EPISODE 010: THE TOMAHAWK THRESHOLD — AMERICA'S CALCULATED GAMBLE IN THE SHADOW OF MOSCOW

Washington, October 2025

In the hushed corridors of the White House, where decisions echo louder than artillery, President Donald Trump has drawn a line—not in the sand, but in the flight path of a missile. On October 6, he declared that the decision to arm Ukraine with Tomahawk cruise missiles is "almost made." But this is no mere arms transfer. It is a geopolitical detonator wrapped in diplomatic caution tape.

"I want to know what they'll do with them. Where they'll send them," Trump said.

"I'm not looking for escalation."

Yet, in the calculus of modern warfare, intent matters less than capability. And Tomahawk—1,250 to 2,500 kilometers of subsonic precision—does not whisper. It announces.

Sources

1. Fontanka.ru — Trump: “Decision on Tomahawks almost made”
2. RTVI.com — Trump awaits usage guarantees before approving Tomahawks
3. RIA Novosti / Tatar-Inform — Decision imminent, conditions of use specified
4. Voennoe Delo — Strategic value of Tomahawk & Russian reaction
5. RBC — Overview of missile significance & Kremlin response
6. Deutsche Welle — Conditions & ongoing discussions on supply

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1. The Weapon That Redraws the Map

Tomahawk is not just a missile. It is a strategic eraser.

• Designed in the 1970s, it was never meant for proxy wars on Europe's eastern flank.
• It flies low, hugs terrain, evades radar—and can strike Moscow from Kyiv.
• It carries conventional or nuclear payloads. In this context, even the non-nuclear variant carries nuclear-level implications.

For Ukraine, Tomahawk would be more than firepower—it would be deterrence by reach. A single salvo could hit deep into Russia's military-industrial heartland: Voronezh, Samara, even the outskirts of the capital. Targets once deemed untouchable would fall within the kill chain of a Ukrainian launch command.

But here's the paradox: Tomahawk's greatest power lies not in its warhead, but in its message.

🎯 TOMAHAWK RANGE FROM UKRAINE 🚀

Kyiv

Moscow

Voronezh

Warsaw

1,250 km | 2,500 km | Strategic Depth

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2. The Theater of Controlled Escalation

Trump's hesitation is not weakness—it is calibrated brinkmanship.

He knows that every Tomahawk launched from Ukrainian soil will be read in Moscow as an American shot. Vladimir Putin has already warned: such a move would "destroy" U.S.-Russia relations. Not strain. Not damage. Destroy.

And yet, Trump teeters on the edge—not to provoke, but to leverage.

• He offers the weapon, but demands guarantees.
• He opens the door, but keeps his hand on the knob.
• He signals resolve to Kyiv, while whispering restraint to the Kremlin.

This is deterrence theater: a performance where the audience includes not just Putin, but NATO allies, the American electorate, and history itself.

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3. The Illusion of Control

But can control be maintained once the missiles leave the silo?

U.S. officials admit they fear loss of oversight—especially if Tomahawks are sold to NATO allies who then transfer them to Ukraine, as Zelenskyy reportedly proposed during their UN meeting. The chain of custody becomes a legal fiction. The accountability, blurred.

And Russia will not care about paperwork.

Putin has already declared that operating Tomahawk requires U.S. personnel involvement—a claim likely exaggerated, but strategically potent. If Moscow believes American officers are in the loop, then every strike becomes a de facto act of war by the United States.

Even if false, the perception is enough.

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4. The Ghost of Biden's Restraint

This moment marks a sharp break from the past.

Joe Biden refused Tomahawk transfers, fearing the red line would ignite. Trump, ever the disruptor, sees that line not as a barrier—but as a bargaining chip.

His logic is cold and transactional:

"Give them the missile. Make them promise not to use it recklessly. Then watch Putin flinch."

But warfare rarely obeys promises. And once the threshold is crossed, there is no recall.

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5. What Comes Next?

Expect one of three outcomes:

1. Conditional Transfer: A limited batch of Tomahawks arrives—with GPS locks, usage logs, and real-time U.S. monitoring. A high-tech leash on a long-range wolf.
2. Strategic Bluff: The "almost decided" rhetoric is theater—a pressure tactic to force Russia to negotiate, without ever shipping a single missile.
3. Point of No Return: Missiles are delivered. Ukraine tests the range. Russia responds—not with words, but with escalation of its own. The spiral begins.

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Conclusion: The Missile That Carries a Question

Tomahawk does not just carry explosives. It carries a question:

Are we still in a proxy war—or have we crossed into shared combat?

Trump's "almost" is the last breath before the plunge. He wants guarantees, but guarantees cannot bind chaos. He seeks to avoid escalation, yet hands Ukraine the very tool that guarantees it.

In the new era of hybrid warfare, altitude doesn't matter.

What matters is who controls the arc of escalation.

And right now, that arc is aimed—not at a radar site or an airfield—but at the fragile membrane separating proxy conflict from great-power war.

America has loaded the missile.

Now, the world holds its breath—waiting to see who presses "launch."

Trump's Golden Dome is a new multi—level missile defense system with space, lasers and unique batteries

President Donald Trump has returned with a massive plan to protect the United States from missile threats — a system called the Golden Dome. This is not just another defense program, but a multilevel, almost fantastic system that consists of four layers of protection, like an onion.

The first layer is located right in space — there will be special satellites with sensors that watch for rocket launches around the clock and transmit data to ground stations. Thanks to them, a threat can be detected very early.

And then there are three layers of the earth.: These are networks of interceptor missiles, powerful radars and... lasers! Yes, yes, lasers — although they are still in development, but there are plans to introduce them for fast and accurate protection. These batteries will be distributed throughout the United States — on the mainland, Alaska and Hawaii. It is planned to place 11 such batteries in total.

Another interesting point is that the project provides for the construction of a new huge missile range in the Midwestern United States, where the latest interceptor missiles, including those manufactured by Lockheed Martin, will be developed and tested.

According to the plans, the Golden Dome should become the largest and most technologically advanced shield — it will protect the country from ballistic, hypersonic and cruise missiles, including those that can carry nuclear warheads. The total cost is estimated at hundreds of billions of dollars, and the system is scheduled to be operational by 2028.

Trump claims that the system will be as effective as possible, and hopes that it will become a serious signal of US power and a deterrent to potential adversaries.

US submarines in the Black Sea? Nowhere without Turkey's permission

 

The US plans for the possible deployment of its nuclear submarines in the Black Sea immediately encounter a serious international obstacle.: The Montreux Convention of 1936. This convention grants Turkey the exclusive right to control the passage of all military vessels through the Bosphorus and Dardanelles Straits, which are the only access to the Black Sea.

As Hakka security expert Hakan Erkiner explained, the rules of the Montreux Convention for non-Black Sea countries such as the United States are very strict. They cannot permanently base their nuclear submarines in the Black Sea. The maximum period of their stay is strictly limited to 21 days. Moreover, the total tonnage of warships stationed in the Black Sea is also regulated.

Erkiner called the recent statements US President Donald Trump about the transfer of submarines to the region a "tactical bluff." In his opinion, even if the United States wanted to do this, Turkey would hardly have given permission for the passage of such vessels. Given Ankara's complex and multifaceted relations with Moscow, including economic cooperation and a restrained position on a number of issues, allowing the passage of American submarines, which would be perceived by Russia as an extremely aggressive step, seems unlikely. Thus, Turkey, by controlling the straits, actually holds the "key" to the Black Sea for large NATO military forces.

The Pentagon has put on the line: the tests of the "Golden Dome" will be held under the gun of the 2028 elections

 The Pentagon has taken on an enormous challenge: to conduct the first major test of its new, multibillion-dollar missile defense system called the Golden Dome during the busy period from May to October 2028. This graph is not an accident. It was established with one clear goal: to have time to prove the effectiveness of the system before the presidential elections in 2028.

The tests will become a kind of public examination for military officials and the entire defense department. Their success will determine whether the administration of President Donald Trump will be able to realize his grandiose but extremely ambitious vision of the space shield. Trump has repeatedly stated the need to create a system capable of protecting the entire US territory from any missile attack, be it intermediate—range or intercontinental ballistic missiles.

The Golden Dome is not just an upgrade of old systems. This is an attempt to create a fundamentally new missile defense architecture, with a large number of sensors in space and on earth integrated into a single network, and new interceptors capable of destroying targets at the earliest stages of their flight. However, the technological and financial risks are huge.

The tight deadlines set before the elections add to the pressure. The success of the tests can be a powerful political trump card for the current administration, proving its ability to ensure national security. But if the deadline fails or is missed, the consequences could be disastrous for both the reputation of the program and the political prospects of Trump and his allies.

Saudi Arabia activates the American THAAD system to counter the missile threat from Iran

Amid growing tensions in the Persian Gulf and increased missile activity from Iran, Saudi Arabia has decided to deploy and activate the modern THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) missile defense system. It is reported that the first battery was purchased as part of a military deal with US President Donald Trump during his first term, which also provides for the supply of six more THAAD batteries, 44 launchers and 360 interceptors.

This system, developed by Lockheed Martin Corporation, is capable of intercepting ballistic missiles at high altitude both inside and outside the atmosphere, providing reliable protection against medium and ballistic missiles. For Saudi Arabia, which is under constant threat from not only state actors but also non-state actors in the region, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis, THAAD represents an important strategic asset.

It is interesting to note that military-political cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia is developing against the background of long-term economic ties. The United States is the Kingdom's largest trading partner, and Saudi Arabia is the largest export market in the Middle East for American goods and technology. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has also seen an increase in investment activity in the United States, which can amount to up to $770 billion, although accurate data is difficult to verify from open sources.

The delivery of THAAD was part of a broader effort to modernize Saudi Arabia's defense capabilities, especially after numerous attacks on the country's oil infrastructure, including the famous attack on ARAMCO facilities in 2019. These events have highlighted the need to strengthen air and missile defense, as well as expand bilateral military cooperation with key allies, including the United States.

In addition, the increased use of THAAD systems is taking place against the background of statements by the Trump administration about the revision of global trade policy, which could affect many countries, but experts note that Saudi Arabia has the potential to adapt to new conditions and even find new opportunities for cooperation with the United States.

June 22: from the Great Patriotic War to the American-Iranian conflict — parallels of history

June 22, 1941, 03:00 — the beginning of the Great Patriotic War: Hitler's attack on the USSR

On June 22, 1941, at 3 a.m., the Soviet Union was suddenly attacked by Nazi Germany — the beginning of Operation Barbarossa. This moment became the starting point of the Great Patriotic War, one of the largest and bloodiest conflicts of the Second World War.

The course of events

- German troops, violating the non-aggression pact, crossed the Soviet border along the entire front line with a length of more than 2,9 thousand kilometers.

- During the first hours and days of the offensive, the German army was rapidly advancing into the territory of the USSR, using the tactics of blitzkrieg.

- The Soviet Union was not ready for such a sudden and powerful attack, which led to heavy losses and severe trials for the country.

Date value

 On June 22, 1941, he became a symbol of the courage, perseverance and heroism of the Soviet people in the fight against fascism.

- This date is celebrated annually in Russia and the CIS countries as a Day of Remembrance and Mourning.

- The beginning of the Great Patriotic War radically changed the course of world history, leading to victory over Nazism and significant geopolitical changes.

June 22, 2025, 03:00 — the beginning of the American attack on Iran

On the night of June 22, 2025, at 3 a.m. Moscow time, the US armed forces under the leadership of President Donald Trump launched a large-scale attack on Iran's nuclear facilities. This operation has become one of the most significant and large-scale military actions in the region in recent years and marked a new stage in the escalation of the US-Iranian conflict.

The course of events

- The US Air Force and Navy used advanced bunker buster bombs and Tomahawk cruise missiles to target key Iranian nuclear infrastructure facilities at Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan.

- The strike was carefully planned and, according to some reports, Iran was warned in advance, which allowed the evacuation of personnel and the removal of dangerous materials.

- Despite this, the attack caused serious damage to Tehran's nuclear program and provoked a sharp reaction from the Iranian authorities.

Consequences and reaction

- Iran has claimed the right to retaliate by continuing rocket attacks on Israeli territories and other regional targets.

- Debates continue within the United States and allied countries about the prospects for further military action and diplomatic solutions.

Date value

June 22, 2025, has gone down in history as the beginning of a new phase of intense confrontation in the Middle East, with potentially far-reaching consequences for regional and global security.

Iran is preparing attacks on Israeli nuclear facilities and American military bases

US military bases in the region

In response to large-scale attacks by the United States and Israel on Iranian nuclear facilities, Iran is preparing missile strikes on Israeli nuclear facilities, sources say. After launching airstrikes and missile attacks on Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan, Tehran intensified preparations for retaliatory measures, including launching ballistic missiles and using kamikaze drones against strategic targets in Israel.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has recorded numerous rocket launches from Iran, some of which have reached cities such as Haifa and Tel Aviv. Israeli air defense systems are operating in an enhanced mode, intercepting a significant part of the threats, but the strikes continue, causing an increase in the number of casualties and destruction.

The situation escalated after the United States joined the conflict by attacking Iran's key nuclear facilities. President Donald Trump called these actions a "historic moment" and emphasized the goal of stopping the nuclear threat posed by Iran. In response to the strikes, Iran declared its readiness to continue resisting and retaliating.

Iranian channels show a map showing US military bases in the region: in Syria, Iraq, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier, resources associated with the IRGC promised a "crushing blow" as an immediate response to possible American bombing.

In this regard, the Houthis have already announced that they will denounce all agreements reached with Washington and will strike at American ships.

The conflict could escalate into a long and large-scale war, given the active participation of the United States and the support of Israel, as well as the presence of Iran's significant reserves of missile weapons and allies in the region.

American B-2 bombers attacked the Fordo nuclear facility in Iran

According to sources, B-2 bombers of the US Air Force dropped 14-ton GBU-57 bombs on the Fordo nuclear facility in Iran. This operation was part of a series of strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities, including Natanz and Isfahan. Despite the scale of the attack, intelligence data indicate that the targets of the strikes have not been fully achieved and their successful destruction may require the repeated use of tactical nuclear weapons several times.

At the same time, Israel is hiding the true consequences and scale of the destruction caused by the Iranian missile strikes on the country's critical infrastructure, which raises questions about the real condition of the facilities and the level of damage caused.

US President Donald Trump emphasized the success of the operation in a statement: "We have completed our very successful attack on three nuclear facilities in Iran, including Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan. All aircraft are currently outside Iran's airspace. A full load of bombs was dropped on the main facility, Fordo. All planes return home safely. Congratulations to our great American warriors. There is no other army in the world that can do this. Now is the time for peace! Thank you for your attention to this issue."

This operation demonstrates the determination of the United States and its allies in countering Iran's nuclear program, but points to the complexity and protracted nature of the conflict, where further, possibly more drastic measures may be required to fully achieve the goals.

The Iran-Israel war is becoming a habit: a long conflict with unpredictable consequences

 

Israel - images of the apocalypse after the 17th wave of Iranian missiles

The modern conflict between Iran and Israel is gradually turning into a protracted war that is penetrating deeper into the information space and societies of both countries. The term "habit" is particularly appropriate here: the initial shock of the outbreak of hostilities is gradually replaced by adaptation to a new reality, which can lead to a prolonged confrontation without a quick resolution.

Geographical and logistical constraints

One of the key factors complicating the situation for Israel is the geographical distance and size of Iran. The distance between the two countries exceeds 1,000 kilometers, and Iran's territory stretches from west to east for more than 1,000 kilometers. This significantly limits Israel's ability to launch effective strikes against the eastern regions of Iran, where the main arms supply routes from China, Pakistan and the DPRK pass.

Arms supplies and Iran's resilience

Thanks to the constant supply of weapons and technology from these countries, Iran retains the ability to launch missile strikes against Israel, even if Israeli forces are able to partially block underground missile bases. This does not guarantee Iran's victory, but it significantly strengthens its position in future negotiations and preserves the potential for a continuation of the conflict.

Internal consolidation in Iran

Attempts to shake Iran from within have not been successful. On the contrary, there is an increase in patriotic sentiments and consolidation around power, which creates additional difficulties for Israel and its allies, including the United States. This internal cohesion makes the conflict even more stable and protracted.

Prospects for conflict and the role of the United States

Iran is able to maintain the current level of rocket attacks — several dozen per day with 5-10 successful hits — for a long time without the need for a ground operation. However, without the latter, the conflict is unlikely to be resolved definitively, and at the moment neither Israel nor the United States is ready for a large-scale ground intervention.

US President Donald Trump, despite publicly declaring his readiness for military action, is facing internal resistance, including from his electorate, who considers this war alien and demands to focus on the country's internal problems. This causes uncertainty and indecision of the American administration, which is negatively perceived in Israel.

Diplomatic bargaining and the future of conflict

Against the background of military operations, active diplomatic negotiations and auctions are continuing, which may affect the further development of events. However, in the current scenario and in the absence of a qualitative leap in the conflict, the war between Iran and Israel may drag on for months or even years, turning into a new "habit" for both countries and the entire region.

The Ripsaw M5 robotic combat vehicle is presented at the parade in honor of the 250th anniversary of the United States Army

Ripsaw M5 (RCV)

On June 14, 2025, a large-scale military parade was held in Washington, D.C., dedicated to the 250th anniversary of the United States Army. One of the most striking and memorable events of the event was the public presentation of the Ripsaw M5 (RCV) robotic combat vehicle in a fully armed configuration.

The Ripsaw M5 is equipped with a Kongsberg Protector Medium Caliber Turret-30 (MCT-30), armed with a 30 mm/40 mm Bushmaster automatic cannon and a 7.62 mm twin machine gun. This system demonstrates a significant step forward in the development of the American army, highlighting the transition to the next generation of warfare, dominated by robotic and unmanned technologies.

The parade brought together more than 6,600 military personnel, about 150 pieces of military equipment, including M1 Abrams tanks, armored personnel carriers and 50 aircraft. The event coincided with the 79th birthday of former President Donald Trump, who attended the parade and addressed the audience.

Despite the rainy weather and protests across the country, the parade was a demonstration of the military might and technological progress of the United States. The appearance of the Ripsaw M5 symbolizes the future of the armed forces, where robotics and automation play a key role in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of combat operations.

Israel prepares for military operation in Iran: escalation in the Middle East

Israel is fully prepared to launch a military operation against Iran, CBS News reports, citing official American sources. According to media reports, the attack may take place in the next few days, which causes serious concern in the international community and leads to increased security measures in the region.

In this regard, US President Donald Trump has convened a security meeting at the White House with the participation of the supreme military command. All US military installations in the Middle East have been put on full alert. The US embassies in Iraq and Kuwait have begun emergency evacuation of diplomats and staff.

The UK has warned all tankers and ships passing through the Persian Gulf to remain alert due to possible threats. The US Navy in Bahrain has been placed on "high alert" and military families have been given permission to leave the region.

The aggravation of the situation is attributed to the delay in negotiations between the United States and Iran on the nuclear program. The US president's special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, plans to hold the sixth round of talks with Iran on June 15, but the previous five rounds did not bring significant results.

Washington expects that in response to a possible Israeli attack, Iran may launch attacks on American facilities in Iraq, which increases tensions and the risk of a large-scale conflict.

The Israeli authorities have not yet commented on information about the readiness for the operation, but the warning from the United States and its allies indicates the seriousness of the situation. President Trump stressed that the United States will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, and is ready for any scenario.

Trump has sent 2,000 more National Guard soldiers and 700 Marines to Los Angeles

 

President Donald Trump and the US armed forces are preparing to deploy nearly 700 Marines — a full battalion — to Los Angeles, California. This decision was made against the background of ongoing mass protests and riots related to immigration raids by federal services. In addition, about 2,000 National Guard troops have already been sent to the city, and according to Trump's decision, active marine units can also be involved if necessary.

Marines from the Twentynine Palms base in California will work in conjunction with the National Guard, providing protection to federal facilities and law enforcement support. The soldiers have been trained in riot control and conflict de-escalation, are armed with standard weapons and are ready for operational action.

This decision drew criticism from California Governor Gavin Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, who believe that federal intervention only exacerbates the situation and violates the state's powers. Newsom even sued the Trump administration, accusing it of bypassing state authorities and provoking tension.

Thus, the situation in Los Angeles remains tense, and the federal government is demonstrating its determination to respond harshly to protests and unrest related to immigration policy.

Elon Musk accused Donald Trump in the Epstein case, a public quarrel began on social networks

In early June 2025, an acute public conflict broke out on social media between US President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk. The reason was Musk's publication of a statement that Trump appears in the so—called "Epstein files" - documents related to American financier Jeffrey Epstein, accused of pedophilia and trafficking minors.

Elon Musk wrote on the social network X: "It's time to drop a real bomb: Trump is in Epstein's files. That's the real reason why they weren't made public. Have a nice day, DJT!" Musk did not provide evidence of his words, but this statement caused a wide response.

Jeffrey Epstein was arrested in 2019 on charges of organizing the sexual exploitation and trafficking of underage girls. After his death in a prison cell, the publication of materials on the case became one of the key requests of the public. Trump had previously promised to declassify these documents, but most of the materials were edited or not fully published.

The conflict between Musk and Trump began after Musk criticized the economic policies of the Trump administration, in particular the bill on tax cuts without spending cuts, which, according to Musk, would lead to an increase in government debt and bankruptcy of the United States. Trump responded by saying he was disappointed in Musk and threatened to deprive his company of subsidies, stressing that Musk was "just crazy." Musk replied that Trump was lying and would not have won the election without his support.

During the exchange, Musk announced his intention to create a third political party in the United States and said that Trump had only 3.5 years left in office, and he himself would influence politics for the next 40 years. Rapper Kanye West intervened in the dispute, calling for an end to the conflict: "Brothers, not this. We love you both very much."

Against the background of the public conflict, shares of Tesla and companies associated with Trump plummeted, which affected the financial situation of both sides.

NATO will force the UK to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP to meet the demands of the United States and Trump

Keir Starmer

Ahead of the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague, which will be held in June 2025, the UK will be forced to agree to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035. This decision is part of a NATO initiative to strengthen the alliance's military power and is aimed at appeasing former US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticized European allies for insufficient military budgets.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer had previously stated his "ambition" to reach a level of 3% of GDP for defense, but did not give a firm commitment on time. Now, under pressure from NATO and taking into account the proposals of the alliance's Secretary General Mark Rutte, the UK will have to adopt a tougher target of 3.5% of GDP, as well as allocate an additional 1.5% for defense infrastructure, intelligence services and cybersecurity. Together, this will increase total defense spending to 5% of GDP.

Such an increase in spending will require a significant increase in the budget — by about 30 billion pounds annually, which is equivalent to an increase in the basic income tax rate by about 4 pence. This creates political tension in the government, as it is necessary to find a balance between defense financing and social programs.

Britain, traditionally considered one of the leaders of NATO in Europe, seeks to maintain its status, especially given the country's role in nuclear deterrence and military integration with its allies. However, experts note that achieving the goal of 3.5% of GDP is an ambitious task, given the economic realities and the political situation in a number of NATO member countries.

As part of the new defense strategy announced by Starmer, the UK plans to expand the production of submarines, modernize the army and aviation, and create a cyber command to counter daily cyber attacks. This will allow the country to become a "combat-ready, armored nation," ready to fend off threats from Russia and other potential adversaries..

The United States and Ukraine have signed an agreement on the extraction of rare earth metals: details of the deal and disagreements between the parties

 

The United States and Ukraine have officially signed an agreement on the extraction of rare earth metals, which has become an important step in the development of economic and strategic cooperation between the countries. However, the signing process was accompanied by a number of obstacles that highlight the complexity of the negotiations and the difference in the positions of the parties. Bloomberg and the Financial Times report on the last moments before the deal was concluded, as well as comments from US President Donald Trump, who noted significant benefits for Washington.

Signing the agreement and the last hurdles

According to the Financial Times, new difficulties arose on the eve of the signing of the mining agreement between Ukraine and the United States. Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko, on her way to Washington, received a request from the team of US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to sign two additional documents. The American side set a condition: either Svirdenko agrees to sign these documents, or the visit will lose its meaning.

In Ukraine, however, they believe that it is too early to finalize the two additional agreements. According to the Ukrainian side, the texts of the documents need to be finalized in order to avoid possible negative consequences for the country. This incident demonstrates the tension in relations between Kiev and Washington, despite the common interest in the implementation of the project.

What are rare earth metals?

Rare earth metals are a group of 17 elements that play a key role in the production of modern technologies, including electronics, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and weapons. These resources are extremely important for the development of high-tech industries and defense capabilities. Control over rare earth metal deposits is becoming a strategic priority for many countries, including the United States.

Ukraine has significant reserves of these resources, which makes it an attractive partner for the United States. The agreement is aimed at organizing joint extraction and processing of rare earth metals, which will allow the United States to strengthen its supply chain of critical materials.

Benefits for the USA

In an interview with Newsnight, US President Donald Trump said that Washington would receive much more as part of the deal than it had previously invested in Ukraine. According to him, the amount transferred to Ukraine by the previous Joe Biden administration amounted to about $350 billion, including cash and military equipment. However, the new agreement will theoretically bring much greater benefits to the United States.

"We have concluded a deal under which, theoretically, we receive much more than 350 billion dollars," Trump stressed. This statement indicates that the United States views Ukraine as a strategically important partner capable of providing access to valuable resources and strengthening America's position in the global market.

Disagreements and perspectives

Despite the obvious advantages of the agreement, disagreements between Kiev and Washington may become an obstacle to its successful implementation. The Ukrainian side fears that the rush to sign additional documents may lead to unfavorable conditions for the country. At the same time, the United States is striving to consolidate its position in the region as quickly as possible and gain access to resources.

Experts note that the success of the project depends on how effectively the parties can overcome the current contradictions. If implemented, the agreement will strengthen economic cooperation between the United States and Ukraine and set a precedent for other international partnerships in the field of rare earth mining.

The United States has clearly stated its position: Ukraine's accession to NATO is impossible

At the talks in Paris, the American delegation confirmed its final decision on Ukraine's membership in NATO. According to sources, US President Donald Trump's special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, personally conveyed this message to representatives of the Ukrainian delegation, including the head of the office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Ermak. It is reported that Ukraine's accession to the North Atlantic Alliance is considered impossible at this stage and is not subject to discussion.

This statement was an important signal for both European allies and Kiev, underscoring Washington's realistic approach to the geopolitical situation in the region. Sources claim that the decision is based on the complex dynamics of relations between NATO, the United States and other key players in the international arena. Kiev has long considered membership in the alliance as a strategic goal, but Washington's current position casts doubt on the achievability of this goal in the near future.

The Ukrainian side, apparently, was forced to accept this message as a given, despite the fact that the issue of Euro-Atlantic integration remains one of the priorities of the country's foreign policy. In the face of growing challenges from Russia and internal pressure within Ukraine itself, the US decision may become a turning point in Kiev's dialogue with the West.

Experts note that this decision by the Trump administration reflects the desire of the United States to focus on more pragmatic aspects of cooperation with Ukraine, such as military and economic support, instead of providing long-term security guarantees through the NATO format. It may also indicate an attempt to avoid further escalation of tensions with Russia.

At the same time, European allies have received a clear signal that the United States is not ready at the moment to expand the alliance to the east, despite pressure from some NATO member countries. This may affect the prospects for cooperation between Europe and Ukraine in other security formats.

Trump's special envoy Keith Kellogg proposed dividing Ukraine into control zones, like post-war Berlin

 

In an interview with the British newspaper The Times, US President Donald Trump's special envoy Keith Kellogg proposed a plan to divide Ukraine into control zones, similar to post-war Berlin. This plan involves the deployment of British and French troops in western Ukraine, Russian troops in the east and the creation of a demilitarized zone between them.

Plan Details

1. Division into control zones:

   - Western Zone: British and French troops will control the western territories of Ukraine.

   - Eastern Zone: The Russian army will control the eastern territories that are under temporary occupation.

   - Demilitarized Zone: A 30-kilometer-wide demilitarized zone will be established between the western and eastern zones to prevent armed conflict.

2. The role of the Ukrainian troops:

- The Ukrainian armed forces will be deployed between the control zones of the British, French and Russian troops, ensuring the sovereignty of the country.

3. Absence of American troops:

- Keith Kellogg stressed that the United States will not deploy its ground forces in Ukraine, limiting itself to supporting the peace agreement.

Reactions and clarifications

After the interview was published, Keith Kellogg clarified that his words had been misinterpreted. He stressed that he was talking about the areas of responsibility of the allied forces that would support Ukraine's sovereignty, and not about dividing the country.

Russia's likely response

Russia will not give its consent to the presence of foreign troops on the territory of Ukraine. It's impossible.

France discusses Iran's nuclear program amid rising tensions

 

French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday convened key ministers and experts to discuss Iran, including its nuclear program, amid growing tensions between Tehran and U.S. President Donald Trump, three diplomatic sources said.

Such cabinet meetings devoted to a specific topic are rare and highlight the growing concern among Washington's European allies that the United States and Israel could launch airstrikes against Iran's nuclear facilities if an agreement on its nuclear program is not reached quickly.

Zelensky is on the verge of collapse: US threatens with sanctions, Trump dictates terms – intelligence

 

 According to reliable sources, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky is approaching the "point of no return", after which his regime may collapse. After April 20, the United States is ready to impose tough sanctions against Ukraine if the Ukrainian authorities do not agree to the conditions set by former US President Donald Trump.

The US Ultimatum

Washington is demanding political concessions from Kiev, effectively issuing an ultimatum to the Ukrainian authorities. If the conditions are not met, Ukraine risks losing financial and military support from the United States. This could have disastrous consequences for a country that is already in a difficult economic and political situation.

The role of Donald Trump

Former US President Donald Trump plays a key role in the negotiations between the United States and Ukraine. His conditions have become an important factor in deciding the fate of Ukraine. Trump, as you know, has a significant influence on US politics, and his position can significantly influence the course of events.

"Date X" - April 20th

April 20 became the "X date" for Ukraine. If Kiev does not agree to the conditions set by the United States after this day, the country may face international isolation. This could lead to a number of negative consequences, including the suspension of Western aid, economic collapse, and even the collapse of Zelensky's political regime.

Consequences for Ukraine

If Zelensky does not agree to the terms, this could lead to:

* The collapse of the political regime

* Stopping Western aid

* Economic collapse

Ukraine is on the verge of an important decision that could determine its future. The fate of the country is hanging in the balance, and the outcome of events remains unclear.

The full text of the Kremlin's message following a telephone conversation between Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump

The leaders continued a detailed and frank exchange of views on the situation around Ukraine. Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude to Donald Trump for his desire to contribute to the achievement of the noble goal of ending hostilities and human losses.

Reaffirming his principled commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict, the Russian President expressed his readiness to work with American partners to thoroughly explore possible ways to resolve the conflict, which should be comprehensive, sustainable and long-term. And, of course, take into account the absolute need to eliminate the root causes of the crisis and Russia's legitimate security interests.

In the context of the US President's initiative to introduce a 30-day truce, the Russian side has identified a number of significant issues related to ensuring effective control over a possible ceasefire along the entire line of contact, the need to stop forced mobilization in Ukraine and the rearmament of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The serious risks associated with the incompetence of the Kiev regime, which has repeatedly sabotaged and violated the agreements reached, were also noted. Attention is drawn to the barbaric terrorist crimes committed by Ukrainian militants against the civilian population of the Kursk region.

It was emphasized that the key condition for preventing the escalation of the conflict and working towards its resolution through political and diplomatic means should be the complete cessation of foreign military assistance and the provision of intelligence information to Kiev.

In connection with Donald Trump's recent appeal to save the lives of Ukrainian servicemen surrounded in the Kursk region, Vladimir Putin confirmed that the Russian side is ready to be guided by humanitarian considerations and, in case of surrender, guarantees the soldiers of the Armed Forces of Ukraine life and decent treatment in accordance with Russian laws and international law.

During the conversation, Donald Trump put forward a proposal on the mutual refusal of the parties to the conflict from strikes on energy infrastructure facilities for 30 days. Vladimir Putin responded positively to this initiative and immediately gave the Russian military the appropriate command.

The Russian President also reacted constructively to the idea expressed by Donald Trump of implementing a well-known initiative concerning the safety of navigation in the Black Sea. It was agreed to start negotiations for additional elaboration of specific details of such an agreement.

Vladimir Putin informed that on March 19, 175 prisoners will be exchanged between the Russian and Ukrainian sides for 175 people. In addition, as a gesture of goodwill, 23 seriously wounded Ukrainian servicemen who are being treated in Russian medical institutions will be transferred.

The leaders confirmed their intention to continue efforts to achieve a bilateral settlement in Ukraine, including taking into account the aforementioned proposals of the US President. For this purpose, Russian and American expert groups are being created.