffee as it perfectly fit Zelensky-ANON, who is definitely working out of one of the deep state offices or in Nazi lands. Thanks for the laugh, and ZANON, STFU as every one of your posts is full of nothing but crap.

Posted by: Arcticman | Oct 26 2022 17:53 utc | 76

Sorry about multipost and sock-puppeteering, just checking if my nick was banned, there was some bug in the system.

Posted by: veto | Oct 26 2022 17:53 utc | 77

LOL
Russia should stop this constant whining and bomb the people in charge of this "dirty" bomb.

Ukraine as US battering ram and the dirty bomb: Putin’s message to CIS intel
https://tass.com/politics/1527775

Russia is making a fool of themselves with this constant whining, do something actually if there is this threat you already know about LOL!

Posted by: Zanon | Oct 26 2022 17:55 utc | 78

@ veto | Oct 26 2022 17:53 utc | 79

Not banned, as it seems, but for some strange reason it automagically enables itself to double post stuff without giving any feedback.
Happens from time to time, that is.

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 17:58 utc | 79

Posted by: Norwegian | Oct 26 2022 17:36 utc | 66

They’re getting crazier and crazier, this thing of projecting their own sins has gone from pathological to systematic. They appear to recognise that their own position is utterly shameful and hope to foist it onto Russia ... gotta wonder at the kompromat dossiers holding them in place!

The Long War strategy only works if NAZO can control the pace so UA doesn’t win or lose (collapse). UA is on the verge of collapse, NAZO doesn’t have offensive or defensive weapons immediately to hand that can counter RF’s new strategy of gradually knocking out the power grid.

This dirty bomb threat looks like a play to either intimidate RF into backing off (but staying in the fight) or creating a pretext to intervene directly, though with an ”international force” rather than a formally NATO force!

Posted by: anon2020 | Oct 26 2022 17:59 utc | 80

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 17:51 utc | 74

Even when a nation is not at war, a nation is all the time "shadow boxing" with the most potential enemy nation. That means deployments and forces are countered with deployments in such a way, as though they are at war. The US hopes that Russia has hands full in order to make some kind of "leap" to Odessa or otherwise, or perhaps west Ukraine, but it isn't that simple of a calculation. US has also emptied weapon stocks into Ukraine, getting blown up by cheap drones and precision strikes.

Russia has a large grouping in Belarus now which can defeat anything the Balts/Poles throw at them. It acts as a deterrent preventing Nato making any crazy moves. Although they would probably be able to get hits in the country if they really try in a full war.

Posted by: unimperator | Oct 26 2022 18:02 utc | 81

I Know Things @62--

No, it's not new. As Napoleon stated--An Army travels on its stomach--and at that time "foraging" of civilian farms was the method employed. During the US Civil War, the Shenendoah Valley in Virgina was repeatedly raped by both armies in that manner because of that need. Attacking logistics to disrupt supply lines is a very ancient tactic. The use of satellites for recon is also not new--they were used in Vietnam by both sides, the NVA being supplied with Russian imagery.

Posted by: karlof1 | Oct 26 2022 18:03 utc | 82

Yes, the "general opinion" in Nato is irrelevant. All this messaging by Russia was aimed to physically prevent Nato from detonating their dirty nuke while they presented all the evidence to China, India, Africa etc. that the plan was real. Based on responses, they acknowledged that evidence was real and plan was real.

Basically UK defense minister Wallace already acknowledged this stuff to Vovan and Lexus earlier, you can be sure their connection lines weren't secure, either.

Posted by: unimperator | Oct 26 2022 18:06 utc | 83

Miller cites Zelensky criticizing Israel for insufficient support after it officially refused to supply Kiev with weapons,

Posted by: Down South | Oct 26 2022 17:37 utc | 67

Now the big jews have to pay for the organs, slaves and getting khazaria back? What? Preposterous.

Posted by: Jusses | Oct 26 2022 18:16 utc | 84

@ unimperator | Oct 26 2022 18:02 utc | 83

I do not see any issue as in 'escalation' if RF is to go to Odessa and there is nobody who can prevent that. Also any other city there.

But the terrain is hard on the way to Odessa and RF will have to go really very north of Nikolaev to make sensible land bridge towards Odessa and Transistria.

I somehow see rather quick end to all this and I bet towards Northern (again) feint - Odessa gone.

Probably as in sync to Zaporizhia and in unison with Artemovsk.

Front collapses, massive defeat.

Let us talk, shall we?

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 18:18 utc | 85

>>No, it's not new. As Napoleon stated--An Army travels on its stomach--and at that time "foraging" of civilian farms was the method employed. During the US Civil War, the Shenendoah Valley in Virgina was repeatedly raped by both armies in that manner because of that need. Attacking logistics to disrupt supply lines is a very ancient tactic. The use of satellites for recon is also not new--they were used in Vietnam by both sides, the NVA being supplied with Russian imagery.
>>

No, this is not battlefield interdiction. It is national interdiction. The food is denied to the populace, the army being a mere subset.

The earliest recon spacecraft did film return in the nearly/mid 1970s, with delays between imagery and recovery of possibly 24 hours. There could be pictures of NV harbors, taken days prior. Nothing tactical could be done with that delay in technology.

This is the first war with battlefield satellite recon. Now it is S-Band downlinks at megabits/sec. Not waiting for film return. The Russians have a slight advantage in that regard in that their spacecraft can downlink in near realtime to Russian ground stations. US spacecraft likely have significant delay until they can see a US station on the horizon from an ascending node orbit.

But the point is interdiction of diesel fueled food transport via disabling of electric locomotives that carry crude to the Kremenchuk refinery or already refined diesel. It is trucks that bring food to shelves. No food, no populace, surrender.

Posted by: I Know Things | Oct 26 2022 18:20 utc | 86

I think there are a lot of people on this forum who talk about unsoldering chips but do not know which end of a soldering iron you grab.

Posted by: Passerby | Oct 26 2022 18:22 utc | 87

Article on NATO's plans for Ukrainian ports on Black Sea, by Arnaud Develay.

https://covertactionmagazine.com/2022/10/26/documents-reveal-that-nato-was-rehearsing-for-an-amphibious-assault-on-eastern-ukraine-using-ukrainian-naval-bases-acquired-in-agreement-with-the-uk/

Posted by: bevin | Oct 26 2022 18:24 utc | 88

Posted by: whirlX | Oct 26 2022 18:18 utc | 87

Nikolaev is basically non by-passable. Ukraine needs it to maintain the pressure on Kherson and Russia needs it if they ever want to advance towards Odessa, and it also helps a lot to have with Krivoy Rog, too.

The problem I heard now is that Nato is piling thousands of mercenaries in Nikolaev, which if true, means that they are intending to turn it into another Mariupol siege. They also intend the same for Zaporizhe city. The good thing at least, might be that the population in Nikolaev has gone away, if the reports of eviction/evacuation are true.

It is hard, maybe even impossible to encircle Nikolaev, but it is certainly possible and even easy to cut every supply line into the city with aerial and artillery assets. Kherson must be resolved before that happens, though.

Nato does have some time if they intend to make the "leap" to Odessa. Most likely based on what I've seen and heard, the recent exercise in Romania is just intended to supply UAF with more tanks and AFV/IFVs. Reportedly these tanks used in Romania bore the "balkenkreuz" used by UAF. So there will be more tanks and stuff but no 101st in Odessa. I could always be wrong though, no one knows what these crazies really have in mind.

Posted by: unimperator | Oct 26 2022 18:32 utc | 89

The real issue is the post war order. What are the terms to be dictated, and how will the impact of collapsing western political economies be managed/contained by the RoW.

B should consider migrating Ukraine Ukraine Ukraine! To a broader contextual discussion. He's already got the talent mingling around this place. best to keep those easily bored engaged, otherwise they'll simply mosey off someplace else.

And it doesn't have to be empty opinion pieces either. There's data readily available across the Pi spectrum (putin+xi) that will clearly reveal real trends to anyone who knows what they're looking at.

Helpful hint: simply use the UN's own metrics for evaluating developing countries. The same principles apply in that one is looking for period to period *positive* changes. (Eg energy production, price stability, infant mortality, etc)

Posted by: B9k9 | Oct 26 2022 18:35 utc | 90

"Progressives" retract letter about negotiations in Ukraine.

Apparently progressing includes retracting.

Posted by: Tenet | Oct 26 2022 18:58 utc | 91

"Progressives" retract letter about negotiations in Ukraine.

Apparently progressing includes retracting.

Posted by: Tenet | Oct 26 2022 19:00 utc | 92

The dirty bomb story keeps developing. Most here seem hours out of date. I won't fill it all in. Will just suggest any interested should get over to Telegram

US really does not care if cat is out of the bag. The sheeple will buy any version of the story issued to them. I only hope RF has a decapitation scenario ready that does not involve the bigger blasts. We will know soon enough.

Colonel McGregor had another session with Napolitano broadcast. Not people I'd ordinarily seek out. But. McGregor said that following publication of his latest "can they really be that stupid?" article he had dozens of responses from insiders at different levels and all said "Yes, they are seriously that stupid and are talking crazy".

Posted by: oldhippie | Oct 26 2022 19:07 utc | 93

Russia is likely taking chips out of consumer goods just like the US does. In the US it's been done when chips are no longer available or produced but exist in a stock of consumer goods that had been produced in the past. I know this 100% because I have seen it with my own eyes. A redesign and recertification would be required to use a newer part and that's not a quick process or a cheap process.

Posted by: nightdipper | Oct 26 2022 19:10 utc | 94

Reply to 93 and others

I think the dirty bomb meme works for Russia. Maybe some Ukrainians talked about it and then Russia stuck it into the headlines.

It may help fend off any insane 'coalition of the willing' nonsense as Ukr. decays into defeat. Have a number of RF troops get photographed in hazmat gear in the field, ready for contamination. After that, US troops and others in Romania back off, wishing to avoid a slow agonizing death. Meanwhile, the narrative is developed, ready and waiting, if Russia needs it. Hey, it beats a full on nuclear strike.

Posted by: Eighthman | Oct 26 2022 19:10 utc | 95

Reply to 93 and others

I think the dirty bomb meme works for Russia. Maybe some Ukrainians talked about it and then Russia stuck it into the headlines.

It may help fend off any insane 'coalition of the willing' nonsense as Ukr. decays into defeat. Have a number of RF troops get photographed in hazmat gear in the field, ready for contamination. After that, US troops and others in Romania back off, wishing to avoid a slow agonizing death. Meanwhile, the narrative is developed, ready and waiting, if Russia needs it. Hey, it beats a full on nuclear strike.

Posted by: Eighthman | Oct 26 2022 19:11 utc | 96

Reply to 93 and others

I think the dirty bomb meme works for Russia. Maybe some Ukrainians talked about it and then Russia stuck it into the headlines.

It may help fend off any insane 'coalition of the willing' nonsense as Ukr. decays into defeat. Have a number of RF troops get photographed in hazmat gear in the field, ready for contamination. After that, US troops and others in Romania back off, wishing to avoid a slow agonizing death. Meanwhile, the narrative is developed, ready and waiting, if Russia needs it. Hey, it beats a full on nuclear strike.

Posted by: Eighthman | Oct 26 2022 19:12 utc | 97

Dirty bomb story still developing. Most here seem hours out of date. Get over to Telegram if interested.

US does not care if cat is out of the bag. The sheeple will believe what they are told to believe. They could not care less what furriners think.

Colonel McGregor had another podcast with Napolitano. After his most recent "can they really be that stupid?" article was published he had dozens of confidential responses from insiders at all different levels, all of whom said "Yes, they are that stupid, and they are talking crazy".

Posted by: oldhippie | Oct 26 2022 19:12 utc | 98

Reply to 93 and others

I think the dirty bomb meme works for Russia. Maybe some Ukrainians talked about it and then Russia stuck it into the headlines.

It may help fend off any insane 'coalition of the willing' nonsense as Ukr. decays into defeat. Have a number of RF troops get photographed in hazmat gear in the field, ready for contamination. After that, US troops and others in Romania back off, wishing to avoid a slow agonizing death. Meanwhile, the narrative is developed, ready and waiting, if Russia needs it. Hey, it beats a full on nuclear strike.

Posted by: Eighthman | Oct 26 2022 19:13 utc | 99

"Progressives" retract letter about negotiations in Ukraine.

Apparently progressing includes retracting.

Posted by: Tenet | Oct 26 2022 19:14 utc | 100