propaganda works!! i run into a lot of folks here in canada who haven't a clue about anything regarding russia... thanks b!

Posted by: james | Mar 18 2025 16:10 utc | 1

Let's hope they ventilated the garbage dumps properly. We don't want spontaneous combustion of Western lies.

Posted by: Giyane | Mar 18 2025 16:11 utc | 2

ICYMI Strategic Culture had quite a decent rebuttal of the latest "Independent" article (2nd to last in your list). It was written by Ian Proud, a former British diplomat to Russia.

https://strategic-culture.su/news/2025/03/16/western-pundits-should-stop-writing-idiotic-nonsense-about-russia-economy/

Posted by: Mark H | Mar 18 2025 16:11 utc | 3

Interesting, if those first were the oldest you could find then in started as putin started to reverse the colpase.

White is black, war is peace, etc, etc

Posted by: Newbie | Mar 18 2025 16:19 utc | 4

This Russian language site is worth a look, covering various technical, manufacturing and infrastructure projects in Russia: https://sdelanounas.ru/

Recently it’s covered the test flights of the Superjet with the prototype PD-8 engines, as Russia strives for a wholly-domestic sourced regional civilian airliner.

Other topics covered include the introduction of new models of Kamaz trucks, Ural tractors and Lada cars; new trams for various municipalities; new rail locomotives and rolling-stock. It’s one of those websites that can be quite absorbing, and before you know it a couple of hours has passed by.

There’s all kinds of investment and modernisation taking place in Russia, which the West ignores at its peril.

Posted by: Jeremy Rhymings-Lang | Mar 18 2025 16:20 utc | 5

One reason they keep up with the lies is that if they stop, the truth will become obvious.

It's wall-to-wall 24x7x365 gaslighting for Forbes, Business Insider, and Newsweek. Must be exhausting for them and require a lot of USAID money to keep boiler room operations going.

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 16:21 utc | 6

Other truths.
The treatment of Ujghurs in China is just fine.
The Syrians liked Assad
The Chinese Economic stats are accurate
The legitimate President of Venezuela is Maduro
Rare earths are not rare
Russia has hypersonics, China has hypersonics, USA doesn't
Aggression in Georgia was Georgia/USA on Russia
The Maidan was an anti-democratic US coup
The "entirely provoked Large Scale invasion of Ukraine" was supposed to be a false flag pinned on LPR/DPR designed to take back Donbas. The actual highly provoked small scale invasion was to pre-empt that.
Turning off the water and electricity alone is enough to prove genocide.
All those clever Chinese that choose to go to US universities chose because they failed to get into the top Chinese ones.

Posted by: Michael Droy | Mar 18 2025 16:22 utc | 7

C'mon now! Stop those insults to 'garbage' b. \s

Garbage has it uses.

Garbage is simply thrown out and forgotten.

WMSM sh1te lingers in the poor minds of those polluted by it ... and they can neither throw it out nor forget it.

# meanwhile ...

German recession over. They are makin gunz on truckloads of borrowed money to make themselves rich! \s

Posted by: Don Firineach | Mar 18 2025 16:23 utc | 8

The Empire of Lies has put a lot of it's eggs in the US backed and led former state of Ukraine basket and it has failed to strategically defeat Russia.

It is my belief that, out of necessity, it is going to set it's sights on plundering close by, easy countries. For example Canada, Mexico, Greenland, Panama. Right now it's being explained to Americans that they are indeed the world's biggest innocent victim. This is music to the ears of Americans, many of whom are foaming at the mouth to engage in marauding and outright seizure shouting "it's about time".

The collapse will be broadly earned, complete, and the results of a grass root effort.

Posted by: chunga | Mar 18 2025 16:27 utc | 9

Yeah, thanks b. You could add to that list. The weekend edition of PBS is Neocon Claptrap day. The hilight is the Brookes and Capehart puzzlement session.

Posted by: Hoarsewhisperer | Mar 18 2025 16:27 utc | 10

Western Economist "Collapse Experts" are just as proficient at predicting China Collapse as they are of Russia.

Posted by: Eric Blair | Mar 18 2025 16:29 utc | 11

Propaganda works. You can't imagine the number of well informed, well educated French people, with a taste for politics and foreign affairs, who are sincerely convinced that Russia is about to implode. They have not only been trained to believe the unblievable. They have also been trained to suspend their own judgement (“What, wasn't Russia supposed to desintegrate twenty years ago? And then again, every year since? And why has it never happened?" All questions that are never asked 😂

Posted by: Shahmaran | Mar 18 2025 16:32 utc | 12

We know the imperial media will always say this if it's at all possible to say it. That's just one of the several reasons Russia must fight on unto complete victory though force on the ground. If Russia chooses to stop short of victory and submits to any kind of Minsk III, the West will believe Russia did this out of weakness (which is indeed the only reason Russia would agree to a negotiation, even if the weakness is only in Putin's head) and will be all the more emboldened to launch the war again after rearming the feral proxy.

(Speaking of which, after 3+ years of hearing how the kokhols are about to collapse I'm thinking more of the beam in the "pro-Russia" media's eye than the speck in the Western media's eye.)

Posted by: Flying Dutchman | Mar 18 2025 16:33 utc | 13

Succinct as always - thank you.
If your German leaders are really that stupid to test Russia properly ... I hope they don't censor or shut down this bar when it all heats up soon!
Keep up the good work.

Posted by: Skeletor | Mar 18 2025 16:33 utc | 14

1:28:15 length of call where the Supreme Commander in Chief and President of the Russian Federation Mr. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin (VVP) lectured Mr. Donald John Trump (DJT).

The Motherland never disappoints her people and VVP is our sacred salvation.

Posted by: pepe | Mar 18 2025 16:33 utc | 15

Instead we now have the source of all these 'predictions', the UK itself collapsing. Starmer is now removing UK disabled people benefits in order to be able to pay for Zelensky and gangs mansions, yachts and Lambo's around the world.

Posted by: unimperator | Mar 18 2025 16:37 utc | 16

Bravo!

Posted by: John Gilberts | Mar 18 2025 16:39 utc | 17

Speaking of which, after 3+ years of hearing how the kokhols are about to collapse I'm thinking more of the beam in the "pro-Russia" media's eye than the speck in the Western media's eye
Flying Dutchman | Mar 18 2025 16:33 utc | 13

Because most people did not expect Ukr to suicide at this level. Kursk alone killed an entire army for nothing except media titles and to kill a few civilians and destroy some stuff around. Yesterday and today there were large attempts to enter Belgorod border, they used hundreds of drones and all sorts of other things, F16s appeared too. And that's only what Tass reports. The attack continues

Posted by: rk | Mar 18 2025 16:44 utc | 18

“The mood in Moscow has become war weary,” a nytimes op-edder, part-time Concern Troll & full-time Doomer states, but “I’ve been talking to Kremlin insiders who have known Mr. Putin for years and they all agreed: Mr. Putin has come to love war and can no longer imagine a future without it”—which is a bizarre psychological assessment of VVP. Again and again, the op-edder tries mightily to establish his chops as a Russian Hand with incredibly deep *insider* info: “According to the people I spoke to, Mr. Putin…”
Nameless, faceless experts have told the op-edder that “the dangers of peace are plain. It would return a million-strong army home and high-ranking veterans to civilian life. What will they do?” Apparently, one of Russia’s most prominent war veterans, Artem Zhoga, dared to criticize a possible minerals deal with America floated by Mr. Putin, saying “These resources are part of a strategic reserve, and I urge my colleagues in the regions to ensure their preservation in the interests of the state.”
The op-edder calls this an ominous threat: “Shut out from key government positions — not a single war veteran has been placed in a senior leadership role” The op-edder portrays veterans as “a pool of resentment. While the war continues, they cannot afford to step out of line. Were peace to come, they may well follow the footsteps of Yevgeniy Progozhin in railing against Mr. Putin and his regime.”
Th op-edder is Mikhail Zygar, former editor in chief of TV Rain, an outlet which was always billed as independent back in the Navalny period but which had an NGO vibe. The outlet fled to Latvia when the SMO commenced but then found so much anti-Russia sentiment, even when TV Rain was presenting apparently anti-Putin material, that they had to seek a safer haven in the Netherlands.
Ultimately, Zygar concludes that “To prevent a veteran’s revolt, Mr. Putin must not end the war.”
Do Concern Trolls tie themselves into pretzel knots when it comes to Russia and “Mr. Putin”-?
They tie themselves into pretzel knots.
Zygar finishes by stating that in the talks w/ DJT, “ We should be clear about what Mr. Putin is planning. It’s not peace.”

Posted by: stel_porcupine | Mar 18 2025 16:44 utc | 19

steel_porcupine
(mea culpa)

Posted by: steel_porcupine | Mar 18 2025 16:46 utc | 20

Douglas MacGregor with Daniel Davis on Ukraine.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hEj7si8YS0

Posted by: unimperator | Mar 18 2025 16:47 utc | 21

As a poor child surrounded by wealthy children, I was immensely jealous of the fact that my peers jetted off to places like Gstaad while I was confined to Texas’ interior.

Looking back, I am thankful that my parents made such efforts to show me as much as they could about the people who make places. It is difficult to overstate the importance and appeal of receiving warmth from strangers while close to home.

From my conversations with European colleagues, I fear most citizens of today’s Western European countries have had the capacity for that sentiment completely erased by propaganda and domestic squalor. We Americans are dumb, but our hunger is insatiable: properly directed, it has and can accomplish great things.

I do not know that “hunger” exists for the average English bloke. The natural state of things seems so grim over there, and there i does not seem to be much green grass on the other side.

Posted by: Tony Jackson | Mar 18 2025 16:48 utc | 22

The German government will propose Baerbock as a candidate for the post of President of the UN General Assembly

https://t.me/myLordBebo/62023

Posted by: Apollyon | Mar 18 2025 16:49 utc | 23

The population of Russia is willing to endure great hardship to make the country of Russia stronger. (Orders of magnitude more than any 'western' society)

The real human population of Russia is in fact growing, at an order of magitude more than any 'western' country.

Posted by: Hot Carl | Mar 18 2025 16:50 utc | 24

Russia's economy is about to collapse.
But, at what cost? Grin.

Posted by: Sakineh Bagoom | Mar 18 2025 16:51 utc | 25

I'm confused & I'm seeing conflicting reporting. Did the phone call between Putin & Trump last 1.5 hours, or 2.5 hours?

Posted by: Al Balog | Mar 18 2025 16:56 utc | 26

Never Predicted, Happening now: Europe's Collapse

Where does this fascination with Russia come from? Who cares about Putin's approval rating, the inflation in Russia or Gazprom's profit margins? Why do we even talk about it?

What does matter is what is happening at home. Where the problems have now reached a dimension where no politician, no media dare even talk about them? We have no clue what to do about immigration, about an ageing work force, broken infrastructure and technology development that is now a couple of light years behind China's.

The only option our politicians can see is hallucinating about an imminent invasion by Russia - and spending tons of money to "prepare". I guess the upside is that, in a few years, we can celebrate "Victory": Our now might armies have scared Putin so much that no longer dares attack. Win-Win, happy faces all around.

Why does anybody care what happens in Russia when Europe is falling apart?

Posted by: Marvin | Mar 18 2025 16:57 utc | 27

Very nice roundup of the nonsense peddled over the years.

Maybe it would be clarifying to explain how what they mean by collapse is in fact the overthrow of Putin, political not economic. The war is against the people of Russia, meant to provoke the uprising, just as the war against Iran is meant to provoke an uprising there. There are apparently a lot of people who seem to think that economies collapse like a house made of cards, as if some bank was going to foreclose and send the sheriff to evict the family. The gold bugs waiting for the dollar to vanish and take its empire along with it seem to hold a mental picture like this? But in truth, for the ruling class there is no such thing as a crisis, not until they are going broke. Or until the masses are in the streets. The Russian ruling classes are not feeling that pain so much. But no economic collapse actually blows away the state. Indeed, the emergency may lead to a political strengthening of the state as it is compelled into some sort of action. Hoover didn't disappear, but eventually Roosevelt had his Hundred Days.

There is the long run however. A Russian economy devoted to massive war production is not as suited to actually meeting the needs of the masses. (See the effects of the MIC on the US economy.) After victory, the Russian people as a whole may well expect to reap the rewards of victory. That's when the real social strains may erupt. (Think of how the English people voted out Churchill and voted in Attlee.)

Posted by: steven t johnson | Mar 18 2025 17:03 utc | 28

Interestingly, Mr Putin called a meeting of industrial leaders today, BEFORE the anticipated call with Mr Trump.

Posted by: HERMIUS | Mar 18 2025 17:04 utc | 29

Western propag... media, is always biased against Russia at everything. From the corrupt "Corruption index", who claims Russia is more corrupt than Ukraine, to all economic predictions, IMF World Bank etc...
I remember how in a post in early 2023 (re-posted here on MoA) it was claimed, that the russian economy wouldn't grow at all for 5 years, how the imf claimed in 2022, that Russia would have a -8% recession in 2022, and -3% in 2023, and in 2023, predicted a 0.7% growth. Interesting, that even I, could much more accurately predict the performance of russian gdp. when the war started, I predicted a recession below 3%, followed by a growth above that in 2023, and a growth close to 5% in 2024.
Tldr: growth predictions from western institutions (especially about designated enemies) are total crap, and shouldn't be given any attention.

Posted by: Phariah | Mar 18 2025 17:10 utc | 30

The German government will propose Baerbock as a candidate for the post of President of the UN General Assembly
https://t.me/myLordBebo/62023
Posted by: Apollyon | Mar 18 2025 16:49 utc | 23

A classic example of the Peter Principle in action. They ran out of roles in Europe to promote her into.

Posted by: JohninMK | Mar 18 2025 17:11 utc | 31

The meeting with the industrial was long-planed and people came from all Russia.
I guess the fun and telling part in that meeting won't be reported in the MSM. Talking with local bosses is no less important that speaking with the Don for VVP. Hence the "it's Patrutchev Job's" (not mine).

Posted by: Savonarole | Mar 18 2025 17:14 utc | 32

as the once famous commentator "bernd" (not related to our host!) always so dilligently repeated on the welt.de comments section on each subsequent article about russia and how its about to collapse/fall/fail/inflate etc:

"warten wirs ab!" ("just wait!") this went on for years. he is still waiting probably.

any day now dear nafos, any day now. any. day. now.

on a related note, try showing any "highly educated" eu(rotard) a list like the op, or a list of the "wunderwaffels" with all the accompanied articles of how "this time" it will work etc, and just watch them try every single stupid excuse in the book. there is no rationality with those people. they dont even see how they are beeing played in the media and by the autocratic regime politicians they "elect".

there was this interview in either china or the soviet union a long time ago, where the interviewed person answered "the difference between our propaganda and yours is that we at least know when we are beeing propagandized." when they were asked what they think about the constant propaganda. something along those lines.

Posted by: Justpassinby | Mar 18 2025 17:25 utc | 33

JohninMK @| 31

A classic example of the Peter Principle in action. They ran out of roles in Europe to promote her into.

Move To The Basement - Office Space

Posted by: LightYearsFromHome | Mar 18 2025 17:27 utc | 34

In 2024 the IMF predicted 3.2% growth. What was the actual growth? Can’t know because Russia has ceased publishing most relevant economic data.
2025 the IMF. predicts 1.4% growth, nearly a 2% decline over 2024 expectations. Could it be the low 2025 growth rate is based on Russia failing to live up to 2024 projections? Can’t know because they don’t publish the statistics.
The Russian central bank did tell us the year over year inflation rate was 10.2%, over twice the official growth rate of 4.9%. The central bank revised this years inflation target from 4-5% to 7.5. This combined with a prime rate of 21% does not look like a healthy economy.

Posted by: zargo | Mar 18 2025 17:30 utc | 35

Putin told Trump, for a ceasefire, a cessation in Nato arms deliveries, and cessation of Ukro nazi style mobilization is required. So apparently that's a no.

Posted by: unimperator | Mar 18 2025 17:30 utc | 36

[email protected] Putin lining up investors for Trump Plaza Gaza perhaps....at the rate Trump is redeveloping Yemen, resorts up and down the Red Sea coast might be an artful deal, Oligarchy friendly, everyone gets a cut....

Cheers M

....you don't suppose they'll open the bidding on rebuilding Odessa for the Brits to Russian companies.... anything is possible when it comes to rule by Oligarch....

Posted by: sean the leprechaun | Mar 18 2025 17:32 utc | 37

from RT ( rt.com/russia/614396-putin-trump-call-ukraine/ ):
"Putin supported Trump’s proposal for Russia and Ukraine to halt strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. He has instructed the military to implement this directive.
He also responded constructively to Trump’s initiative on maritime security in the Black Sea
As a goodwill gesture, Russia will transfer 23 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers to Kiev.
Putin informed Trump that Russia and Ukraine would conduct a prisoner exchange on Wednesday, based on a 175-for-175 formula.
Putin reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and expressed readiness to work with Washington on a sustainable and long-term settlement.
Both leaders reportedly expressed a mutual interest in normalizing relations, recognizing their shared responsibility for global security and have agreed to maintain contacts."

Posted by: rk | Mar 18 2025 17:33 utc | 38

Other topics covered include the introduction of new models of Kamaz trucks, Ural tractors and Lada cars; new trams for various municipalities; new rail locomotives and rolling-stock. It’s one of those websites that can be quite absorbing, and before you know it a couple of hours has passed by.

There’s all kinds of investment and modernisation taking place in Russia, which the West ignores at its peril.

Posted by: Jeremy Rhymings-Lang | Mar 18 2025 16:20 utc | 5

Road and highway construction are forgotten. Since around 2015, approximately 4,800 km of highways have been built in Russia, along with 47 rest areas.

Before Putin, there were only about 1,700 km of highways in Russia.

Plus, cities like Mariupol were rebuilt, etc.

Posted by: berthold | Mar 18 2025 17:37 utc | 39

My god, Putin has agreed to this with nothing in return????

Posted by: Night Tripper | Mar 18 2025 17:37 utc | 40

Posted by: Night Tripper | Mar 18 2025 17:37 utc | 40

Please stop the doom and glooming.

It's only against energy infrastructure. So there's more missiles and drones to hit other targets instead, like hotels housing Nato 'peacekeepers'.

And the Ukrainian ability to hit non-fixed targets is impaired, anyway.

Posted by: unimperator | Mar 18 2025 17:42 utc | 41

7 mins of S. Karaganov behaving himself at the BBC ...

Former Kremlin advisor says 'best possible outcome is Ukraine’s total capitulation' | BBC News

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RAaSaqZCBg8

Posted by: Don Firineach | Mar 18 2025 17:45 utc | 42

Night tripper please slow down and don't let yourself get baited by known provocateurs.

Nothing was agreed to. How do I know? Because I have logic and reason at my side.

We knew Trumpo would lie. That's table stakes.

We also know that any formal agreement would need to be in writing, and be painstakingly spelled out. Everything in detail - what is the definition of "energy infrastructure?" Is it a refinery? A gas station? A Npp? A cow farting into the wind?

Remember the Gaza ceasefire negotiations took months and months. Teams from Egypt, the UAE, Israel, Hamas put forth proposals, counter-proposals, etc. Still it took over nine months and of course it wasn't worth the paper written on because the US and Israel are agreement-incapable.

And in what world are top-secret military orders broadcast to the whole world like some social media influencer posting on some new shoes she bought?

That's clearly laughable. I expected better from RK - he needs to up his trolling game.

This is all clearly a nothing-burger, as I expected.

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 17:50 utc | 43

For the record: Russian President Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin (VVP) outlined the requirements for resolving the situation in Ukraine during a meeting with senior Foreign Ministry officials in the summer of 2024. His conditions included Ukraine pulling its forces from Donbass and Novorossiya, as well as abandoning its NATO membership ambitions. Additionally, Moscow insisted that all Western sanctions be lifted, Ukraine’s non-aligned and non-nuclear status be secured, and the rights, freedoms, and interests of Russian-speaking citizens in Ukraine be guaranteed.

In the last few months, VVP has made also crystal clear that the US of A needs to recognize the root causes of the conflict.
None of the above are not negotiable. And the relations between Russia-China-Iran are unbreakable. And the steady growth of BRIICS+ will continue.

The US of A cannot be trusted.

Posted by: pepe | Mar 18 2025 17:50 utc | 44

Posted by: pepe | Mar 18 2025 17:50 utc | 44
>>>>
correction --> None of the above are negotiable instead of ... not negotiable. Fingers wrong way.

Posted by: pepe | Mar 18 2025 17:53 utc | 45

I think I saw a link to a RUSI paper that debunks the Russia Economy Doomed bs.
VVP was making speech earlier before the call from Trump telling the businesses not to sell themselves short when the western investors inevitably rush back to get their foot in the door.
The tax restructuring I saw from a few days ago also is remarkable for its simplicity and low rates for most incomes and goods and services.

The problem here is communications and narrative management for the CW. Having built over the last century through captured cultures film and music industries as weapons in the global conquest.

As an illustration of that War witness this major meltdown in the CW media about a cartoon film … breaking all records of the CW output!

I’ll do it as a separate post as am quoting others.

PS I note that Yemen has declared war! Well done Donald everything is going a cordi g to plan!

Posted by: DunGroanin | Mar 18 2025 17:54 utc | 46

I note the pathetic Ukrainian troll, The Russian economy grew around 4% in 2024 according to preliminary Russian state estimates. IMF etc. growth forecasts are as much statements of propaganda than honest forecasts, and with respect to Russia in the past few years have been wildly off. The same with the "China slowdown" and "China collapse" BS that regularly comes out of Western propaganda outfits.

The German Bundestag just voted in massive debt-fuelled war spending fully aided by the Greens who voted for it and the fake left Die Linke that refused to vote with the AfD to force the new Bundestag configuration that represents the very recent German election results to come into force immediately (rather than a week from now). So interesting that a full court press was put on to keep the real left BSW out of the Bundestag. Looks like the fix was in before the election, with Merz of the CDS/CDU happily lying his face off to cover up his party's real plans. What passes for "democracy" in Germany, as with Romania where any candidate not supporting NATO or the EU is deemed unfit to stand.

It is not Russia that is collapsing, it is Europe. Next up for Europe is US tariffs and the collapse of German car manufacturing and heavy industry.

Posted by: Roger Boyd | Mar 18 2025 17:56 utc | 47

Except for the 30 day energy thing which may end tomorrow for any imaginary reasons claimed by the same Trump or a simple trick to hit something bigger, I don't see anything new in these statements. They seem to have agreed to disagree on Ukr but they surley agreed to agree on Iran ( x.com/PressSec/status/1902049487457071248 )

Posted by: rk | Mar 18 2025 17:56 utc | 48

Posted by: DunGroanin | Mar 18 2025 17:54 utc | 46
>>>
The GDP growth in the G7 countries for 2024 was just 1.9%, while the BRICS countries saw a growth rate of 4.9%.

In Russia, the growth was 4.1% for two consecutive years, as emphasized by VVP today speaking at the congress of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs.

Posted by: pepe | Mar 18 2025 17:57 utc | 49

Posted by: zargo | Mar 18 2025 17:30 utc | 35

Italy in the 70/80 had similar numbers for inflation and rates but was not a wrecked economy at all.

Remember that inflation works in favor of debtors and, in the end, it's the real rate that is meaningful.

Posted by: Mario | Mar 18 2025 17:58 utc | 50

CNN readout:

President Donald Trump agreed in a call with Russian President Vladimir Putin that the war in Ukraine “needs to end with a lasting peace,” according to a description of the conversation from the White House. The two leaders also agreed to begin immediate talks on an “energy and infrastructure” ceasefire, the readout said.

The readout did not suggest that Putin had agreed to the 30-day ceasefire that Trump has endorsed and which has received backing from Ukraine.

Instead, the White House said Putin and Trump “agreed that the movement to peace will begin with an energy and infrastructure ceasefire, as well as technical negotiations on implementation of a maritime ceasefire in the Black Sea, full ceasefire and permanent peace.”

The readout said negotiations on those points would begin immediately in the Middle East.

emphasis mine. Note future tense. Nothing has changed. There is no ceasefire. There is no halt to energy attacks. Eat a nothing burger!

https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-administration-presidency-03-18-2025/index.html

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 17:58 utc | 51

My god, Putin has agreed to this with nothing in return????

Posted by: Night Tripper | Mar 18 2025 17:37 utc | 40

Why should Putin refuse...
Currently, the level of energy supply in Ukraine is sufficient for him, and certainly not enough for industrial production of large quantities of weapons.
AND
Don't forget one thing, regardless of whether it capitulates or takes over the territories of interest.
Everything Russia is destroying now in terms of infrastructure, it will have to rebuild after the war ends and the takeover, and the energy aspect, if possible, before next winter...
Every Western country that comes to mind would fail miserably at this.
So stop panicking...the only "stupid" one in this conversation will remain Trump...but in the delusion of being the winner...
And Putin has cleverly done that: making concessions to the narcissistic Trump that benefit him the most.
And if Trump doesn't stick to his position, everything...AND he will continue to supply weapons, thus providing the reason why, at the moment, the supposed success of saving face counts for Trump, and in this belief, he hung up the phone.

Posted by: berthold | Mar 18 2025 18:01 utc | 52

Putin hasn't agree to anything, folks, please calm down and read carefully my post above at 51.

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 18:03 utc | 53

So the only spin in MSM is "energy structures cease fire" if that is all the media can spin its a nothing-burger.

In a way it's something RF can live with, never hit ukriane too much there, doesn't want to hit civilians too much (even indirectly) and it was AFU that started (and was a bit of a pain ) striking refineries and deposits.

Let's wait for more.

Posted by: Newbie | Mar 18 2025 18:05 utc | 54

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 18:03 utc | 53

Sorry but from the Kremlin :

During the conversation, Donald Trump proposed that parties to the conflict should mutually refrain from strikes on energy infrastructure facilities for 30 days. Vladimir Putin responded positively to this initiative and immediately gave the Russian military the corresponding order

Posted by: Night Tripper | Mar 18 2025 18:07 utc | 55

Except for the 30 day energy thing which may end tomorrow for any imaginary reasons claimed by the same Trump or a simple trick to hit something bigger, I don't see anything new in these statements. They seem to have agreed to disagree on Ukr but they surley agreed to agree on Iran ( x.com/PressSec/status/1902049487457071248 )

Posted by: rk | Mar 18 2025 17:56 utc | 48

emphasis mine. Note future tense. Nothing has changed. There is no ceasefire. There is no halt to energy attacks. Eat a nothing burger!

https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-administration-presidency-03-18-2025/index.html

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 17:58 utc | 51

I mentioned nothingburger before reading the statement

Now I see a big putim win

"Both leaders agreed this conflict needs to end with a lasting peace." i.e. security agreement for europe as per putin

And as for quid pro quo, "The two leaders shared the view that Iran should never be in a position to destroy Israel. "... ME is screwed

Posted by: Newbie | Mar 18 2025 18:11 utc | 56

Putin betrayed Russia again by making concessions to Trump.
According to Dima, Putin is also ready to betray Iran.
Terrible!
Call me stupid but I do not trust him at all.

Posted by: vargas | Mar 18 2025 18:12 utc | 57

My god, Putin has agreed to this with nothing in return????

Posted by: Night Tripper | Mar 18 2025 17:37 utc | 40

Agreed to what, exactly, that you're complaining about? If you haven't noticed spring is here...energy strikes have less effectiveness now, and moreover Russia has crippled the grid quite nicely. Meanwhile long range drone strikes on obscure energy plants was about the only card left the Ukraonians could play. This cessation of energy strikes benefits only Russia and when Ukraine inevitably breaks it Russia has yet one more example of the unreliability of the Narcofurher and his nazi clique.

The UAF tried to break through near Belgorod again today and found themselves pushing rope.

The submarine NAFO types can continue insinuating and muttering into their beers, the Russians will show you how geopolitics is done.

Posted by: Doctor Eleven | Mar 18 2025 18:12 utc | 58

Most of the Ukrainian energy infrastructure has already been hammered multiple times. At minimum, they are operating at reduced efficiency.

Before someone tells there are still lights on in Ukraine, that is obvious, as Ukraine electricity generation was always reduntant/surplus designed in the Soviet times. The only thing that is affected their ability to sell excess to the EU, who seems to be increasingly relying on Ukraine for steady electricity.

My bet is Ukraine will soon break this 30-day energy infrastructure ceasefire, at which point Ukrainian gas fields and plants will be hammered again.

Posted by: unimperator | Mar 18 2025 18:12 utc | 59

On the topic of Russia's economy, I'm taking a break halfway through the congress of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs transcript to inform the bar what Putin has said about sanctions:

Sanctions are not temporary or targeted measures, they are a mechanism of systemic, strategic pressure on our country. And no matter how the situation develops, no matter what the system of international relations is, our competitors will always have the desire to restrain our country, weaken its economic and technological capabilities.

And if earlier the Western so-called elites tried to give this opposition at least some semblance of decency, now it seems that they do not need to be shy, they are not going to be shy. They not only regularly threaten Russia with new sanctions, but also stamp out these packages one by one. It seems that the initiators themselves have lost track of how many restrictions they have imposed and against whom.

So the Ministry of Finance calculated it. I can tell you with confidence, with confidence. 28,595 sanctions against individuals and legal entities. This is more than all the sanctions against all the countries against which sanctions were imposed, and many times higher.

Even if there is some gesture from the other side--they say that something is supposed to be removed, weakened--we can expect that there will be another way to push, put some sticks in the wheels, as was the case with the well–known Jackson-Vanik amendment. Even the Soviet Union, against which it was introduced at the time, was no longer there, and relations between Russia and the United States of America were at their best. And the amendment continued to work. And when it was supposedly canceled, it was actually simply replaced with another restrictive act against Russia. Remember that. They canceled and immediately imposed other sanctions.

I repeat: sanctions and restrictions are the reality of the current new stage of development, which the whole world, the entire world economy, has entered. Global competition has escalated and is becoming increasingly sophisticated and irreconcilable.

Thus, a new spiral of economic competition is unfolding right before our eyes, and in these conditions it is even embarrassing to recall the norms and rules of the World Trade Organization, which were once actively promoted by the West. Once. When? When these rules were beneficial to them. As soon as they became unprofitable, everything immediately began to change. And all these negotiations are stalling. And nobody really needs them.

Obviously, and I've already said it more than once: as it was before, it will no longer be. There is no hope for complete freedom of trade, payments and capital flows, just as there is no need to rely on Western mechanisms to protect the rights of investors and entrepreneurs. [My Emphasis]

Many have speculated that the sanctions will never be completely lifted, and I agree as does Putin. Honest competition with the West is dead if it was ever even alive. But there's more to the meeting than just sanctions. I should have the rest finished soon.

Posted by: karlof1 | Mar 18 2025 18:13 utc | 60

The Maericans would have insisted on including some statement about Iran given their obsession with acting as Israel's attack dog to the detriment of all humanity and especially their own citizens.

As always the Maerican tactics have become predictable. Russia isn't backing away from its agreements with Iran. The Israeli-US terrorist axis will find locked and loaded s400s painting their asses up hundreds of clicks from the border. So don't panic, World War 3 is imminent as Maerican and Israeli hubris runs smack into reality. I'm betting US backs down, but if not it's only the end of the world.

I notice the Maericans left out the invitation for some hockey games. How unsurprisingly uncivilized and uncouth.

Posted by: Doctor Eleven | Mar 18 2025 18:18 utc | 61

How stupid are these trolls?
No attacks on energy means NO attacks on nuclear power plants NO attacks on refineries

Posted by: Ost Rentner | Mar 18 2025 18:18 utc | 62

Tass reports

Key points from the telephone conversation between Putin and Trump:

▪️Putin supported Trump's idea of ​​a mutual 30-day renunciation of attacks on energy infrastructure between Russia and Ukraine and issued a corresponding order to the military;

▪️The Russian president outlined "a number of important points" regarding the 30-day ceasefire in connection with Kyiv's inability to negotiate.

▪️Putin confirmed to Trump that the Russian Federation guarantees the lives and proper treatment of Ukrainian soldiers if they surrender in the Kursk region.

▪️Putin informed Trump that a 175-175 prisoner exchange between the Russian and Ukrainian sides will take place on March 19.

▪️Russia and the United States will establish expert groups to resolve Ukraine's problems.

▪️As a goodwill gesture, the Russian Federation will hand over 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian soldiers to Kyiv.

▪️The presidents agreed to begin negotiations on developing an initiative to ensure the safety of navigation in the Black Sea.

▪️Putin told Trump he was ready to work together on sustainable solutions to the situation in Ukraine.

▪️The parties expressed support for normalizing bilateral relations, given their shared responsibility for global stability.

▪️Putin and Trump discussed Iran and spoke out against Tehran's threat to destroy Israel.

▪️The presidents of the Russian Federation and the United States discussed a "wide range of areas" in which cooperation could be developed.

▪️The US President supported the Russian President's idea of ​​organizing NHL and KHL games.

Posted by: berthold | Mar 18 2025 18:23 utc | 63

Many have speculated that the sanctions will never be completely lifted, and I agree as does Putin. Honest competition with the West is dead if it was ever even alive. But there's more to the meeting than just sanctions. I should have the rest finished soon.

Posted by: karlof1 | Mar 18 2025 18:13 utc | 60

Probably, and putin's meeting is reminding there will be two sides to invest in. Choose wisely.

--------------

How stupid are these trolls?
No attacks on energy means NO attacks on nuclear power plants NO attacks on refineries

Posted by: Ost Rentner | Mar 18 2025 18:18 utc | 62

Probably the later more than the former, as I mentioned much earlier ZNPP was always an easy target, i'd bet someone imposed a red line there for z, ok to bluff and token attacks, not ok to do anything serious.

Posted by: Newbie | Mar 18 2025 18:24 utc | 64

Hope Trump got the energy agreement in writing, it ain't 1991 anymore 😊

Posted by: LightYearsFromHome | Mar 18 2025 18:25 utc | 65

"While far short of the full halt Trump has been seeking to all fighting, including along the front lines, the plan is similar to a previous Ukrainian proposal to halt aerial attacks prior to a full ceasefire,” per Axios.
The Kremlin also said there would be a prisoner swap with Ukraine involving 175 soldiers from each side.
The White House stressed that the leaders had discussed the need to "stop proliferation" of nuclear weapons and to improve ties.
The two leaders agreed that a future with an improved bilateral relationship between the United States and Russia has huge upside. This includes enormous economic deals and geopolitical stability when peace has been achieved," per the statement.
"These negotiations will begin immediately in the Middle East," per the statement.
<<
And from RealClearPolitics, the Kremlin readout deets:
If implemented, Tuesday's agreement would represent a genuine de-escalation in the three-year war. The Kremlin made no mention of Ukraine's specific stance on the temporary halt in the targeting of energy infrastructure, but said Trump's proposal had spoken of "a mutual refusal."
"During the conversation, Donald Trump put forward a proposal for the parties to the conflict to mutually refrain from striking energy infrastructure facilities for 30 days. Vladimir Putin responded positively to this initiative and immediately gave the Russian military the corresponding command," the Kremlin said in a statement.
It said Putin had questioned Ukraine's willingness to negotiate in good faith, and had accused it of carrying out "barbaric terrorist crimes" during a seven-month incursion into Russia's western Kursk region.
Putin also said that the key condition for resolving the conflict diplomatically should be "the complete cessation of foreign military assistance and provision of intelligence information to Kiev", the Kremlin added.

Posted by: steel_porcupine | Mar 18 2025 18:26 utc | 66

From the Kremlin:

See new posts
Conversation
Lord Bebo
@MyLordBebo
🇷🇺🇺🇸 Kremlin's statement following Putin and Trump's negotiations regarding the initiative for a 30-day ceasefire:

“In the context of the U.S. President's initiative to introduce a 30-day ceasefire, the Russian side outlined several key points concerning the effective monitoring of a potential cessation of hostilities along the entire line of contact, the need to halt forced mobilization in Ukraine, and the rearmament of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Serious risks were also highlighted regarding the Kiev regime's lack of willingness to negotiate, as it has repeatedly sabotaged and violated previously reached agreements.

Attention was drawn to the barbaric, terrorist crimes committed by Ukrainian militants against the civilian population of the Kursk region.“

Posted by: Mary | Mar 18 2025 18:28 utc | 67

Tass reports

A basic requirement:
❗️The Russian president outlined "a number of important points" regarding Trump's initiative for a 30-day ceasefire, which are related to Kyiv's inability to negotiate, the Kremlin reported.
❗️Putin described a complete halt to military aid to Kyiv as the most important prerequisite for resolving the conflict in Ukraine, the Kremlin clarified.

And note!!
Putin confirmed to Trump that the Russian Federation guarantees the lives and proper treatment of Ukrainian soldiers if they surrender in the Kursk region.
This emphasis is important!

Posted by: berthold | Mar 18 2025 18:29 utc | 68

Many comments such as the first referencing “propaganda” but it actually goes much deeper. The majority population of the western world is actually under a form of mind control. If it was simply propaganda, simply sharing the documented, factual truth would undo it, but as anyone who’s ever tried it should know, this doesn’t work in the slightest. People have quite literally been put under a mind control spell that cannot be broken.

Posted by: Moonraker | Mar 18 2025 18:29 utc | 69

berthold | Mar 18 2025 18:23 utc | 63
*** ▪️Putin and Trump discussed Iran and spoke out against Tehran's threat to destroy Israel.***

But not about Israel's constant threats of destruction against Iran ... or about Israel's genocide against the Palestinians ... or about the Israeli / HTS massacres of Alawites and Christians in Syria?

By now, obvious what the prime loyalty is of both Putin and Trump -- and it isn't to the countries they supposedly rule.

Posted by: Cynic | Mar 18 2025 18:37 utc | 70

Belgorod Region, Ukrainian Armed Forces attempt to break through to Krasnaya Yaruga.

The enemy continues its offensive in the Belgorod Region. While its movements in the morning were chaotic and reminiscent of a regular reconnaissance operation (and an unprepared one at that), by the evening it had increased both its speed and strength.

After breaking through the border barriers, it sent a group of five armored combat vehicles toward Demidovka. The armored vehicles attempted to reach Demidovka at high speed but were stopped by artillery and drone fire.

Ukrainian Armed Forces are advancing toward Krasnaya Yaruga with engineer vehicles and armored personnel carriers along the Maryino-Grafovka line. Our troops are inflicting fire damage on enemy troops with cannon artillery and destroying armored vehicles with lances.

A few hours ago, two pieces of equipment were destroyed – a UR-77 and an armored combat vehicle. And just a few minutes ago, three more infantry fighting vehicles and a tank were blown up by a mine.

The tactics of the Ukrainian Armed Forces are similar to the actions in the Kursk region and the Kharkiv region in 2022. The enemy advanced from the direction of Maryino, broke through the border, and rushed at full speed along the existing roads to Krasnaya Yaruga.

The essence of these actions is simple: the Ukrainian Armed Forces are trying to take advantage of the element of surprise and the mobility of their armored vehicles, advance as far as possible, and reach a large populated area, repeating the Sudzha scenario.

It is worth noting that the Ukrainian Armed Forces are making intensive use of aviation. While F-16 fighter jets were observed from a distance in the Kursk direction by the LBS, today footage of American fighter jets flying over Sumy has emerged, and it is highly likely that they will launch attacks on the Belgorod region.

Archangel of the Special Forces. Subscribe.
.
What confuses me:
the last part of the report about "American jets"

Posted by: Ost Rentner | Mar 18 2025 18:38 utc | 71

from RT ( rt.com/russia/614396-putin-trump-call-ukraine/ ):
"Putin supported Trump’s proposal for Russia and Ukraine to halt strikes on energy infrastructure for 30 days. He has instructed the military to implement this directive.
He also responded constructively to Trump’s initiative on maritime security in the Black Sea
As a goodwill gesture, Russia will transfer 23 severely wounded Ukrainian soldiers to Kiev.
Putin informed Trump that Russia and Ukraine would conduct a prisoner exchange on Wednesday, based on a 175-for-175 formula.
Putin reaffirmed his commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and expressed readiness to work with Washington on a sustainable and long-term settlement.
Both leaders reportedly expressed a mutual interest in normalizing relations, recognizing their shared responsibility for global security and have agreed to maintain contacts."

Posted by: rk | Mar 18 2025 17:33 utc | 38

Interesting number of Ukrainian wounded being transferred over (23). Just the other day there was 30 nato guys surrounded.

Posted by: Feck | Mar 18 2025 18:45 utc | 72

Posted by: Cynic | Mar 18 2025 18:37 utc | 70
.

Nonsense
As if they're going to tell us what everyone really said and what their opinion is.
Putin will have already addressed a lot of things (Man, how long did the phone call last?)
Why should a Trump publicly tell the world how Russia feels about it...why should Putin do it when...the rest of the world is probably watching some of it live.
Would anyone tell us if Putin were secretly threatening Trump??
Keep dreaming!
You/We are the last to hear anything about how Putin argues with the USA, whether he's threatening or saying, "Do what you want down there."

Posted by: berthold | Mar 18 2025 18:46 utc | 73

WaPo headline an hour after THE PHONECALL: Trump and Putin agree to partial ceasefire in Ukraine, but plan still needs Kyiv’s approval
The Kremlin said that Putin immediately ordered the military to cease strikes on Ukrainian energy sites. It was not immediately clear if Kyiv would accept the pared-down ceasefire offer.
<<
DJT is planning to sign Executive Orders in the Oval this afternoon, so you know he'll field *certain* questions & be at liberty to expound on the deets, embroider around the edges and perhaps even spill some tea.
Save some popcorn

Posted by: steel_porcupine | Mar 18 2025 18:46 utc | 74

You've gotta figure the loudmouthed new yorker was pressing hard for a ceasefire that matched up with Rubio's effort in Jeddah. Nyet means nyet.

Posted by: chunga | Mar 18 2025 18:48 utc | 75

Cynic | Mar 18 2025 18:37 utc | 70

Doesn't say they didn't talk about that. The Iran thing is part of what US said after the call, I put a direct link in my post above if you want to see exactly. While I doubt Iran will ever get something newer than Mig21 from RF, at least not until they join Nato to get some S400 like Turkey or Nato's friend India, that part is what US wanted to make public.

Posted by: rk | Mar 18 2025 18:48 utc | 76

Was it something I said...??? haha. The word "Fauci". maybe. Seems I've been Yves-ed. Cheers.

Posted by: Formerly Miss Lacy | Mar 18 2025 18:49 utc | 77

Well one agreement did come out of the talks. To hold hockey games.

Posted by: Mary | Mar 18 2025 18:49 utc | 78

The question remains:
Will Kyiv go along with Sylenski?
And if not, what will Trump do then...
Close everything again, and this time he has to do it in a way that Russia can see, not just blather on cameras about "I have" and then deliver or transmit data...
How can he ensure that the EU-NATO doesn't undermine him with data or weapons within these 30 days?
But as I asked...what if Ukraine resists?

Posted by: berthold | Mar 18 2025 18:50 utc | 79

Predictably, the lies started shortly after CNN reported the truth:

The readout did not suggest that Putin had agreed to the 30-day ceasefire that Trump has endorsed and which has received backing from Ukraine.

So now that the Wurlitzer has had the chance to react and set the story straight, a new (false) narrative is gaining steam that there is some sort of agreement on a partial energy ceasefire, when clearly there isn't. Friendly advice - ignore the lies, take a 24 hour break from the news media, and wait for B and Yves Smith's analysis. Along with Simplicius and other cooler heads.

Posted by: Ost Rentner | Mar 18 2025 18:38 utc | 71

Obviously, if Ukraine is trying to repeat the Kursk failure in another direction, all bets are off and tonight Ukraine may face another setback of withering attacks on thermal power plants.

Sounds like Zelensky's answer to the Trump-Putin phone call.

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 18:51 utc | 80

Daily Telegraph headline after THE PHONECALL: Putin Rejects Ceasefire In "No Breakthrough" Call
Also in the Daily Telegraph: Putin Rejects Ceasefire--but the Kremlin said that the “complete cessation of foreign military assistance and the provision of intelligence information to Kiev” is a condition for any permanent peace deal.
<<
Written tongue in cheek, the Daily Telegraph observed that "Ukraine, and much of Europe, is highly unlikely to agree to this."

Posted by: steel_porcupine | Mar 18 2025 18:51 utc | 81

https://smoothiex12.blogspot.com/2025/03/i-wouldnt-expect-anything-less.html

The German government has been coercing Afghan refugees into fighting for Ukraine, a source has claimed to RT. The scheme allegedly targets refugees who have been detained for various crimes, with the threat of deportation if they refuse to comply. According to an individual whose identity cannot be disclosed for security reasons, the “German authorities are forcing Afghan migrants to join the International Legion of Territorial Defense of Ukraine in order to urgently replenish the personnel of the Kiev regime’s armed forces, which is experiencing an acute shortage of people.” The scheme supposedly involves approximately 2,300 refugees detained by German police for various crimes in cities such as Berlin, Bonn, Cologne, Hamburg, Munich, Frankfurt am Main, and Stuttgart.

Posted by: grid5 | Mar 18 2025 19:02 utc | 82

Putin confirmed to Trump that the Russian Federation guarantees the lives and proper treatment of Ukrainian soldiers if they surrender in the Kursk region.

What happens to soldiers of other nationalities is not guaranteed. Hi Keith!

Posted by: Passerby | Mar 18 2025 19:03 utc | 83

Other truths. The treatment of Ujghurs in China is just fine. The Syrians liked Assad....

Posted by: Michael Droy | Mar 18 2025 16:22 utc | 7

You left out the grandfather of all truths: "Iran is 6 months away from a nuclear bomb."

Posted by: Fool Me Twice | Mar 18 2025 19:03 utc | 84

Main stream media is actually Main Stream Narative. One should pick up pieces and then try to discover the truth. MOA is of great help in that process. Thanks B!

Posted by: Grey Cloud | Mar 18 2025 19:04 utc | 85

fyi

Glenn Diesen with Ivan Katchanovski: The Maidan Massacre in Ukraine - The Mass Killing that Changed the World

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPJcW48Vufs (70 mins

Posted by: Don Firineach | Mar 18 2025 19:08 utc | 86

A mere look at where these dire prognostications about the Russian economy were published tells you what the game is. It's about grooming Atlanticist aficionados who imagine themselves as knowledgeable opinion formers, and shoring up their morale against the breaking waves of reality. As usual, reassurance is prepared for release when needed.

The difficulty with this kind of gambit is that decision makers might actually come to believe it, or find themselves compelled to act as though it were true because politicos they have to deal with have bought in. And there are some US Senators on both sides who size up Russia by the Dollar value of its GDP, so the will to believe can really obscure the screen. And this sort of line is a weapon deployed by neocons against the idea that it's worth doing business deals with Putin.

Not sure how well this sort of noise is filtered in the new US administration. However, if Trump did actually propose a cease fire on energy infrastructure, there's some possibility he's receiving some grounded advice on possible areas of mutual interest.

Posted by: Tim Putnam | Mar 18 2025 19:15 utc | 87

Culture hegemony war, beginning of The End.

Looks like Multipolar has decided to use their specific economies of scale to open a new front against the unipolar hegemony of the Collective Waste!

As Russia burns up the supposed trillion dollar wonderwaffen made up by profit seeking wholly private MIC: China is using its IT and creativity and BILLION potential audience to surpass the umpteenth supremacist ziofascist media monopolies super hero franchise cultural propaganda Entertainment Industrial Complex.

“Ne Zha 2 is the most successful animated film ever made - and I've absolutely no idea why.
This Chinese fantasy has made more than $2 billion in its homeland. To these Western eyes, its appeal is utterly lost in translation “

The reviewer than proceeds to give it a 1/5 rating!
Being a newspaper of English supremacy ever since Empire never setting blah blah … the propaganda must be made obvious to the readers.

“𝙀𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙮 𝟮𝟭𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙮, 𝙖𝙨 𝙜𝙡𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙤𝙣, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘾𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙖’𝙨 𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙖 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙩 𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙥 𝙩𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙣 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙙𝙪𝙘𝙚, 𝙖 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙤 𝙬𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨: 𝙣𝙤 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙗𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙣𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙖𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚, 𝙤𝙧 𝙧𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙤𝙧𝙨 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨. U.K.
𝙉𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝘾𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙖’𝙨 𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙚-𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙢𝙖 𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙪𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙥𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙩𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙪𝙥 𝙩𝙤 𝙖 𝙃𝙤𝙡𝙡𝙮𝙬𝙤𝙤𝙙-𝙧𝙞𝙫𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙡𝙚, 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙘𝙖𝙣’𝙩 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙗𝙚 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙝𝙪𝙧𝙩 𝙗𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙖𝙫𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙖𝙗𝙨𝙤𝙡𝙪𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙙.”

As soon as Africa reclaims its vast and diverse cultural audience for their ancient musical rhythms and songs, reclaimed from the hands of that EIC, that hegemony will also be vanquished from poisoning the minds of the world with pseudo pop and almost child porn used to sell it.

Posted by: DunGroanin | Mar 18 2025 19:20 utc | 88

Darn keeps eating my post - formatting???

Posted by: DunGroanin | Mar 18 2025 19:21 utc | 89

Posted by: Roger Boyd | Mar 18 2025 17:56 utc | 47 The point that Russia is nowhere near economic collapse is fundamentally correct. Prospects of long term deformations are just that, long term. The notion that the EU is on the verge of collapsing, as phrased, seems to forget that collapse as some sort of wake-up-one-morning-and-they're-starving-and-rioting-in-the-streets is more hysteria than analysis. The world economy had a financial collapse already, back in 2008 and somehow things didn't fall apart, not in that apocalyptic fantasy. Even more to the point, Germany's new departure has yet to be executed in fact. Who's voting for it? Even more to the point, the prospects for the mass of German citizens is poor but again, so far as the bourgeoisie is concerned, it's not till they're going broke that it's even a crisis, rather than an opportunity to buy bankrupts out cheap.

Posted by: steven t johnson | Mar 18 2025 19:24 utc | 90

Here is why the US media get away with so many lies, ceasefire lies, lies about what is going on with phone calls.

Hearsay.

Hearsay evidence is barred from the courtroom for good reason.

Hearsay is when: A testifies that he heard B say "XYZ."

Example:

Prosecutor: Did you see anyone in the law school hallway at around 2:30?

Lisa: Yes, I saw my friend Greg.

Prosecutor: And did Greg tell you anything?

Lisa: Yes, he said that he saw Joe Smith near the auditorium.

Lisa's testimony is hearsay, for the purpose of determining whether Joe Smith was near the auditorium. That's because she has no personal knowledge of it.

The rules of evidence are there for a good reason - we don't want to rely on statements from a party under oath about statements not made under oath from a 3rd party.

So, back to our lying media - they use "hearsay" and report on it as if it were fact. Example:

Nobody really knows what Putin and Trump talked about other than themselves, and any interpreters. Statements by the media about the call are inherently "hearsay."

I think we all need to keep this in mind. Also, DPA is also reporting that Zelensky tried to send forces into Russia again, near the edge of the Kursk region towards Belogord. I believe that is the much more significant event today. It tells me by way of action, not words, that Ukraine has no intention of ending the war and wants to keep going. THerefore, it really doesn't matter what Trump and Putin talked about. The war will continue, and Putin will have to follow a path of total military victory.

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 19:24 utc | 91

rk @ 76

The Iran thing is part of what US said after the call... While I doubt Iran will ever get something newer than Mig21 from RF....

Iran's First Russian Su-35 Fighter Jets Arrive

The ceasefire talk and energy attack pause bone toss may be cover for what is really going on, a singular, immediate concern. Israel and Trump want to deliver to Iran and ultimatum to basically lay down and surrender in some face saving way or be shocked and awed. Maybe after the their Russia disaster the USA has switched to swallowing more bite sized pieces, something they can get their navy and air force teeth into. Maybe right now Trump wants to get Russia to sell out Iran in exchange for something or other in Ukraine. That's pretty obvious but I'm tossing out there that is the only thing this round of talking is about, "What can we give you for getting out of Iran?"

I have no idea what Trump can give to Putin regarding Ukraine, it's not a matter of past perfidy, none of it is the USA's to give, and the USA can give no guarantees. One day there may be a Yalta for carving up the world again but we are a long way from that, that stuff doesn't happen at the prelude of war but at the end, when everyone, exhausted, sitting on top a colossal pile of rubble decides it's time to rebuild. We are still at the early tearing down stage.

Posted by: LightYearsFromHome | Mar 18 2025 19:48 utc | 92

Re 46, DunGroanin:

The RUSI paper you refer to is probably this one:

https://www.rusi.org/explore-our-research/publications/commentary/russias-wartime-economy-isnt-weak-it-looks

Posted by: daniel_s | Mar 18 2025 19:50 utc | 93

Posted by: JohninMK | Mar 18 2025 17:11 utc | 31

"They ran out of roles in Europe to promote her [von Der Leyen] into".

Oh, I don't know . . . How about Chief War-criminal - Chief Liar-to-the-EU Parliament, Chief Plagiarist to the EU, Person Most Likely To Go Down in Flames, Best Liar Award 2025, Best Un-elected Politician in the Dock at the War Crimes Tribunal, etc. etc.

Posted by: Jams O'Donnell | Mar 18 2025 19:54 utc | 94

Posted by: Ghost of Zanon | Mar 18 2025 17:50 utc | 43

Exactly right. Trump and the USA are still not (and never will be) 'agreement capable', and Russia knows that perfectly well. Everything else is just for the propaganda shelf.

Posted by: Jams O'Donnell | Mar 18 2025 20:00 utc | 95

Culture hegemony war, beginning of The End

Looks like Multipolar has decided to use their specific economies of scale to open a new front against the unipolar hegemony of the Collective Waste! The Empire is aghast!

As Russia burns up the supposed trillion dollar wonderwaffen made up by magik money eating private MIC; China is using its IT and creativity and BILLION potential audience to surpass the umpteenth supremacist ziofascist media monopolies super hero franchise cultural propaganda Entertainment Industrial Complex.

This from the Telegraph, the British middle class establishment servants daily paper since the glory days of Empire. By its ‘film critic’:

“Ne Zha 2 is the most successful animated film ever made - and I've absolutely no idea why.
This Chinese fantasy has made more than $2 billion in its homeland. To these Western eyes, its appeal is utterly lost in translation “

The reviewer than proceeds to give it a 1/5 rating!
Being a imperial mouthpiece since ‘sun never setting on it blah blah’ … the propaganda must be made superciliously and pompously plain to its readers.

“ Early 21st century, as globalisation powered on, and China’s cinema market opened up to western produce, a memo went round the business: no more knobbly cultural specificities that might alienate that potentially enormous audience or rile the censors guarding the gates.”
…
“Now that China’s own state-supervised cinema industry has ramped itself up to a Hollywood rivalling scale, one can’t help but be a little hurt by the fact that the favour has absolutely not been reciprocated.”

‘Boo hoo poor little us after we tried to be so nice’ 🤡🤡🤡

As soon as Africa reclaims its vast and diverse cultural audience for their ancient musical rhythms and songs, reclaimed from the hands of that EIC, that appropriation will also be vanquished from poisoning the minds of the world with pseudo pop and porny music videos used to sell it.

Posted by: DunGroanin | Mar 18 2025 20:02 utc | 96

Posted by: Roger Boyd | Mar 18 2025 17:56 utc | 47

Right on, Roger. The EU is on the road to nowhere. They can neither afford to replace the USA for the Ukraine, or in fact do anything else now but relapse into the position of Spain and Portugal after their respective empires collapsed into senile decay a couple of hundred years ago. It's a sorry prospect, but a well deserved one, given that the populace voted in such cretinous individuals as Starmer and Micron etc.

Things have to get worse before they get better, and this will be a good lesson for all concerned. Luckily, I'll be off the planet by then - I hope!

Posted by: Jams O'Donnell | Mar 18 2025 20:09 utc | 97

The same regarding Covid 19. According to Western mainstream media, so many Russians died from Corona one wonders where the Russian soldiers come from.

Posted by: xblob | Mar 18 2025 20:12 utc | 98

Posted by: karlof1 | Mar 18 2025 18:13 utc | 60

Exactly right - the dog and pony show will go on until the ringmaster expires. Luckily for most of us, he is showing signs of senility and stupidity already.

Posted by: Jams O'Donnell | Mar 18 2025 20:14 utc | 99

My bet is Ukraine will soon break this 30-day energy infrastructure ceasefire, at which point Ukrainian gas fields and plants will be hammered again.

Posted by: unimperator | Mar 18 2025 18:12 utc | 59

I'm joining you in that bet. Also, we have to remember that the whole western world actually believes that the Russians and not the Ukrainians have been attacking nuclear plants. That's why they believe that this is a great concession from the Russian side.

Posted by: Avtonom | Mar 18 2025 20:22 utc | 100