Posted on 01/01/2025 6:44:53 AM PST by Godzilla
It's time to dump the Hamas/Palestinian crap on the Arab world to handle. It's hard for decent Western societies to deal with that level of evil.
Had to take an extra day. After a long days driving, got home to a search and rescue callout for a couple of out of state hikers lost in the hills. Made for a very short night. However, it was quickened by the fact that we purchased a portable Starlink system and were able to communicate to the lost hikers (they still had cell coverage, we didn’t) via that system, speeding up location and getting them out. Powerful system.
Sorry if today’s post is a little jagged as a result.
CW2 / Domestic violence - Threat Level - ADVISORY - up dated July 26, 2025
From FO -
The latest push from Indivisible, the country’s largest protest organizing group, is training a million organizers who will be holding in-person meetings to recruit and organize additional activists over the next two weeks.
- Each organizer is called to host two meetings: the first is designed to orient new recruits to resistance strategies like strategic noncooperation, and the second is to plan a local resistance event or campaign.
- The ultimate goal is to use mass mobilization and strategic noncooperation to weaken the pillars of support for the Trump administration – a so-called authoritarian regime – through undermining its legitimacy and making authoritarian action impossible or, at the very least, difficult.
- Strategic noncooperation includes actions like internal resistance by federal workers, refusing compliance with Trump administration policies, information leaks, workers strikes and slowdowns, and other forms of nonviolent civil disobedience, in addition to mass protests.
MY OBSERVATIONS - This level of organizing to me indicates that the left (and Indivisible is very much an astroturf organization in many ways) is still having trouble establishing a foundation of opposition. Its protests have see mostly a yawn by the majority of Americans as being out of touch with the key issues Trump has successfully moved forward on.
However, they are not the organization is reformation mode. The violent left is also working to regain its base and retool its actions to try to gain momentum once again. For Antifa et al, evidence of this weakness is that they are essentially been limited to operations / violence in some its stronghold cities along the west coast.
Economy- Threat Level - WATCH - as of April 4, 2025
America’s spring homebuying season just hit its weakest point in over a decade
— marking the slowest market since 2012 and sparking fears that a full-blown price collapse could be next.
Spring is traditionally the hottest time for pending home sales but that’s no longer the case in the in the now struggling US housing market.
In 2025, April through June brought the lowest sales in 13 years, according to Redfin.
OBSERVATION - I keep saying it that the housing market is a key indicator of economic health. A collapse of the system will cause an immense chain of bankruptcies - and with fed rates being maintained at current highs, money will still be relatively unattainable for a home but for a few.
Lower rates + lowered prices = kickstart to economic fundamentals.
Military / Strategic Activity / Deployments –
Trump reports two nuclear boomers redeployed closer to Russia.
POLITICAL FRONT –
US federal officials say they have opened an investigation into former special counsel Jack Smith, who led two federal criminal cases against President Donald Trump before resigning from his post earlier this year.
The OSC does not have authority to lay criminal charges against Mr Smith, but it can initiate disciplinary action or refer its findings to the Department of Justice.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1levr1l07go
OBSERVATION - Pay back time? We’ll see.
***
The Senate left Washington Saturday night for its month-long August recess without a deal to advance dozens of President Donald Trump’s nominees, calling it quits after days of contentious bipartisan negotiations and Trump posting on social media that Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer can “GO TO HELL!”
Without a deal in hand, Republicans say they may try to change Senate rules when they return in September to speed up the pace of confirmations. Trump has been pressuring senators to move quickly as Democrats blocked more nominees than usual this year, denying any fast unanimous consent votes and forcing roll calls on each one, a lengthy process that can take several days per nominee.
“I think they’re desperately in need of change,” Senate Majority Leader John Thune said of Senate rules Saturday after negotiations with Schumer and Trump broke down. “I think that the last six months have demonstrated that this process, nominations is broken. And so I expect there will be some good robust conversations about that.”
OBSERVATION - I notified my senator (a republican) over my dissatisfaction on their handling of Trump’s nominees. Time for them to start acting like the party in control and not a bunch of democrat-lite wimps. Additional slap is Thune taking actions to prevent recess appointments. With republicans like him, who needs democrats.
TRUMP Watch –
Watching Trump’s responses to Medvedev, who’s been talking nukes since the start of the Ukraine war. Is Trump calling his bluff?
Illegal Immigration –
9th circuit maintains the prohibitions essentially of illegal sweeps of businesses commonly known to employ illegals -circumventing the clearly established precedent that the DHS can arrest illegals buy saying it is based on racism, etc.
Asia General –
Cambodia / Thailand Threat Level ADVISORY as of Aug 3, 2025
Downgraded to ADVISORY due to stabilizing peace, but still locally volatile.
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
NUCLEAR THREATS –
On Tuesday, former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev issued the Kremlin’s response to President Trump’s Monday announcement from Scotland that he’s reducing a deadline for Russia to agree a peace settlement from 50 days to 10 or 12 days, citing ‘disappointment’ in Putin not ending or at least winding down the war.
Medvedev warned: “Russia isn’t Israel or even Iran” and thus that “Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with (Trump’s) own country.”
That followed comments by Medvedev that Trump ‘steamrolled, humiliated’ Europe with his trade deal.
Then Thursday, Trump told Medvedev to “watch his words”
On Friday morning, President Trump took to his Truth Social account and escalated from words to actions moving two nuclear submarines to be positioned “in the appropriate regions” based on “highly provocative” statements from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev.
***
“Well, a former president of Russia who’s now in charge of one of the most important councils, Medvedev, said some things that were very bad, talking about nuclear.”
Trump continued, “And when you mention the word ‘nuclear,’ you know, my eyes light up and I say, ‘We better be careful,’ because it’s the ultimate threat.”
Medvedev had on Thursday posted on Telegram that Trump should recall “his favorite films about the ‘walking dead’” and while referencing Soviet Union nuclear strike doctrine.
Trump explained in the new interview, “He shouldn’t have said it. He’s got a fresh mouth. He’s said things in the past, too. And so we always want to be ready. And so I have sent to the region two nuclear submarines. I just want to make sure that his words are only words and nothing more than that.”
https://americafirstreport.com/trump-issues-further-explanation-on-moving-2-nuclear-submarines-closer-to-russia/
OBSERVATION - With the 10 day count down now down to a few days, Russia is trying to play its nuclear card, and Trump sees it and raises it by two boomers. Putin may think Trump won’t respond in kind should Russia finally use a nuke. They are dangerously wrong. This is the same Trump that dropped a MOAB on the Taliban as well as sortied 6 B2s to hit Iranian nuclear facilities. Additionally, the US still has its land based capabilities (NOTE - in my road trip Saturday, I passed by numerous Minuteman silos here in the Redoubt).
At this stage I don’t see things crossing the nuclear threshold either in Ukraine, the rest of Europe or US. The burden is on Russia and should they choose to open that box, they will have chosen poorly.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Rain early week, with temps going back to the 50-80 range
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Over night, Russia launched a combined missile and drone attack.
Shot down:
60/76 Shahed and other type drones
0/5 S-300/400 ballistic missiles
0/1 Kh-22 cruise missile
1/1 Iskander-M ballistic missile
Hits were recorded in 8 locations.
Russian losses per 03/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian General Staff
+920 men
+2 AFVs
+43 artillery
Overnight, Ukraine continued its new summer drone strike campaign, successfully hitting a Russian fuel depot at Sochi International airport.
Russia’s Ryazan and Novokuibyshevsk oil refineries, were also recently hit, triggering large fires. It also said it struck the Annanefteprodukt oil storage site in the Voronezh region, which was likely a long-range drone attack, but few details were disclosed.
Ukraine drones also attacked an oil depot in Adler, causing massive fire. Fire reported in the area of oil refinery in Kstovo, Nizhniy Novgorod
Pokrovsk axis (Formerly Ocheretyne) - New Main Effort
Rumors that the situation in this area over the past few days has deteriorated against Ukraine. Reports also indicate much larger and more intense Russian attacks in the sector. Some reports suggest Russia may have finally gained a toe hold in the southern part Pokraysk.
Summary —
If Ukraine loses Pokrovsk, this would represent the largest gain that Russia has obtained on over a year. Earlier this year, Russia declared this to be the axis for their main effort. Higher level commanders have successfully actually employed strategic levels of maneuver to encircle the town on the north and south, creating a pocket and threatening supply lines. Ukraine as to decide to either reinforce and counter attack to relieve pressure, of accelerate the construction of a fall back line of defense.
Given the fierceness of the attack in the Pokrovsk sector, the Russia causalities seem alittle on the low side.
Ukraine has resumed a successful strategic drone operation targeting Russian petroleum facilities. Last year, Ukraine’s attacks put a serious pinch on the fuel Russia needed to move their forces in the region - as well as placing economic pressure on the nation and locals.
Low numbers of Russian drones and missiles likely indicates that another major attack is only a few days away.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Hamas hails European pressure on Gaza food and Palestinian statehood.
- Hamas releases video of hostages showing their abuse and starvation.
——— GENERAL ——————————-
Netanyahu spoke with the families of hostages Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David after distressing videos of them, condemns Hamas’s cruelty and reaffirms Israel’s ongoing efforts to secure the hostages’ release.
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
Reports: Hamas has cut off contact with mediators, effectively ending ceasefire negotiations and likely guaranteeing the expansion of Israeli military operations in Gaza
***
Rumors that all remaining hostages have been placed in underground facilities in order to thwart potential Israeli rescue operations.
***
Trump in his response to the released hostage videos appears to have hardened himself against Hamas calling for their total elimination.
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
Israel is not starving Gaza, if anyone is guilty of that it is Hamas. Yet Hamas has convinced its ever loving European supporters that such a plague is real and caused by Israel. This has resulted in a nearly unprecedented move to recognize a ‘palistianian state’ and punish Israel for its Oct 7 response - all to the joy and glee of Hamas.
Now emboldened, Hamas released a demented video showing hostage Evyatar David, a 24-year-old Israeli civilian kidnapped from the Nova Music Festival.
- Starved.
- Tortured.
- Bones visible beneath his skin.
- Forced to dig his own grave.
- Kept 666 days in darkness.
All with accompanying silence from France, Britain, Canada and other Euro Hamas loving countries.
Hamas refusal to return to the negotiating table and their brazen release of hostage videos showing gross mistreatment, Israeli leadership is becoming steeled to go after them at all costs. Included in this is the increasing potential of annexation of Gaza.
For Syria and Lebanon, Israel to continue strikes on key weapons sites as Israel identifies and sees fit.
Iran –
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 17, 2025
Supporters of the Shah are increasing organization and interconnection as they prepare for a potential challenge to the theocratic rule of the mullahs. A big part of this movement is the abysmal state of the infrastructure and the stress that places on the general civilian class — outside of the supporters of the mullahs. Tehran is reportedly down to its last 20% of water, gasoline and other energy prices continue to rise and the regimen is spending its money on its military and nuclear program. All conditions for increasing civil unrest.
Lebanon -
Lebanese Justice Minister: We will not allow Hezbollah to drag Lebanon with it if it chooses to commit suicide and refuses to hand over its weapon
***
Over the past few days, Israel’s Minister of Defense Israel Katz confirms that the Israeli Air Force carried out a wave of strikes within the last few hours against Hezbollah “strategic weapons”manufacturing and storage infrastructure in the Beqaa Valley of Northeastern and Southern Lebanon. The primary target of the strikes appears to have been Hezbollah’s largest weapons production plant for precision-missile manufacturing, which had been struck a number of times previously, located near the village of Brital. Katz further added, “Any attempt by the terrorist organization to restore, reestablish itself, or pose a threat, will be met with uncompromising force.”
Syria -
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 25, 2025
Downgraded due to current ceasefire and disengagement of combatants.
Druze factions captured the strategic Tell Hadid (West Suwayda). They also took advantage of absence of Defense ministry troops and withdrawal of tribal fighters (few remain). Few days ago, a video emerged showing them monitoring the Security forces deployed on the hill. Now that they control it, they have a visual dominance over the entire Western Suwayda countryside
***
The Israeli army revealed that it carried out a raid on targets in southern Syria and seized weapons on Saturday evening.
Thanks Godzilla.
As always, thank you!
Some delay this morning as my attention has been divided by a six pound bundle of puppy weiner dog
CW2 / Domestic violence - Threat Level - ADVISORY - up dated July 26, 2025
(FO) In a post on social media, Indivisible co-executive director Ezra Levin called for “widespread blowback” against Colombia and Brown Universities for capitulating to the Trump administration.
OBSERVATION - University activists formed a foundation for protestors/rioters last year. That changed dramatically this year when Trump put the screws to the schools to clean up their act or face funding cut off. I don’t see Indivisible generating any significant ‘blowback’.
Economy- Threat Level - WATCH - as of April 4, 2025
(FO) In a new report, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) said there were about 94.2 million cattle and calves in the U.S. as of 1 July, the lowest mid-year cattle count since 1973. According to the USDA report, the number of cattle placed in feed lots before going to slaughter was at the lowest level since 2017. Ag economists said the new USDA data showed very little indication that U.S. beef producers are rebuilding herds, and beef prices are likely to remain elevated for years.
OBSERVATION - The cattle industry is still recovering from the shocks of wuhan plus a drought period that forced cattlemen to downsize herds. There is still considerable concern over growing the herds given the continued high costs and risks.
Military / Strategic Activity / Deployments –
The US Army deployed its Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon system overseas for the first time during Talisman Sabre 25, showcasing the advanced missile in Australia’s Northern Territory.
POLITICAL FRONT –
Texas Governor Abbott has issued a warning that if House Democrats do not return by 3 PM tomorrow, he will move to declare their seats vacant and replace them
OBSERVATION - Fleeing an approved redistricting plan that has the potential to increase republicans in the House by 5. Arguments coming out that Abbott doesn’t have the authority to do this. Remains to be seen.
China -
China rejects US request to halt oil imports from Iran and Russia
OBSERVATION - China’s reliance on Russia oil is key and the threat of slapped on sanctions and tariffs could cause China to revisit as they hit the economy.
***
Chinese Defense Minister issues direct warning to U.S. allies
“If China’s sovereignty over Taiwan is challenged, American military bases in Japan and South Korea will be considered legitimate targets.
Beijing will not tolerate foreign interference.”
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
The devastating 8.8 mag earthquake that struck the area is also where Russia’s most important strategic submarine command centers are located raising suspicion of severe damage to nuclear facilities.
Economic Impact –
India’s largest oil refiner, Indian Oil Corporation, has urgently purchased 7 million barrels of US crude for September delivery, according to Reuters. The move comes as India reduces Russian oil imports amid sanctions and geopolitical pressure.
Indian govt officials had also said they will not stop purchasing Russian oil. Companies see it differently and apparently want to avoid sanctions.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Rain early week, with temps going back to the 50-80 range
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Overnight Russia launched 162 Shahed-type drones, and aeroballistic Kh-47 M2 missile, - Ukrainian air forces
Lviv took the brunt of the attack overnight.
Russian losses per 04/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian general staff.
+1010 men
+1 tank
+8 AFVs
+28 artillery
Overnight, Ukrainian drones struck the Archeda railway station in Volgograd region, damaging a building with relay cabinets and causing partial power loss along the railway line. Train delays have been reported.
Summary —
Russia continues to press the Pokrovsk sector with moderately heavy fighting along the front. Ukraine continues its targeted attacks on Russian oil and logistical nodes.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Recent pressures for ‘humanitarian’ aid has caused Gideon’s Chariot operations to stall.
——— GENERAL ——————————-
Palestinian President: We renew our demand for a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip.
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
After nearly four months of limited ground operations in Gaza, Israel’s offensive known as Gideon’s Chariots appears to be winding down without meeting its primary goals of securing the release of hostages while decisively weakening Hamas.
The recent weeks have seen a notable decline in combat intensity and casualties, aligning with unilateral ceasefires Israel initiated under international diplomatic pressure. Political leaders have sought a visible achievement from the prolonged campaign, but internally, military and political officials remain divided over the operation’s outcomes and next steps.
https://www.ynetnews.com/article/bjvoh36vlx#autoplay
***
Israel PM Netanyahu is pushing to widening the fighting in Gaza to areas where hostages are being held, despite the threats to their life, according to Israeli official, who says that Hamas is not interested in a deal
***
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday he spoke with the International Red Cross’s regional head, Julien Lerisson, and requested his involvement in providing food and medical care to hostages held in Gaza.
NOTE - The Red Cross has been totally AWOL in seeing and demanding protection of the hostages.
***
A source familiar with the matter told i24NEWS that Hamas is conditioning its return to negotiations on the entry of at least 250 aid trucks per day into Gaza
NOTE - Most of which will be hijacked by Hamas for their own use and resale.
——— JUDEA AND SAMARIA——————————-
Defense Minister Israel Katz on Sunday pledged to reinforce Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem and its holy sites, as Jews around the world marked Tisha B’Av, the annual fast commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temples. “Two thousand years after the destruction of the Second Temple, the Western Wall and the Temple Mount are again under the sovereignty of the State of Israel,” Katz wrote on X following a visit to the Western Wall in the capital’s Old City. “Israel haters around the world continue to make decisions against us and protest, and we will strengthen our hold and sovereignty over Jerusalem,” he added.
———“ISLAMIC RESISTANCE” ———————————
The IDF shot down a Houthi drone from Yemen over Bnei Netzarim in the Negev desert, with no reported injuries or damage.
———INTERNATIONAL ——————————-
Irish President Michael D. Higgins is calling for military action in Gaza.
He’s urging the UN to invoke Chapter 7, which would authorize an international force to secure and defend humanitarian aid corridors.
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
International pressures to stop the faux “famine” in Gaza has slowed Israeli ops and given Hamas more leverage for its demands - all absent any address of hostages. However, Hamas appears to have over played its hand in publishing videos of emaciated hostages being tortured.
Israel is being forced into a ‘damned the torpedos’ moment, and it appears Trump is supportive.
Targeted strikes continue in S Lebanon against Hezbollah leaders and infrastructure. No end in sight. Hezbollah is powerless to stop Israel. Lebanese govt is weak and unable to neutralize Hezbollah either.
Iran –
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 17, 2025
East Azerbaijan’s (Iran) governor warns Tabriz has less than 75 days of water left as Bukan Dam drops to one-third capacity and protests erupt in multiple cities over worsening water and electricity shortages
***
Last month Iran received Chinese HQ9B air defense systems. These restored the Iranian losses to recent Israeli airstrikes that wiped out most of their air defenses. That led to an unofficial truce between Israel and Iran.
It is essential that China restore Iranian air defenses because China is dependent on Iranian oil to keep their economy going. China is being paid for the HQ9B purchase with Iranian oil.
https://www.strategypage.com/htmw/htada/articles/202508040930.aspx#gsc.tab=0
OBSERVATION - Unrest is on the increase as Iran buys military hardware and essentially ignores its population.
Lebanon -
Drones carry out an airstrike targeting the city of Khiam in southern Lebanon.
Syria -
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 25, 2025
Downgraded due to current ceasefire and disengagement of combatants.
SDF: Our forces exercised their right to confront an attack on their positions in the village of “Al-Imam”. At exactly 3:00 AM on Monday, factions affiliated with the Syrian Transitional Government forces launched an attack against four positions of our forces in the village of “Al-Imam” in the Deir Hafer area. Our forces dealt with the attack and responded as necessary to defend their positions and fighters, with clashes erupting that lasted 20 continuous minutes
***
Internal Security regains control of Tal al-Hadid, Rima Hazem, and Walga in the Sweida countryside. Source: SANA
Mexico -
President Donald Trump extended the current 25% tariff rate on imports from Mexico for 90 days. Trump said the complexities of a trade deal with Mexico are different than other trade partners due to problems and assets on the southern border.
Thanks Godzilla.
They are revealing themselves for what they truly are, and it's not the party of love and tolerance.
India’s largest oil refiner, Indian Oil Corporation, has urgently purchased 7 million barrels of US crude for September delivery, according to Reuters.
How about keeping it at home and refining it for US to lower our fuel costs???????
...six pound bundle of puppy...
No photo? All puppies require photos be shared :-)
Happiness is an amazing puppy... Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for bringing the low cattle herd problem up. On X blame is put on the monopoly of 4 processors, but probably more to the story than that.
Grandkids and puppy delayed today’s pose :)
Globalism / Great Reset –
Another ‘Conspiracy theory’ proven true
A federal judge allows case against BlackRock for “buying up coal companies just to shut them down and force green energy initiatives, all while jacking up prices and pushing ESG policies”
And it goes so much deeper
“Based off this court ruling in Texas today of the State of Texas vs BlackRock, Vanguard and State Street, I am onto something. Let me break it down for you.
BlackRock, Vanguard and State street just lost a major court ruling today in federal court and a federal judge in Texas agreed that they can be sued. The lawsuit says that they formed an investment cartel to control U. S Energy markets. They allegedly bought up coal companies just to shut them down and force green energy initiatives, all while jacking up prices and pushing ESG policies that nobody voted for. If you don’t know what an ESG policy is, it’s environmental, social and governance.
https://x.com/WallStreetApes/status/1951821290647810216
OBSERVATION - These investment ‘firms’ are doing the evil work of the globalist behind the scenes. With ooodles of money, they’ve been purchasing their way into enacting the agenda. Also noted in the recent housing crush - buying houses to flip into rentals.
Wuhan and other “new” Plandemics
Canada’s liberal government is advancing plans to roll out a new Covid mRNA “vaccine” to “vaccinate” the general public using aerosols.
The Canadian government is ramping up testing for a disturbing new Covid mRNA “AeroVax.”
The new AeroVax seeks to overcome “vaccine hesitancy” by using aerosols to “vaccinate” the general public.
Unlike traditional “vaccines” that are deployed using injections, the new AeroVax is an atomized spray that is inhaled.
The new “vaccines” are sprayed in aerosol form and breathed in by recipients.
The AeroVax was developed by researchers at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation-funded McMaster University in Canada.
https://slaynews.com/news/canada-advances-plan-vaccinate-public-covid-mrna-aerosols/
OBSERVATION - Again, forced ‘vaccination’ on the populous. There is a great deal of evil in Gates funding alone, let alone Canada’s great leftist push.
POLITICAL FRONT –
The Supreme Court is considering banning “Racially-Based” Congressional District maps, as it violates the Civil Rights laws of the USA.
This could cause Democrats to lose 10-25 House seats in 2026 midterm elections.
***
Attorney General Pam Bondi directed Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecutors to begin a criminal investigation into allegations that former national security officials conspired to undermine President Donald Trump’s administration in 2017. The location of the grand jury to be used by the DOJ has not been released, and the DOJ did not comment.
Latest info indicates that the Grand Jury would be in Florida
OBSERVATION - Definitely moving forward.
Illegal Immigration –
(FO) According to an alleged Department of Homeland Security (DHS) internal memo, DHS and the Department of Defense (DOD) held a meeting on 21 July to discuss increasing cooperation for immigration enforcement in “future L.A.-type operations” in the United States.
OBSERVATION - Placing this here as it has to do with decoration operations, but it indicates straying over into CW2 realm recognizing that the left can locally rally troops to attack ICE and military support planning is necessary on the front end, not in a response mode.
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
NUCLEAR THREATS –
Russia no longer considers itself bound by moratorium on deployment of intermediate- and shorter-range land-based missiles, - Russian Foreign Ministry
OBSERVATION - Russia has been dropping nuclear related agreements with increasing actions. This is likely a Russian response to US boomer relocations.
Economic Impact –
India’s Foreign Ministry has responded to accusations over Russian oil purchases, stating that India has become a target for the US and EU. The ministry called Russian oil imports a “vital national need” and pointed to ongoing trade between the West and Russia. India highlighted that EU-Russia trade in 2024 totaled €67.5 billion in goods and €17.2 billion in services in 2023, far exceeding India’s trade with Russia.
OBSERVATION - Some Indian oil companies have sought to purchase oil from other sources in an effort by those companies to avoid tariffs and other sanctions. I think India will essentially buckle.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Rain early week, with temps going back to the 50-80 range
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Overnight on August 5, Ukrainian air defenses shot down or suppressed 29 out of 46 Russian Shahed drones and decoys launched from several directions, as well as repelling an Iskander-M ballistic missile from Bryansk. Drone hits were recorded in the east, along with missile and debris impacts at several locations.
Russia launched its most massive attack on Lozova, Kharkiv region, since the start of the war. One man was killed and at least 10 people, including two children, were wounded. The city’s railway infrastructure, train station, apartment buildings, and residential areas were all hit.
Russian losses per 05/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian general staff.
+1120 men
+2 tanks
+12 AFVs
+28 artillery
Ballistic missile strike was reported in Bilhorod-Dnistrovsky district of Kherson region
Russian Ministry of Defense claims full occupation of Sichneve village of Dnipropetrovsk region of Ukraine
Summary —
The daily grind continues on the front lines and in the air.
Moldova/Transnistria -
Governor of Gagauzia in Moldova, Evghenia Guțul, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for illegal campaign financing linked to the banned pro-Russian “Shor” party during the 2023 election. Prosecutors had requested a nine-year sentence, and Guțul was charged under four articles related to election funding violations.
With elections coming up, the next few months are crucial for Moldova’s EU ascension aspirations.
OBSERVATION - Off the radar for a while as Russia attempted to stir up issues to deflect European attentions from Ukraine.
Poland –
Germany has deployed its Eurofighter jets to Poland ahead of the planned Russian-Belarusian “Zapad 2025” exercises, according to Bild. The jets are now based east of Warsaw and will begin missions today. The German Air Force calls this a clear sign of NATO solidarity for reliable deterrence and joint airspace defense.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Netanyahu and cabinet decide to go with the annexation of all Gaza.
——— GENERAL ——————————-
The Prime Minister’s Office briefed this evening that a decision has been made by the PM for a full occupation of the Gaza Strip, including operations in areas where hostages are held, and conveyed a message to the Chief of Staff: if this does not suit him, you should resign
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
Israel’s Channel 12 broadcaster is reporting that the Israeli government has made the decision to occupy the Gaza Strip on a permanent basis.
Correspondent Amit Segal reports Monday, “Senior official in Netanyahu’s office: The decision has been made — we’re going to occupy Gaza.”
The top official has been further quoted as saying: “If we do not act now, hostages will die of starvation and Gaza will remain under Hamas control.”
https://thelibertydaily.com/netanyahu-opts-permanent-military-occupation-gaza/
OBSERVATION - Trump is supportive of this plan.
***
IDF forces continue their operations in the Gaza Strip under the direction of the Shin Bet and Military Intelligence.
The 36th Division eliminated terrorists in the south, while the air force attacked 30+ targets, including buildings used by Hamxs.
The 188th Brigade destroyed a building hiding an underground mine. In the north, the Givati Brigade destroyed weapons and tunnels in Beit Hanoun, and the 99th Division is searching for and destroying terrorist infrastructure
———“ISLAMIC RESISTANCE” ———————————
A missile from Yemen was intercepted by Israeli army overnight
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
Another shift in the war plan for Gaza. Gideon’s Chariot was designed to place increased pressure on Hamas - it was working, however, their international supporters generated the fabricated starvation narrative and forced the breaks on it. I noted yesterday that I think Hamas overplayed its hand after releasing the videos of the abused and starving hostage. Not a good PR ploy, directed to insult Israel. International cries of famine still echo, but now they are tempered with evidence that the pushback by Israel is not what they expected.
Israel now plans to directly assault on the ground, remaining Hamas strongholds, avoided so far because of the concentration of hostages. The emaciated hostage shows that Hamas is going to kill rhe remainder of living no matter what. Israel sees this now at the time to go for broke.
Lebanon -
Hezbollah decides to escalate against an expected decision to hand over its weapons, starting with popular protests.
Reports in Lebanon that Hezbollah is preparing to ignite widespread riots across the country if the proposal to disarm the organization passes tomorrow in the Lebanese government meeting.
OBSERVATION - Much of the population is not shia but a mixture of other ethnic and religious groups and have generally been oppressed by Hezbollah’sdomination of many factors of the country. Today’s vote could be critical to the path forward without Hezbollah.
Aerosol vax. More depopulation / murder. Thanks Godzilla.
Isn't that the DEI version environmental 'care index type funds'? If Vanguard was doing this - against the wishes of their investors ( or unknown to them) as a group I wonder what else they were up to... talk about thumb on the scales. Sick - and I'm a Vanguard invester...
Economy- Threat Level - WATCH - as of April 4, 2025
Errors in employment estimates by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BSL) have been four times greater in recent months they were in previous years, BLS historical data reveal.
On Friday, after the BLS announced it had revised its employment estimates for May and June down by more than a quarter million jobs (258,000 lower combined), President Donald Trump fired BLS Commissioner Erika McEntarfer.
McEntarfer, who was appointed by former President Joe Biden and confirmed in January of 2024, had a “history of inaccuracies and incompetence” and had “completely eroded public trust in the government agency charged with disseminating key data used by policymakers and businesses to make consequential decisions,” the White House explained in a statement regarding Entarfer’s dismissal:
OBSERVATIONS - Numbers like these have always been high questionable. Started in earnest back under Clinton IIRC and not only involved jobs but inflation data cooking as well. It got to be standard fare to expect significant re adjustments in the month’s following. While some may view as killing the messenger, real reform and transparency is necessary for these reports.
POLITICAL FRONT –
The House Oversight Committee has issued subpoenas for former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former President Bill Clinton, and a host of other high-profile Democrats seeking to compel testimony regarding Jeffrey Epstein.
Committee Chairman James Comer (R-KY) issued additional subpoenas to former Attorneys General Merrick Garland, Eric Holder, Loretta Lynch, William Barr, Jeff Sessions, and Alberto Gonzales, as well as former FBI Directors James Comey and Robert Mueller.
OBSERVATION - Paybacks now hitting home to democrats.
***
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton set a Friday deadline for Democratic state lawmakers to return to work in the Legislature or else face removal from office.
Mr. Paxton said he’ll ask a court to declare vacant the seats of every House Democrat who fled the state earlier this week in a bid to block a GOP plan to redraw congressional district lines.
The GOP-led Texas House voted Monday to issue civil arrest warrants for the missing Democrats. Sen. John Cornyn asked the FBI to help track down the lawmakers and carry out the arrests. He wants the FBI to investigate potential bribery.
https://www.independentsentinel.com/tx-dems-on-the-lam-have-3-days-to-return-or-lose-their-jobs/
TX Attorney General Ken Paxton will file to VACATE Democrat seats if they do not return to vote by the Speaker’s Friday deadline
“Starting Friday, any rogue lawmakers refusing to return to the House will be held accountable for vacating their office,” Paxton said
TX House Speaker Burrows gave members until Friday, August 8 to return.
OBSERVATION - The session ends in two weeks. Two democrats have returned, only need six more for quorum.
RELATED -
The New York State Senate introduced a state constitutional amendment that would allow New York to redraw congressional districts before the 2030 census, if another state conducts mid-decade redistricting first.
OBSERVATIONS - Highly doubtful NY could get a redistricting done prior to the 26 midterms.
Democrats are also facing efforts to eliminate the counts of Illegals for redistricting purposes. This will force states like Kalifornia, etc to LOSE seats due to lowered population.
***
Fox News host Laura Ingraham reported Tuesday that the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Maryland is investigating Democratic California Sen. Adam Schiff for alleged mortgage fraud.
The probe follows a month-old revelation that the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) had referred Schiff’s case to the Department of Justice (DOJ), accusing him of falsifying bank documents and property records to secure more favorable loan terms, according to Fox News.
Schiff and his wife allegedly misrepresented their Maryland home as their primary residence to obtain a lower interest rate on a Fannie Mae-backed mortgage, according to the FHFA’s letter. They allegedly continued this misrepresentation through multiple refinancing transactions from 2003 to 2019, despite Schiff representing California in Congress during that period.
https://patriot.tv/adam-schiff-under-federal-criminal-investigation-for-mortgage-fraud/
OBSERVATION - No one is above the law. Democrats are particularly fond of these kinds of schemes. If new reports, information available in the open arena have Schiff down cold.
***
President Donald Trump expanded on his proposal for a federal takeover of Washington, D.C., saying he will stop violent crime in the city by young ‘thugs.’
The president said that a young man who was working for DOGE was ‘very badly hurt’ and ‘beat up by a bunch of thugs in D.C.’
The identity of the 19-year-old young man involved in the reported incident is Edward Coristine, famously nicknamed ‘Big Balls’ by his peers.
‘My friend Big Balls is a hero,’ wrote Coristine’s friend Marko Elez on X, who said he ‘took this photo after Edward protected a young woman from an attempted carjacking by 8 thugs near Dupont Circle.’
‘Violence like this in the heart of DC is completely unacceptable,’ Elez concluded.
OBSERVATION - Lawlessness in the nation’s capitol is a national disgrace and the willingness of the leftists in charge of the DC police to allow it and essentially condone it have made it far over due for their replacement.
China -
China’s biggest solar firms fired nearly one-third of their workforces last year, a Reuters analysis of company filings shows, as one of the industries hand-picked by Beijing to drive economic growth grapples with falling prices and steep losses. Longi Green Energy, Trina Solar, Jinko Solar, JA Solar, and Tongwei collectively shed some 87,000 staff, or 31% of their workforces on average last year, according to a Reuters review of employment figures in public filings.
The job cuts illustrate the pain from the vicious price wars being fought across Chinese industries, including solar and electric vehicles, as China grapples with massive overcapacity and dismal demand (which has prompted China to dump its exports into any country that will accept them). As a frame of reference, the world produces twice as many solar panels each year as it uses, with most of them manufactured in China.
https://www.zerohedge.com/markets/chinas-solar-industry-quietly-fired-third-its-workers
OBSERVATION - Economic woes continue for China. Other sectors have been quietly downsizing as well.
***
(FO) Taiwan’s state media reports that the Chinese Coast Guard (CCG) has quietly been intruding on Taiwanese waters in the outlying islands “on a near-monthly basis.” The latest occurred yesterday when the CCG sent four vessels near Kinmen with their Automatic Identification System (AIS) off but were turned away by the Taiwanese Coast Guard Authority (CGA). Kinmen is an outlying island for the Republic of China – Taiwan – and is separated from mainland China by only a small channel on three sides.
OBSERVATION - Moves by China to tire and stretch thin Taiwanese defenses. In the event of a move on Taiwan, Kinmen will likely received and amphibious assault while the rest of Chinese naval power will attempt to blockade Taiwan.
Russia -
Threat Level WATCH, Ongoing - into the fourth year of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine - Feb 24th, 2022
*****
Putin received US President’s special envoy Steven Witkoff in the Kremlin
***
According to Bloomberg, Russia is considering an “air truce” with Ukraine, ending its campaign of long-range drone and missile strikes against cities throughout Ukraine, as a potential concession to U.S. President Donald J. Trump and to prevent him from imposing major sanctions against Russia after his Friday “deadline” of August 8th. Officials believe that the possibility of such a truce is unlikely, as Russia currently has no plans of ending its ongoing war against Ukraine, with Trump expected to present Russian President Vladimir Putin with “one last chance” to begin serious negotiations to end his invasion of Ukraine during a meeting this week in Moscow with his Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
https://x.com/sentdefender/status/1952838286898282957?s=46&t=nfRT-Yioj0xALNzJelzFcA
OBSERVATION - Putin sees the tactics of Iran and Hamas on the US and hope its delay tactics will work as well.
***
Follow up -
Last week’s widely reported underwater earthquake off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula (on July 30) resulted in a tsunami which appears to have impacted the Rybachiy naval base, newly published satellite images show.
International reports say that when the earthquake struck, two Yasen-class nuclear-powered attack submarines were observed docked at the base – and in the path of the tsunami; however, there’s as yet no evidence of damage to the vessels themselves.
Crucially the Rybachiy base is Russia’s primary hub for nuclear submarines in the Pacific, and so was bound to feel some level of impact from an earthquake measuring 8.8 in magnitude which erupted just 140km away.
. . . . . some of the base infrastructure has been observed as suffering damage, according to satellite imagery analysis featured in The Telegraph.
“A section of one pier has bent away from its original position, possibly indicating that it was detached from its moorings, images taken by the Umbra Space satellite on Thursday morning have revealed,” the report says.
Ukraine –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing Apr 24, 2025
WEATHER FORECAST – Rain early week, with temps going back to the 50-80 range
24 HOUR ROUND UP –
Air defenses neutralized 36 out of 45 drones launched at Ukraine overnight. There were strikes at three locations, with debris falling at another sites.
Russian losses per 06/08/25 reported by the Ukrainian general staff.
+1010 men
+1 tank
+52 artillery
+3 MLRS
Ukraine drones attacked Tatsinskaya station in Rostov region once again
Summary —
The daily grind continues on the front lines and in the air.
Witkoff’s meetings with putin today are unlikely to bring about any breakthroughs. More likely warning (again) to putin on sanctions and tariffs that could throw big wrenches into the cogs of his war machine. Doubt seriously putin takes any of this with concerns.
Belarus -
The first echelon with Russian military personnel and equipment arrived in the Republic of Belarus for preparation and further participation in the joint strategic exercise of the armed forces of Belarus and Russia “West-2025”
OBSERVATION - There is currently no threat that Russia forces will use this exercise to mass and invasion force to strike toward Kyiv again.
Poland –
Nationalist historian Karol Nawrocki took the oath of office as Poland’s new president on Wednesday.
Nawrocki, a political novice, led a narrow victory in the June election, in which he had the backing of US President Donald Trump.
The prime minister in Poland has most day-to-day power, but the president has power to initiate or veto laws and influence foreign policy.
Nawrocki vowed to be the voice of Poles who want the country to retain its sovereignty as part of the European Union.
He said he opposed illegal migration and joining the euro single currency, and called for revamping the Polish constitution.
OBSERVATION - His election is due to set off a confrontation with the liberal Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
ISRAEL –
Threat Level WATCH Ongoing - Apr 24, 2025
Key overnight developments -
- Israel moving toward total occupation of Gaza
——— GENERAL ——————————-
Israel evacuated its embassy staff in the Greek capital, Athens, due to mounting anti-Israel protests in the country The move was carried out following demonstrations opposing Israel’s war in Gaza, according to media reports
***
United Nations says 89% of their Gaza aid trucks have been looted since May.
——— GAZA FRONT / HAMAS ———————————
IDF issued two abandonment and leave orders in areas of Central Gaza, warning civilians on increased military operations.
——— JUDEA AND SAMARIA——————————-
30 Palestinians arrested during raids in the occupied West Bank and Jerusalem, early today.
———INTERNATIONAL ——————————-
Egyptian President El-Sisi: “The war in Gaza is no longer a war to achieve political goals or to free the hostages, but has turned into a war of starvation, genocide, and elimination of the Palestinian issue. The situation in Gaza is being used as a political bargaining chip. We are issuing a call to global public opinion that the situation in the Gaza Strip is being used as a political bargaining chip.”
——— ASSESSMENT AND FUTURE OPERATIONS ————————-
Time will tell if Israel finally drops the other shoe and takes the whole of Gaza away. Some of the wind opposing Israel - the false ‘famine’ game - seems to have lost some of its fury with revelations of Hamas treatment of hostages and UN data showing 87% of the aid trucks being hijacked by Hamas.
Iran –
Threat Level - ADVISORY July 17, 2025
Reports of several explosions and air-defense activity at a ballistic missile launch site operated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) near Shiraz in Southern Iran. IRGC-affiliated channels claimed that unknown aircraft, possibly drones, were spotted earlier over the Fars Province.
OBSERVATION - There are plenty of unconventional warfare elements in Iran. Some are Israeli, others are affiliated with the son of the shah. Others representing other alienated elements of Iran. Still, the reports of drones, suggests more Israeli involvement than any.
Lebanon -
Israeli army: Hezbollah operative Hussam Qassem killed in airstrike in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley yesterday
***
Hezbollah Secretary General: We will launch rockets at Israel if it returns to war in Lebanon
***
Lebanon’s cabinet on Tuesday tasked the army with formulating a plan for disarming the Hezbollah terrorist organization by the end of 2025, AFP reported.
The cabinet met for nearly six hours under President Joseph Aoun. Prime Minister Nawaf Salam confirmed that the army has been instructed to devise an implementation strategy to ensure that weapons are restricted solely to state security forces.
“The plan is to be presented to the cabinet by the end of August for discussion and approval,” Salam stated during a press conference.
In recent months, Hezbollah’s influence has visibly eroded. Israeli strikes have significantly degraded the group’s capabilities, and much of its senior leadership has been eliminated.
The international community has made it clear that further aid to Lebanon hinges on the disarmament of Hezbollah and the consolidation of state authority. President Aoun recently reiterated that Lebanon is “committed to removing weapons from all armed groups including Hezbollah.”
https://www.israelnationalnews.com/news/412816
OBSERVATION - Gradual progress. If Lebanon is to rid itself of Hezbollah, they need to get on it as Hezbollah will only try to regrow itself as quickly as possible.
Egypt –
See statement under “Israel” above.
Quite an active week. Thanks for the summary.
Thanks Godzilla
“Threat Level - WATCH “
One heck of a great post...
Do you have a ping list I could get on.
Great format and very informative.
Thanks
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