dark room ambience
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Comments by "dark room ambience" (@DarkRoomAmbience) on "Three Killed, Chinese Consulate Damaged As Russia Claims 'Retaliatory' Strike On Ukraine Port Cities" video.
I appreciate your concerns about the language used by NATO politicians and officials when discussing complex issues.
Firstly, you mentioned that NATO may be using misleading language by claiming to be a "defensive alliance" while engaging in offensive wars. It is crucial to acknowledge that while NATO has been involved in military interventions, such as Afghanistan, these actions were often in response to threats or attacks against member countries or in support of international efforts, such as combating terrorism. The core mission of NATO remains defensive. Also if one or more NATO members engage in an offensive war, it is not necessarily NATO engaging in that war.
Regarding Russia, you suggested that Western countries exaggerate the threat it poses and that Russia has no interest in invading NATO countries. However, we cannot ignore Russia's actions in recent years, such as the annexation of Crimea and military aggression in Ukraine, which have raised genuine concerns among NATO member states about their security. Russia's military build-up near NATO borders, provocative military exercises and cyber operations targeting Western countries contribute to the perception of a real threat.
You mentioned fear mongering tactics used by NATO to persuade people to support their policies, particularly concerning increasing military spending. While it is essential to differentiate between genuine security concerns and fear tactics, discussions about military spending also stem from the commitment of each member state to contribute their fair share to collective defense. It is not solely about countering Russia but also about maintaining a strong defense posture. As im sure you will agree, NATO members over the years have neglected defense spending.
You expressed concerns about NATO politicians treating the people as if they were foolish and not capable of understanding complex issues. While I agree that transparency and open dialogue are vital in a democratic society, it is also important to recognize that communicating complex security matters to the general public can be challenging. Simplifying these issues does not necessarily imply underestimating the public's intelligence, it is a common communication strategy used worldwide to engage and inform citizens effectively.
you mentioned that such a communication style undermines democracy and erodes trust between elected representatives and the people. While this may be a valid concern, we should also consider that public officials often face the difficult task of balancing transparency with safeguarding sensitive information that could harm national security. Responsible communication is crucial, but we must also be mindful of not revealing classified information or undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Whilst considering your evident critical thinking abilities, it appears that you might hold a biased inclination towards supporting Russia. Your eloquent criticisms of NATO, particularly in the context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, lead me to believe this. Hence, I am intrigued to compare your allegations against NATO with Russia's actions.
Russia has used and is using military force and intervention beyond its borders, as seen in the annexation of Crimea in 2014, its military involvement in Eastern Ukraine and ultimately its invasion of Ukraine, not to mention its interventions in Georgia, Chechnya etc.
Russia has a history of using aggressive rhetoric and military posturing towards neighboring countries, particularly those with aspirations to join NATO or the European Union. These actions have raised concerns among neighboring states about potential Russian aggression
Over the years, Russia has employed aggressive rhetoric and military exercises, often seen as an attempt to intimidate neighboring countries and assert its influence in the region. Such actions attempt to pressure other nations into compliance, they have used veiled nuke threats to neighboring countries for years, well before Ukraine. When someone tells you who they are, you should believe them.
The Russian government use state-controlled media and propaganda to attempt to manipulate public opinion, limit access to independent information and discourage open dissent. This is an attempt to control the narrative and limit critical thinking among the population, which as you said, "is a dangerous and irresponsible way to govern. It undermines democracy"
Russia has engaged in electoral interference in other countries, which is undermining the democratic processes of those nations. Also, its treatment of political opposition and media freedom in Russia contributes to a lack of trust in the government
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@MarkNOTW Russia underestimated the strength of the Ukrainian resistance and overestimated its own capabilities. This led to a number of strategic and tactical blunders, such as the failed attempt to take Kyiv in the early days of the war. Fail 1
Russia's military was not prepared for a long and drawn out war. It lacked the supplies and transportation needed to sustain its forces. This led to shortages of food, fuel and ammunition, which hampered the Russian advance. Fail 2
Russian soldiers were reportedly demoralized by the poor planning, logistics and leadership. Many of them are also unhappy about being sent to fight in a foreign country. This has led to widespread desertion and refusal to obey orders. Fail 3
The West imposed harsh sanctions on Russia in response to the invasion. These sanctions have crippled the Russian economy and made it difficult for the government to finance the war effort. Fail 4
Russia has long feared that NATO expansion would threaten its security. The invasion of Ukraine has only served to strengthen NATO and its resolve to defend its members. This has made it more difficult for Russia to achieve its goal of isolating Ukraine from the West. NATO has since expanded by two Russian neighboring countries. Fail 5
Russia's military has suffered heavy losses in Ukraine. This has eroded its capabilities and made it more difficult to project power in other parts of the world. This is a major setback for Russia, as it has always relied on its military strength to persuade and intimidate other countries. Fail 6
The invasion of Ukraine has been a major strategic failure for Russia. It has failed to achieve its initial goals, now its stuck in a quagmire depleting its manpower, military equipment and resources.
In the world of competition and comparative advantage, the west is growing, whilst Russia is shrinking. Ultimately, the 6th and most important Fail.
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