Very interesting. Big changes. Many thanks.

Posted by: John Gilberts | Feb 14 2025 11:13 utc | 1

A magisterial post, 'b', well done!!

Posted by: canuck | Feb 14 2025 11:15 utc | 2

Imagine Putin, Xi and Trump as the new Yalta triplet on Red Square May 19th, 2025.

Some heads will explode, but I am ok with that.

Posted by: Norwegian | Feb 14 2025 11:26 utc | 3

The Israelis will make sure he never gets round to pivoting to China. Netanyahu wants him concentrating on the ME.
In any case no-one will believe either Trump or the US in general will stick by any agreement signed, so how can they have an agreement for slashing nuclear stockpiles?

Posted by: laguerre | Feb 14 2025 11:26 utc | 4

@Norwegian | Feb 14 2025 11:26 utc | 3

Sorry, May 9th of course

Posted by: Norwegian | Feb 14 2025 11:27 utc | 5

One faction is arguing that supremacy is unsustainable. It calls for accepting a multi-polar world in which the big three - Russia, China and the U.S. - agree to avoid fighting each other while partitioning the globe into dedicated zones of interests. Minor conflicts would proceed on the borders but there would be by and large peace.

I commented here a few weeks back that the three great powers should just carved up the world in areas of influence plus other areas open to cooperation and competition. This is the most rational way to go forward for the three great powers.

America needs to re-balance its connection with its area of influence in order to revert trade deficits and the racial transformation of its population.

Russia needs to grow in population and develop the Eastern and Northern parts of its territory.

China is in a better position than America and Russia and just need to keep the best aspects of globalization and incentivize innovation in its private sector.

For all of that it is better that the three great powers cooperate.

Posted by: Johan Kaspar | Feb 14 2025 11:35 utc | 6

German military experts are assuming JD Vance will announce pull out of American troops from Germany and closure of bases in Europe at the Munich conference. Well, we'll see.

https://x.com/InsiderGeo/status/1890348723022037380

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 11:38 utc | 7

Ukraine Weekly Update, February 14th 2025: May be useful to some: https://robcampbell.substack.com/p/ukraine-weekly-update-f93

Posted by: The Busker | Feb 14 2025 11:38 utc | 8

🇪🇺🔥🇷🇺 Globalist strategy.

Many letters come with the question of what globalists hope for when fighting both Trump and Putin at the same time.

We answer.

Globalists are now in a very vulnerable position. Europe has remained their last source of resources, which depends entirely on their clientella - the European bureaucracy. Therefore, the most important thing for them is to retain control over Europe at all costs.

The political basis of the bureaucracy is confrontation with Russia. They simply cannot abandon this narrative, because then they will instantly lose in their countries the struggle of the opposition, which has been calling for more than 10 years to come to their senses and pursue a different policy.

Thus, «behind Europe for globalists of the earth there is no».

They are now a cornered rat who is forced to escalate the conflict with Russia. As part of this conflict, they have two wings: Ukrainian and Baltic. It is precisely because the Ukrainian wing is now under threat that they have activated the Baltic.

Ideally, they still need a year to
calmly warm up the whole of Europe through the Baltic conflict. This year Ukraine must distract and deplete Russia.

Therefore, their actions to resist rapid peace are logical.

They have a plan and they stick to it.

Let us remember that globalists, like Trotsky, have no homeland. They are ready to throw any country under the rink of their interests. Remember how Trotsky wanted to throw Russia into the fire of the world revolution? So Ukraine is destined for an unenviable fate according to their plan. Many have already understood this, but the globalists have an ideal ally there - Zermaki, so it will be very difficult for Ukraine to get out of this trap.

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 11:42 utc | 9

While Trump talks arms reduction plans are being made to “to purchase or otherwise acquire Greenland.”

Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) introduced a new bill this week aiming to rename Greenland to “Red, White, and Blueland,” as President Trump seeks to acquire the island territory.

The legislation, called the “Red, White, and Blueland Act of 2025,” directs Interior Secretary Doug Burgum to oversee the implementation of the name change and to ensure official documentation and maps refer to Greenland by its updated name.

The legislation also authorizes Trump to enter into negotiations with Denmark “to purchase or otherwise acquire Greenland.”

“America is back and will soon be bigger than ever with the addition of Red, White, and Blueland,” Carter said in a statement Tuesday, after introducing the legislation.

https://thehill.com/homenews/house/5138543-buddy-carter-donald-trump-greenland-name-change/

There certainly are a lot of pieces in play.

Posted by: too scents | Feb 14 2025 11:42 utc | 10

Remember the history that the USA bought Alaska for 7.2 MM dollars?

It isn't that simple

Russia's navy in the American civil war blockaded Charleston and other American ports to help the Union against the South.

The bill was $7.2 MM dollars in gold (app. $360MM in today's gold) for the navy's work; however, Russia was more worried about Canada, controlled by the Brits (don't forget the Crimean war had just happened and the Brits were , like always, the progenitors) would take Alaska as their navy was superior to the Russian: so they gave Alaska to the American for free essentially as they were just paying the bill for the blockade.

Posted by: canuck | Feb 14 2025 11:48 utc | 11

I think there's a bit too much reporting here on what the americans 'say'.
They never stop talking, make spectacular claims and invariably it's hot air or lies.
Let's stick to commenting on the actions, I'm more than sick of listening to these clowns.

Posted by: Ed Bernays | Feb 14 2025 11:52 utc | 12

This morning's BBC News Website tells me:
"Starmer backs Ukraine's Nato bid despite US view".

Good old Starmer - The former Trilateral Commissioner - Always carrying out his orders - Always committed to be on the wrong side of history.

Posted by: Engineer-John | Feb 14 2025 11:53 utc | 13

Not sure Russia and China should agree to a haircut reduction as long as US military is spending 12 times as much. Why take pressure off NATO and EU? US is conveniently overextended and can reduce unilaterally.

Posted by: SOS | Feb 14 2025 11:54 utc | 14

@too scents | Feb 14 2025 11:42 utc | 10

What a joke. Someone should tell that guy that Red, White and Blue are the Norwegian colours, the land of Eirik Raude was originally Norwegian. Eiriks home was the origin of discovery of America more than 1000 years ago by his son Leif.

Posted by: Norwegian | Feb 14 2025 11:55 utc | 15

The train has left |Platform 2| a long while ago. The Russian Federation and the People's Republic of China have both entered an irreversible path of growth, prosperity, power and dominance along with their BRIICS dearest friends and partners. The time has come for the US of A to kiss good bye.

Posted by: pepe | Feb 14 2025 12:14 utc | 16

ok all 3 set an upper limit on total warheads of 5,000 for a start.
So China needs to increase theirs from current 300 to 5,000 to sit at that table. I think China just might accept that.

Posted by: Surferket | Feb 14 2025 12:18 utc | 17

Even assuming that Trump would sign an enforceable agreement that won't be broken in 6 months, he'll just push more of the costs and responsibilities to our "allies" in Europe and East Asia. Sure some of those "allies" might break off in time if they don't get couped out.

The denuclearization is a good goal but should pull in India, Pakistan, and Israel.

Posted by: Emma | Feb 14 2025 12:21 utc | 18

3 - I'll believe Trump will take part when I see it, although today's Guardian is angered that the offer was even made. "If it came to pass, it would deal a devastating blow to the west's three-year effort to diplomatically isolate the Russian president."

Posted by: Waldorf | Feb 14 2025 12:24 utc | 19

Wop bop a loo bop a lop bam boom
Tutti frutti, oh Rutte!

...Russia on this issue has no vote and no veto.

Russia says otherwise 😂

Morons could have allowed Russia to veto the Europeons' bad decisions in a civil and respectful way, but no, they insisted upon flipping Russia the middle finger. Well, arrogant stupidity has consequences, as the pEU is finding out after fucking around. Russia does in fact have a veto, and they are exercising it on the battlefield.

Meanwhile, the US will walk away whistling while the chihuahuas get mauled. The Empire never really liked those chihuahuas anyway, as the nasty little shake-and-piss things always imagined themselves to be so much more significant than they really are. Remember that the silly frog Macroon claimed the painted and perfumed lady-bois of the Paris Olympics spectacle were the fesse of Europe (he was correct!) and the Europeons like to lead with their fesse. Prepare your popcorn as the Europeon fesse meets Russian steel.

Posted by: William Gruff | Feb 14 2025 12:25 utc | 20

I think:

1) the "Pivot To Asia" is still "alive & kicking". Up to now the US never mentioned that it had ditched that plan.
2) The socalled "Abrams accords" are still "on the table". Read: the US wants to withdraw its troops from the Middle East.

Posted by: WMG | Feb 14 2025 12:28 utc | 21

I thought the GIANT amount of money that was allocated for the "Chips act" was way way too much. It meant tha INTEL started investing a GIANT amount of money in new chips plants. There are signs that INTEL isn't able to invest all that money and to be able to make a profit out of that.

INTEL's plan for those record amount of investments is precisely the same as the "China growth" model. One invests A LOT OF money at a break-neck pace and then one later has to deal with a GIANT & Growing debt problem. INTEL already announced that it would cut the workforce to save costs.

Companies like Texas Instruments and ST microelectronics announced (large) reductions in their workforce.

Posted by: WMG | Feb 14 2025 12:35 utc | 22

It is hard to understand how is Russia going to negotiate with the USA as Russia declared USA “agreement incapable”. The complex problems cannot be resolved so fast, so fast as Trump is promising that. There is so much hope in Trump these days but to me it is quite infantile thinking.

What I consider good is that Trump managed to kill the myth about the consequent and impersonal US policy which is independent of the ruling party, US vassals cannot count on predetermined support form the US side.

Also, EU has sank even more, and that is good.

Posted by: Lenox | Feb 14 2025 12:35 utc | 23

- this is NOT Trump who has come up with these ideas. It's a number of other people who have launched these ideas.

- Reduction in US military spending ? I think it will be VERY hard to do that. There are simply too much financial/vested interests that don't want military spending to be cut (at all). But the 1st signs are indeed hopefull.

Posted by: WMG | Feb 14 2025 12:39 utc | 24

John Gilbert - Big changes indeed:-

"Telephone conversation with US President Donald Trump

"Vladimir Putin had a telephone conversation with President of the United States of America Donald Trump."

http://en.kremlin.ru/events/president/news/76259

........................................................................

Yes. Trump has surprised us all. While Kellog's been wasting time with talk of "peacekeeping forces" and extra sanctions and the like, Trump's been busy behind the scenes doing the "common sense" stuff. Just wrote about it on Colonel Lang's old site. We're not out of the woods yet but we're on the way!

I’m just amazed by how President Trump has handled it all. Still working out how he did it. But he’s done it, that’s for sure. America, the failing giant as was, the failing giant we have watched going downhill for so many years, is back on course.

Ukraine is the marker. Since the inauguration the question’s been, is Trump going to take over Biden’s war there and make it his own? Or is he going to take America clear?

I didn’t think he would or even could do the latter. Once bitten twice shy and given Trump’s failure to get shot of the neocons in his first term I, like most Europeans, thought we were in for what would have been, as far as US foreign policy went, little more than a Biden second term but with different PR.

I’ve never been so pleased to be wrong. The answer is now unequivocal. He’s taken the United States clear.

It’s not a time for unthinking celebration. That unnecessary war is still claiming its victims and will for a while yet. The tragedy of what we have done to Ukraine will remain a tragedy for ever. The blowback in Europe, my own country particularly, will be severe. But it’s the start of the road back to recovery for the West.

Well, your corner of the West anyway. Still a few bits and pieces to tidy up in Europe.

Posted by: English Outsider | Feb 14 2025 12:43 utc | 25

Like my grandma used to say, I’ll believe it when I see it. I don’t trust no one in our government with my last dollar bill.

Posted by: Jose Garcia | Feb 14 2025 12:44 utc | 26

@Johan Kaspar | Feb 14 2025 11:35 utc, who said:

America needs to re-balance its connection with its area of influence in order to revert trade deficits and the racial transformation of its population.

Russia needs to grow in population and develop the Eastern and Northern parts of its territory.

China is in a better position than America and Russia and just need to keep the best aspects of globalization and incentivize innovation in its private sector.

For all of that it is better that the three great powers cooperate.

Well said, Johan.

As a U.S. American, this is exactly what I want to see happen. The U.S. has enormous people powers, a good bit of which was temporarily put to sleep by consumerism, passivity, learned helplessness, and other forms of emotional laziness. And it was a well-cultivated laziness; it served the interests of the sheep-shearers.

U.S. people: reclaim your identity, your creativity and your dreams of actually _being_ great. Do great things, and you'll _be_ great.

If we're doing great things, we won't have time or need to interfere with others. It's a hard job, that "greatness" thing.

Go Trump, and whoever else is behind the Reclamation Project of the American Soul. I'm with you.

Posted by: Tom Pfotzer | Feb 14 2025 12:51 utc | 27

This morning's BBC News Website tells me:

Good old Starmer - The former Trilateral Commissioner - Always carrying out his orders - Always committed to be on the wrong side of history.

Posted by: Engineer-John | Feb 14 2025 11:53 utc | 13

....................

Starmer's so lost in fantasy land that that comes as no surprise, though I'd have thought he'd at least have had the wit to see where Trump was going before committing to 100 year treaties and NATO me membership.

What was a surprise, at least to me, was that Farage is also reported as calling for NATO membership for Ukraine. I can only assume he's pleasing his base but it's most dishonest, if true, since he's previously expressed scepticism about the war.

Posted by: English Outsider | Feb 14 2025 12:57 utc | 28

Speaking about military budget. The US will probably remove all fat, which is 50% at least. While russian military budget is very low in fat. Therefore Russia would be crazy to accept such deal. Reduction in number of nuclear war heads sounds feasible. Trump is trying to cut military budget anyway. So for him budget reduction would be double win.

Posted by: Grey Cloud | Feb 14 2025 12:57 utc | 29

The key to everything is the US moves to sanction India's imports of Russia oil and the shadow fleet. This is why Modi went to see Trump in the US and why India is buying US military hardware to even out the trade surplus. Its not the only thing, for sure, but its about strangling the Russian economy by threatening the Indian economy. And lastly, its about whether Trump lied to Putin about Ukraine and NATO. I ust hope China, Russia and India stand firm against the US hegemony.

Posted by: Kaiama | Feb 14 2025 12:59 utc | 30

Interesting.

Of course, some would say that reducing nuclear stockpiles would increase ZATO's military power relative to Russia and China, because of ZATO's "conventional" weapons superiority.

I know many here will balk at the notion that ZATO has conventional superiority over Russia, but the fact remains that in the current Ukraine conflict, Russia has air superiority (not supremacy) and great logistical advantages, and these things wouldn't apply in an outright (as opposed to proxy) ZATO-Russia war. So the lessons we've learnt from Ukraine are of limited value in this different context.

So, I repeat: is Trump suggesting reducing nuclear stockpiles, because that would increase ZATO's strength relative to Russia and/or China?

Posted by: Observer | Feb 14 2025 13:05 utc | 31

Posted by: Observer | Feb 14 2025 13:05 utc | 31

US wants to limit nuclear stockpiles because US is lagging in nuclear delivery vehicles by several decades. Especially in the intra-atmospheric hypersonic missile department. US wants Russia to reduce Kinzhals, Sarmats, Avangards in exchange for what, US will limit their 70s Minuteman 3 which are nearly obsolete anyway?

This is the BS Martyanov predicted many times before. What does US bring to the table? They have close to nothing to bring to the table, they just want to reduce adversary technological advantages.

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 13:21 utc | 32

Getting them back into G7+ (an economic body, technically) IS in line with trump's war on BRICS. If russia takes it now, then BRICS is useless. They'll be re-captured by the dollar.

Posted by: Sal | Feb 14 2025 13:24 utc | 33

@10 My supposed representative. What a clown. Few understand that when secession happens they will be next in the firing line. The landed Gentry assume they will be the anointed dictators of the state. Our fake leaders are nothing more than criminals filling their pockets on a sinking ship. Leadership requires vision.... for all not just their rich friends.

Posted by: SO | Feb 14 2025 13:34 utc | 34

An armament reduction treaty of certain types is more verifiable than a minority rights treaty. It is a matter of mutual inspections and counting. So why not start with that? But the world also needs a motivating project that brings development to all sides. It is time to build the Bering Straits tunnel! They already envisaged it in the 1890ies.

Posted by: Teraspol | Feb 14 2025 13:39 utc | 35

Faction #1 is the only viable option.
You can't defeat Russia - they have nuclear weapons.
Splitting Russia & China won't work either - they are not stupid (unlike Trump).

Posted by: Dave Pollard | Feb 14 2025 13:49 utc | 36

The British and Eurovassal media are all claiming Russian drone hit the protecting cupola in Chernobyl NPP. It's obviously another desperate Ukrainian gamble. They obviously did it to pressure Trump to send more money to Ukraine.

We will see very soon what happens. If Trump/Vance/Hagseth don't take the bait, EU/Ukraine is finished.

But if they do, that would be a major reversion of ongoing developments.

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 13:49 utc | 37

Russia military budget : 100B
USA military budget : 1000B
USA : Hey, let's reduce our military budgets by 100B each, what say ya?

Posted by: abc | Feb 14 2025 13:50 utc | 38

Well, the Ukrainian Neo-Nazi’s and their comedian dictator – have long been trying to “punch a hole” as you say, in Europe’s largest nuclear power station the ZNPP – they have so far failed – they also tried to breach a nuclear power plant in the Kursk region – the Neo-Nazi’s have form on trying to do this – so its most likely that the Neo-Nazi dictatorship carried out the attack, as last desperate attempt to keep the war going.

"The Russian military does not target nuclear infrastructure, including what remains on the site of the destroyed Chernobyl power plant, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists on Friday.

Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky had alleged earlier in the day that a Russian drone had attacked the containment structure built over what remains of the Soviet power facility which was devastated in a 1986 disaster. Zelensky reported “significant damage” in the incident."

Posted by: Republicofscotland | Feb 14 2025 14:02 utc | 39

Why Munich?

Must be low level or the fog of so-called "news."

Posted by: elmagnostic | Feb 14 2025 14:04 utc | 40

If Russia takes the G8 bait, then BRICS is finished.

I doubt that bait is appealing enough, though.

Posted by: William Gruff | Feb 14 2025 14:05 utc | 41

German military experts are assuming JD Vance will announce pull out of American troops from Germany and closure of bases in Europe at the Munich conference.
Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 11:38 utc | 7

"Pete Hegseth said that the US will most likely increase its military presence in Poland, since the contours of the Ukrainian borders remain unclear"
( en.topwar.ru/259412-ssha-razmestjat-bolshe-svoih-vojsk-v-polshe-tak-kak-schitajut-neopredelennymi-kontury-ukrainskih-granic.html )

Posted by: rk | Feb 14 2025 14:11 utc | 42

At the Munich Security Council.

Attendees include US Vice President J.D. Vance, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The Neo-Nazi's will attend today as well.

Posted by: Republicofscotland | Feb 14 2025 14:13 utc | 43

Second line of b's article says it all. This is what is happening in the "US foreign policy swamp". What the swamp creatures think is unfortunately still relevant. But they don't really have much mental activity at all. Events are in the saddle.

Posted by: oldhippie | Feb 14 2025 14:16 utc | 44

Trump is conducting a coup de main operation on behalf of the non-defense U.S. corporate sector against the MIC Blob. Musk is the change agent who represents the rationalist silicon valley wing of the corporatocracy that has decided to bring the Blob under control. Musk and Trump will succeed because they are using rapid tempo and statutory power against an entrenched but sluggish adversary that is exposed to corruption prosecution.

Never in the wildest dreams of U.S. anti-war progressives did they imagine a U.S. President advocating a 50% cut in the defense budget. Barring a JFK type operation, the days of the D.C. Blob are numbered.

Posted by: HH | Feb 14 2025 14:21 utc | 45

Odesa Oblast represents an unresolved and thorny problem to solve. One of those special circumstances and at the top of the heap for Ukraine. Much better though to solve peace problems than endure war realities.

Posted by: elmagnostic | Feb 14 2025 14:26 utc | 46

Lol. 3 way halving military budgets when the US spends like 10x what Russia and China do combined? The US may as well double the prison budget.

Posted by: Tom_Q_Collins | Feb 14 2025 14:31 utc | 47

I still say the only way for the Empire to flip Russia to their side is for Trump go give them control of NATO. That would make the chihuahuas go insane, but chihuahuas are naturally insane, so nobody cares.

Posted by: William Gruff | Feb 14 2025 14:32 utc | 48

This speech by Vance in Munich conference is one for the history books.

BREAKING:🚨 VP JD VANCE IN MUNICH: “THE BIGGEST THREAT TO EUROPE COMES FROM WITHIN” – GLOBALISTS PANIC AS THE WESTERN ORDER FRACTURES! 🚨

🔴 Vice President JD Vance just delivered a sobering warning in Munich—Europe’s biggest threat is NOT from Russia or China, but from WITHIN. The collapse of its own values, the failure of its leadership, and the growing revolt against the globalist elites who have hollowed out Western nations.

🔴 The political establishment won’t say it outright, but the truth is clear—Europe is coming apart. Its leadership has abandoned national sovereignty, failed to protect its people, and allowed economic decay to weaken its position on the world stage.

🔴 And now, the globalists are scrambling. Vance’s remarks expose the fracturing of the Western alliance, as European leaders desperately try to hold onto power while their own citizens reject their failed policies.

🔥 THE GLOBALISTS ARE LOSING CONTROL—THE PEOPLE ARE RISING! 🔥

📢 WHAT THIS MEANS:

⚠️ Vance is sounding the alarm—Europe’s decay is a self-inflicted wound.
⚠️ The elites know their grip is slipping, so expect more crackdowns, more control, and more censorship.
⚠️ The people are rejecting the system that has failed them, and the establishment fears what comes next.

💥 Europe is standing at a crossroads. The globalists want to tighten their grip, but the people are waking up. The next move will define the future. 💥

🚨 The elites know they’re running out of time—will they surrender their control, or will they double down? The battle is just beginning. 🚨@JDVance

https://x.com/JimFergusonUK/status/1890401728744350163

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 14:33 utc | 49

Posted by: Teraspol | Feb 14 2025 13:39 utc | 35

But the world also needs a motivating project that brings development to all sides.

I think Elon is thinking along your lines. But that project is on Mars and not the Bering Strait.

Posted by: dontflayme | Feb 14 2025 14:35 utc | 50

For fucks sake Europe's decay is 100% due to being the USAs bitch and for taking in all the refugees of USA, France and the UKs wars on Muslim countries or for the Zionazis while simultaneously destroying the welfare state to appease The City and Wall Street.

Posted by: Tom_Q_Collins | Feb 14 2025 14:37 utc | 51

Will the Neo-Nazi dictator Zelensky - try and take-out Trump and Putin when they begin talks to end the war in Ukraine? O focurse its very likely Zelensky and his Neo-Nazi regime will be removed from office if Trump and Putin strike a deal.

"The Ukrainian government may resort to extremes, including terrorist attacks, in an effort to sabotage warming relations between Washington and Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry Ambassador at Large Rodion Miroshnik said on Friday. The warning echoes a prior statement by the Russia’s Foreign Intelligence Service (SVR).

The direct dialogue between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump this week is driving Kiev to a state of “hysteria,” Miroshnik claimed, who heads the Foreign Ministry’s mission monitoring alleged Ukrainian war crimes. He cited a recent increase in Ukrainian kamikaze drone attacks, adding that Kiev could go further and take steps “that violate international laws and norms, such as terrorism, sabotage, and attempts to put pressure on civilians.”"

Posted by: Republicofscotland | Feb 14 2025 14:39 utc | 52

I was always taught May 8th not May 9th, 1945.

Perhaps it was May 8th in Washington and May 9th in Moscow, a timezone difference.

How to settle this? What was the date/time in Berlin? They are the ones that surrendered.

To double-check May 8th I did an internet search and up popped this:

The Sétif and Guelma massacre[a] (also called the Sétif, Guelma and Kherrata massacres[b] or the massacres of 8 May 1945[c]) was a series of attacks by French colonial authorities and pied-noir European settler militias on Algerian civilians in 1945 around the market town of Sétif, west of Constantine, in French Algeria. In response to French police firing on demonstrators at a protest on 8 May 1945,[3] native Algerians rioted in the town. Others attacked French settlers (colons) in the surrounding countryside, resulting in 102 deaths. The French colonial authorities and European settlers retaliated by killing an estimated 6,000 to 45,000 Muslims in the region.

It's a quote from Wikipedia, just to make you aware.

They were celebrating in Paris on May 8/9 th, 1945
but in Algeria they were being colonists.

Amazing, we still, to this day, have colonists slaughtering indigenous civilians.

Posted by: librul | Feb 14 2025 14:41 utc | 53

The bill was $7.2 MM dollars in gold (app. $360MM in today's gold) for the navy's work; however, .

Posted by: canuck | Feb 14 2025 11:48 utc | 11

Try a cool billion. 2972/20.6 = 144

144x7.2 = 1036

Now for the wiggling, I assume someone mentioned Russia had won but no need to say it out loud.

For the 3 party agreement … while RF and china are increasing without damaging their economy and the us is bankrupting itself? Much would have to be given.

Posted by: Newbie | Feb 14 2025 14:43 utc | 54

Russia and China will reduce their arsenal and the US will expand its arsenal while it cuts medicare, SNAP, medicaid and "reforms"social security.

Posted by: Frank | Feb 14 2025 14:46 utc | 55

Posted by: HH | Feb 14 2025 14:21 utc | 45

*

*

Good post, HH. I have deep suspicion of Musk and companies' beloved Surveillance State, but agree they may be allies in taking down unproductive government. Even Deep State knows that must happen, or else. So they appear to be going along with Trump's efforts.

Posted by: seer | Feb 14 2025 14:55 utc | 56

"Not one inch east", "nyet means nyet", "fuck the EU", Maidan Coup, former and current POTUS both take credit for stopping Nord Stream,...now come the Americans, seeing Russia take the upper hand, want to blame Europeans who they led down the primrose path, warn against a "Minsk III" (<- backhand insinuation there was no US "lobbying" influence re: Minsk I and II), schmoozing Putin...hold our hand, join G8...we love you. (and we want compensation...rare earth mineral rights in US backed and led former state of Ukraine)

It's my opinion none of this crap in Ukraine would have happened without Americans pushing for it...now walking away pointing fingers??? Ismay rolling in his grave. Be careful of sneaky peace-makers.

Posted by: chunga | Feb 14 2025 14:56 utc | 57

Arms reduction seems a stretch at this point.
And reduction in military spending seems also unrealistic - given internal politics and interests.

But I think non-aggression treaties would make sense.
Anyway, good stuff.

Posted by: jared | Feb 14 2025 15:06 utc | 58

Oh, and it might help if Trump reaffirms support for "one China".

Posted by: jared | Feb 14 2025 15:08 utc | 59

@Observer #31
Yes, many here not only balk but outright deny that the West has superior conventional military power than Russia.
Have you not read anything in the past 2 years concerning the lack of Western capability to produce artillery, missiles, air defense missiles?
Equally, the assumption that Western air power could achieve air superiority over Russian air defenses is...highly optimistic at best. Particularly given sub-50% readiness ratios for the F35 in peacetime and the fact that most of the spare parts for this white elephant are in 2 locations.
This does not even get into the reality that Oreshnik is a game changer regarding US ability to even supply European forces from across the Atlantic.

Posted by: c1ue | Feb 14 2025 15:12 utc | 60

Yes, arms reduction makes sense the moment NATO disappears as an "alliance" and US starts to mind their own fucking business. Until then, it's just chatter for the masses.

Posted by: JamesBond | Feb 14 2025 15:16 utc | 61

@seer #56
LOL that you lump Musk with the Surveillance Capitalist Big Tech.

Perhaps you are unaware that it is the Democrats and the Federal Bureaucracy/Deep State that are the Surveillance Capitalist components. Google funded by intel agency money. Massive federal links into Facebook/Google/Amazon including half of the security departments in those companies being ex(?) NSA. USAID/CISA funded NGOs like the Stanford Internet Observatory, Aspen, etc etc. With the FBI in SF being the funnel everything went through including individual congressmen demanding critical web sites be taken down.

Musk is the one who pulled back the covers to reveal much of the detail of what is happening.

He is no saint but he is literally diametrically opposite the Surveillance Capitalists.

Posted by: c1ue | Feb 14 2025 15:17 utc | 62

First faction is the sanest/best of all. We're at a fork in the road. We can either Change or Die. Trump & his best people recognize that cooperation & respect
for the rule of law is the only way to end the Existential Threat -that insane warmongers have created and are pushing for.

B wrote

One faction is arguing that supremacy is unsustainable. It calls for accepting a multi-polar world in which the big three - Russia, China and the U.S. - agree to avoid fighting each other while partitioning the globe into dedicated zones of interests.

Within the last few days (not sure exactly which) Trump said the following while seated in the oval office:

"The meeting I want to have first is a meeting with China and a meeting with Russia on slowing down, stopping, and reducing nuclear weapons in particular & also on not having to spend the kind of money we're all spending on weapons, military weapons, generally." DT
https://x.com/BehizyTweets/status/1890134349678522715

"One of the first meetings I want to have is with president Xi of China, president Putin of Russia. And I want to say, let's cut our military budget in half. We can do that and I think we'll be able to do it." DT
https://x.com/i/status/1890167562987556869

Dark State/Neocon warmongers are naturally freaking out & do all they can to suck the unquestioning masses into their pools of dark illusions & bloody excrement. We're witnessing the end of the world as we've come to know it. World peace & prosperity for everyone is definitely coming, but they won't come easy. All hands on deck! Lights on Rats Out!

We must remember that there are no permanent enemies....The supreme reality of our time is our indivisibility as children of God & our common vulnerability on this planet. -JFK

Let the well-being of the people be the ultimate law. -Cicero

So live, my boys, as brave men; & if fortune is adverse, front its blows with brave hearts. -Horace

Posted by: WillSeymour | Feb 14 2025 15:19 utc | 63

Barflies might enjoy this recent article by Yanis V which explains Trump's tariff policies as part of repositioning the US in a new world without losing dollar's status as reserve currency. They are pulling back militarily and seemingly renouncing various hegemonic practices, but not all.

Whether the author is right or not, I found this a very interesting read moreover espousing a view which have not encountered anywhere else.

https://unherd.com/2025/02/why-trumps-tariffs-are-a-masterplan/

Posted by: Scorpion | Feb 14 2025 15:23 utc | 64

re: Trump eyes summit with Xi and Putin, says he wants military budgets halved -

Another possible topic - De-Dollarization

msn
How Trump's Tariffs Can Reverse De-Dollarization

Immediately upon assuming office, President Donald Trump reiterated that he would impose 100% tariffs on BRICS nations contemplating de-dollarization. Trump advocates a worldview in which the U.S. dollar remains the undisputed reserve currency, but unlike his predecessors, he perceives BRICS as a serious challenge to the greenback’s predominance. Targeted tariffs combined with incentive structures for alignment with American interests can discourage countries from pursuing de-dollarization policies. . . .here

Posted by: Don Bacon | Feb 14 2025 15:24 utc | 65

Despite all the noise/chatter going on, I'm sure Russia will keep it's focus on the task at hand, which is to keep prosecuting the SMO. While nothing may come of it, at least Russia and the US are speaking again, much to the dismay of the globalists, neocons and fellow travelers. Me, I'm just going to keep a good supply of popcorn and drinks on hand and observe all the gesticulations, yapping chihuahuas, hand-wringing, and contradicting statements we're inundated with. While the reality on the ground keeps grinding away at the Ukrainians...

Posted by: ctiger | Feb 14 2025 15:25 utc | 66

I think we will see Russophobia deflate like a punctured balloon, with Sinophobia to follow. The economic reality of a multipolar world has sunk in in Washington, and the mass media will soon dance to the tune of a new era in U.S. diplomacy. Our foreign policy will no longer be in the hands of a demented war machine playing nuclear roulette.

Posted by: HH | Feb 14 2025 15:32 utc | 67

global times (China)
FM responds to Trump’s proposal to meet with Chinese, Russian leaders to discuss reducing nuclear weapons, cutting defense spending

. . .China is willing to work with all parties to firmly support a multilateral arms control mechanism centered around the UN and contribute to maintaining international peace and security, Guo said.
Regarding the defense spending, Guo emphasized that in 2024, US military spending accounts for 40 percent of global military expenditure, making it the world's largest military spender, exceeding the total military expenditure of the next eight countries combined. The US National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 further increases military spending to approximately $895 billion. . .here

Posted by: Don Bacon | Feb 14 2025 15:38 utc | 68

As I have been saying, and as Vance’s remarks today demonstrate, the new regime in DC considers Europe more of an enemy than it does Russia. Why? Because the US is in the midst of a low grade civil war between MAGA populists and globalists. The globalists are completely in control of Europe. So, MAGA considers all Euro nations to be controlled by its enemies. By extension, the MAGA view is that these forces are the enemy of western civilization and by extension mankind. This is the mindset. You may not agree. with it. That is not required. But that is the rationale. You cannot comprehend what is going on unless you approach it from that understanding.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 15:40 utc | 69

William Gruff | Feb 14 2025 14:05 utc | 41--

For past several years, Russia has announced in no uncertain terms that G-20 is far superior to G-7.

Posted by: karlof1 | Feb 14 2025 15:50 utc | 70

So, MAGA considers all Euro nations to be controlled by its enemies.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 15:40 utc | 69

Another reason the idea of the hegemon pulling out troops from the EU is delusional. It will be much more difficult to control the vassals without US troops in Europe and especially the Germans, if God forbid, they grow a spine.

Regarding the much cheerleaded deal, seeing is believeing, it is the same old same old and the SMO goes and must go on.

Vice President JD Vance while at the Munich Security Conference warned that Washington could hit Russia with more sanctions and even use "military tools" on the table if it refuses to agree to a deal allowing Ukraine's long-term independence. He issued the words to The Wall Street Journal, saying "There are economic tools of leverage, there are of course military tools of leverage."

Posted by: 5thcolumn | Feb 14 2025 15:51 utc | 71

Great posting b

To start I want to playback some of the comments above
"
US wants to limit nuclear stockpiles because US is lagging in nuclear delivery vehicles by several decades. Especially in the intra-atmospheric hypersonic missile department. US wants Russia to reduce Kinzhals, Sarmats, Avangards in exchange for what, US will limit their 70s Minuteman 3 which are nearly obsolete anyway?

This is the BS Martyanov predicted many times before. What does US bring to the table? They have close to nothing to bring to the table, they just want to reduce adversary technological advantages.

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 13:21 utc | 32
"
Trump was put in office to keep control of the global narrative for the God Of Mammon empire

unimperator | Feb 14 2025 14:33 utc | 49 provided the JD Vance ploy of getting out in front of the runaway train and turning it into YOUR parade.

Don Bacon | Feb 14 2025 15:24 utc | 65 provide summary and link to Trump ploy to keep US dollar supreme....the red line for the God Of Mammon empire

Don Bacon | Feb 14 2025 15:38 utc | 68 shows that the RoW leadership is moving forward, not following the call for new parade ploy

Who controls the global narrative? China and Russia but because of the Western fire hose media you could be led to believe otherwise.

Posted by: psychohistorian | Feb 14 2025 15:51 utc | 72

@51 TomQ

There is no such thing as "Europe" in policy terms except via EU. There is little or no national policy that is not controlled in some way by EU either. Without EU none of what you describe would have been anything near what was experienced. A lot would just not have happened.

Much of the economic ruin was because of failure of competition within europe, instead using German surplus to fund welfare, or to rehypothecate national debt or increase asset values to fund spending. Europe is more a welfare state than ever, just a poorer one as far as the public are concerned. It is a completely corrupt model.

This was not done for USA. The model and ideology has been in existence since at least the 19th century. In fact I could turn the equation around easily, and say EU offered USA opportunities that suited EU goals, but that would be too easy, because the USA also involves its own ambitions.

EU is at base a French/German enterprise with a post war industrial foundation, co-opted by banking and finance and with introduced ideologies that serve various non-national interests.

The Germans, what they do they do to themselves, because we are way past any notion of living in reparation, and because in spite of all they are sovereign. Anything else is a useful excuse.

The French, oh dear the french. I partly grew up in france and it had a lot of meaning to me. I don't think I will return there though again, it is just too depressing to compare with what I knew of the country.

Etc.

Pretty sad what is on offer to us nowadays, many would know little better though.

...but yes, the US often plays the part of antagonist in all of this. It is easier to deal with a corrupt european entity than respect the wishes of numerous smaller countries. Shame on the US for that, and for which it is not particularly liked by local populations.

Posted by: Ornot | Feb 14 2025 15:52 utc | 73

*** the new regime in DC considers Europe more of an enemy than it does Russia. ***

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 15:40 utc | 69

This makes sense. If true it is .ore progress that what I ever imagined.

Posted by: frithguild | Feb 14 2025 15:55 utc | 74

Vice President JD Vance while at the Munich Security Conference warned that Washington could hit Russia with more sanctions and even use "military tools" on the table if it refuses to agree to a deal allowing Ukraine's long-term independence. He issued the words to The Wall Street Journal, saying "There are economic tools of leverage, there are of course military tools of leverage."

Posted by: 5thcolumn | Feb 14 2025 15:51 utc | 71

The wiggle team seems to be at full throttle, I guess trump was underwhelmed by putins reaction to the peace talks and someone suggested "full pressure". Not that's smart.

Posted by: Newbie | Feb 14 2025 16:04 utc | 75

@ Ornot | Feb 14 2025 15:52 utc | 73
re: EU is at base a French/German enterprise with a post war industrial foundation . .

EU is not only malevolent it is illegal, a violation of the UN Charter -- "The Organization is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members." . . .Germany and France are UN Members, the EU is not.

Posted by: Don Bacon | Feb 14 2025 16:05 utc | 76

Because the US is in the midst of a low grade civil war between MAGA populists and globalists.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 15:40 utc | 69

---

Is a funny game of musical chairs they are playing where regardless of which magnate wins the outcome for 99% of the population will remain substantially unchanged.

Clapping like a seal when your favorite dandy wins a bigger piece of cake isn't likely to get you another crumb.

"between MAGA populists and globalists" there is only an illusion of choice.

Also, Vance's speech was stunningly bad. Flat delivery and weak content.

Posted by: too scents | Feb 14 2025 16:06 utc | 77

MAGA isn’t looking to control Europe with troops. MAGA considers troops in Europe and NATO in general to be a scheme to extort money from the US taxpayer for the benefit of ungrateful “allies”. Once again, you may not agree but you will not understand MAGA if you don’t understand that.

Because of the last 80 years, most people in the world don’t understand the traditional American mindset regarding foreign intervention. Traditionally Americans are insular and have no interest in Europe or Asia. Prior to WW I, the overriding principle in American foreign relations was to avoid European entanglements. FDR only won because he lied and vowed to keep the US out of WW II. In order to make the so-called “American Century” and sell it to the American public, they had to sell the populace on the evilness of the Soviets. Then I’m asking is that it was Islamic “terrorists” and now it’s Russia again and trying to move to China.

The point I’m making is that the average American has never changed with regard to his view of foreign intervention and entanglements. They don’t want it and now all the lies told to get the public to go along are losing steam. MAGA represents a rejection of all of that.

MAGA isn’t some sort of cynical ploy for further US domination. MAGA represents an attempt to return to traditional American foreign policy. No, things won’t change overnight and the dollar won’t go away. But MAGA is far more interested in an economic fight than global military domination.

Once again, you just can’t understand what is going on unless you understand where MAGA is coming from and that the movement is genuine.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 16:08 utc | 78

Trump believes in thinking big. So big as to be crazy.

The architect of world peace would be the greatest Presidential achievement ever.

I'm not a Utopian and think humans are easily corrupted but it is nice to dream. When I look at China, I see the effective harnessing of human potential, they don't have drug problems (legal or illegal), they don't have a massive pr0n industry. They don't have an enslaving consumer credit culture.

They build the future and find solutions to material problems. I watched a video last week of how they have built specialized machines to reforest their desert areas driven by AI it's like something out of an Asimov novel.

Making the planet look less like Gaza or downtown Seattle and more like a garden is possible. Peace for a couple of successive decades is possible.

Posted by: LoveDonbass | Feb 14 2025 16:11 utc | 79

"United States President Donald Trump has floated talks with China and Russia to discuss reducing all three countries’ nuclear stockpiles and slashing their defence budgets in half."

On the above, I doubt Xi and Putin will fall for that old chestnut - of reducing arms, that would eventually leave them vulnerable - infact, I'm pretty sure that behind the scenes in Moscow and Beijing - arms are being amassed and new weaponry is being developed - as it must be, to protect both Russian and Chinese interests - only a fool would take Trump at his word.

Posted by: Republicofscotland | Feb 14 2025 16:11 utc | 80

What faction of America's power elite is arguing that supremacy is unsustainable? Neither China or Russia seek the supremacy the US has imposed on the world since WW II and accelerated after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Global supremacy is a goal of Western (US) capitalists. China and Russia want to stop having to defend themselves from American military dominance and its economic sanctions regime. If NATO had not expanded to encircle Russia, Russia would not have to take up arms. China, unlike the US, is not governed by capital, although it exports capital to invest in foreign markets. These investments are used to create productive capacity rather than solely extract wealth. The US and Western model of imperialism. If Trump really wanted to appease Putin he would release the seized financial assets. Cooperating with China means allowing uncompetitive US businesses to fail. The wealth allowing America's power elites to dominate domestically and geopolitically is at grave risk and they are pursuing policies to preserve it. War or becoming a hermit kingdom are their choices.

Posted by: Keme | Feb 14 2025 16:13 utc | 81

Keeping busy b 😉.

Well the new Yalta has to happen - the collective west under its dynastic powers lost again in the proxy war of this century to take EurAsia.
Looks like it will be in Riyadh.

Throwing USAID under the bus and all the various leeches that controlled the levers of propoganda on their behalf is just the changing of the guard.

The incumbent oligarchs mafiosi and barons have failed in their generational gambit. So New Caesars must be installed.
They always exist are bred to vie with and replace the old guard; so they too can have a bite at the Cherry - to attain such heights of power and fortune for the Real Owners.

It keeps the Few Owners happy to keep such hungry dogs always rising to keep their current top dogs delivering the ultimate lordship of the planet and its resources - which includes all mankind and it’s inventions and cultures.

What I am seeing is the various factions which tried out the liberal democratic smug saviour of the world type ‘story’ being thrown out to be replaced by the supposed conservative, common sense variety.

A sort of copycat of the real thing that exists in EurAsia and Persia and some parts of South East Asia - most of the ancient civilsations and their enduring ‘cultural’ mores.

So as a quick piece of detail of this ‘new great reset’ which is the backstop of the planned and well publicised Great Reset we have heard about ever more shrilly from WEF and EU and Soros/Gates type foundations.

The supposed populist reversion across all the collective waste - with their conservative politics! But look the AfD has a gay leaderine with a foreign partner; Vance the tech kings man does too!

Like every new Caesar that took over there is an inevitable pogrom to dispossess the Old ones of their wealth and power to repay and elevate the new.

There are even very personal scores that get settled.
In the old times it was executions for some, exile for others and loss of half the fortunes of others who were not so high in the power structure and will be retained in the new.

They get settled and the new era begins looking all rosey until it too doesn’t.

That while the democrats and republicans who colluded against Humphy Drumpffy get exposed about their massive increases in wealth and they get called ‘lefties’, ‘socialists’ and even Marxists whilst they were as blood thirsty fascist global robbers as their now installed ‘rightists’, and whatever the current definitions of being opposite of ‘socialist’ is.

One of the funniest attempts at straddling the supposed differences between ‘them and us’ is religion and the hobby horse that has obviously been set up to be beaten - the woke, Q+++, the Green.

Donald the returning Caesar didn’t really ‘Do God’ - not his style really has to Do It publicly now. To keep the crazy Christian Zionists in his camp and stop them creating a new God Party, because they are both Democrat and Republican, tweedledidum muppets.

When China doesn’t need it! Or not in the overt form.
Russian Orthodox has it, having survived its destruction by the Bolsheviks who were setup to destroy it and replace it with the neoreligion of Marxism/Communism.
The Persians and ancient ummah also live it as central to their civilisation.

As does still the Hinduism and Buddhism of Asia even though they too have long been assailed by the fascist supremacist sects such as been fanned in India and in Shrilanka, Thailand and was he basis of the Tibetan aristocracy that ruled by severe form of ‘rebirth’ - installing babies that were supposedly born holy! It would seem always from one or another of such families that always treated the rest as slaves.

So we are moving towards an supposed humanist world, western Christianity is being dismantled, Islam of certain type is promoted whilst other types are demoted and punished. Expertism by Academic philosophers and charlatans replacing Scientific method.

Individualist super hero geniuses are supposedly the neo-living gods that walk our earth and deliver the CW from the past to the future. This writing the new paths we are supposed to venerate.

I guess we always sucker Proples we are still being urged to remain so, as the Golden Billion supremacist who will live in the West - leaving the world to Men of the rest of the cardinal points.

Posted by: DunGroanin | Feb 14 2025 16:13 utc | 82

It is sad to see that just a few years after the end of the cold war, a large part of the Western World seems to insist on making all the mistakes again.

For those who don't remember: After the invention of the cold war, it took more than 30 years of "Duck and Cover" (Nuke attack? Hide under the table. If possible cover you body with newspaper for extra protection). through various Iron Dome - fantasies to recognizing that a, every war between superpowers will eventually turn nuclear. That b, everybody will be dead after a nuclear war, with or without newspaper protection. And that c, accepting those facts is a good motivation for everybody to sit around the table and find ways to not only make sure there won't be a war. And to agree that for deterrence, it is sufficient if we are able to kill each other two or three times over. No need to keep building more weapons.

Let's hope that Trump is serious about arms reduction. I hear the words. And remember others, demanding to increase defense budgets to buy more weapons. A lot more.

Posted by: Marvin | Feb 14 2025 16:15 utc | 83

Zelensky's finished. Finally. His Elba can only be the USA where mass murderers are fairly routine. He will not last there either. The steamer for his exit will be massive, loaded with his lucre and heavier still the souls of the million and more he killed.

No justice is enough. Russia let him live too long.

Posted by: elmagnostic | Feb 14 2025 16:18 utc | 84

The Zionist Trump, will put this warhawk, and minion in her place - infact, Trump will put Europe in its place - because EU leaders have allowed the USA to dominate it, and, they'll do whatever the Orange Yankee Zionist POTUS wants done.

“If there is agreement made behind our backs it will simply not work because you need for any kind of deal, any kind of agreement, you need Europeans to implement this deal. You need the Ukrainians to implement this deal,” said the bloc’s chief diplomat, Kaja Kallas. "

Posted by: Republicofscotland | Feb 14 2025 16:18 utc | 85

Meanwhile, the primary focus of today's Russian SEcurity Council meeting was the "inevitable" disasters that arrive with Spring--floods and fires--and the need to be proactively prepared to meet them. Of course, the talk later might be about Ukraine or the phone call, but the scanty readout is mum about them.

As usual, Maria Zakharova's weekly briefing has a massive amount of info about Ukraine. The incomplete transcript doesn't allow me to say for certain, but I expect her to be asked about the phone call and related questions if not to make a separate statement about it. Maybe by noon Pacific the transcript will be finished and we'll see what it says.

Posted by: karlof1 | Feb 14 2025 16:20 utc | 86

Much talk, little reality...Putin can't sign a treaty because the US, and Trump, can't be trusted..Trump can't agree to all of Russia's demands cuz politics...Nothing will happen....

Posted by: pyrrhus | Feb 14 2025 16:20 utc | 87

Peace for a couple of successive decades is possible.

Posted by: LoveDonbass | Feb 14 2025 16:11 utc | 79

---

A just war is preferable to an unjust peace.

Posted by: too scents | Feb 14 2025 16:21 utc | 88

We may be inspired by this but America remains fundamentally agreement incapable.

The American political system is not designed for consistency or stability. Every 2 years, like clockwork, the American political system can radically change direction.

Russia and China are sovereign with a lot of political stability.

Trump will need to mortally wound the banking beast if he wants to achieve this, and not just get credit for bringing it up.

Posted by: LoveDonbass | Feb 14 2025 16:22 utc | 89

Vice President JD Vance while at the Munich Security Conference warned that Washington could hit Russia with more sanctions and even use "military tools" on the table if it refuses to agree to a deal allowing Ukraine's long-term independence. He issued the words to The Wall Street Journal, saying "There are economic tools of leverage, there are of course military tools of leverage."

______________________________

Another example of the civil war in the US. The WSJ, a CIA front, released that story. They so overplayed and made Vance’s statement sound more bellicose than it actually was that his staff immediately started pushing back and released a complete transcript of the interview.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 16:24 utc | 90

Once again, you just can’t understand what is going on unless you understand where MAGA is coming from and that the movement is genuine.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 16:08 utc | 78

#########

MAGA is good for Americans. The ROW has seen that what is good for Americans often means suffering for them.

You will have to forgive the Global South for not having a short memory when it comes to genocide, exploitation, and theft.

The powers in the ROW have been around a thousand to several thousand years longer than America.

Posted by: LoveDonbass | Feb 14 2025 16:27 utc | 91

MAGA isn’t some sort of cynical ploy for further US domination. MAGA represents an attempt to return to traditional American foreign policy. No, things won’t change overnight and the dollar won’t go away. But MAGA is far more interested in an economic fight than global military domination.

Once again, you just can’t understand what is going on unless you understand where MAGA is coming from and that the movement is genuine.

Posted by: CullenBaker | Feb 14 2025 16:08 utc | 78

this may or may not be true, but seeing how vance threatened russia now with

"There are economic tools of leverage, there are of course military tools of leverage."

i understand that the average american citizen is oblivious of all that. just as us germans during the third reich remained oblivious to germanys ambitions.

Posted by: Justpassinby | Feb 14 2025 16:29 utc | 92

Many thanks, B, for this update.

Yes, many changes.

I feel very, very, very strongly that the USA/Trump must take Victory Day seriously and openly and sincerely acknowledge (1) the sacrifice of the Russian people and (2) apologize for previous US politicians' insults to the Russian people and their leaders by ignoring their sacrifices and this important day of remembrance and gratitude to the war generation.

This is of course much more than manners, but bottom line, it is manners.

The issue of trying to rewrite the USSR out of the WW2 is another big issue, but way too broad for Trump or maybe any politician to deal with.

Posted by: Jane | Feb 14 2025 16:33 utc | 93

slashing their defence budgets in half.

Posted by b on February 14, 2025 at 11:08 UTC | Permalink

Okay, so I guess the US will slash their budget in half by pulling out of Europe... it also currently tries to "convince" the EU vassals to pay 5% of their GDP for NATO.

Result: no changes for Russia on its western flank. So, why the hell should Russia also reduce its military spending? And China?

Maybe we should start with bringing the spending in the US down to an acceptable level before anybody else even starts to think of a reduction.

Posted by: Zet | Feb 14 2025 16:33 utc | 94

Hopefully...Z seems to be still carrying out actions politically and militarily: setting up EU as fall guys to continue support, attacking Chernobyl just one example, that DT could "disqualify" Z. He could easily turn Z and associates on his /their head and disqualify him them to be part of the negotiations? Surely DT must be getting a real picture of Z by now as as very dubious guy and DT should be turning on him, that there is no genuine attitude to negotiations only typical subterfuge misdirection, falsehoods, delaying tactics(naturally characteristcally of Ukraine politicians as we know).

Especially if to him truth is revealed about Frontline troops being so badly trained(also by Ukraine supporters),they way they were not supported by the military eg supplies. shooting soldiers wanting to retreat from pointless orders, deliberately not recovering wounded and dead,organ trading, torture of Russian soldiers, deliberate killing of Russian speaking civilians, Bucha and Sudcha false flags, let alone deliberate corruption and fraud, participation and collusion with Biden corruption, a willing participant in scheming and anti democratic and anti religious persecutions? DT can become quite impatient and not at home with procrastination techniques eg by Z and EU surely.

Ukraine could be at the negotiations but not Z and co, and only if new elections held under complete scrutiny, can Russia insist, even saying there could be a ceasefire until new elections have taken place?

Posted by: Jo | Feb 14 2025 16:36 utc | 95

The EU just released a 'Weimar plus' statement regarding on support for Ukraine. Guess they don't understand much about the historical irony. Yes, we, the EU are Weimar Union's rightful degenerate successor, with the same fate and all?

Posted by: unimperator | Feb 14 2025 16:36 utc | 96

INTEL's plan for those record amount of investments is precisely the same as the "China growth" model. One invests A LOT OF money at a break-neck pace and then one later has to deal with a GIANT & Growing debt problem. INTEL already announced that it would cut the workforce to save costs.

Posted by: WMG | Feb 14 2025 12:35 utc | 22

You are confusing a currency " user " with a currency " issuer"

Again...

Do you understand the massive difference between a currency "user" like INTEL and a currency " issuer " like China?

Posted by: Sun Of Alabama | Feb 14 2025 16:38 utc | 97

re: Military Spending Could Be Cut in Half
Start with the Army, because a standing army is unconstitutional.
Constitution --
Powers of Congress
. . .To raise and support Armies, but no Appropriation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years; To provide and maintain a Navy; . . .

Posted by: Don Bacon | Feb 14 2025 16:42 utc | 98

Getting them back into G7+ (an economic body, technically) IS in line with trump's war on BRICS. If russia takes it now, then BRICS is useless. They'll be re-captured by the dollar.

Posted by: Sal | Feb 14 2025 13:24 utc | 33

Sal hits the Jackpot, nail on head.

Posted by: Sun Of Alabama | Feb 14 2025 16:43 utc | 99

Think about it barflies. Trump will push for a trilateral arrangement to maintain a lock on some corner of the globe going forward.

China, Russia and the RoW want a multipolar world where every country has sovereign security.

I would be surprised if Russia or China would agree to another Yalta type of world restructuring....without the US dollar supremacy, America is a 2nd world country at this point, if not worse.

The shit show continues until it doesn't and maybe Trump really doesn't want the public to know that Russia lost 27 million people in WWII and that the 6 million Jew focus has been way overplayed.

Will Trump remove US troops from Germany as part of this divorce from Europe?

Posted by: psychohistorian | Feb 14 2025 16:46 utc | 100