Comments by "Gary VAQ" (@stlouisix1) on "Trump trashes EU. Georgescu 60 day media ban. Elensky getting cold feet. Rubio cancels on Kallas" video.

  1. A Russian missile has obliterated over a dozen Ukrainian long-range kamikaze drones before they could be launched, the Defense Ministry in Moscow reported on Thursday. Kiev employs single-use UAVs to attack targets deep within Russia, including oil refineries. The Russian military released a video showcasing the successful pre-emptive operation. It shows a tightly packed group of drones on the ground, with personnel hurriedly attempting to cover them. The location was subsequently struck by an Iskander missile. According to the statement, Ukraine lost approximately 14 Cobra-type drones, several vehicles equipped for their deployment, and at least 20 military personnel. The attack reportedly occurred near Shostka, a city in the northern part of Ukraine’s Sumy Region, roughly 45km from the Russian border. - RT
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  2. The year 2024 was a pivotal and exceptional one for Russia’s cooperation with the countries of the Middle East. The beginning of the year was marked by a significant event: four countries from the region – Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia – were included in the BRICS group, underscoring the strategic importance of their participation in global processes and opening new horizons for multilateral engagement. Soon after, these same countries participated in the historic BRICS summit, held in Russia’s Islamic capital, Kazan. This event served as a vivid confirmation of the strengthening ties between Russia and the Middle Eastern states, as well as their shared commitment to expanding mutually beneficial cooperation. The interest of the region’s countries in Russia, both in bilateral and multilateral formats, only grew stronger. The frequency of official delegations visiting the Middle East from Russia, as well as representatives from Middle Eastern countries visiting Russia, became so high that it is almost unnecessary to count them – they have become an integral part of the diplomatic and economic life of both regions. Despite the pressure from Western countries and the policy of sanctions, Middle Eastern states have continued to expand their cooperation with Russia, particularly in the areas of trade, economy, and military-political affairs. This reflects the deep trust and strategic partnership that continues to develop. One of the most significant events in economic cooperation was the 2024 St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), with the Sultanate of Oman being the main guest. In addition to Oman, numerous high-profile delegations from Middle Eastern countries were represented at the forum, highlighting their interest in strengthening ties with Russia and developing new joint projects. The SPIEF served as a platform for discussing and concluding important agreements, as well as establishing new business contacts. Thus, 2025 is likely to be a year of continued success for Russia’s diplomatic strategy in the Middle East and North Africa. The strengthening of mutual ties and political maturity will serve as the foundation for ensuring regional stability and prosperity, as well as for shaping a multipolar world order. - RT
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