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Putin’s bid for North Korean weapons, Cuban fighters show signs of desperation on September 12, 2023 at 1:02 am
Attempting to negotiate arms deals with Kim Jong Un and trafficking Cuban soldiers are just the latest signs of Russia’s growing desperation as it struggles to maintain its fighting force in Ukraine.
As Ukraine’s counteroffensive enters it fourth month, Russian forces are strained under heavy casualties, lack of equipment, limited training and low morale, forcing Moscow to look outside its borders for any help it can gain, U.S. officials, lawmakers and experts say.
With a new meeting between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin soon expected, such a visit is indicative of the Russian leader’s “international pariah status” leading to “trouble sustaining the military effort,” according to State Department spokesperson Matt Miller.
“Not only has he failed to achieve his goals on the battlefield, but you see him traveling across his own country, hat in hand, to beg Kim Jong Un for military assistance,” Miller told reporters of Putin on Monday.
And Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.) earlier Monday on MSNBC said Putin is “desperate for more equipment, he’s desperate for more support,” forcing him to “make a devil’s deal.”
The North Korean and Russian leaders were expected to “soon” meet in Vladivostok, an eastern Russian port city where Putin is attending an economic summit, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov saying talks “could take place within days,” according to Kremlin state-run outlet Tass.
The trip is a major development as it marks the first known travel for Kim outside North Korea’s borders since the COVID-19 pandemic began in spring 2020, and the first time he’s met with Putin since April 2019.
It also marks a chance for the Kremlin military to gain more weaponry, which, more than a year and a half after it first attacked Ukraine in February 2022, is badly depleted.
Multiple outlets have reported that Putin is seeking more artillery and ammunition for his forces in Ukraine’s occupied eastern and southern regions.
Pyongyang, in return, could get its hands on valuable intelligence and weapons technology it’s been barred from accessing by 20 years of United Nations’ sanctions, including those that could help Kim’s new nuclear submarine program and floundering satellite program.
Should a deal be brokered, it wouldn’t be the first time North Korea would be supplying Russia arms.
The Biden administration last year confirmed North Korea attempted to bolster Kremlin troops in Ukraine via arms shipments to private Russian military company Wagner Group, a claim Pyongyang denied.
This latest meeting between the two nations, however, could mark a more open and significant deal.
“Putin and Kim really have very little friends in the international arena, and I think a lot of this is also just political and moral support for a common goal of undermining or subverting U.S. influence,” said Andrew Yeo, the senior fellow for Brookings Institute’s Center for East Asia Policy Studies.
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu visited Pyongyang in July in a bid to push forward talks and sway North Korea to sell artillery ammunition to Moscow.
“It speaks volumes about the desperation that Russia has if it’s going around the world trying to find support and weapons from North Korea,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken told NBC News last week after news broke of the upcoming meeting.
Russia is already being shipped weapons, specifically drones, from Iran. With concerns it could soon get more from North Korea, the United States “will look at every possible means we have to prevent that, to disrupt that, working with other countries,” Blinken added.
Whether Putin is indeed as desperate as U.S. officials and lawmakers claim, he has “definitely depleted his military capabilities and is running out of options,” according to Patrick Cronin, the Asia-Pacific security chair at the Hudson Institute in Washington, D.C.
“Putin is determined to persevere and to seek all avenues for continuing the war effort in Ukraine,” he told The Hill.
By one account, Russia has spent more than seven million rounds of artillery in its fight in Ukraine this year alone, though it is only able to produce about two and a half million rounds using Russian arms manufacturers, according to Cronin.
“So there’s a significant shortfall in maintaining the ability just to fire conventional munitions on the battlefield . . . And Kim Jong Un is very much trying to exploit Putin at a moment when Putin desperately needs to persevere on the battlefield at all costs,” he said.
Yeo said seeing as North Korea hasn’t been in any kind of war since 1953, they likely have “a stockpile of artillery shells and missiles and they’re probably compatible with Soviet-era weapons.”
By gaining such munitions from Pyongyang, Moscow could stay in the fight longer and wait out the West for any possible diversion, distraction, public and political fatigue, or major election that could quell the flow of aid to Ukraine, Cronin noted.
The Russian president is also limited in his ability to mobilize people at home even as his troops are being cut down in droves, forcing him to attempt to recruit from such pariah states as Syria, Cuba and elsewhere.
Cuban authorities last week announced they had so far arrested 17 people in connection to a ring of human traffickers allegedly attempting to coerce young Cuban men to fight in the Russian military.
Officials said they were working to “neutralize and dismantle” the network, which was operating both in Cuba and in Russia, countries that have strong political ties.
Last August, the Russian leader ordered his military to increase its number of soldiers after its combat forces suffered heavy losses in Ukraine, even signing a decree to allow foreigners to volunteer for service in the Russian military to receive fast-tracked citizenship.
And multiple outlets reported last year that the Kremlin, through Wagner Group, was attempting to recruit Syrians to fight with Russian forces in Ukraine, though few Syrians appear to have taken the bait.
The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights in January reported that less than 2,000 soldiers from the Syrian Arab Army had been deployed to Ukraine to fight on behalf of Russia.
The new attempts to have foreigners sign up for Russia’s side in the war come as multiple media outlets and outside groups watching the war have reported Russian troops’ persistent problems on the battlefield, issues they say are hurting Kremlin operations along Ukraine’s frontline.
Reuters last week detailed multiple Russian soldiers complaining that their units were suffering from heavy losses, dwindling munitions, proper training and equipment and low morale.
And a far-right Russian irregular paramilitary unit known as the “Rusich” Sabotage and Reconnaissance Group have released a list of issues that it claims are never-ending for Moscow’s forces. Included in those grievances was a lack of counter-fire range and accuracy due to a dearth of needed equipment, rocket launch systems that are susceptible to electronic warfare, difficulty with different units communicating with each other due to troops being forced to buy their own equipment, and no evacuation of dead or wounded troops from the frontline, according to the Institute for the Study of War’s latest battlefield assessments released Sunday.
ISW said that it has “routinely observed other Russian units expressing similar issues.”
Russia’s slog in Ukraine isn’t expected to end anytime soon, making it likely that Putin’s woes will continue to pile up without significant outside help.
Ukraine’s intelligence arm on Sunday stated that Ukrainian forces will continue counteroffensive operations into late 2023.
Attempting to negotiate arms deals with Kim Jong Un and trafficking Cuban soldiers are just the latest signs of Russia’s growing desperation as it struggles to maintain its fighting force in Ukraine. As Ukraine’s counteroffensive enters it fourth month, Russian forces are strained under heavy casualties, lack of equipment, limited training and low morale, forcing…
Business
The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.
Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.
Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.
Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.
In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.
Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.
These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.
As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.
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Business
How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.
The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.
Economic Tremors
Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.
Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.
Community Fabric Under Strain
Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.
Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.
Cities at a Crossroads
As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.
Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.
Looking Ahead
As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.
What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.
As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
Business
Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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