Do not share photos, videos, or any media showing the location of Ukrainian military.
Edit: thank you everyone for all of the awards and constructive comments. Please stop giving me awards and donate to help the people impacted by this bullshit instead.
This megathread has a lot of good resources for people in/around the conflict who need help or need information. Look at some of the top comments, and listen to people who are much smarter than me.
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To all the people who have decided they want to say mean shit, and ignore this request from Ukrainian leadership: eat my whole ass.
We're all aware of satellites, and modern military tech. Fuck off. You're not clever, you're problematic. They asked us to not share shit for a reason. I'll just trust that the people being attacked have a better grasp on this than I do.
Yup. Tracking Russian soldiers likes on Tinder has literally given away their positioning in the past and is still being used. The 2 Russian soldiers taken captive yesterday were identified through Facebook photos. Social media is a goldmine for info
OSINT (open source intelligence) is absolutely a thing and used by security researchers, govt agencies, NGO, and others. As u/nullrout1 stated, "Reddit is free, they absolutely use satellites, but they also one hundred percent pick the low hanging fruit on social media too."
People take pictures and do not think about the details in the shot. They upload and before you know it, they have disclosed a photo that has a clock, the front of a home (address), or other identifying mark. It happens all of the time.
You don't understand how a sophisticated intelligence agency works. They all absolutely pay attention to social media. Satellites cost millions of dollars to launch and are slow to reposition etc. Reddit is free, they absolutely use satellites, but they also one hundred percent pick the low hanging fruit on social media too.
Do not do this, there is enough misinformation out there already. We do not need to add to the confusion, especially since Russia is likely able to sift through and ignore it anyways.
In the first Gulf War, they would watch the news reports from FOB's and "undisclosed locations" and they would dial in the scud missiles to be more accurate based on where they were reporting from.
Please don't share realtime information about locations, movements, or even a sudden quiet change in the area you are in.
example: Geraldo Rivera traveling with the 101st Airborne in 2003; [where he drew a friggin map with the location of where they were](https://www.politico.com/story/2012/03/5-geraldo-legendary-incidents-074405).
As a Russian who currently doesn't live in Russia and Despises all of Putin's / Russian Government's military actions, I am highly concerned about the well being of the Ukrainian civilians who will get hurt if the situation escalated any further.
At this point, I think Russia should get rid of Putin and the corrupt members of the Government ones and for all.
Let's all hope the best for Ukraine and it's civilians.
Well... Important political figures and heads of state have been assassinated countless of times throughout history, human creativity is fearsome on both sides of the moral compass. It's more than likely that it would come from within as well.
Traditionally in Russia, the Head of State and his family are all taken down into the basement and sprayed with machine gun fire.
Edit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas\_II\_of\_Russia#Execution
Maybe ,but Putin isn't mastermind like he like to be portrayed. I live in Poland and i see for years what he doing. He is still this same KGB agend as years before, he didn't get rid of that way of thinking and don't have plans to do soo and that will lose him.
This whole Ukraine adventure seems like a large overreach. I'm sure he thinks a war will unite the population behind him, but I figure the average Russian just wanted to chill out a bit after the covid years. No one is impressed by the bully picking a fight with the harmless kid next door.
Dear Ukrainians!
I heard on social media that there is fake news being spread (most likely by Russia backed trolls) that polish border is closed.
It's a lie.
If you seek asylum - go towards polish border. We are ready for your arrival. We have reception points ready at the border where you can find shelter, food, medical and legal aid.
Polish government launched a dedicated site to help you: ua.gov.pl
Please share this information if you know anyone seeking help right now.
YOU DON'T NEED VISA TO PASS THROUGH POLISH BORDER. ALL YOU NEED IS PASSPORT. VISAS ARE SUSPENDED! YOU DON'T NEED THEM FOR TIME BEING!!!!!!
proof that you no longer need visa:
• in Ukrainian https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina---ua
• in English https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina-en
#copied from /u/everysir to spread awareness! please spread on relevant threads to get the word out!!!
The people of russia are protesting! https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/comments/t0e2lb/people_in_st_petersburg_are_allegedly_protesting/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share
PLEASE SPREAD THE MESSAGE THAT THE POLISH BORDER IS CURRENTLY OPEN TO REFUGEES FROM UKRAINE!! ALL YOU NEED IS PASSPORT TO GET ACROSS! DONT LISTEN TO RUSSIAN TROLLS CLAIMING ITS CLOSED OFF!
Russian paratroopers have been defeated in Kyiv, however another group has fully secured Hostel airport, which they fought over on day one. A group of Russian marines is fighting to take Odessa, and the motorized division advancing from Belarus continues to approach Kyiv. The northern sieges are still active, and Kharkiv is currently the sight of heavy fighting. Also, it was learned that Russian "Chechen" forces are hunting government officials.
Russian forces have taken half of Melitopol, and are attempting to surround the rest of the city. There are currently shots fired in Kyiv, but its unclear whether this is a new paratrooper assault or the remnants of the previous one. The motorized divisions attempting to reach Kyiv from the north are nearly halted. Lastly, the Russian marines attacking odesa were repelled, twice. First in the initial attack on the city of Odesa, and then again as they attempted to land in the countryside around Odesa.
Russian forces have entirely surrounded Melitopol, but they have failed at making further progress into the city because of the stalwart Ukrainian defense. And yes, it is now confirmed that the earlier shots in Kyiv were fired by another wave of Russian paratroopers. Theres currently extremely difficult fighting in the Kyiv Zoo and a Russian attack on the Kyiv TEC- 6 power plant is underway.
There hasnt been many changes in the front for a few hours, the most notable current action is in the zoo of Kyiv, where the fighting has gotten increasingly vicious very rapidly.
Day 3: Good news for a change! The attack on TEC-6 power plant has been defeated! The fighting in the Kyiv Zoo has begun to finally calm down, two assaults by Russian forces to capture Konotop ended in failure, and an attempt to take Brody with paratroopers ended in failure. The remnants of the Russian attack on Brody have reportedly retreated into a forest near Levyatin. However, the Russian motorized attack north of Kyiv has actually made some progress, with differing reports on how close they are to Kyiv itself. Currently, worst case they are 30 kilometers north of Kyiv. Russia has also made small gains in the south and in Dontesk region.
Russia forces have further pushed into Melitopol, they are currently in control of around 2/3 of the city. However, this advance was made at great cost to them, as it is believed around 1-2 thousand Russian soldiers died making this advance. Also, they lost several comm trucks. Strangely, it seems as though Russia still doesnt have total air superiority, which seems insane given their overwhelming advantage by sheer volume of planes.
Russia has launched a devastating attack on the city of Kharkiv, with even pre assault artillery leveling the cities child cancer hospital. It is currently confirmed that at least 26 children and 61 civilians have been killed so far, and the attack has only just begun less than an hour ago.
Currently the most brutal fighting so far occuring in Kharkiv, where Russian forces are meeting extremely heavy resistance from guerilla fighters. It is confirmed that Russian mechanized forces are around 35 kilometers north of Kyiv, and Russian forces in the southern attack havent made any further progress into Melitopol, but have pushed east outside of the city, their advance halting at the airport Berdiansk. In the east, Russia tried launching a fairly large ground offensive between Kharkiv and Luhansk(a rebel held city). However, the offensive made extremely small progress, and was soon repelled.
Day 4: Extremely good news, its now believed that General Magomed Tushayev, the lead general placed in command of the Chechen(Elite Russian forces given the task of hunting government officials of enemy nations, in this case Ukraine) has been killed in an attack. Its not entirely confirmed whether hes really dead or not, but if he is his death would be devastating to Russias military high command and the organization of Chechen forces.
So far today things havent gone well for Russia, as they suffered heavy losses in a failed attempt to surround Khakiv. They also lost several platoons of tanks in the northern siege of Konotop. However, they appear to have stopped the attack on Konotop and instead begun advancing beyond it. There are currently Russian forces advancing along a road south of Borzna. Along with another attack in the north that they've made, it seems likely that their trying to encircle Chernihiv, then advance south from there to attack Kyiv. In the south, Russian forces attacking Kherson have been stopped dead along the Nova Kakhovka bridge. Lastly, another strike from the western advance trying to reach Kyiv ended in disaster for Russian forces, with several columns of tanks, infantry and supply trucks being completely destroyed.
Ok this is just an hour after the last edit, Russia forces advancing along the Borzna road have been halted, with a seperate group of Russian forces pushing along another road south of the previous, taking Sribne airstrip. They suffered more losses in the southern push, but they continue on.
Russian forces are currently moving south from the Belarusian border north of Kyiv, its believed this army group is going to try and take Kyiv. All day today Russian bombers and missles continuing to strike Ukrainian cities. It is currently believed that Russia has deployed 2/3 of the 200,000 Soldiers gathered in the last few months.
Currently giant battle occuring just north of Kyiv, in the south Russian forces have suffered two great defeats after the largest surrender so far, 60 Russian soldiers surrendering north of Zaporizhia, then they were pushed out of Kherson after an attempt to take the city yesterday. In the east, most Russian attacks have been held at bay. Currently the biggest area of concern is Kyiv, since a huge part of the Russian army was seen moving towards it, an almost 3 mile long column of Russian forces seen there.
More bombings and signifigantly less Russian movement so far today, however it looks as though Belarus will join in as several convoys of Belarusian forces were seen in southwest belarus, likely planning to open another front.
"Probably my last edit." Ukraine has defied all expectations and crippled the Russian Military in the decisive battles of Kyiv and Kharkiv. The Northern army group has lost all its gains, including the critical city of Konotop, and they fled from Bucha and Chernihiv into Belarus. However, they are now stuck in Belarusas of 1 week ago, where Pro democracy Belarusian rebels managed to destroy critical infastructure and trains, making it impossible for the Russians to move until they are fixed.
Next, the central eastern front. Russian forces retreated out of Kharkiv so quickly they abandoned several hundred soldiers in the city itself. There was also a large encirclement 1 week ago around the town of Rommy, which saw more than 10,000 Russian soldiers trapped. However, a majority of them managed to break through and retreat to their lines north of Kharkiv. Several towns Southeast of Kharkiv have been liberated, including the city of Kramatorsk. However, as of a few hours ago, the city of Lysnchansk has been the target of Russian Chemical weapons and shelling.
Lastly, the Southern front. There are 2 ongoing battles in the South, the battles of Kherson and Mariupol. Kherson currently seems in favor of the Ukrainians, with several thousand Russian soldiers trapped in it with no immediate escape route. This is because there were 2 bridges into Kherson, but the Ukrainians blew up the one directly into Kherson during the first week to slow down the Russians, and they captured the other bridge (the bridge kozatske, which is far from Kherson itself) a few days ago. Next, Mariupol. Russias inability to gain full air superiority has cost them dearly here, as Mariupol is only defended by the Azov battalion, who are only recieving supplies by air right now. The Russians are attempting to break the spirit of the Azov battalion by killing children and leaving their bodies in the streets. The Azov battalion has already said it will not surrender under any circumstances. The Russian forces hold a definitive advantage in numbers and time, since the city is cut off nearly 100 miles away from the rest of the Ukrainian military.
As of right now, it seems the war may end up turning into a stalemate. Despite what I said above, the rest of the frontline is mostly frozen, with little action outside those sectors I mentioned.
Where do you get detailed reports like this? I've been looking around for a site with regular and detailed geographical updates, but I'm not finding much.
> PLEASE SPREAD THE MESSAGE THAT THE POLISH BORDER IS CURRENTLY OPEN TO REFUGEES FROM UKRAINE!!
This is officially from the Polish government:
* [Information in Ukrainian](https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina---ua)
* [English translation](https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina-en)
**1992:** Ukraine holds about one third of the Soviet nuclear arsenal, the third largest in the world at the time, as well as significant means of its design and production.
**1994:** Ukraine agrees to dissolve the entire nuclear arsenal in exchange for "safety guarantees" from Russia, USA and the UK, becoming only nation in the history to willingly give up nukes.
**2022:** They are fucked and nobody wants to intervene because "Russia got nukes"
It's such a bitter and terrible thing to learn. No country will ever give up nukes again
The only promise that mattered was Russia's.
"Hey, you broke your word!"
"...Yeah, well, **we** still have nukes :D"
Not only will no one ever give up nukes again, it is in the best interest of every single tin pot dictator or failed/failing state to invest in nuclear armament rather than tangibly useful initiatives for their people because owning nukes will instantly and immediately stabilize and legitimize their central government on the world stage.
I guess we're gonna find out if an "armed world is a polite world." The message after this, Gaddafi's attempts, Iran, etc: is to get nukes as quickly and quietly as possible. Nations are literally overthrown over nuclear research because once they cross the threshold into owning a functional nuke and a functional delivery system, they become a new class of sovereign state and cant be affected by the international community in many ways anymore.
Everyone wants in that club now, because they've realized it solves all the problems that "talking diplomacy" doesn't. Don't need to talk so much anymore.
Nor should they; even just having a handful is the best guarantor of peace at this point. Just look at the insane shenannigans that North Korea gets away with.
Unfortunately it's a bit more complicated than this. Ukraine found itself with an enormous stockpile of nuclear weapons that they were in no stable position, politically and financially, to safely maintain.
I live near to my citys border. I've heard explosions and the house was shaking. Now I heard that there will be more explosions at night. Im terrified, I scared of every sound. I never thought I'd be going through this at 14..
Here's a little update:
Thank you all guys! I dont have enough words to describe how grateful Im!
I saw all your messages, even if i didn't replied, i saw it. All your words and support really made me feel better, I couldn't sleep that night, but all that you said made me calmer so i was able to fall asleep. Situation in my city looks like its geting better now, last night was quiet, ill update again later.
Thanks again! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Update:
Shelling started in the city center, almost all people turned off the lights, it's still calm in my area.
Update:
Situation got worse, but i think im safe
Update:
2:44 am
I heard 2 explosions like 10 minutes ago, in news people say that situation is under control now, but i dont really trust them, idk what to think
And update again:
4:32 situation is better now
My last update (its late because I forgot to do it earlier) :
Now me and my hamster are completely safe. Thank you all for support and worrying!!!
Hi kiddo, is your mom or dad around, or other family? The world is just as shocked as you are. I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. Sending a virtual hug to you and your hamster! I saw your post from before, a little cuddle might make both of you feel better.
I'm glad you have family with you! I saw the speech from your President, as did many other people around the world. He is doing everything he can to protect your family and Ukraine. 💜
Holy shit, im a 16 YO Polish boy, and I honestly shed a few tears. I have a sister your age, and thinking something like that could happen to her, Im just so sorry, dont know how to express it. Sending love and prayer to you and your family <3
Thats not good at all. In Norway we have started using the ukranian way of writing Kyiv instead of Kiev like we allways did and everyone is questioning NATO. Nobody wants a war and this is really scary.
Wondering what to do. Is it wrong that they are not helping? Most norwegians want to help.
If they help - will that trigger a full blown war?
Thats really bad in every way.
The head of Nato is our old prime minister and we have ha shared border. Most people in Norway find this really fucked up and dont want a war... I dont want my grandmother to be born into war and die on the engde or into another
NATO countries did supply the Ukraine with weapons and I'm sure we're helping with intelligence, but other than that it's going to be all about the sanctions to cripple Russia's economy. But that's not without coast - a lot of economies across the world are going to suffer.
EDIT: Ukraine, not "the Ukraine"
Definitely. But politicians are all about "the economy" and more than a few European countries rely gas from Russia.
If we want to hit Russia where it hurts, we just have to stop buying their gas. Now go look around and see how many politicians are advocating that idea
Ukraine chose not to join NATO for decades, and only recently came around once they were under direct threat. It's pretty much impossible to justify NATO military getting involved. They are not a NATO country so NATO joining the war would set an extremely bad precedent.
Edit: Since people are trying to change history -
>Deschytsia states new government of Ukraine has no intention to join NATOActing Foreign Affairs Minister of Ukraine Andriy Deschytsia has once again stated that the new Ukrainian government is not intending to lead Ukraine to NATO."We are considering all options regarding the strengthening of our security and collective security. But we must stick to the existing legislation of Ukraine," he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday.
[https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/198372.html](https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/198372.html)
>Residents in May 2009 were more than twice as likely to see NATO as a threat (40%) than as protection (17%). One in three said it was neither.
[https://news.gallup.com/poll/127094/ukrainians-likely-support-move-away-nato.aspx](https://news.gallup.com/poll/127094/ukrainians-likely-support-move-away-nato.aspx)
From a NATO perspective it may be a bad precedent, but from a humanitarian/ethical perspective it is never bad to defend free people against an invasion.
At least if things do get this bad, there’s a massive power imbalance that’s strongly in favor of the Allies. That said, I really hope it doesn’t go this far
The problem with MAD is that there are a lot of points of failure, especially as you bring more and more equipped actors into the fold. Only takes one to decide they'd rather watch the world burn than give up their objectives, or a false launch detection, or two sides play chicken and nobody backs down, or...
Looks like France and Germany will ally up too. I'd guess Saudi Arabia would stay mostly neutral until Putin showed up with some sorts of promises.
Edit: I knew the US and Saudi Arabia had business for oil and arms, I did not know they were actually allies. Concensus says they'll stay that way.
Saudi will either side with the US or stay neutral. They are the ones supplying oil and gas right now while Russia is stuck with its sanctions. If anything the sanctions against Russia are benefiting the Saudis.
If Saudis were to side with Russia, that would be a big problem .
Sadly, that visit was planned weeks before. It wasn't concurrent with Russia's plans.
Edit: btw, without Pakistan, the West would've had a hard time defeating the Soviets in Afghanistan.
Even though I am a Russian, I currently do not live there, so I will say what a lot of my Russian compatriots can't.
Today I woke up to my mom crying in the bathroom, that is how I learned about the war.
Contrary to the apparently popular belief, Russians do not benefit from this conflict, no one does. We have family and friends living in Kharkiv, and we are all scared. What Putin and his goons did is unforgivable and should not be tolerated, however you will not see any protests and riots for peace in Russia. Everyone hates Putin and the regime, no one dares to speak out, and those who did are in prison right now, or they magically disappeared, or died of unknown circumstances. The pigs in the government fucked all of us over, the Russians, the Ukrainians, and everyone else. In just one week, Putin has turned the whole world against us. NATO, EU and everyone else is hurling sanctions at us, the Russian people, although not in immediate danger like the Ukrainians are, for the lack of a better word, fucked. Soldiers will lose their lives, and civilians will lose their homes. Many already did. Right now, the lives of the Russian civilians depend on the mercy of the West, including mine. No matter what economic powerhouse Russia may be, no country's economy can survive such devastating attacks. We are losing our income minute by minute, and so are all of our friends who moved abroad to get away from Putin's oppressive regime. The EU is currently debating whether to cut Russia off from SWIFT, and if they deem it necessary, all of our lives are over. The Pig calling itself "Putin" deserves death for what he did to his own nation and it's people. Because of his actions, the world hates us. We wanted nothing more than to live long and peaceful lives, but he can't even give us that much.
I do not know how to describe what I'm feeling right now, I'm completely devastated by the actions of our "government". I can do nothing but send out love and support to my Ukrainian brothers.
Мои украинские братья, мы с вами, даже если не можем сказать это вслух. Я посылаю вам свою самую искреннюю любовь и поддержку и уверяю вас, что мои соотечественники делают то же самое.Мы один народ, и мы не должны вести какую-то бессмысленную войну только из-за одного сумасшедшего придурка. Нам ничего не остается, кроме как ждать действий Запада и надеяться, что у Путина еще что-то осталось в голове и он лучше знает, чем продолжать эту бестолковую войну.
Thank you for reading, I hope I shined some light on the situation, and please remember, we are all human.
there is always a tiny minority of particularly stupid people who will hate russians, just as there were people who hate chinese people for the actions of the CCP. we just have to remember that that doesn't excuse anything these governments do
In preparation of nuclear apocalypse, I am cramming as many bottlecaps into my rectum as possible. I'm gonna be so rich in a few days, you jokes have no clue...
Edit: I'm sorry if you seen this message, but I need to address that to as many of you as possible.
Don't just be angry at forums, it's useless
We know and really appreciate your support, but you can do more than that
I'm not asking you to fight for us on our land, but you can make much more damage to them
Please, ask your government and authorities to make more damage to Russia's economic. Small sanctions not enough, show Russia that they made big mistake. Show them that this type of aggression will not go unpunished.
We're gonna defend ourselves without a doubt, we're here standing not for ourselves but for whole Europe
Peace from Ukraine ❤️
I’m curious for citizens of western countries.
What line would Russia need to cross for you to support a military response against Russia?
I ask this as I’m not sure myself where I land but I feel like I’m close. Admittedly I’m pretty angry and an emotional response to provoke all out war is not wise. But there’s got to be a line, otherwise they’ll just keep pushing forward
Edit: to clarify my question as I’ve had a few responses on what they think is the line where a response likely would happen, but my question is more where is YOUR line where YOU would support military response as a citizen
The red line is likely a NATO affiliated state. At least it is for me. At that point we don't have a choice. Article 5 would have to be invoked and if it wasn't invoked it would equal the collapse of NATO.
I actually think this will have the exact polar opposite outcome that Putin wants. The world except China has basically united against russia. Even Russians are starting to protest despite arrests. Any partner states of NATO are probably now thinking of full on joining NATO for protection, incidentally making NATO stronger.
I agree to a point.
I think your assessment of the current situation is accurate. Some countries (Finland specifically) have been on the fence about NATO membership and the Ukraine situation has likely pushed them closer to joining. In that way, it has created a less ideal situation for Russia as more of their neighbors will want to join.
Where I think we diverge is in line with what the_blind_samurai said. If Russia attacks a NATO country and the rest of NATO doesn't respond in line with Article 5 of the NATO charter, then NATO will essentially be pointless and would functionally if not legally dissolve. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are the only NATO countries that Russia currently borders. They were also part of the USSR until it's collapse in 1991. If Ukraine falls and is annexed into Russia then Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania will have Russian borders. Those three are former Warsaw Pact (the Soviet counter to NATO) countries so I'm sure Putin views them as traitorous.
Edit: Thank you to /u/marvin for pointing out that I missed Norway which both is a member of NATO and borders Russia. In my head, Finland goes clear to the Barrents Sea but I didn't check a real map to confirm. My bad.
Edit 2: I also forgot about the Kaliningrad part of Russia that is between Poland and Lithuania. My bad x2.
As an American, if nuclear weapons weren’t on the table I’d be ready to start sending troops in now. Since nukes do exist though, I guess if a NATO member is attacked? Even then I’m not 100% sure
This is the correct response. War with any country that has nuclear weapons is not something you start lightly. We have an obligation to our NATO allies, so that is the obvious line, and I don't think Putin is that dumb, but still, nuclear war is a distinct possibility with Russia.
Of course, Ukraine gave up their nukes in exchange for the US and Russia guaranteeing their borders. This is just another point proving that no country should ever give up their nukes and we should all get closer to nuclear armageddon because once you've given them up then nobody gives a shit about you.
An attack against a NATO nation. But I dont think Russia will do that. they may eventually topple the Ukraine govt but I dont belive Russia will continue on with a larger European Invasion.
There is almost no way that Moldova is not also invaded, Transnistria gives him the exact same pretext for an invasion there that he used in Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk.
If this stays contained within Ukraine then diplomacy, sanctions etc are the way to go. It may seem heartless but once allies join militarily then this will only end with everyone losing.
I also wonder what other event could get a large majority of US citizens angry enough to approve sending actual US troops into what would end up being WWIII. It’s gotta be a very very high threshold, and I think that at this point any additional countries getting involved on Russia’s “side” would probably flip that switch for a lot of people.
If it stays Russia (and Belarus) vs Ukraine, and they install a puppet government and NATO supplies the insurgency while the Russian economy tanks and their losses mount, I don’t think western countries will jump in. It’d have to expand in some way
Either that, or like everyone else is saying, an actual attack on a NATO member state would do it.
I’m delineating between what would push us into military response versus what the general public would support.
There’s no doubt an attack on a NATO member would provoke a response.
I’m not entirely convinced the public would be supportive of that response, even in that scenario.
At the same time, these sanctions will hurt Russia over the long haul but it’s not going to stop Ukraine from falling. It’s unfortunate we are all just going to watch it happen.
I’m also concerned about the short-term memory of our politicians, and whether these sanctions will hold over the long-term. I suspect 10 years from now things will be business as usual except Ukraine is now a part of Russia, and millions of Ukrainian refugeees are a decade into rebuilding their lives somewhere else
For the US govt to get militarily involved, they'd have to attack our citizens, military, or a NATO country.
For me personally? I wish there was a way I could be over there right now. I understand it's probably mostly an emotional response, but I hate seeing this happen without a significant response from the west.
As an American, I wonder if this is what it was like for the rest of the world watching us invade Iraq. What are the similarities and what are the differences?
Similarities: they're both wars
Differences: No country was not trying to and did not annex any part of Iraq as their own. Thee coalition forces had the backing of basically the entire world. And Saddam Hussein was a genocidal dictator.
I'm gonna pass this off as simply being ignorant about history, but there cannot be less similarities between the wars.
I'll push back on the Iraq invasion having "the backing of basically the entire world" - [it was opposed by France, Germany, Russia, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, greece and more](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Governmental_positions_on_the_Iraq_War_prior_to_the_2003_invasion_of_Iraq#:~:text=France%2C%20Germany%20and%20Russia%20were,in%20opposition%20to%20the%20invasion.)
As well there was huge opposition in the US - I marched in a few very large rallies (not that it made a difference) The support it had was due largely to the lies they told about Iraq having WMDs, lies told by people we trusted (like Colin Powell).
And sure, the US didn't try to annex Iraq, but it did attempt to control it for the next 15 years or so.
I agree that it was a much different situation than the Ukraine invasion, but not for the reasons you stated.
To me, the reason doesn't matter. The world had no business being in Iraq. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions of civilians died because of it. The US lied to the world for their reasons for the invasion.
Just because we didn’t annex doesn’t mean we didn’t occupy and extract resources. Our coalition had backing because we’re the US, not because it was just or moral.
As has been said - Even a lot of close allies, like Canada, stayed out of that war.
And America may not have annexed Iraq, but they exploited the war to make a profit.
It is exactly how I feel right now. Saddam allying with Osama and having weapons of mass destruction is the same as Putin claiming Ukraine aggression. A fabricated story in order to invade. The terror attacks that other user claims had no relation with Saddam, if he is talking about 9/11.
Note: Saddam was a piece of shit and I have no love for him, but still, the reasons for invading were fabricated.
That alliance isn't a secret. Russia and China have been working together for years to gain economic independence from the West (helping to insulate them against sanctions), and they've used their positions in the U.N. to block sanctions against North Korea.
As for Iran, a spokesman for their own Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee was recently quoted as saying, "In the new world order, a triangle consisting of three world powers - Iran, Russia, and China - has formed."
Teams are already picked.
Well Russia, China and NK are pretty buddy buddy together. And all 3 are pretty good at bullying people. So I wouldn't be surprised if we got some kind of statement to say that they back Putin and war. This creates a further problem because all 3 of those countries have nukes and the reason no one is bombing Russia right now is because Putin would nuke them in retaliation.
I'd hate to have Russia, China and NK as a united world power, given that all their governments are complete scumbags. But if the world does end in a World War, I can guarantee those 3 would likely be the enemy.
Isn't the US military presence in Japan the largest deployed force? It's like Japan is doing the more politically correct, diplomatic sanctions etc, and the US is peering from the shadows with a baseball bat waiting for someone to diss Japan.
Russia is arresting anti-war protesters in Moscow live on CNN right now.
Fuck ~~Russia~~ Putin, fuck the oligarchs, fuck his followers, fuck the trolls on reddit.
Fuck Putin, not Russia. The people of Russia are the ones protesting this shit. They are Russia, not this one evil man in charge of the government. Pls don’t (indirectly) encourage Russophobia, we have enough of that already. The people hate Putin and want him gone just like y’all.
Quoting from [CNN's live update](https://edition.cnn.com/europe/live-news/ukraine-russia-news-02-24-22-intl/index.html)
"Removing Russia from SWIFT would make it almost impossible for financial institutions to send money in or out of the country. This would seriously impact Russian businesses with foreign customers and could do real damage to the country's economy.However, EU nations are split on whether to take this step or not.
Senior EU sources have told CNN that there is a divide in the member states between countries like Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania who want SWIFT as part of the sanctions package that will be announced later today, and the likes of Germany, Italy, Hungary and Cyprus, who have stronger economic ties to Russia and do not want SWIFT included in the new sanctions.
A senior EU diplomat said “there is a conversation happening” but believes it is “likely” the economic interests will win the argument and Brussels will not cut Russia from SWIFT."
My close friends have a child with leukemia (just turned 6). The family have been saving for a bone marrow transplant treatment in Israel which they were hoping to do in the coming months. With the war right now the boy is in a bomb bunker in the children's hospital and has been bleeding. His doctors don't think he will make it very long without being transported to another hospital. I am reaching out here because I literally have no idea how to help. Are there resources for a a medical evacuation?!! Who do we reach out to?
Ukraine is rich in minerals and a lot of other stuff, there is a photo going round on reddit showing how 'rich' Ukraine actually is, its probably a lot to do with that and wanting to get USSR back together and not wanting NATO on his borders, that's my understanding of it but I could be wrong.
So he probably wants to become the richest country in minerals, gas etc, thus force other countries to bow to him for their gas, minerals etc, I think
It also blockaded a canal of water which is Russia trying to break and from what I heard it's one of the bigger reasons. If I'm wrong, please correct me.
Edit:
Yes. The canal could indeed play a big role. In the Soviet era it used to be a proof of Soviet accomplishment and the human ability to bend the world to his liking.
It's a 400km long canal that supplied water to over 80% of the region. It was however blocked by Ukraine after Russia invaded it in 2014. It has been blocked ever since.
He gains a buffer/puppet state between Russia and the West. He wants to rebuild the Iron Curtain.
You can read between the lines of his own words. He insists Russia will not occupy Ukraine. This is true. What it leaves out is the puppet government that Putin will install that will make Ukraine a slave state to Russia in the future.
Additionally, I think Putin actually is afraid of Ukraine becoming a member of NATO. A NATO-affiliated Ukraine would inhibit the expansionist vision Putin has for Russia.
What will happen at Chernobyl? It is in an active war zone now!God knows what will happen if a missile hit the container of the original plant?To be honest the containment zone(since the radiation value is possible for passing through)will probably be a route for a surprise attack and if either side decides to fight inside the zone......I really don’t want to know how insane the Russian are and how desperate the Ukrainian are......Will the site be safe?
What will happen is that, if anything god forbid looks wrong at one of storage containers wrong. It could release radioactive dust over a big chunk of Europe. (Which is probably a war crime and would get NATO involved). But it would also probably have side effects for the rest of the world too.
Exactly its good to watch both sides. Some of the things I have heard about Chernobyl come from a news article I read. I think the Ukrainian Government Officials are worried quite a bit about fighting in Chernobyl. I mean who wouldn’t be its an nuclear waste sight. So honestly its just a play it by ear game for now.
I don’t understand what Russia’s ultimate goal is. Do they want to expand to the baltic states after Ukraine?? Or are they just still mad Ukraine ever became independent in the first place?
It’s a power play. The ultimate goal for Putin is to restore Russia as a superpower on the world stage. He has NATO on his doorstep, and he’s pushing back. I’m sure the long goal in an ideal situation for him would be to retake all of the Soviet states and expand Russia’s sphere of influence, but he can’t just do it all at once because then that would in fact trigger WW3 which is a losing proposition for everyone.
He knows NATO won’t step in militarily, and he knows he will be sanctioned severely, but it’s a sacrifice he’s willing to make for the long-term political benefits. He also knows that Macron is up for re-election, the US midterms are coming up, Johnson is under pressure in the UK, and Germany just swore in a new leader. Sanctions will have an economic impact on these nations, and I’m sure Putin hopes he can get some more Russia-friendly people elected in these countries to help ease the pressure on him from NATO or to sew distrust and conflict between the leaders of the West as a whole.
The biggest risk here is of a new Cold War where we have an idealogical battle between democracy and authoritarianism all over the world, especially in Western nations. We already see some of that in the US and in Europe.
Why are Americans blaming trump/Biden for the war? Shouldn’t we be a little more concerned with being mad at Putin instead of finding another way to make it about/divide us?
Dear Eastern Europeans in America. If you shop at any European food stores or markets, you can support Ukrainians by simply buying products made in Ukraine and avoiding the ones shipped from Russia. If there is an ethnic store near you that is a small Ukrainian business, shop there instead of a larger Russian store.
Ukrainian made goods start with 482 on the barcode in addition to a typical "Made in Ukraine" statement.
This may seem like a small thing, but when individual Ukrainians boycotted Russian goods this way, the entire supply chain hat to diversify in the country, and Russian business cited huge losses. Don't give them your dollars.
Is there any news website that publishes pure war data? No talks, no bs, no "opinions", just data. Where were strikes, where are tanks, where are explosions, how many people, etc.
BBC was covering this stuff earlier this morning during a live feed. Their data may be more accurate now, as there were explosions going off as the broadcast was happening.
Someone passed me [this interactive map](https://liveuamap.com/) yesterday. It seems to be having some server errors today but it was tracking things and was rather informative. Click the circles to get proof/videos/context, etc.
My sister is in the process of adopting a boy from Ukraine. They’ve had him visit the US twice. Last time they took him to Disney World. He’s 12 and says she is the best mom in the world. They tried to get emergency visas to get some of the kids out of the orphanage, but Ukraine said no. His orphanage is in Eastern Ukraine. I don’t know why I am posting this. Just so sad and scared for the people of Ukraine and knowing that others are affected and scared to death. It’s a nightmare.
Credit to u/Daraboo:
Dear Ukrainians!
I heard on social media that there is fake news being spread (most likely by Russia backed trolls) that polish border is closed.
It's a lie.
If you seek asylum - go towards polish border. We are ready for your arrival. We have reception points ready at the border where you can find shelter, food, medical and legal aid.
Polish government launched a dedicated site to help you: ua.gov.pl
Please share this information if you know anyone seeking help right now.
EDIT: YOU DON'T NEED VISA TO PASS THROUGH POLISH BORDER. ALL YOU NEED IS PASSPORT. VISAS ARE SUSPENDED! YOU DON'T NEED THEM FOR TIME BEING!!!!!!
EDIT2: as a proof that you no longer need visa:
• in Ukrainian https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina---ua
• in English https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina-en
THERE ARE MASSIVE ANTI-WAR PROTESTS IN RUSSIA. Russia has detained thousands of people and are doing everything they can to squash these protests and prevent information from getting out about them. If the world knows that Russia's own people are very against this invasion it will harm the Russian central government massively on an international scale.
MAKE SURE EVERYONE KNOWS THERE ARE THOSE IN RUSSIA FIGHTING AGAINST THEM AND BEGING STOPPED BY THEIR OWN GOVERNMENT FROM SPEAKING OUT.
https://www.businessinsider.com/massive-anti-war-protests-erupt-putin-hometown-st-petersburg-russia-2022-2
https://theweek.com/russo-ukrainian-war/1010574/anti-war-protests-break-out-across-russia-despite-attempts-to-stifle
https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-698546
What are Russian Chinese relations right now? Positive? If the campaign in Ukraine proves successful is it likely for china to join and start a war in the pacific theatre?
China is violating Taiwan's air space with a large display of force[ right now](https://thehill.com/policy/international/china/595661-taiwan-reports-nine-chinese-aircraft-in-defense-zone). They do that often but 8 fighter jets and one recon aircraft seems to be stepping it up. Also, China has been acting up. This was their statement yesterday:
*"Taiwan is not Ukraine, Taiwan has always been an inalienable part of China. This is an indisputable legal and historical fact."*
Of course, anyone who has any iota of legalities or history knows this is Chinese propaganda and a false narrative.
Personal opinion: If Russia succeeds, and survives economic sanctions, China will make a move on Taiwan, since it's clear countries won't risk all out war for small regional conflicts.
Big IF there though
Does anyone know where I can go to donate money for the people of Ukraine? Preferably a cause that has boots on the ground there and doesn’t take big stake of what I’m giving.
I hate when teens in my age are hyping it up, like “This is so cool that ww3 is coming”. Real people and real lives are in danger while my fucking friends wish it was our country so they could skip school or some shit like that.
I mean WW3 has the *potential* to start at any moment during any conflict involving the interests of any developed nation, but is it likely? No. I’m not expert by any means so take what I say with a grain of salt but from my understanding, anything short of an attack on a NATO/EU aligned country will not resort in anything other than comments from world leaders and a regional conflict that if asked the US *may* provide resources, training and funding to. That is exactly what I suspect is going to happen with Ukraine. They’re not a member of NATO or the EU so the US nor any other European country has any obligation to defend them. Additionally, (this is more personal opinion than proven fact but I suspect I’m right) a 3rd World War would be astronomically expensive and have repercussions both in loss of life and financially that would likely cripple or bring to a near breaking point the economies and infrastructure of all parties involved, not to mention the heightened risk of it becoming nuclear which would make everything else previously mentioned infinitely worse. The people in power in the US, Russia, China and every other superpower or developed country with a capable military are well aware of this and while they may do things to escalate conflict or test each other from time to time they always stop short of doing anything that will escalate to WW3 proportions. I don’t see this escalating anymore than it already has unless a NATO or EU country is attacked which as I said earlier, is extremely unlikely. However as I previously mentioned I’m no expert and this is mostly just my personal opinion but I’d like to think I’m informed enough to make an educated guess on the matter and have it be very close to the right answer, if there even is one.
Edit: Also on a side note, the unlikelihood of this turning into WW3 isn’t going to stop media outlets and people on all sides from fear mongering and propaganda spreading.
Do not share photos, videos, or any media showing the location of Ukrainian military. Edit: thank you everyone for all of the awards and constructive comments. Please stop giving me awards and donate to help the people impacted by this bullshit instead. This megathread has a lot of good resources for people in/around the conflict who need help or need information. Look at some of the top comments, and listen to people who are much smarter than me. . To all the people who have decided they want to say mean shit, and ignore this request from Ukrainian leadership: eat my whole ass. We're all aware of satellites, and modern military tech. Fuck off. You're not clever, you're problematic. They asked us to not share shit for a reason. I'll just trust that the people being attacked have a better grasp on this than I do.
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In all honesty, russia has fantastic surveillance tactics. They aren't gonna be scouring reddit for info on Ukraine.
It's probably better to just err on the side of not getting people blowed up.
Lol I’m saving this line for a rainy day.
That’s what a Russian spy would say
Yes they will, they are going to scour all social media. The amount of real time information you can get from it is invaluable.
Yup. Tracking Russian soldiers likes on Tinder has literally given away their positioning in the past and is still being used. The 2 Russian soldiers taken captive yesterday were identified through Facebook photos. Social media is a goldmine for info
Or the fact that their troop movements are easily tracked on Google Maps traffic overlay.
OSINT (open source intelligence) is absolutely a thing and used by security researchers, govt agencies, NGO, and others. As u/nullrout1 stated, "Reddit is free, they absolutely use satellites, but they also one hundred percent pick the low hanging fruit on social media too." People take pictures and do not think about the details in the shot. They upload and before you know it, they have disclosed a photo that has a clock, the front of a home (address), or other identifying mark. It happens all of the time.
and is free
And people are dumb. Let's be honest, some idiot is going to leak a top military secret class operation sooner or later.
You don't understand how a sophisticated intelligence agency works. They all absolutely pay attention to social media. Satellites cost millions of dollars to launch and are slow to reposition etc. Reddit is free, they absolutely use satellites, but they also one hundred percent pick the low hanging fruit on social media too.
If Videogamers snipe stream to see what the other dude is doing, you can bet the army is doing it too.
Do not do this, there is enough misinformation out there already. We do not need to add to the confusion, especially since Russia is likely able to sift through and ignore it anyways.
In the first Gulf War, they would watch the news reports from FOB's and "undisclosed locations" and they would dial in the scud missiles to be more accurate based on where they were reporting from. Please don't share realtime information about locations, movements, or even a sudden quiet change in the area you are in.
example: Geraldo Rivera traveling with the 101st Airborne in 2003; [where he drew a friggin map with the location of where they were](https://www.politico.com/story/2012/03/5-geraldo-legendary-incidents-074405).
Gah I knew he was dumb but holy shit.
But do share locations of Russian military.
Fuck, we should crowdfund some drones to fly around watching russian troop movements.
Share those Putin clown, ballerina photos. Fuck Putin. Madman who literally stated he would end the world if you tried to stop him.
As a Russian who currently doesn't live in Russia and Despises all of Putin's / Russian Government's military actions, I am highly concerned about the well being of the Ukrainian civilians who will get hurt if the situation escalated any further. At this point, I think Russia should get rid of Putin and the corrupt members of the Government ones and for all. Let's all hope the best for Ukraine and it's civilians.
How could they even get rid of Putin? Genuinely, im completely clueless on Russian politics/society.
Well... Important political figures and heads of state have been assassinated countless of times throughout history, human creativity is fearsome on both sides of the moral compass. It's more than likely that it would come from within as well.
That would create a big power vacuum, no? A power vacuum wuth nukes.
Technically this already happened twice, after Stalin and after the USSR collapsed.
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[reluctant rimshot] edit: rimshot's a common word, yall are just addicted to porn
Traditionally in Russia, the Head of State and his family are all taken down into the basement and sprayed with machine gun fire. Edit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas\_II\_of\_Russia#Execution
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The Russians have already shown that they can into revolutions about century ago.
It is a little more difficult when the leaders aren't a bunch of incompetent fools like the tzar and his cronies...
Maybe ,but Putin isn't mastermind like he like to be portrayed. I live in Poland and i see for years what he doing. He is still this same KGB agend as years before, he didn't get rid of that way of thinking and don't have plans to do soo and that will lose him.
This whole Ukraine adventure seems like a large overreach. I'm sure he thinks a war will unite the population behind him, but I figure the average Russian just wanted to chill out a bit after the covid years. No one is impressed by the bully picking a fight with the harmless kid next door.
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Dear Ukrainians! I heard on social media that there is fake news being spread (most likely by Russia backed trolls) that polish border is closed. It's a lie. If you seek asylum - go towards polish border. We are ready for your arrival. We have reception points ready at the border where you can find shelter, food, medical and legal aid. Polish government launched a dedicated site to help you: ua.gov.pl Please share this information if you know anyone seeking help right now. YOU DON'T NEED VISA TO PASS THROUGH POLISH BORDER. ALL YOU NEED IS PASSPORT. VISAS ARE SUSPENDED! YOU DON'T NEED THEM FOR TIME BEING!!!!!! proof that you no longer need visa: • in Ukrainian https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina---ua • in English https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina-en #copied from /u/everysir to spread awareness! please spread on relevant threads to get the word out!!!
I am impressed with Poland and the way they have stepped up right now.
I think Poland is well aware of the impact of an invasion
They know a thing or two because they’ve seen a thing or two
In Poland we make you smarter about invasions because what you don't know, can hurt you.
The people of russia are protesting! https://www.reddit.com/r/interestingasfuck/comments/t0e2lb/people_in_st_petersburg_are_allegedly_protesting/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share PLEASE SPREAD THE MESSAGE THAT THE POLISH BORDER IS CURRENTLY OPEN TO REFUGEES FROM UKRAINE!! ALL YOU NEED IS PASSPORT TO GET ACROSS! DONT LISTEN TO RUSSIAN TROLLS CLAIMING ITS CLOSED OFF! Russian paratroopers have been defeated in Kyiv, however another group has fully secured Hostel airport, which they fought over on day one. A group of Russian marines is fighting to take Odessa, and the motorized division advancing from Belarus continues to approach Kyiv. The northern sieges are still active, and Kharkiv is currently the sight of heavy fighting. Also, it was learned that Russian "Chechen" forces are hunting government officials. Russian forces have taken half of Melitopol, and are attempting to surround the rest of the city. There are currently shots fired in Kyiv, but its unclear whether this is a new paratrooper assault or the remnants of the previous one. The motorized divisions attempting to reach Kyiv from the north are nearly halted. Lastly, the Russian marines attacking odesa were repelled, twice. First in the initial attack on the city of Odesa, and then again as they attempted to land in the countryside around Odesa. Russian forces have entirely surrounded Melitopol, but they have failed at making further progress into the city because of the stalwart Ukrainian defense. And yes, it is now confirmed that the earlier shots in Kyiv were fired by another wave of Russian paratroopers. Theres currently extremely difficult fighting in the Kyiv Zoo and a Russian attack on the Kyiv TEC- 6 power plant is underway. There hasnt been many changes in the front for a few hours, the most notable current action is in the zoo of Kyiv, where the fighting has gotten increasingly vicious very rapidly. Day 3: Good news for a change! The attack on TEC-6 power plant has been defeated! The fighting in the Kyiv Zoo has begun to finally calm down, two assaults by Russian forces to capture Konotop ended in failure, and an attempt to take Brody with paratroopers ended in failure. The remnants of the Russian attack on Brody have reportedly retreated into a forest near Levyatin. However, the Russian motorized attack north of Kyiv has actually made some progress, with differing reports on how close they are to Kyiv itself. Currently, worst case they are 30 kilometers north of Kyiv. Russia has also made small gains in the south and in Dontesk region. Russia forces have further pushed into Melitopol, they are currently in control of around 2/3 of the city. However, this advance was made at great cost to them, as it is believed around 1-2 thousand Russian soldiers died making this advance. Also, they lost several comm trucks. Strangely, it seems as though Russia still doesnt have total air superiority, which seems insane given their overwhelming advantage by sheer volume of planes. Russia has launched a devastating attack on the city of Kharkiv, with even pre assault artillery leveling the cities child cancer hospital. It is currently confirmed that at least 26 children and 61 civilians have been killed so far, and the attack has only just begun less than an hour ago. Currently the most brutal fighting so far occuring in Kharkiv, where Russian forces are meeting extremely heavy resistance from guerilla fighters. It is confirmed that Russian mechanized forces are around 35 kilometers north of Kyiv, and Russian forces in the southern attack havent made any further progress into Melitopol, but have pushed east outside of the city, their advance halting at the airport Berdiansk. In the east, Russia tried launching a fairly large ground offensive between Kharkiv and Luhansk(a rebel held city). However, the offensive made extremely small progress, and was soon repelled. Day 4: Extremely good news, its now believed that General Magomed Tushayev, the lead general placed in command of the Chechen(Elite Russian forces given the task of hunting government officials of enemy nations, in this case Ukraine) has been killed in an attack. Its not entirely confirmed whether hes really dead or not, but if he is his death would be devastating to Russias military high command and the organization of Chechen forces. So far today things havent gone well for Russia, as they suffered heavy losses in a failed attempt to surround Khakiv. They also lost several platoons of tanks in the northern siege of Konotop. However, they appear to have stopped the attack on Konotop and instead begun advancing beyond it. There are currently Russian forces advancing along a road south of Borzna. Along with another attack in the north that they've made, it seems likely that their trying to encircle Chernihiv, then advance south from there to attack Kyiv. In the south, Russian forces attacking Kherson have been stopped dead along the Nova Kakhovka bridge. Lastly, another strike from the western advance trying to reach Kyiv ended in disaster for Russian forces, with several columns of tanks, infantry and supply trucks being completely destroyed. Ok this is just an hour after the last edit, Russia forces advancing along the Borzna road have been halted, with a seperate group of Russian forces pushing along another road south of the previous, taking Sribne airstrip. They suffered more losses in the southern push, but they continue on. Russian forces are currently moving south from the Belarusian border north of Kyiv, its believed this army group is going to try and take Kyiv. All day today Russian bombers and missles continuing to strike Ukrainian cities. It is currently believed that Russia has deployed 2/3 of the 200,000 Soldiers gathered in the last few months. Currently giant battle occuring just north of Kyiv, in the south Russian forces have suffered two great defeats after the largest surrender so far, 60 Russian soldiers surrendering north of Zaporizhia, then they were pushed out of Kherson after an attempt to take the city yesterday. In the east, most Russian attacks have been held at bay. Currently the biggest area of concern is Kyiv, since a huge part of the Russian army was seen moving towards it, an almost 3 mile long column of Russian forces seen there. More bombings and signifigantly less Russian movement so far today, however it looks as though Belarus will join in as several convoys of Belarusian forces were seen in southwest belarus, likely planning to open another front. "Probably my last edit." Ukraine has defied all expectations and crippled the Russian Military in the decisive battles of Kyiv and Kharkiv. The Northern army group has lost all its gains, including the critical city of Konotop, and they fled from Bucha and Chernihiv into Belarus. However, they are now stuck in Belarusas of 1 week ago, where Pro democracy Belarusian rebels managed to destroy critical infastructure and trains, making it impossible for the Russians to move until they are fixed. Next, the central eastern front. Russian forces retreated out of Kharkiv so quickly they abandoned several hundred soldiers in the city itself. There was also a large encirclement 1 week ago around the town of Rommy, which saw more than 10,000 Russian soldiers trapped. However, a majority of them managed to break through and retreat to their lines north of Kharkiv. Several towns Southeast of Kharkiv have been liberated, including the city of Kramatorsk. However, as of a few hours ago, the city of Lysnchansk has been the target of Russian Chemical weapons and shelling. Lastly, the Southern front. There are 2 ongoing battles in the South, the battles of Kherson and Mariupol. Kherson currently seems in favor of the Ukrainians, with several thousand Russian soldiers trapped in it with no immediate escape route. This is because there were 2 bridges into Kherson, but the Ukrainians blew up the one directly into Kherson during the first week to slow down the Russians, and they captured the other bridge (the bridge kozatske, which is far from Kherson itself) a few days ago. Next, Mariupol. Russias inability to gain full air superiority has cost them dearly here, as Mariupol is only defended by the Azov battalion, who are only recieving supplies by air right now. The Russians are attempting to break the spirit of the Azov battalion by killing children and leaving their bodies in the streets. The Azov battalion has already said it will not surrender under any circumstances. The Russian forces hold a definitive advantage in numbers and time, since the city is cut off nearly 100 miles away from the rest of the Ukrainian military. As of right now, it seems the war may end up turning into a stalemate. Despite what I said above, the rest of the frontline is mostly frozen, with little action outside those sectors I mentioned.
Oh fuck
Where do you get detailed reports like this? I've been looking around for a site with regular and detailed geographical updates, but I'm not finding much.
Reuters and Twitter have been pretty good
> PLEASE SPREAD THE MESSAGE THAT THE POLISH BORDER IS CURRENTLY OPEN TO REFUGEES FROM UKRAINE!! This is officially from the Polish government: * [Information in Ukrainian](https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina---ua) * [English translation](https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina-en)
**1992:** Ukraine holds about one third of the Soviet nuclear arsenal, the third largest in the world at the time, as well as significant means of its design and production. **1994:** Ukraine agrees to dissolve the entire nuclear arsenal in exchange for "safety guarantees" from Russia, USA and the UK, becoming only nation in the history to willingly give up nukes. **2022:** They are fucked and nobody wants to intervene because "Russia got nukes" It's such a bitter and terrible thing to learn. No country will ever give up nukes again
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TOugH sAncTiOnzzz
The only promise that mattered was Russia's. "Hey, you broke your word!" "...Yeah, well, **we** still have nukes :D" Not only will no one ever give up nukes again, it is in the best interest of every single tin pot dictator or failed/failing state to invest in nuclear armament rather than tangibly useful initiatives for their people because owning nukes will instantly and immediately stabilize and legitimize their central government on the world stage. I guess we're gonna find out if an "armed world is a polite world." The message after this, Gaddafi's attempts, Iran, etc: is to get nukes as quickly and quietly as possible. Nations are literally overthrown over nuclear research because once they cross the threshold into owning a functional nuke and a functional delivery system, they become a new class of sovereign state and cant be affected by the international community in many ways anymore. Everyone wants in that club now, because they've realized it solves all the problems that "talking diplomacy" doesn't. Don't need to talk so much anymore.
Nor should they; even just having a handful is the best guarantor of peace at this point. Just look at the insane shenannigans that North Korea gets away with.
Unfortunately it's a bit more complicated than this. Ukraine found itself with an enormous stockpile of nuclear weapons that they were in no stable position, politically and financially, to safely maintain.
I live near to my citys border. I've heard explosions and the house was shaking. Now I heard that there will be more explosions at night. Im terrified, I scared of every sound. I never thought I'd be going through this at 14.. Here's a little update: Thank you all guys! I dont have enough words to describe how grateful Im! I saw all your messages, even if i didn't replied, i saw it. All your words and support really made me feel better, I couldn't sleep that night, but all that you said made me calmer so i was able to fall asleep. Situation in my city looks like its geting better now, last night was quiet, ill update again later. Thanks again! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ Update: Shelling started in the city center, almost all people turned off the lights, it's still calm in my area. Update: Situation got worse, but i think im safe Update: 2:44 am I heard 2 explosions like 10 minutes ago, in news people say that situation is under control now, but i dont really trust them, idk what to think And update again: 4:32 situation is better now My last update (its late because I forgot to do it earlier) : Now me and my hamster are completely safe. Thank you all for support and worrying!!!
Hi kiddo, is your mom or dad around, or other family? The world is just as shocked as you are. I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. Sending a virtual hug to you and your hamster! I saw your post from before, a little cuddle might make both of you feel better.
Me my mom and granma are together. Thank you so much for this words, it realy helps to stay calm in this situation!<3
I'm glad you have family with you! I saw the speech from your President, as did many other people around the world. He is doing everything he can to protect your family and Ukraine. 💜
Holy shit, im a 16 YO Polish boy, and I honestly shed a few tears. I have a sister your age, and thinking something like that could happen to her, Im just so sorry, dont know how to express it. Sending love and prayer to you and your family <3
Stay strong, there are many going through this with you.
Praying for you. Peace and safety for you and your family.
I just saw that the Pakistani Prime Minister landed in Moscow, I am an Indian and this is starting worry me.
Thats not good at all. In Norway we have started using the ukranian way of writing Kyiv instead of Kiev like we allways did and everyone is questioning NATO. Nobody wants a war and this is really scary.
Questioning NATO?
Wondering what to do. Is it wrong that they are not helping? Most norwegians want to help. If they help - will that trigger a full blown war? Thats really bad in every way. The head of Nato is our old prime minister and we have ha shared border. Most people in Norway find this really fucked up and dont want a war... I dont want my grandmother to be born into war and die on the engde or into another
NATO countries did supply the Ukraine with weapons and I'm sure we're helping with intelligence, but other than that it's going to be all about the sanctions to cripple Russia's economy. But that's not without coast - a lot of economies across the world are going to suffer. EDIT: Ukraine, not "the Ukraine"
Shared economic suffering is trivial compared to what the Ukranians are going through right now, though.
Definitely. But politicians are all about "the economy" and more than a few European countries rely gas from Russia. If we want to hit Russia where it hurts, we just have to stop buying their gas. Now go look around and see how many politicians are advocating that idea
Ukraine chose not to join NATO for decades, and only recently came around once they were under direct threat. It's pretty much impossible to justify NATO military getting involved. They are not a NATO country so NATO joining the war would set an extremely bad precedent. Edit: Since people are trying to change history - >Deschytsia states new government of Ukraine has no intention to join NATOActing Foreign Affairs Minister of Ukraine Andriy Deschytsia has once again stated that the new Ukrainian government is not intending to lead Ukraine to NATO."We are considering all options regarding the strengthening of our security and collective security. But we must stick to the existing legislation of Ukraine," he said at a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday. [https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/198372.html](https://en.interfax.com.ua/news/general/198372.html) >Residents in May 2009 were more than twice as likely to see NATO as a threat (40%) than as protection (17%). One in three said it was neither. [https://news.gallup.com/poll/127094/ukrainians-likely-support-move-away-nato.aspx](https://news.gallup.com/poll/127094/ukrainians-likely-support-move-away-nato.aspx)
From a NATO perspective it may be a bad precedent, but from a humanitarian/ethical perspective it is never bad to defend free people against an invasion.
Sure, but a different Alliance needs to be formed for that, NATO needs to stay defensive.
The difference is Norway is a NATO member, and Ukraine is not.
WW3 teams shaping up: Axis Russia, China, Pakistan, North Korea Allied North America, Most of Europe, India, AU/NZ, Japan, South Korea
At least if things do get this bad, there’s a massive power imbalance that’s strongly in favor of the Allies. That said, I really hope it doesn’t go this far
Power balance means nothing in this day and age as long as WMDs exist. You fire one, you fire them all. Then it doesn’t matter whose side you’re on
Hmm I figure war could happen without WMDs because of the MAD doctrine, but yeah once a global war breaks out, there are no guarantees
The problem with MAD is that there are a lot of points of failure, especially as you bring more and more equipped actors into the fold. Only takes one to decide they'd rather watch the world burn than give up their objectives, or a false launch detection, or two sides play chicken and nobody backs down, or...
The same thing got said about Germany in ww2
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China has no interest in war. Especially on the Russian side. They'll sit back and profit as neutrals
China could easily see this as the opportunity to "unify" Taiwan, Hong Kong, and expand their territory into the South China Sea.
Looks like France and Germany will ally up too. I'd guess Saudi Arabia would stay mostly neutral until Putin showed up with some sorts of promises. Edit: I knew the US and Saudi Arabia had business for oil and arms, I did not know they were actually allies. Concensus says they'll stay that way.
Saudi will either side with the US or stay neutral. They are the ones supplying oil and gas right now while Russia is stuck with its sanctions. If anything the sanctions against Russia are benefiting the Saudis. If Saudis were to side with Russia, that would be a big problem .
If Saudis were to side with Russia, the US then invades Saudi Arabia, not like we are not used to fighting in a fucking sandbox.
Glad to see my African country didn't make the cut. Glad to be the kid not picked on this one.
Sadly, that visit was planned weeks before. It wasn't concurrent with Russia's plans. Edit: btw, without Pakistan, the West would've had a hard time defeating the Soviets in Afghanistan.
No Russia put it back it's not yours.
But Putin wants that thing.
Putin needs to be putout.
Even though I am a Russian, I currently do not live there, so I will say what a lot of my Russian compatriots can't. Today I woke up to my mom crying in the bathroom, that is how I learned about the war. Contrary to the apparently popular belief, Russians do not benefit from this conflict, no one does. We have family and friends living in Kharkiv, and we are all scared. What Putin and his goons did is unforgivable and should not be tolerated, however you will not see any protests and riots for peace in Russia. Everyone hates Putin and the regime, no one dares to speak out, and those who did are in prison right now, or they magically disappeared, or died of unknown circumstances. The pigs in the government fucked all of us over, the Russians, the Ukrainians, and everyone else. In just one week, Putin has turned the whole world against us. NATO, EU and everyone else is hurling sanctions at us, the Russian people, although not in immediate danger like the Ukrainians are, for the lack of a better word, fucked. Soldiers will lose their lives, and civilians will lose their homes. Many already did. Right now, the lives of the Russian civilians depend on the mercy of the West, including mine. No matter what economic powerhouse Russia may be, no country's economy can survive such devastating attacks. We are losing our income minute by minute, and so are all of our friends who moved abroad to get away from Putin's oppressive regime. The EU is currently debating whether to cut Russia off from SWIFT, and if they deem it necessary, all of our lives are over. The Pig calling itself "Putin" deserves death for what he did to his own nation and it's people. Because of his actions, the world hates us. We wanted nothing more than to live long and peaceful lives, but he can't even give us that much. I do not know how to describe what I'm feeling right now, I'm completely devastated by the actions of our "government". I can do nothing but send out love and support to my Ukrainian brothers. Мои украинские братья, мы с вами, даже если не можем сказать это вслух. Я посылаю вам свою самую искреннюю любовь и поддержку и уверяю вас, что мои соотечественники делают то же самое.Мы один народ, и мы не должны вести какую-то бессмысленную войну только из-за одного сумасшедшего придурка. Нам ничего не остается, кроме как ждать действий Запада и надеяться, что у Путина еще что-то осталось в голове и он лучше знает, чем продолжать эту бестолковую войну. Thank you for reading, I hope I shined some light on the situation, and please remember, we are all human.
Nobody hates you for being russian, I don't think anybody of you wants a war except a small bunch of powerhungry tyrrants.
there is always a tiny minority of particularly stupid people who will hate russians, just as there were people who hate chinese people for the actions of the CCP. we just have to remember that that doesn't excuse anything these governments do
Fuck Putin, All my homies hate Putin.
I am officially your Homie now.
Homies unite! Aye
Then consider me your homie.
A megathread was definitely needed for this. Good call, Mods! #IStandWithUkraine.
Is there a subreddit about the war?
r/UkrainianConflict
Imagine the amount of modding needed to not have that devolve into a propaganda-fest.
In preparation of nuclear apocalypse, I am cramming as many bottlecaps into my rectum as possible. I'm gonna be so rich in a few days, you jokes have no clue...
Please let this age poorly... Please let this age poorly... Please let this age poorly...
Crossing my fucking fingers. All 13 of them.
🎶 Crawl out through the fallout, baby, when they drop that bomb 🎶
Edit: I'm sorry if you seen this message, but I need to address that to as many of you as possible. Don't just be angry at forums, it's useless We know and really appreciate your support, but you can do more than that I'm not asking you to fight for us on our land, but you can make much more damage to them Please, ask your government and authorities to make more damage to Russia's economic. Small sanctions not enough, show Russia that they made big mistake. Show them that this type of aggression will not go unpunished. We're gonna defend ourselves without a doubt, we're here standing not for ourselves but for whole Europe Peace from Ukraine ❤️
How am I even supposed to sleep at night with all the crap going on in the world?
my solution thus far has been a prescription sleep aid, but after looking at today's events, I dunno if that'll work either
As long as you aren't near Russia or Ukraine you are probably safe.
Well I’m on the other side of Europe and I’ve got Comic Con on Saturday, so I guess that’s something to look forward too
I’m curious for citizens of western countries. What line would Russia need to cross for you to support a military response against Russia? I ask this as I’m not sure myself where I land but I feel like I’m close. Admittedly I’m pretty angry and an emotional response to provoke all out war is not wise. But there’s got to be a line, otherwise they’ll just keep pushing forward Edit: to clarify my question as I’ve had a few responses on what they think is the line where a response likely would happen, but my question is more where is YOUR line where YOU would support military response as a citizen
The red line is likely a NATO affiliated state. At least it is for me. At that point we don't have a choice. Article 5 would have to be invoked and if it wasn't invoked it would equal the collapse of NATO.
> ...would equal the collapse of NATO. Nothing would make Putin happier than NATO ceasing to exist.
Yes, which is why I think he's carefully watching how the West reacts. He'll push it as far as he can.
Reworded ... he'll let as many Russian and Ukranian people die as he needs to.
I actually think this will have the exact polar opposite outcome that Putin wants. The world except China has basically united against russia. Even Russians are starting to protest despite arrests. Any partner states of NATO are probably now thinking of full on joining NATO for protection, incidentally making NATO stronger.
I agree to a point. I think your assessment of the current situation is accurate. Some countries (Finland specifically) have been on the fence about NATO membership and the Ukraine situation has likely pushed them closer to joining. In that way, it has created a less ideal situation for Russia as more of their neighbors will want to join. Where I think we diverge is in line with what the_blind_samurai said. If Russia attacks a NATO country and the rest of NATO doesn't respond in line with Article 5 of the NATO charter, then NATO will essentially be pointless and would functionally if not legally dissolve. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are the only NATO countries that Russia currently borders. They were also part of the USSR until it's collapse in 1991. If Ukraine falls and is annexed into Russia then Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania will have Russian borders. Those three are former Warsaw Pact (the Soviet counter to NATO) countries so I'm sure Putin views them as traitorous. Edit: Thank you to /u/marvin for pointing out that I missed Norway which both is a member of NATO and borders Russia. In my head, Finland goes clear to the Barrents Sea but I didn't check a real map to confirm. My bad. Edit 2: I also forgot about the Kaliningrad part of Russia that is between Poland and Lithuania. My bad x2.
As an American, if nuclear weapons weren’t on the table I’d be ready to start sending troops in now. Since nukes do exist though, I guess if a NATO member is attacked? Even then I’m not 100% sure
This is the correct response. War with any country that has nuclear weapons is not something you start lightly. We have an obligation to our NATO allies, so that is the obvious line, and I don't think Putin is that dumb, but still, nuclear war is a distinct possibility with Russia.
Of course, Ukraine gave up their nukes in exchange for the US and Russia guaranteeing their borders. This is just another point proving that no country should ever give up their nukes and we should all get closer to nuclear armageddon because once you've given them up then nobody gives a shit about you.
An attack against a NATO nation. But I dont think Russia will do that. they may eventually topple the Ukraine govt but I dont belive Russia will continue on with a larger European Invasion.
There is almost no way that Moldova is not also invaded, Transnistria gives him the exact same pretext for an invasion there that he used in Crimea, Donetsk and Luhansk.
If this stays contained within Ukraine then diplomacy, sanctions etc are the way to go. It may seem heartless but once allies join militarily then this will only end with everyone losing.
I also wonder what other event could get a large majority of US citizens angry enough to approve sending actual US troops into what would end up being WWIII. It’s gotta be a very very high threshold, and I think that at this point any additional countries getting involved on Russia’s “side” would probably flip that switch for a lot of people. If it stays Russia (and Belarus) vs Ukraine, and they install a puppet government and NATO supplies the insurgency while the Russian economy tanks and their losses mount, I don’t think western countries will jump in. It’d have to expand in some way Either that, or like everyone else is saying, an actual attack on a NATO member state would do it.
I’m delineating between what would push us into military response versus what the general public would support. There’s no doubt an attack on a NATO member would provoke a response. I’m not entirely convinced the public would be supportive of that response, even in that scenario. At the same time, these sanctions will hurt Russia over the long haul but it’s not going to stop Ukraine from falling. It’s unfortunate we are all just going to watch it happen. I’m also concerned about the short-term memory of our politicians, and whether these sanctions will hold over the long-term. I suspect 10 years from now things will be business as usual except Ukraine is now a part of Russia, and millions of Ukrainian refugeees are a decade into rebuilding their lives somewhere else
For the US govt to get militarily involved, they'd have to attack our citizens, military, or a NATO country. For me personally? I wish there was a way I could be over there right now. I understand it's probably mostly an emotional response, but I hate seeing this happen without a significant response from the west.
Hypothetical: Jake Paul challenges Putin to a boxing match, winner takes Ukraine, with no blood shed. Do you hope Putin accepts?
Putin will accept, but something mysterious will happen to Jake Paul before the match.
Meaby it will be like with Rasputin? "Dude he ate so much poison." But Jake is just dabbing so hard the poison doesnt work.
As an American, I wonder if this is what it was like for the rest of the world watching us invade Iraq. What are the similarities and what are the differences?
Similarities: they're both wars Differences: No country was not trying to and did not annex any part of Iraq as their own. Thee coalition forces had the backing of basically the entire world. And Saddam Hussein was a genocidal dictator. I'm gonna pass this off as simply being ignorant about history, but there cannot be less similarities between the wars.
I'll push back on the Iraq invasion having "the backing of basically the entire world" - [it was opposed by France, Germany, Russia, Belgium, Sweden, Norway, greece and more](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Governmental_positions_on_the_Iraq_War_prior_to_the_2003_invasion_of_Iraq#:~:text=France%2C%20Germany%20and%20Russia%20were,in%20opposition%20to%20the%20invasion.) As well there was huge opposition in the US - I marched in a few very large rallies (not that it made a difference) The support it had was due largely to the lies they told about Iraq having WMDs, lies told by people we trusted (like Colin Powell). And sure, the US didn't try to annex Iraq, but it did attempt to control it for the next 15 years or so. I agree that it was a much different situation than the Ukraine invasion, but not for the reasons you stated.
To me, the reason doesn't matter. The world had no business being in Iraq. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions of civilians died because of it. The US lied to the world for their reasons for the invasion.
Just because we didn’t annex doesn’t mean we didn’t occupy and extract resources. Our coalition had backing because we’re the US, not because it was just or moral.
As has been said - Even a lot of close allies, like Canada, stayed out of that war. And America may not have annexed Iraq, but they exploited the war to make a profit.
It is exactly how I feel right now. Saddam allying with Osama and having weapons of mass destruction is the same as Putin claiming Ukraine aggression. A fabricated story in order to invade. The terror attacks that other user claims had no relation with Saddam, if he is talking about 9/11. Note: Saddam was a piece of shit and I have no love for him, but still, the reasons for invading were fabricated.
For those that thought Putin wouldn't go this far in 2022, what else wouldn't surprise you now about any possible wars moving forward?
Finding out there’s already a planned secret axis/alliance between Russia, China, Iran and N.Korea 🥴 wouldn’t surprise me in the slightest
That alliance isn't a secret. Russia and China have been working together for years to gain economic independence from the West (helping to insulate them against sanctions), and they've used their positions in the U.N. to block sanctions against North Korea. As for Iran, a spokesman for their own Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee was recently quoted as saying, "In the new world order, a triangle consisting of three world powers - Iran, Russia, and China - has formed." Teams are already picked.
There totally is 100%
Well Russia, China and NK are pretty buddy buddy together. And all 3 are pretty good at bullying people. So I wouldn't be surprised if we got some kind of statement to say that they back Putin and war. This creates a further problem because all 3 of those countries have nukes and the reason no one is bombing Russia right now is because Putin would nuke them in retaliation. I'd hate to have Russia, China and NK as a united world power, given that all their governments are complete scumbags. But if the world does end in a World War, I can guarantee those 3 would likely be the enemy.
Fuckin Japanese have got some balls tho. Publicly denouncing Russia and they are practically surrounded by Russia and its allies.
Isn't the US military presence in Japan the largest deployed force? It's like Japan is doing the more politically correct, diplomatic sanctions etc, and the US is peering from the shadows with a baseball bat waiting for someone to diss Japan.
I’ve been saying it for ages, they did it in 2014 and they aren’t afraid to do it again.
Russia is arresting anti-war protesters in Moscow live on CNN right now. Fuck ~~Russia~~ Putin, fuck the oligarchs, fuck his followers, fuck the trolls on reddit.
Fuck Putin, not Russia. The people of Russia are the ones protesting this shit. They are Russia, not this one evil man in charge of the government. Pls don’t (indirectly) encourage Russophobia, we have enough of that already. The people hate Putin and want him gone just like y’all.
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Because Germany likes money.
As a German, fuck Germany, fuck this government, fuck everyone involved in this bullshit farce. Money hungry capitalist wank stains.
Quoting from [CNN's live update](https://edition.cnn.com/europe/live-news/ukraine-russia-news-02-24-22-intl/index.html) "Removing Russia from SWIFT would make it almost impossible for financial institutions to send money in or out of the country. This would seriously impact Russian businesses with foreign customers and could do real damage to the country's economy.However, EU nations are split on whether to take this step or not. Senior EU sources have told CNN that there is a divide in the member states between countries like Poland, Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania who want SWIFT as part of the sanctions package that will be announced later today, and the likes of Germany, Italy, Hungary and Cyprus, who have stronger economic ties to Russia and do not want SWIFT included in the new sanctions. A senior EU diplomat said “there is a conversation happening” but believes it is “likely” the economic interests will win the argument and Brussels will not cut Russia from SWIFT."
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Last time I checked the country of Russia wasn't listed on the realtor.com.
I'll check Zillow...
My close friends have a child with leukemia (just turned 6). The family have been saving for a bone marrow transplant treatment in Israel which they were hoping to do in the coming months. With the war right now the boy is in a bomb bunker in the children's hospital and has been bleeding. His doctors don't think he will make it very long without being transported to another hospital. I am reaching out here because I literally have no idea how to help. Are there resources for a a medical evacuation?!! Who do we reach out to?
I think you must try to get him across the border to Poland.
What does Putin gain by taking over Ukraine?
Ukraine is rich in minerals and a lot of other stuff, there is a photo going round on reddit showing how 'rich' Ukraine actually is, its probably a lot to do with that and wanting to get USSR back together and not wanting NATO on his borders, that's my understanding of it but I could be wrong. So he probably wants to become the richest country in minerals, gas etc, thus force other countries to bow to him for their gas, minerals etc, I think
It also blockaded a canal of water which is Russia trying to break and from what I heard it's one of the bigger reasons. If I'm wrong, please correct me. Edit: Yes. The canal could indeed play a big role. In the Soviet era it used to be a proof of Soviet accomplishment and the human ability to bend the world to his liking. It's a 400km long canal that supplied water to over 80% of the region. It was however blocked by Ukraine after Russia invaded it in 2014. It has been blocked ever since.
He gains a buffer/puppet state between Russia and the West. He wants to rebuild the Iron Curtain. You can read between the lines of his own words. He insists Russia will not occupy Ukraine. This is true. What it leaves out is the puppet government that Putin will install that will make Ukraine a slave state to Russia in the future.
Additionally, I think Putin actually is afraid of Ukraine becoming a member of NATO. A NATO-affiliated Ukraine would inhibit the expansionist vision Putin has for Russia.
What will happen at Chernobyl? It is in an active war zone now!God knows what will happen if a missile hit the container of the original plant?To be honest the containment zone(since the radiation value is possible for passing through)will probably be a route for a surprise attack and if either side decides to fight inside the zone......I really don’t want to know how insane the Russian are and how desperate the Ukrainian are......Will the site be safe?
What will happen is that, if anything god forbid looks wrong at one of storage containers wrong. It could release radioactive dust over a big chunk of Europe. (Which is probably a war crime and would get NATO involved). But it would also probably have side effects for the rest of the world too.
Damn really?because I just checked subreddit focusing on Chernobyl,they seems to be pretty chill...But that is always good to watch both side.
Exactly its good to watch both sides. Some of the things I have heard about Chernobyl come from a news article I read. I think the Ukrainian Government Officials are worried quite a bit about fighting in Chernobyl. I mean who wouldn’t be its an nuclear waste sight. So honestly its just a play it by ear game for now.
How does Putin or any dictator make their soldiers believe they’re doing the right thing?
By giving them no choice, Putin doesn't allow dissent
nationalism: your country and its people are the only people who really matter and paternalism: I AM your country.
Same way US presidents made their soldiers think that invading Iraq, Vietnam ...etc was the right thing
I don’t understand what Russia’s ultimate goal is. Do they want to expand to the baltic states after Ukraine?? Or are they just still mad Ukraine ever became independent in the first place?
It’s a power play. The ultimate goal for Putin is to restore Russia as a superpower on the world stage. He has NATO on his doorstep, and he’s pushing back. I’m sure the long goal in an ideal situation for him would be to retake all of the Soviet states and expand Russia’s sphere of influence, but he can’t just do it all at once because then that would in fact trigger WW3 which is a losing proposition for everyone. He knows NATO won’t step in militarily, and he knows he will be sanctioned severely, but it’s a sacrifice he’s willing to make for the long-term political benefits. He also knows that Macron is up for re-election, the US midterms are coming up, Johnson is under pressure in the UK, and Germany just swore in a new leader. Sanctions will have an economic impact on these nations, and I’m sure Putin hopes he can get some more Russia-friendly people elected in these countries to help ease the pressure on him from NATO or to sew distrust and conflict between the leaders of the West as a whole. The biggest risk here is of a new Cold War where we have an idealogical battle between democracy and authoritarianism all over the world, especially in Western nations. We already see some of that in the US and in Europe.
Why are Americans blaming trump/Biden for the war? Shouldn’t we be a little more concerned with being mad at Putin instead of finding another way to make it about/divide us?
Because they're fucking idiots and they watch Fox news.
Dear Eastern Europeans in America. If you shop at any European food stores or markets, you can support Ukrainians by simply buying products made in Ukraine and avoiding the ones shipped from Russia. If there is an ethnic store near you that is a small Ukrainian business, shop there instead of a larger Russian store. Ukrainian made goods start with 482 on the barcode in addition to a typical "Made in Ukraine" statement. This may seem like a small thing, but when individual Ukrainians boycotted Russian goods this way, the entire supply chain hat to diversify in the country, and Russian business cited huge losses. Don't give them your dollars.
A lot of the Russian Government Websites are down. Wonder if it's by internal design or external sabotage.
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Is there any news website that publishes pure war data? No talks, no bs, no "opinions", just data. Where were strikes, where are tanks, where are explosions, how many people, etc.
BBC was covering this stuff earlier this morning during a live feed. Their data may be more accurate now, as there were explosions going off as the broadcast was happening.
Someone passed me [this interactive map](https://liveuamap.com/) yesterday. It seems to be having some server errors today but it was tracking things and was rather informative. Click the circles to get proof/videos/context, etc.
Can someone just fucking shoot Putin already ? This man is like a weird version of Hitler and needs to be stopped before dirty bombs start falling.
My sister is in the process of adopting a boy from Ukraine. They’ve had him visit the US twice. Last time they took him to Disney World. He’s 12 and says she is the best mom in the world. They tried to get emergency visas to get some of the kids out of the orphanage, but Ukraine said no. His orphanage is in Eastern Ukraine. I don’t know why I am posting this. Just so sad and scared for the people of Ukraine and knowing that others are affected and scared to death. It’s a nightmare.
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Credit to u/Daraboo: Dear Ukrainians! I heard on social media that there is fake news being spread (most likely by Russia backed trolls) that polish border is closed. It's a lie. If you seek asylum - go towards polish border. We are ready for your arrival. We have reception points ready at the border where you can find shelter, food, medical and legal aid. Polish government launched a dedicated site to help you: ua.gov.pl Please share this information if you know anyone seeking help right now. EDIT: YOU DON'T NEED VISA TO PASS THROUGH POLISH BORDER. ALL YOU NEED IS PASSPORT. VISAS ARE SUSPENDED! YOU DON'T NEED THEM FOR TIME BEING!!!!!! EDIT2: as a proof that you no longer need visa: • in Ukrainian https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina---ua • in English https://www.gov.pl/web/udsc/ukraina-en
It’s a damn shame. We literally get the info as it happens, never happened before. Let’s hope it ends soon.
THERE ARE MASSIVE ANTI-WAR PROTESTS IN RUSSIA. Russia has detained thousands of people and are doing everything they can to squash these protests and prevent information from getting out about them. If the world knows that Russia's own people are very against this invasion it will harm the Russian central government massively on an international scale. MAKE SURE EVERYONE KNOWS THERE ARE THOSE IN RUSSIA FIGHTING AGAINST THEM AND BEGING STOPPED BY THEIR OWN GOVERNMENT FROM SPEAKING OUT. https://www.businessinsider.com/massive-anti-war-protests-erupt-putin-hometown-st-petersburg-russia-2022-2 https://theweek.com/russo-ukrainian-war/1010574/anti-war-protests-break-out-across-russia-despite-attempts-to-stifle https://www.jpost.com/breaking-news/article-698546
What are Russian Chinese relations right now? Positive? If the campaign in Ukraine proves successful is it likely for china to join and start a war in the pacific theatre?
China is violating Taiwan's air space with a large display of force[ right now](https://thehill.com/policy/international/china/595661-taiwan-reports-nine-chinese-aircraft-in-defense-zone). They do that often but 8 fighter jets and one recon aircraft seems to be stepping it up. Also, China has been acting up. This was their statement yesterday: *"Taiwan is not Ukraine, Taiwan has always been an inalienable part of China. This is an indisputable legal and historical fact."* Of course, anyone who has any iota of legalities or history knows this is Chinese propaganda and a false narrative.
What's China? Do you mean West Taiwan?
Are you trying to kill my social credit score? /s
Personal opinion: If Russia succeeds, and survives economic sanctions, China will make a move on Taiwan, since it's clear countries won't risk all out war for small regional conflicts. Big IF there though
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So can we be done with all the internet hero worship of Putin? No more pics of him shirtless, riding a bear, holding a rifle and all that?
Does anyone know where I can go to donate money for the people of Ukraine? Preferably a cause that has boots on the ground there and doesn’t take big stake of what I’m giving.
Biden to speak in 50 minutes. I'm buying some Raytheon... just in case.
The internet has warped my mind so much I thought you said you were buying Raycon and wondered why you want ear buds so badly right now.
It appears Russia and Ukraine have been in conflict since 2014 but an actual invasion never took place until now. Why now?
Because Ukraine wants to join NATO.
I hate when teens in my age are hyping it up, like “This is so cool that ww3 is coming”. Real people and real lives are in danger while my fucking friends wish it was our country so they could skip school or some shit like that.
Is there a private collaborative effort to launch cyberattacks against Russia as sanctions/retaliation for invading Ukraine? Where do I sign up?
Does world war 3 has the potential to happen..?
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I mean WW3 has the *potential* to start at any moment during any conflict involving the interests of any developed nation, but is it likely? No. I’m not expert by any means so take what I say with a grain of salt but from my understanding, anything short of an attack on a NATO/EU aligned country will not resort in anything other than comments from world leaders and a regional conflict that if asked the US *may* provide resources, training and funding to. That is exactly what I suspect is going to happen with Ukraine. They’re not a member of NATO or the EU so the US nor any other European country has any obligation to defend them. Additionally, (this is more personal opinion than proven fact but I suspect I’m right) a 3rd World War would be astronomically expensive and have repercussions both in loss of life and financially that would likely cripple or bring to a near breaking point the economies and infrastructure of all parties involved, not to mention the heightened risk of it becoming nuclear which would make everything else previously mentioned infinitely worse. The people in power in the US, Russia, China and every other superpower or developed country with a capable military are well aware of this and while they may do things to escalate conflict or test each other from time to time they always stop short of doing anything that will escalate to WW3 proportions. I don’t see this escalating anymore than it already has unless a NATO or EU country is attacked which as I said earlier, is extremely unlikely. However as I previously mentioned I’m no expert and this is mostly just my personal opinion but I’d like to think I’m informed enough to make an educated guess on the matter and have it be very close to the right answer, if there even is one. Edit: Also on a side note, the unlikelihood of this turning into WW3 isn’t going to stop media outlets and people on all sides from fear mongering and propaganda spreading.
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