Edition No222 | 14-08-2025 - Putin and Trump seem intent on carving up Europe into an area for manipulation, appropriation and exploitation. This isn’t diplomacy, it’s geopolitical vandalism. There is an imperial and chauvinist style of geopolitics that treats the world like a Monopoly board: you move pieces, trade squares, bankrupt opponents. Everything is transactional, and everyone can be bought. Peace and justice don’t play a role, unless they contribute to deals and relationships that keep the old hamster wheel turning. It’s often referred to as the realistic school of geopolitics too, but the mechanistic theories that drive its logic bear little resemblance to what Putin wants, and how Russia is behaving. His game is closer to the military strategy game Risk. The challenge is that Trump is negotiating from this supremely transactional point of view, over layed by a veneer of so-called realist thought among his advisers and analysts. But Putin is playing a different game, and one on a larger board – in terms of scale and depth of time – namely the survival of his regime, and the impact of his person on history. He wants no less than to enter the annals of Russian political folklore as a great Tsar – among the ranks of Peter and Catherine, unifiers of imagined Russian lands and oppressors of the native populations of those places. Rulers that shaped Russia’s militaristic civilisation and the contours of empire. Coming into the Alaska summit, Trump is playing Monopoly, while Putin is playing Risk. ----------DESCRIPTION: Alaska Peace Summit: Dangerous Proposals for Ukraine?In this episode of Silicon Bites, we delve into the controversial proposals ahead of the Alaska Peace Summit, which could model the occupied territories in Ukraine on Palestine—a move heavily criticized for legitimizing Russian aggression. Host highlights the transactional approach of Trump's administration and Putin's broader, historical ambitions, examining why such peace deals may perpetuate violence and instability. We review leaked proposals, their implications for Ukrainian sovereignty, and the moral imperatives at stake. Lastly, we analyze the attendees, the symbolic significance of Alaska, and the geopolitical stakes for Europe and Ukraine's future.----------CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction and Channel Support00:43 Geopolitical Games: Putin vs. Trump02:36 The Alaska Summit: A Dangerous Proposal03:57 The Palestine Model for Ukraine: A Terrible Idea06:37 Economic Bribes and Ideological Goals11:31 The Reality of Russian Occupation14:43 The Stakes of the Alaska Summit16:25 Non-Negotiables for Peace----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------SOURCES: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/08/12/the-daily-t-trump-and-putin-carve-up-europe/https://kyivindependent.com/russia-announces-delegation-schedule-for-putin-trump-alaska-meeting/https://www.ft.com/content/5031b199-344c-4fb0-8ce8-6f62165a0aa8https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-war-latest-112/https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/trump-offers-hope-security-guarantees-ukraine-braces-putin-meet-2025-08-14/https://kyivindependent.com/zelensky-to-reportedly-meet-starmer-in-uk-after-call-with-trump/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/us/news/2025/08/13/trump-to-present-minerals-deal-to-putin-in-alaska/https://kyivindependent.com/ukraine-suffered-most-civilian-casualties-in-july-since-2022/https://kyivindependent.com/drone-attack-sparks-blaze-at-oil-refinery-in-russias-volgograd-russian-official-says/https://kyivindependent.com/us-will-support-ukraine-security-guarantees-but-no-nato-membership-macron-says/https://www.thetimes.com/us/american-politics/article/us-russia-deal-west-bank-occupation-ukraine-wfvnt6v6f----------

Edition No221 | 12-08-2025 - Someone should tell Trump that Alaska Is Not Russia. Not anymore. This episode is about dictators challenging borders and annulling the concept of sovereignty and universal human rights, in a world of rapid geopolitical devolution, to a far more barbaric age.“I’m going to Russia on Friday.” Said Trump at a D.C. presser on crime, days before his Alaska summit. He made this mistake twice in the same day, in fact. Alaska: is the last frontier—also a U.S. state since 1959, despite today’s vibes from the White House briefing room. That slip isn’t just a meme; it’s a metaphor for the successful manipulation of Trump by Putin, of the Trump regime, and US foreign policy. In respect of Ukraine, I do not think we can consider that the US is making sovereign decisions anymore, as narratives, policies and actions are clearly aligned with the Kremlin’s interests, no matter how false, evil and illegal they are. ----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------SOURCES: https://www.ft.com/content/a7012224-a9bf-482b-8595-614a7484a059https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0e99yqv332ohttps://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-latest-putin-trump-meeting-alaska-summit-zelenskyy-russia-nato-missiles-talks-ceasefire-12541713https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/aug/12/europe-live-ukraine-russia-putin-trump-viktor-orban-latest-updateshttps://www.politico.eu/article/eu-leaders-pressure-trump-ahead-of-his-talks-with-putin-on-ending-ukraine-war/https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2025/08/12/trump-does-not-want-zelensky-to-attend-his-alaska-meeting-with-putin_6744287_4.htmlhttps://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/12/putin-wants-a-photo-op-with-trump-says-eu-foreign-policy-chief.htmlhttps://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/clyrlvwx9rgohttps://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/us-politics/trump-putin-meeting-russia-alaska-ukraine-war-b2805880.htmlhttps://www.ft.com/content/f1774ade-72c4-44b0-aad8-2692db1ccea0----------TRUCK FUNDRAISER - GET A SILICON CURTAIN NAFO PATCH:Together with our friends at LIFT99 Kyiv Hub (the NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade), we are teaming up to provide 2nd Battalion of 5th SAB with a pickup truck that they need for their missions. With your donation, you're not just sending a truck — you’re standing with Ukraine.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-communityWhy NAFO Trucks Matter: Ukrainian soldiers know the immense value of our NAFO trucks and buses. These vehicles are carefully selected, produced between 2010 and 2017, ensuring reliability for harsh frontline terrain. Each truck is capable of driving at least 20,000 km (12,500 miles) without major technical issues, making them a lifeline for soldiers in combat zones.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-community----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

Jake Broe is a United States Air Force veteran who served for six years as a Nuclear and Missile Operations Officer. But you may know him better as one of the most prominent voices on YouTube throughout the war, someone with absolute moral clarity about who the victim of the war is – spoilers, it’s Ukraine – and who brings direct military experience to his detailed analysis of the unfolding conflict. Do please subscribe to his channel for videos updates on the war in Ukraine as well as conversations with engaging speakers, expert guests, and other YouTubers.----------LINKS:  @JakeBroe  https://www.youtube.com/@JakeBroe https://twitter.com/RealJakeBroehttps://www.instagram.com/jakebroe/https://www.buymeacoffee.com/jakebroehttps://www.patreon.com/join/jakebroe----------DESCRIPTION: The Trump-Putin Axis and the Future of Global Democracy | With Jake BroeIn this engaging and intense discussion, Jonathan collaborates with Jake Broe on topics ranging from the current state of global geopolitics under former President Trump, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the implications of these events on democracy and human rights. As they delve into Trump's consistent alignment with Russia and potential future moves, the conversation also highlights the critical need for continued support for Ukraine, the threats to democratic values, and the urgency of resisting authoritarian influences. The episode emphasizes the need for activists and democratic leaders to step up and fight for core principles, alongside powerful examples of on-the-ground support for Ukraine, such as Jake Broe's successful fundraiser for essential vehicles.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Current Events Overview01:13 Trump's Alignment with the Kremlin01:52 Trump's America: A Shift in Values03:32 Putin's Imperial Ambitions06:02 The New World Order: Trump and Putin's Vision08:30 The Role of China and Global Implications10:35 The Erosion of Democracy and Free Speech14:45 Corporate Control and Media Manipulation24:11 The Resistance and Call to Action27:00 Sydney Sweeney Jeans Ad Controversy27:55 The Need for Strong Democratic Leadership29:28 Bernie Sanders' Popularity and Democratic Failures31:29 Ukraine's Struggle and the Russian Threat34:43 Trump's Missteps and Diplomatic Blunders39:45 The Future of Ukraine and Russian Collapse43:37 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUCK FUNDRAISER - GET A SILICON CURTAIN NAFO PATCH:Together with our friends at LIFT99 Kyiv Hub (the NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade), we are teaming up to provide 2nd Battalion of 5th SAB with a pickup truck that they need for their missions. With your donation, you're not just sending a truck — you’re standing with Ukraine.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-communityWhy NAFO Trucks Matter: Ukrainian soldiers know the immense value of our NAFO trucks and buses. These vehicles are carefully selected, produced between 2010 and 2017, ensuring reliability for harsh frontline terrain. Each truck is capable of driving at least 20,000 km (12,500 miles) without major technical issues, making them a lifeline for soldiers in combat zones.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-community----------

Edition No220 | 09-08-2025 - This story is rapidly evolving, so may require daily coverage until it plays out. What we are seeing is the culmination of months of theatre, where expectations were toyed with, the notion of peace was teased, abused, manipulated and distorted. Now we see all these things coming together, but no real prospect of peace. No process done in good faith that could lead to negotiated peace as an outcome. Putin does not deal with any country in good faith unless they show extraordinary strength – and of a particular authoritarian bullying kind. In any case, Russia only places faith in an agreement while it benefits from the scenario. As soon as it is not beneficial, all treaties are contingent, broken and rejected, the terms flouted. So it will be here, but Putin is not dealing with people (like Trump) whom he sees as strong or a threat.As James Sherr incisively comment today, “To paraphrase a Russian expression, against whom are you waging peace?” He also notes that every ultimatum from Trump is a prelude to a step change in reverse. He dangles all sorts of possibilities with allies and in the face of adversaries, only to drop them at a moment’s notice when the reverse gear step change is required. Secondly, Witkoff is not an emissary of peace – he is the herald and harbinger of treachery. Trump did not send him to Moscow to negotiate peace, in face to negotiate anything, but to acquiesce to a betrayal. And this is what is now unfolding. Betrayal of Ukraine, betrayal of allies, betrayal of the principles of law, justice and fairness. Betrayal even of the strength and authority of the US, which Trump is comprehensively trashing. ----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------SOURCES: https://thehill.com/policy/international/5442747-john-bolton-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-meeting/ https://www.nbcnews.com/world/russia/russia-putin-trump-meeting-confirmed-ukraine-rcna223572 https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/08/07/putin-trump-summit-meeting-ukraine/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1e02q12z32o ----------TRUCK FUNDRAISER - GET A SILICON CURTAIN NAFO PATCH:Together with our friends at LIFT99 Kyiv Hub (the NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade), we are teaming up to provide 2nd Battalion of 5th SAB with a pickup truck that they need for their missions. With your donation, you're not just sending a truck — you’re standing with Ukraine.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-communityWhy NAFO Trucks Matter: Ukrainian soldiers know the immense value of our NAFO trucks and buses. These vehicles are carefully selected, produced between 2010 and 2017, ensuring reliability for harsh frontline terrain. Each truck is capable of driving at least 20,000 km (12,500 miles) without major technical issues, making them a lifeline for soldiers in combat zones.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-community----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

Edition No219 | 08-08-2025 - Today marks the deadline for Trump’s latest “final warning” to Putin. The White House says that no date has been decided yet on the much-hyped last-minute Putin-Trump summit. Remember today is last date Trump set to reach a ceasefire in Ukraine. That deadline has blown past, apparently with no consequences whatsoever for the criminal in the Kremlin. In today’s episode we examine the grim and urgent reality: the delusions of a negotiated peace, and the collapse of diplomacy into spectacle, farce even, covering Putin’s maximalist war aims without accountability, stolen children, oil black markets, and a world where every handshake is transactional and every value is negotiable. The world of Trump, where there seem to be no consequences for terrible behaviour. We will navigate this moral abyss.Have you noticed how Putin managed to wriggle out of this deadline yet again? Trump’s latest and ultimate ‘ultimatum’ seems to have been handled using the same trick, the same sleight of hand as the previous awkward situations for Putin. Using the same playbook, he used back in May, which has worked like a charge to make the harsh deadlines melt away. Back then Ukraine and Europe were demanding an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Back then, Trump and Putin tried to close Europe and Ukraine out of the so-called negotiations, and the same thing is happening now. Putin proposed holding a meeting in Istanbul instead of agreeing to a ceasefire — effectively knocking the sanction weapon out of his opponents’ hands with a counterproposal. And here we are three months later, and the same trick is being used to achieve the same effect. Don’t expect Putin to stop erasing Ukrainian cities, however. ----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------DESCRIPTION:Fake Peace Process: Trump's Deadline to Putin & The Political Theater of Ceasefire NegotiationsIn this episode of Silicon Bytes, we dive into the latest in the so-called peace process regarding the Russia war against Ukraine. As Trump's ceasefire deadline for Putin passes with no consequences, we examine the manipulation, deceit, and geopolitical theater at play. From fraudulent negotiations and broken promises, to the transactional dealings and machinations behind the scenes, we uncover the grim reality of diplomacy turned spectacle. Join us as we analyze the situation in depth, including the role of Putin's maximalist war aims, the exploitation of international meetings, and the ineffectiveness of ultimatums without enforcement.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to the Fake Peace Process00:22 Trump's Deadline and Its Aftermath01:14 The Grim Reality of Diplomacy01:53 Putin's Strategic Maneuvers04:13 The Illusion of Sovereignty04:33 From Ultimatum to Appeasement06:38 The Worthless Ceasefire Proposal09:03 Human Rights and Hypocrisy11:12 The Absurdity of Diplomacy15:02 Conclusion and Next Steps----------SOURCES: https://thehill.com/policy/international/5442747-john-bolton-donald-trump-vladimir-putin-meeting/ https://www.nbcnews.com/world/russia/russia-putin-trump-meeting-confirmed-ukraine-rcna223572 https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/08/07/putin-trump-summit-meeting-ukraine/ https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1e02q12z32o ----------

Edition No218 | 07-08-2025 - Ukraine is striking at the core of Russia's war machine—not on the front lines, but behind them—through surgical attacks on key logistics hubs.On the night of 5–6 August 2025, Ukrainian drones struck the Tatsinskaya railway junction in Russia’s Rostov region. The hub serves as a frontline artery for transport of troops, ammunition, fuel and equipment into the occupied Donetsk and Luhansk regions.Reports confirm fires at the rail yard, damage to infrastructure, and disruption of rail services. These are not isolated incidents—they join a deliberate and escalating campaign targeting Russia’s logistics deep inside its territory. (Militarnyi.com)According to multiple Ukrainian outlets: the drone strike “ignited fire at a key railway hub in the Rostov Oblast”, specifying damage to locomotive tracks and fuel tank railcars. Firefighters responded overnight, extinguishing major flames by dawn 6th August. (United24media.com)Russian evacuation reports around the time confirm passenger train services halted for hours, and overhead electrification systems were disrupted. Though civilian casualties were not reported, rail logistics in the region were significantly delayed. (Kyiv Independent)----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------DESCRIPTION:Ukraine Targets Russian Rail Logistics: Deep Strikes Behind Enemy LinesIn this episode of Silicon Bites, we delve into Ukraine's strategic campaign targeting Russian rail and logistics infrastructure. Highlighting surgical drone strikes on key railway hubs, such as the Salsk railway junction, we explore Ukraine's efforts to cripple Russia's supply lines and undermine its war efforts. The discussion includes specific incidents, like the Tarsinka strike, the broader implications on Russian logistics, and the contrast between Ukrainian and Russian targeting strategies. The episode underscores the importance of supporting Ukraine through intelligence sharing, sanctions, and enhanced military capabilities to sustain and escalate these strategic attacks.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Fundraiser Announcement00:47 Ukraine's Strategic Strikes on Russian Logistics01:38 Detailed Account of the Tarsinka Strike02:29 Broader Campaign Against Russian Rail Infrastructure03:32 Impact and Analysis of Ukrainian Strikes04:36 Russian Vulnerabilities and Ukrainian Strategy06:36 Russian Counterattacks on Ukrainian Infrastructure08:55 Conclusion and Summary----------SOURCES: Militarnyi.com, “Drone strike hits Tatsinskaya rail junction in Rostov region”, 6 Aug 2025.Pravda.com.ua, “Ukraine attacks Tatsinskaya railway station in Russia’s Rostov region”, 6 Aug 2025.UNN.ua, “Tatsinskaya railway station attacked by drones again”, 6 Aug 2025.United24media.com, “Overnight drone attack ignites fire at key Russian railway hub in Rostov”, 6 Aug 2025.KyivIndependent.com, “Ukrainian drones strike Russian railway hub in Rostov Oblast”, 6 Aug 2025TWZ Newsletter via Howard Altman, “Ukraine repeatedly targets key rail line inside Russia”, 29 Jul 2025.Odessa Journal, Andriy Kovalenko quote on Novocherkassk hub, 23 Jul 2025.KSE Institute report, July 2025 (logistics nodes and shipment volumes).CNA Corporation report, “Russian Military Logistics in the Ukraine War”, Sept 2023.SJMS (P. Skoglund), “Russian Logistics Failures & Ukraine targeting”, 2022.----------

Olena Tregub is a Ukrainian expert in policy analysis, policy design and reform implementation, with a special focus on corruption prevention in economic and security sectors. Since 2017 Olena has been Secretary General of NAKO (the Independent Defence Anti-Corruption Committee) – an international oversight body created by Transparency International. It’s her mission to strengthen democratic oversight over defence spending, increase accountability and transparency of the sector, which is critical in wartime, and has become a hotly debated topic in the run-up to the 2024 US election. ----------DESCRIPTION:Ukrainian Anti-Corruption Efforts: Challenges and Triumphs Amid WarJoin us as we speak with Olena Tregub, Secretary General of the Independent Defense Anti-Corruption Committee (NAKO), on the critical role of anti-corruption in Ukraine's defense sector. Since 2017, NAKO, an oversight body created by Transparency International, has been working to enhance democratic oversight, accountability, and transparency in defense spending. In this engaging episode, Elena discusses the ongoing challenges and successes in the fight against corruption, especially during wartime, and the significant influence of civic protests on government actions. She reflects on the complexities of maintaining integrity in defense operations and the substantial impact of public and international support in pushing for reforms. This in-depth conversation delves into the importance of maintaining anti-corruption measures to ensure Ukraine's resilience and ultimate victory against Russian aggression.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction to Olena and Her Mission00:54 Welcoming Olena to the Channel01:24 The Heart of the Anti-Corruption Storm02:51 Zelensky's Response to Protests04:27 The Big Question: Conspiracy or Cockup?05:33 Zelensky's Anti-Corruption Journey08:22 The Role of Protests in Ukrainian Democracy12:26 Comparing Government Reactions to Protests20:24 The Importance of Anti-Corruption in Wartime23:29 The Role of International Partners28:19 The Future of Ukrainian Reforms37:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts----------LINKS:https://twitter.com/OTregubhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/olenatregub/https://cepa.org/author/olena-tregub/https://archive.kyivpost.com/author/olena-tregubhttps://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/olena-tregub/https://nako.org.ua/en/about----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUCK FUNDRAISER - GET A SILICON CURTAIN NAFO PATCH:Together with our friends at LIFT99 Kyiv Hub (the NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade), we are teaming up to provide 2nd Battalion of 5th SAB with a pickup truck that they need for their missions. With your donation, you're not just sending a truck — you’re standing with Ukraine.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-communityWhy NAFO Trucks Matter: Ukrainian soldiers know the immense value of our NAFO trucks and buses. These vehicles are carefully selected, produced between 2010 and 2017, ensuring reliability for harsh frontline terrain. Each truck is capable of driving at least 20,000 km (12,500 miles) without major technical issues, making them a lifeline for soldiers in combat zones.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-community----------

Edition No216 | 06-08-2025 - Today we’re deconstructing Russia’s economic façade: the so‑called wartime boom that seemed to fool many international analysts, the slow-acting sanctions shock, and whether the engine of the war economy is finally stalling.This video is based on a collation of articles by financial journalists, but also by compiling videos recently produced by Russian economics expert Vladimir Milov and his co-presenter Michael Naki. Their videos on this topic emphasize that Russia’s wartime economy was once hailed as resilient: fuelled by soaring oil prices and military spending. Yet, beneath the surface, cracks are spreading. In early 2025, the IMF and other institutions downgraded Russia’s GDP growth sharply. “Russia’s wartime boom is faltering,” the IMF warned, revising its 2025 outlook to 0.9% growth, down from 4.1% in 2024. (The Moscow Times)Economy Minister Maxim Reshetnikov—Putin’s own ally—noted publicly that Russia teeters on the brink of recession, pointing to weak business sentiment, surging inflation, and reckless war spending. (The Guardian)----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------DESCRIPTION:The Illusion of Russia's Wartime Boom: An Economic BreakdownIn this episode of Silicon Bites, we delve into the perceived resilience of Russia's wartime economy amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Despite international sanctions and an initial boom fueled by high oil prices and military spending, the facade is cracking. Financial analyses reveal a sharp decline in Russia's projected GDP growth, a faltering oil market, and a widening rift between the military and civilian sectors of the economy. As inflation and high interest rates persist, Russia's long-term economic stability is in jeopardy. We discuss the implications of Western sanctions and the strategic moves needed to intensify economic pressure on Russia and its global allies.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Overview00:41 The Illusion of Russia's Wartime Boom01:46 Cracks in the Economic Facade02:48 Oil Sanctions and the Pivot to the East04:15 Inflation, Interest Rates, and Currency Risks05:42 The Civilian Economy vs. The Military Sector07:36 Strategic Choices and Western Policy08:53 Conclusion and Future Outlook----------SOURCES: Reuters: “Weak rouble, higher oil may help Russia…” 30 Jul 2025Reuters: “Russian rouble expected to weaken…” 1 Aug 2025 Reuters: “Consumer price index falls…” 30 Jul 2025 Reuters: “Sberbank warns of economy overcooling…” 18 Jun 2025 Business Insider: “IMF sees Russia’s wartime economy slowing…” 30 Jul 2025 The Guardian: “Russia 'on verge of recession'…” 20 Jun 2025 Washington Post: “Pressure on Russia via secondary sanctions…” 2 Aug 2025Wikipedia and Stockholm Institute reports on sanctions impact, internal budget stimuli, growth & military‑civil split----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

Rostyslav Semkiv is Associate Professor, Department of Literary Studies, National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy. Since 2004, Director of the Smoloskyp Publishing House. His scientific articles have been published in professional periodicals, the Krytyka journal and the Dzerkalo Tyzhnia newspaper, and his reviews are published on the LitAccent literary portal and in The Ukrainian Week magazine. Semkiv has translated fiction and non-fiction books, and is the author of several non-fiction books. Member of the Ukrainian PEN Centre. At the 10th International Book Arsenal Festival, he curated the focus theme—OPTIMISTS SKEPTICS.----------LINKS:https://x.com/rsemkivhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rostyslav-semkiv-120a2517/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2kPcBJ6ZL0https://artarsenal.in.ua/en/knyzhkovij-arsenal/chlen-komandy/tanya-rodionova-2/----------DESCRIPTION:The Evolution of Ukrainian Identity and Literature: An Interview with Rostyslav Semkiv Literary CriticIn this episode, we delve into an insightful discussion with Rostyslav Semkiv, a distinguished Ukrainian literary critic. Hosted in Odesa, the conversation traverses the complexities of Ukrainian literature, the formation of Ukrainian identity, and the weaponization of literature by Russia. Sim sheds light on his extensive career as an associate professor at Kyiv Mohyla Academy and his role as a director of a small publishing house focusing on historical memoirs. They explore pivotal themes in Ukrainian literature, the impact of Soviet and Russian propaganda, the significance of literary freedom, and the resilience and identity of the Ukrainian people, especially amidst current geopolitical tensions. This episode offers a rich perspective on the battle between democracy and totalitarianism as reflected in literature and culture.----------CHAPTERS:00:00 Introduction and Guest Background02:18 The Role of Literature in Ukrainian Identity06:43 Russian Propaganda and Historical Narratives09:53 The Evolution of Literature in Post-Soviet States15:37 The Impact of War on Literature and Identity18:28 Comparing Ukrainian and Russian Literature29:08 Themes in Ukrainian Literature35:30 European Influence and Aspirations39:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------TRUCK FUNDRAISER - GET A SILICON CURTAIN NAFO PATCH:Together with our friends at LIFT99 Kyiv Hub (the NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade), we are teaming up to provide 2nd Battalion of 5th SAB with a pickup truck that they need for their missions. With your donation, you're not just sending a truck — you’re standing with Ukraine.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-communityWhy NAFO Trucks Matter: Ukrainian soldiers know the immense value of our NAFO trucks and buses. These vehicles are carefully selected, produced between 2010 and 2017, ensuring reliability for harsh frontline terrain. Each truck is capable of driving at least 20,000 km (12,500 miles) without major technical issues, making them a lifeline for soldiers in combat zones.https://www.help99.co/patches/nafo-silicon-curtain-community----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------

Edition No216 | 06-08-2025 - Belarus's New Martial Law Proposal. Today, we unpack Belarus's proposal to expand martial law and what it might mean—not just for Belarus, but for Ukraine, its NATO neighbours, and Europe's beleaguered democracies.In August 2025, Belarus’s Defence Ministry submitted a new bill giving it the power to declare martial law not only in the case of aggression against Belarus, but also if Russia or the “Union State”—their supranational alliance—is attacked (The New Voice of Ukraine). As one summary put it, "if, for example, a Ukrainian drone strikes Russian territory, Belarus could legally impose martial law on its own soil".The official justification: Belarus cites threats to the Russian‑Belarusian Union State, an integrated bloc formed in the 1990s to align foreign, economic, and defence policies between Russia and Belarus (UNITED24 Media). Now it’s a matter of debate whether Belarus can be considered a sovereign and independent country, given that its policy making is so closely aligned with Kremlin ambitions and intentions. ----------SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtainhttps://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain----------SOURCES: * Militarnyi.com, “Belarus Proposes Introducing Martial Law…” (Aug 2025) * NV.ua / RBC.ua, “Belarus may declare martial law…” (Aug 2025) * Belsat.eu, on expanding grounds for martial law * Wikipedia Union State, treaty ratification details March 2025 (Wikipedia)* EUNEWS.eu, EU suspects Belarus behind migrant flows from Libya (Aug 2025)* Maghrebi.org, investigation linking Belarus in Libya migration (Aug 2025)* Wikipedia and other sources on weaponised migration (Wikipedia)* EU records: Frontex stats 2024 rising Belarus route by 192% (Reuters)* Reuters & Politico / Newsweek on Lithuanian drone incidents (Aug 5 2025) * Kyiv Independent on drone carrying explosives* CEPA analysis of Baltic hybrid drone threat ----------TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND:Save Ukrainehttps://www.saveukraineua.org/Superhumans - Hospital for war traumashttps://superhumans.com/en/UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukrainehttps://unbroken.org.ua/Come Back Alivehttps://savelife.in.ua/en/Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchenhttps://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraineUNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyyhttps://u24.gov.ua/Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundationhttps://prytulafoundation.orgNGO “Herojam Slava”https://heroiamslava.org/kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyślhttps://kharpp.com/NOR DOG Animal Rescuehttps://www.nor-dog.org/home/----------