southfront--2020-12-11--Over 30 Russian, Syrian Airstrikes Hit ISIS Targets In Central Region

On December 11 , more than 35 Russian and Syrian airstrikes targeted ISIS remnants in the central region , according to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) .
The airstrikes hit ISIS terrorists and their hideouts in eastern Homs , eastern Hama and southern Raqqa .
The targeted regions are located around the Homs desert , between eastern Homs and western Deir Ezzor .
The desert is the main stronghold of ISIS in the central region .
Hundreds of terrorists are reportedly taking shelter there .
ISIS terrorists launch attacks from the Homs desert on a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are aimed at eastern Homs , eastern Hama , southern Raqqa and western Deir Ezzor .
On December 10 , the terrorists killed nine Iranian-backed fighters in Deir Ezzor .
A day later , two pro-government fighters from the Palestinian al-Quds Brigade were killed near the town of al-Sukhnah in eastern Homs .
The ongoing Syrian operation around the Homs desert has been allegedly inflicting heavy losses on ISIS .
However , the terrorist group is not backing down .
A large-scale ground operation deep within the Homs desert is likely needed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the central region .
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On December 11, more than 35 Russian and Syrian airstrikes targeted ISIS remnants in the central region, according to the London-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR).
The airstrikes hit ISIS terrorists and their hideouts in eastern Homs, eastern Hama and southern Raqqa.
The targeted regions are located around the Homs desert, between eastern Homs and western Deir Ezzor. The desert is the main stronghold of ISIS in the central region. Hundreds of terrorists are reportedly taking shelter there.
“The intensive airstrikes coincided with ongoing combing operations by Russian and regime ground troops in several sectors in the region,” the SOHR’ report reads.
ISIS terrorists launch attacks from the Homs desert on a regular basis. Most of the attacks are aimed at eastern Homs, eastern Hama, southern Raqqa and western Deir Ezzor.
On December 10, the terrorists killed nine Iranian-backed fighters in Deir Ezzor. A day later, two pro-government fighters from the Palestinian al-Quds Brigade were killed near the town of al-Sukhnah in eastern Homs.
The ongoing Syrian operation around the Homs desert has been allegedly inflicting heavy losses on ISIS. However, the terrorist group is not backing down. A large-scale ground operation deep within the Homs desert is likely needed to end the terrorist group’s presence in the central region.
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southfront--2020-12-11--Russian Navy Test-Launches Zircon Hypersonic Missile For 2nd Time In Less Than Month (Videos)

On December 11 , the Russian Navy ’ s frigate Admiral Gorshkov fired a Zircon hypersonic cruise missile from the @ @ @ @ @ target located at the Chizha training ground in the Arkhangelsk region .
According to the @ @ @ @ @ missile successfully hit the target located at a distance of over 350km .
The missile @ @ @ @ @ 8 Mach .
The previous test launch of the Zircon hypersonic cruise missile was carried @ @ @ @ @ on November 26 .
Then , the Russian Defense Ministry said that the Zircon missile @ @ @ @ @ at a distance of 450 km .
The flight speed of the missile was more @ @ @ @ @ ON THE TOPIC :

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On December 11, the Russian Navy’s frigate Admiral Gorshkov fired a Zircon hypersonic cruise missile from the White Sea at a coastal target located at the Chizha training ground in the Arkhangelsk region. According to the Defense Ministry, the hypersonic missile successfully hit the target located at a distance of over 350km. The missile flight speed was more than 8 Mach.
The previous test launch of the Zircon hypersonic cruise missile was carried out by the Admiral Gorshkov on November 26. Then, the Russian Defense Ministry said that the Zircon missile successfully hit a sea target at a distance of 450 km. The flight speed of the missile was more than Mach 8.
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southfront--2020-12-11--Iran Gears Up To Repel US Strikes Expected Before Trump Leaves White House

Iran deployed defensive military systems on its coast after the assassination of the country ’ s top nuclear scientist , Mohsen Fakhrizadeh , last month , CNN reported on December 10 , citing U.S. officials .
The officials claimed that Iran may be preparing for a possible attack by Israel or the United States .
Tehran has been maintaining its military readiness since the assassination of Fakhrizadeh on November 27 .
Iran ’ s recent defensive moves employed the deployment of warships , including mine-laying ships in the Strait of Hormuz .
U.S. officials didn ’ t provide CNN with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there is no indication that new mines are being laid as for now .
Two advanced long-range air-defense systems , the S-200 and the S-300 , were also deployed by the Iranian military on the Persian Gulf coast .
Top Iranian officials held Israel responsible for the assassination of Fakhrizadeh .
U.S. officials told CNN that they also believe Tel Aviv was behind the assassination .
Iran ’ s military measures were not limited to its territory .
In Iraq , Iranian-backed Shiite groups moved to a “ heightened level of preparation.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be preparing to attack U.S. troops or diplomatic mission in Iraq .
One official described the situation in Iraq as “ worrisome , ” revealing that Iranian-backed groups already have all the weapons “ capability ” they need to launch attacks .
In an attempt to deter Iran , the U.S. military flew on December 10 two B-52H bombers from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana to the Persian Gulf in a “ short-notice , non-stop ” mission .
Iran ’ s threats to avenge the assassination of Fakhrizadeh are disturbing the U.S. @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the growing tension between Tehran and Washington .
The tension will prevent any talks between the two countries for the time being .
MORE ON THIS TOPIC : • Erdogan Makes Territorial Claims Towards Iran On Behalf Of Baku , Gets Immediately Rebuked

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Iran deployed defensive military systems on its coast after the assassination of the country’s top nuclear scientist, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, last month, CNN reported on December 10, citing U.S. officials.
The officials claimed that Iran may be preparing for a possible attack by Israel or the United States. Tehran has been maintaining its military readiness since the assassination of Fakhrizadeh on November 27.
Iran’s recent defensive moves employed the deployment of warships, including mine-laying ships in the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. officials didn’t provide CNN with any details. However, they said there is no indication that new mines are being laid as for now.
Two advanced long-range air-defense systems, the S-200 and the S-300, were also deployed by the Iranian military on the Persian Gulf coast.
Top Iranian officials held Israel responsible for the assassination of Fakhrizadeh. U.S. officials told CNN that they also believe Tel Aviv was behind the assassination.
Iran’s military measures were not limited to its territory. In Iraq, Iranian-backed Shiite groups moved to a “heightened level of preparation.” U.S. officials believe that these groups may be preparing to attack U.S. troops or diplomatic mission in Iraq.
One official described the situation in Iraq as “worrisome,” revealing that Iranian-backed groups already have all the weapons “capability” they need to launch attacks.
In an attempt to deter Iran, the U.S. military flew on December 10 two B-52H bombers from Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana to the Persian Gulf in a “short-notice, non-stop” mission.
Iran’s threats to avenge the assassination of Fakhrizadeh are disturbing the U.S. Israel is without a doubt benefiting from the growing tension between Tehran and Washington. The tension will prevent any talks between the two countries for the time being.
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southfront--2020-12-12--Bracing Up For New Attack? Iranian-Backed Forces, Hezbollah Deployed Reinforcements In Syria’s Great

Bracing Up For New Attack? Iranian-Backed Forces, Hezbollah Deployed Reinforcements In Syria’s Greater Idlib

Lebanon ’ s Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces have deployed reinforcements in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib , the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) reported on December 12 .
The fresh reinforcements were deployed in the town of Saraqib and its outskirts , along the M5 highway .
The highway , which was liberated by the Syrian Arab Army ( SAA ) and its allies earlier this year , links Damascus with Aleppo .
“ Vehicles loaded with fighters as well as military and logistic equipment coming from Aleppo ’ s southern countryside arrived in Saraqib @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This was the second batch of reinforcements sent by the militias [ Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces ] this week .
Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces maintain a series of positions between the city of Ma ` arat al-Nu ` man in southern Idlib and southern Aleppo .
During the recent battle in Greater Idlib , Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces liberated several areas in southern and western Aleppo .
They also played a key role in the defensive operations around Saraqib .
The deployment of reinforcements in Saraqib may be a sign of near military @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and its allies may be preparing to resume their operations in the region .
Another possibility is that Turkey and its proxies are planning to attack the M5 highway .
Earlier this week , Turkish forces withdrew from a number of posts besieged by Syrian government forces along the M5 highway .
This freed up a sizable Turkish force .
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Lebanon’s Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces have deployed reinforcements in the northwestern Syrian region of Greater Idlib, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported on December 12.
The fresh reinforcements were deployed in the town of Saraqib and its outskirts, along the M5 highway. The highway, which was liberated by the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) and its allies earlier this year, links Damascus with Aleppo.
“Vehicles loaded with fighters as well as military and logistic equipment coming from Aleppo’s southern countryside arrived in Saraqib,” the SOHR said. “This was the second batch of reinforcements sent by the militias [Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces] this week.
Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces maintain a series of positions between the city of Ma`arat al-Nu`man in southern Idlib and the southern countryside of Aleppo.
During the recent battle in Greater Idlib, Hezbollah and Iranian-backed forces liberated several areas in southern and western Aleppo. They also played a key role in the defensive operations around Saraqib.
The deployment of reinforcements in Saraqib may be a sign of nearing military escalation in Greater Idlib. The SAA and its allies may be preparing to resume their operations in the region. Another possibility is that Turkey and its proxies are planning to attack the M5 highway.
Earlier this week, Turkish forces withdrew from a number of posts besieged by Syrian government forces along the M5 highway. This freed up a sizable Turkish force.
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southfront--2020-12-12--Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham Arrested Senior Ansar Al-Islam Commander Over Prisoners Swap With Syrian Autho

Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham Arrested Senior Ansar Al-Islam Commander Over Prisoners Swap With Syrian Authorities

On December 11 , al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay ’ at Tahrir al-Sham ( HTS ) that controls much of Syria ’ s Greater Idlib arrested the senior commander of Ansar al-Islam .
Opposition sources said the top Ansar al-Islam member , known as Abu Abd al-Matin , was arrested by HTS ’ security forces from his house in Idlib city .
The arrest was reportedly provoked by a recent prisoner swap deal between Ansar al-Islam and Syrian authorities .
The terrorist group released an officer of the Syrian Border Guard , Lieutenant Hayan Abdel Karim Dalloul , who was captured in northern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , Damascus released a jihadist who was charged with terrorism in 2008 .
HTS was angered by the deal because Ansar al-Islam didn ’ t rise the HTS flag during the exchange , or mention it in its official statement .
Al-Matin , who serves as the general military commander of Ansar al-Islam , was arrested in response to this .
Ansar al-Islam is yet to comment on the issue .
Ansar al-Islam , originally based in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region , formed its branch in southern Syria in 2014 .
The branch @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Osama bin Zaid Brigade , the Al Ezz bin Abdul Salam Brigade and the al-Adiyat Battalion ] .
In 2015 , ist new branch in the northwestern region of Greater Idlib was formed .
Today , Ansar al-Islam is a part of the HTS-led al-Fateh al-Mubin Operations Room .
Apparently , this did not stop HTS from taking action against the group when it felt “ disrespected.
” HTS has been working to tighten its grip on Greater Idlib for the last two years .
The group does not tolerate any action against @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even when it comes from its close allies .
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On December 11, al-Qaeda-affiliated Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) that controls much of Syria’s Greater Idlib arrested the senior commander of Ansar al-Islam.
Opposition sources said the top Ansar al-Islam member, known as Abu Abd al-Matin, was arrested by HTS’ security forces from his house in Idlib city.
The arrest was reportedly provoked by a recent prisoner swap deal between Ansar al-Islam and Syrian authorities. The terrorist group released an officer of the Syrian Border Guard, Lieutenant Hayan Abdel Karim Dalloul, who was captured in northern Lattakia two years ago. In return, Damascus released a jihadist who was charged with terrorism in 2008.
HTS was angered by the deal because Ansar al-Islam didn’t rise the HTS flag during the exchange, or mention it in its official statement. Al-Matin, who serves as the general military commander of Ansar al-Islam, was arrested in response to this. Ansar al-Islam is yet to comment on the issue.
Ansar al-Islam, originally based in the Iraqi Kurdistan Region, formed its branch in southern Syria in 2014. The branch was established by three factions [the Osama bin Zaid Brigade, the Al Ezz bin Abdul Salam Brigade and the al-Adiyat Battalion]. In 2015, ist new branch in the northwestern region of Greater Idlib was formed.
Today, Ansar al-Islam is a part of the HTS-led al-Fateh al-Mubin Operations Room. Apparently, this did not stop HTS from taking action against the group when it felt “disrespected.”
HTS has been working to tighten its grip on Greater Idlib for the last two years. The group does not tolerate any action against its interests or influence in the region, even when it comes from its close allies.
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southfront--2020-12-12--Military Situation In Syria On December 12, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recet developments in Syria : • On December 11 @ @ @ @ @ troops killed in the car bomb attack in Raas al-Ain were transferred to Turkey ; @ @ @ @ @ artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions in the Ain Issa area ; • On @ @ @ @ @ Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions in the Shahba dam area ; • On December 12 @ @ @ @ @ shelled SAA positions in Maarat al-Numan city ; • On December 11 , SAA artillery @ @ @ @ @ in the villages of Fulaifel , Safuhin and Fatira ; • On December 12 , @ @ @ @ @ violated the ceasefire regime in Greater Idlib 36 times : 24 – in Idlib province @ @ @ @ @ province , 5 – in Latakia province , 5 – in Hama province ; • @ @ @ @ @ Turkish Army reportedly started to dismantle the Surman observation post .
MORE ON THE TOPIC @ @ @ @ @ Turkish Proxies Use U.S. Missiles Against U.S .
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A brief overview of the recet developments in Syria:
On December 11, bodies of two Turkish troops killed in the car bomb attack in Raas al-Ain were transferred to Turkey;
On December 11, artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions in the Ain Issa area;
On December 11, artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SDF positions in the Shahba dam area;
On December 12, artillery of Turkish-backed forces shelled SAA positions in Maarat al-Numan city;
On December 11, SAA artillery shelled positions of Turkish-backed forces in the villages of Fulaifel, Safuhin and Fatira;
On December 12, Russia reported that Idlib militants violated the ceasefire regime in Greater Idlib 36 times: 24 – in Idlib province, 5 – in Aleppo province, 5 – in Latakia province, 5 – in Hama province;
On December 11, the Turkish Army reportedly started to dismantle the Surman observation post.
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Russian Terminator: Origin

An archive field medicine episode involving Russian troops .
Don ’ t repeat this at home !
MORE ON THE @ @ @ @ @ Russia ’ s New Strategic Weapons Systems In Providing Strategic Deterrence

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An archive field medicine episode involving Russian troops. Don’t repeat this at home!
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southfront--2020-12-12--Construction On Nord Stream 2 Resumes As It Races Against Further U.S. Sanctions

On December 11th , work on the pipelaying of the final stretch of the Nord Stream 2 reportedly resumed , despite the threat of US sanctions .
Germany ’ s Authority of Waterways and Shipping Management published a notice to seafarers on the resumption of building works on the final few kilometres of the pipeline .
It warned them to avoid the area up to “ around Dec. 31 , ” and pointed out that “ anchoring or fishing is not permitted in the area of the planned pipelines.
” Confirming the resumption of construction , Nord Stream 2 said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vessel Fortuna will lay a 2.6-kilometer ( 1.6 mile ) section of the pipeline in the German Exclusive Economic Zone in water depths of less than 30 meters ( 100 feet ) .
” The less than 30 meters part of the statement is important , since US sanctions target companies that lay pipes deeper than that .
Besides Russian company Gazprom , which has a majority stake in the project , the international consortium involved in the pipeline includes European players such as Germany ’ s Wintershall and Uniper groups , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Engie and Austria ’ s OMV .
The strongest voice against the Nord Stream 2 , as usual is that of the US .
Quinville said it would send a clear signal that Europe would no longer accept Russia ’ s “ malicious ” behavior .
Zakharova said the US had repeatedly interfered in Russian energy pipeline projects over the past decades , “ wherever and whenever they go and regardless of which treaties legitimize them ” .
US President-elect hasn ’ t made a recent statement on the Nord Stream 2 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He said that Nord Stream 2 was a “ fundamentally bad deal ” for Europe , with his election campaign confirming that he would continue to oppose the project .
Nord Stream 2 remains unfinished , with a little over 150 km left to lay in German and Danish waters .
According to a notice to sea-farers published by the German Waterways and Shipping Authority Stralsund , a 2.6 km stretch of pipe will be laid for both strings of Nord Stream 2 in German waters in the period between December 5th @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carry out the work — the Akademik Cherskiy and the Fortuna — are both on standby in the Baltic Sea .
Asked for comment December 7th , Nord Stream 2 told S & P Global Platts it was “ not in a position to deliver any information about construction details and planning ” .
Currently , the project is already sanctioned .
US measures introduced as part of the expanded Protecting Europe ’ s Energy Security Act ( PEESA ) statute in October target companies involved in pipe-laying at depths of 100 feet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the meantime , measures included in the US 2021 National Defense Authorization Act ( NDAA ) look to further pressure the Nord Stream 2 .
US House and Senate committees reached agreement on the final version of the bill last week and is expected to be voted on this week .
It will then need to be signed off by US President Donald Trump .
The NDAA calls for sanctions on companies that knowingly provide underwriting services or insurance or reinsurance for vessels engaged in the construction of Nord Stream 2 , as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to vessels and for inspection and certification activities .
The next round of sanctions are aimed at preventing companies that access the U.S. financial system from writing insurance and certification for the pipeline .
That would hit the primary insurer Zurich Insurance Group AG , and Det Norske Veritas Holding AS , the Norwegian company verifying the pipeline ’ s safety and integrity .
“ We have both the program to implement the project , as well as specific steps that should be taken , that will be taken in order to implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters December 10th .
“ We are also well aware that the United States of America won ’ t stop trying to prevent Russia from implementing not only this project , but also its foreign policy and international activities in general .
Germany is looking at other ways to protect its section of the project by looking at a legal mechanism that would help protect from the U.S. sanctions .
Germany must prepare for a “ hard confrontation ” to defend its interests in the project that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said Rolf Muetzenich , the co-ruling Social Democrats chief whip in parliament .
He backs a proposal by the provincial government of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania and the place where Nord Stream 2 lands to create new legal protections .
The government of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania needs to move “ urgently ” toward legal protections that ward off pending U.S. sanctions , according to the document .
Currently , it appears to be a race to complete the project before the sanctions move into action in 2021 , and likely before Joe Biden enters the White @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to have a policy against the project .
Besides the United States , European nations like Poland , Ukraine and the Baltic states are also opposed to the pipeline , claiming it will increase Europe ’ s reliance on Russian energy supplies , which Moscow could then use to exert political pressure .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Chaos And Armed Conflicts : U.S. Strategy To Dismantle Russia Is Already Working • Denmark Issues Construction Permit , But Is It A Trap ?

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On December 11th, work on the pipelaying of the final stretch of the Nord Stream 2 reportedly resumed, despite the threat of US sanctions.
Germany’s Authority of Waterways and Shipping Management published a notice to seafarers on the resumption of building works on the final few kilometres of the pipeline.
It warned them to avoid the area up to “around Dec. 31,” and pointed out that “anchoring or fishing is not permitted in the area of the planned pipelines.”
Confirming the resumption of construction, Nord Stream 2 said in a statement that “the pipelay vessel Fortuna will lay a 2.6-kilometer (1.6 mile) section of the pipeline in the German Exclusive Economic Zone in water depths of less than 30 meters (100 feet).”
The less than 30 meters part of the statement is important, since US sanctions target companies that lay pipes deeper than that.
Besides Russian company Gazprom, which has a majority stake in the project, the international consortium involved in the pipeline includes European players such as Germany’s Wintershall and Uniper groups, the Dutch-British giant Shell, France’s Engie and Austria’s OMV.
The strongest voice against the Nord Stream 2, as usual is that of the US.
“Now is the time for Germany and the EU to impose a moratorium on the construction of the pipeline,” the acting US ambassador to Germany, Robin Quinville, told German daily Handelsblatt on December 5th.
Quinville said it would send a clear signal that Europe would no longer accept Russia’s “malicious” behavior.
In response, Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova denounced US political “aggression”.
Zakharova said the US had repeatedly interfered in Russian energy pipeline projects over the past decades, “wherever and whenever they go and regardless of which treaties legitimize them”.
US President-elect hasn’t made a recent statement on the Nord Stream 2, however he made one back in 2016.
He said that Nord Stream 2 was a “fundamentally bad deal” for Europe, with his election campaign confirming that he would continue to oppose the project.
Nord Stream 2 remains unfinished, with a little over 150 km left to lay in German and Danish waters.
According to a notice to sea-farers published by the German Waterways and Shipping Authority Stralsund, a 2.6 km stretch of pipe will be laid for both strings of Nord Stream 2 in German waters in the period between December 5th and 31st.
Vessels that could potentially carry out the work — the Akademik Cherskiy and the Fortuna — are both on standby in the Baltic Sea.
Asked for comment December 7th, Nord Stream 2 told S&P Global Platts it was “not in a position to deliver any information about construction details and planning”.
Currently, the project is already sanctioned. US measures introduced as part of the expanded Protecting Europe’s Energy Security Act (PEESA) statute in October target companies involved in pipe-laying at depths of 100 feet or more below sea level.
In the meantime, measures included in the US 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) look to further pressure the Nord Stream 2.
US House and Senate committees reached agreement on the final version of the bill last week and is expected to be voted on this week. It will then need to be signed off by US President Donald Trump.
The NDAA calls for sanctions on companies that knowingly provide underwriting services or insurance or reinsurance for vessels engaged in the construction of Nord Stream 2, as well as those providing services for upgrades to vessels and for inspection and certification activities.
The next round of sanctions are aimed at preventing companies that access the U.S. financial system from writing insurance and certification for the pipeline.
That would hit the primary insurer Zurich Insurance Group AG, and Det Norske Veritas Holding AS, the Norwegian company verifying the pipeline’s safety and integrity.
“We have both the program to implement the project, as well as specific steps that should be taken, that will be taken in order to implement this project,” Russian Foreign Ministry’s spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters December 10th. “We are also well aware that the United States of America won’t stop trying to prevent Russia from implementing not only this project, but also its foreign policy and international activities in general.
Germany is looking at other ways to protect its section of the project by looking at a legal mechanism that would help protect from the U.S. sanctions.
Germany must prepare for a “hard confrontation” to defend its interests in the project that will increase gas supplies from Russia, said Rolf Muetzenich, the co-ruling Social Democrats chief whip in parliament. He backs a proposal by the provincial government of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania and the place where Nord Stream 2 lands to create new legal protections.
The government of Mecklenburg-West Pomerania needs to move “urgently” toward legal protections that ward off pending U.S. sanctions, according to the document.
Currently, it appears to be a race to complete the project before the sanctions move into action in 2021, and likely before Joe Biden enters the White House, as he is also expected to have a policy against the project.
Besides the United States, European nations like Poland, Ukraine and the Baltic states are also opposed to the pipeline, claiming it will increase Europe’s reliance on Russian energy supplies, which Moscow could then use to exert political pressure.
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southfront--2020-12-12--Role Of Russia’s New Strategic Weapons Systems In Providing Strategic Deterrence

Originally appeared in the official military-theoretical journal of the Russian Defense Ministry “ Military Thought ” ( issue No .
12 of 2020 ) ; Translated by AlexD exclusively for SouthFront Deterrence of aggression is an integral element of the national policy of any state throughout the centuries-long system of interstate relations .
As a result , the threat of war , whether overt or implied , became a diplomatic tool used by one state to deter another from taking undesirable military and political steps .
At the same time , the policy of strategic deterrence as the most important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ state received official recognition only with the advent of nuclear weapons , which became the main tool of deterrence for many decades .
Until recently , strategic deterrence was perceived as nuclear deterrence .
At the same time , the role of non-nuclear deterrence in strategic deterrence increases as troops ( forces ) are equipped with strategic non-nuclear weapons systems capable of performing a number of strategic tasks in military conflicts of various scales and intensity .
Based on this , strategic deterrence should consider two of its components : nuclear and non-nuclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the foreseeable future , Russia is forced to deter the world ’ s leading states from unleashing aggression against it and its allies by intimidation , which is based on a military threat that is openly declared and brought to the attention of a potential aggressor .
In addition to deterrence , other states may be subject to deterrent actions related to restrictions and coercion .
Actions of deterrence , restriction and coercion are carried out within the framework of the strategic deterrence mechanism .
Strategic deterrence is based on the combat capabilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Federation to inflict damage to any aggressor that is incommensurable with the military-political and economic goals of the war – the so-called “ deterrent ” damage .
Its upper limit is “ unacceptable ” damage , i.e.
, damage that is absolutely unacceptable to the aggressor when the aggressor state ceases to function as a socio-political system .
In general , strategic deterrence measures are carried out continuously both in peacetime , including the period of immediate threat of aggression , and in wartime up to the stage of massive use of nuclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the following conditions are met : • the presence of combat-ready strategic deterrence forces in the Russian Armed Forces , including nuclear and strategic forces with combat capabilities that ensure unacceptable damage to any aggressor including the coalition composition , in any development of the military-political and strategic situation ; • the determination and readiness of the military and political leadership of the Russian Federation to use these forces , if necessary , in accordance with Russian legislation .
The military policy pursued by the United States and its allies is aimed at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Armed Forces , including the creation of a global missile defence system ( ABM ) and “ instant global strike ” means .
In these conditions , the creation of modern domestic highly effective systems of strategic ( nuclear and non-nuclear ) weapons with their equipping of troops ( forces ) , as well as determining their role in ensuring strategic deterrence , are of paramount importance .
In his annual messages to the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation in 2018 , President Vladimir Putin stated , and in 2019 he confirmed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with new models of strategic weapons : The adoption of these models for service will increase the flexibility and diversity of the functioning of the strategic deterrence mechanism , as well as expand the possibilities of using weapons of destruction in existing and future strategic actions of the Russian Armed Forces .
If the Sarmat and Avangard missile systems are assigned a role similar to the existing strategic missile systems , the role of directed energy weapons and hypersonic weapons is determined based on their unique characteristics and capabilities to affect various targets @ @ @ @ @ @ @ important tasks are to ensure the combat stability of domestic strategic nuclear forces and reduce the effectiveness of the US missile defence system to a level that allows the Russian Federation to cause unacceptable damage in response .
Successful implementation of these tasks can largely be achieved through the introduction of advanced technologies and the proactive implementation of asymmetric countermeasures related to the integrated implementation of aerospace defence tasks , including anti-satellite warfare .
The Peresvet CLC can be used to perform a wide range of tasks , including to fight the enemy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of their functional destruction ( suppression ) by laser radiation .
Currently and in the medium term , it will be used to cover the position areas of missile divisions with mobile missile systems .
The role of the strategic directed energy weapons in general and the Peresvet CLC in particular in the system of strategic deterrence is determined by : • increasing the share of tasks to reduce the stability and efficiency of information and intelligence , combat and control systems of the enemy ( primarily aerospace-based ) , which can be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ; • the need for highly effective selective destruction ( suppression ) of objects ( their elements ) with minimisation of negative consequences for the population and the environment in the strike areas ; • the ability to use the CLC both independently and in conjunction with traditional weapons , while ensuring an increase in their combat effectiveness ; • the possibility of using one CLC as a universal means of defeating the enemy in military conflicts of any scale and intensity ; • the ability to selectively , accurately and timely hit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and space attack ) of the enemy ; • the ability to effectively perform the tasks of covering the defeat of the most important groups of troops ( forces ) and objects of state and military administration ; • the ability to hit targets at a considerable distance , contributing to the creation of a layered system of heterogeneous enemy destruction .
The Kinzhal AMS is a hypersonic weapons complex designed to perform strategic tasks in the pre-nuclear phase of a military conflict .
The impact of the AMS on the enemy ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the state and military administration system , military-economic and combat capabilities , as well as infrastructure , can decisively change the course of a military conflict and provide a significant increase in the effectiveness of the use of nuclear forces .
The possibility of multi-variant use of the Kinzhal AMS allows to influence the enemy state ( both the military and political leadership and the population ) in order to deter from unleashing military aggression or escalating military actions during a military conflict .
The role of the Kinzhal AMS in the strategic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the increasing importance of the force factor in interstate relations , the intensification of competition between the world ’ s economic and military-political centres of power for expanding their spheres of influence , as well as the possibility of achieving the goals of political and armed confrontation by influencing ( threatening to influence ) various critical enemy objects using modern conventional ( non-nuclear ) weapons ; • improving the strategic deterrence mechanism and expanding the range of tasks assigned to the Kinzhal AMS ; • an increase in the spatial and temporal indicators @ @ @ @ @ @ @ widespread use of “ contactless ” forms of use of troops ( forces ) ; • increasing the combat capabilities of the Kinzhal AMS for selective damaging effects on the critical facilities , including the enemy ’ s air defence and missile defence systems in the conditions of its counteraction .
The use of this complex in military conflicts can suspend or prevent hostile actions of the enemy , limit the escalation of the conflict and allow to take military actions in conditions when the use of other types of weapons is unacceptable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The advantage of a hypersonic missile in comparison with subsonic low-altitude cruise missiles is its significantly lower vulnerability when overcoming air defence and missile defence systems due to high speeds and altitude .
The high degree of vulnerability of subsonic low-altitude cruise missiles was confirmed by the results of US military operations in the war against Yugoslavia , when a significant part of American Tomahawk cruise missiles in this war were shot down by man-portable air defence systems .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • U.S.-Israeli Honeymoon Nearing Its End : Trump @ @ @ @ @ @

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Originally appeared in the official military-theoretical journal of the Russian Defense Ministry “Military Thought” (issue No. 12 of 2020); Translated by AlexD exclusively for SouthFront
You can read this article in German. LINK
Deterrence of aggression is an integral element of the national policy of any state throughout the centuries-long system of interstate relations. As a result, the threat of war, whether overt or implied, became a diplomatic tool used by one state to deter another from taking undesirable military and political steps. At the same time, the policy of strategic deterrence as the most important component of the national policy of the state received official recognition only with the advent of nuclear weapons, which became the main tool of deterrence for many decades. Until recently, strategic deterrence was perceived as nuclear deterrence. At the same time, the role of non-nuclear deterrence in strategic deterrence increases as troops (forces) are equipped with strategic non-nuclear weapons systems capable of performing a number of strategic tasks in military conflicts of various scales and intensity. Based on this, strategic deterrence should consider two of its components: nuclear and non-nuclear.
At the present time and in the foreseeable future, Russia is forced to deter the world’s leading states from unleashing aggression against it and its allies by intimidation, which is based on a military threat that is openly declared and brought to the attention of a potential aggressor. In addition to deterrence, other states may be subject to deterrent actions related to restrictions and coercion. Actions of deterrence, restriction and coercion are carried out within the framework of the strategic deterrence mechanism.
Strategic deterrence is based on the combat capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation to inflict damage to any aggressor that is incommensurable with the military-political and economic goals of the war – the so-called “deterrent” damage. Its upper limit is “unacceptable” damage, i.e., damage that is absolutely unacceptable to the aggressor when the aggressor state ceases to function as a socio-political system.
In general, strategic deterrence measures are carried out continuously both in peacetime, including the period of immediate threat of aggression, and in wartime up to the stage of massive use of nuclear weapons.
Strategic deterrence is ensured when the following conditions are met:
the presence of combat-ready strategic deterrence forces in the Russian Armed Forces, including nuclear and strategic forces with combat capabilities that ensure unacceptable damage to any aggressor including the coalition composition, in any development of the military-political and strategic situation;
the determination and readiness of the military and political leadership of the Russian Federation to use these forces, if necessary, in accordance with Russian legislation.
The military policy pursued by the United States and its allies is aimed at reducing the combat capabilities of the Russian Armed Forces, including the creation of a global missile defence system (ABM) and “instant global strike” means. In these conditions, the creation of modern domestic highly effective systems of strategic (nuclear and non-nuclear) weapons with their equipping of troops (forces), as well as determining their role in ensuring strategic deterrence, are of paramount importance.
In his annual messages to the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation in 2018, President Vladimir Putin stated, and in 2019 he confirmed the armament of the Russian Armed Forces with new models of strategic weapons:
Sarmat missile complex with a heavy intercontinental ballistic missile;
Avangard missile system with a gliding cruise warhead;
Peresvet combat laser complex (CLC);
Kinzhal aviation missile system (AMS) with a hypersonic cruise missile;
Burevestnik strategic complex;
Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicle.
The adoption of these models for service will increase the flexibility and diversity of the functioning of the strategic deterrence mechanism, as well as expand the possibilities of using weapons of destruction in existing and future strategic actions of the Russian Armed Forces.
If the Sarmat and Avangard missile systems are assigned a role similar to the existing strategic missile systems, the role of directed energy weapons and hypersonic weapons is determined based on their unique characteristics and capabilities to affect various targets.
In current conditions, the most important tasks are to ensure the combat stability of domestic strategic nuclear forces and reduce the effectiveness of the US missile defence system to a level that allows the Russian Federation to cause unacceptable damage in response. Successful implementation of these tasks can largely be achieved through the introduction of advanced technologies and the proactive implementation of asymmetric countermeasures related to the integrated implementation of aerospace defence tasks, including anti-satellite warfare.
The Peresvet CLC can be used to perform a wide range of tasks, including to fight the enemy’s space-based optoelectronic reconnaissance by means of their functional destruction (suppression) by laser radiation. Currently and in the medium term, it will be used to cover the position areas of missile divisions with mobile missile systems.
The role of the strategic directed energy weapons in general and the Peresvet CLC in particular in the system of strategic deterrence is determined by:
increasing the share of tasks to reduce the stability and efficiency of information and intelligence, combat and control systems of the enemy (primarily aerospace-based), which can be performed with the use of the CLC;
the need for highly effective selective destruction (suppression) of objects (their elements) with minimisation of negative consequences for the population and the environment in the strike areas;
the ability to use the CLC both independently and in conjunction with traditional weapons, while ensuring an increase in their combat effectiveness;
the possibility of using one CLC as a universal means of defeating the enemy in military conflicts of any scale and intensity;
the ability to selectively, accurately and timely hit targets (primarily the means of air and space attack) of the enemy;
the ability to effectively perform the tasks of covering the defeat of the most important groups of troops (forces) and objects of state and military administration;
the ability to hit targets at a considerable distance, contributing to the creation of a layered system of heterogeneous enemy destruction.
The Kinzhal AMS is a hypersonic weapons complex designed to perform strategic tasks in the pre-nuclear phase of a military conflict. The impact of the AMS on the enemy’s critical facilities, including those of the state and military administration system, military-economic and combat capabilities, as well as infrastructure, can decisively change the course of a military conflict and provide a significant increase in the effectiveness of the use of nuclear forces.
The possibility of multi-variant use of the Kinzhal AMS allows to influence the enemy state (both the military and political leadership and the population) in order to deter from unleashing military aggression or escalating military actions during a military conflict.
The role of the Kinzhal AMS in the strategic deterrence system is determined by:
the increasing importance of the force factor in interstate relations, the intensification of competition between the world’s economic and military-political centres of power for expanding their spheres of influence, as well as the possibility of achieving the goals of political and armed confrontation by influencing (threatening to influence) various critical enemy objects using modern conventional (non-nuclear) weapons;
improving the strategic deterrence mechanism and expanding the range of tasks assigned to the Kinzhal AMS;
an increase in the spatial and temporal indicators of military operations, combined with the widespread use of “contactless” forms of use of troops (forces);
increasing the combat capabilities of the Kinzhal AMS for selective damaging effects on the critical facilities, including the enemy’s air defence and missile defence systems in the conditions of its counteraction.
The use of this complex in military conflicts can suspend or prevent hostile actions of the enemy, limit the escalation of the conflict and allow to take military actions in conditions when the use of other types of weapons is unacceptable for political, ethical or other reasons.
The advantage of a hypersonic missile in comparison with subsonic low-altitude cruise missiles is its significantly lower vulnerability when overcoming air defence and missile defence systems due to high speeds and altitude. The high degree of vulnerability of subsonic low-altitude cruise missiles was confirmed by the results of US military operations in the war against Yugoslavia, when a significant part of American Tomahawk cruise missiles in this war were shot down by man-portable air defence systems.
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southfront--2020-12-12--Karabakh War Round 2? Armenia and Azerbaijan Exchange Accusations Of Clashes In Hadrut

On December 11th , clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh appear to have resumed .
Both the Armenian and Azerbaijani sides blame each other .
According to initial reports , Azerbaijan ’ s media claimed that Armenian forces began an armed provocation in the Gadrut region , and an Azerbaijani soldier was wounded .
This was then denied by the Armenian side .
“ Azerbaijani Armed Forces tried to attack the Armenian post in the south of Artsakh , there was an exchange of fire .
On December 11th , at around 20:40 , the enemy attempted to attack one of the positions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ direction .
As a result of the firefight , three military reservists were wounded of varying severity , their lives are out of danger .
An investigation is underway to clarify the circumstances of the incident , Artsakh Defense Army reports.
” This , again , took place in the Gadrut region .
There are no reports of any further clashes , but it appears that the peace deal and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers isn ’ t guarantee enough that hostilities will not continue at any moment .
However , claims and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as an justification of starting another “ security operation ” and not exactly an “ offensive ” in order to guarantee security , which could be used to push further .
In Azerbaijani social media there are rumors that back on December 9th , Azerbaijani servicemen were killed after a raid on Gadrut .
It is reported that three servicemen of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan were killed , one of them is Rahib Azizov .
In addition , Azercell employees who were installing equipment in the occupied territories were “ wounded and/or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ took place on December 10th .
His alleged photograph is also being shared .
This could also be propaganda , preparing the people for another push on Nagorno-Karabakh , or a security operation .
In addition , on December 11th , an audio recording leaked , showing a conversation between Artsakh President Arayik Harutyunyan and member of Artsakh parliament Ruslan Israelyan .
Armenian media claim the conversation is with an Artsakh “ unknown person ” , but Israelyan confirmed that he was the “ someone ” in the recording .
SOURCE In the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the transcript and heard in the audio , the Artsakh President spent 10 days asking Armenia for help , but no additional forces or weapons were deployed , which is further testifying to the mismanagement by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his aides .
The president also admitted to lying to the population , making it seem like the war was much more equal than it actually was , and they were expecting the Azerbaijani forces to reach Stepanakert in a matter of days .
It appears that Armenia ’ s problems are @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be reminded that during the Victory Parade on December 10th in Baku , both Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev , as well as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made some interesting claims .
Aliyev said that “ Zangazur , Goycha and Iravan districts are our historical lands.
” “ Our people have lived in these lands for centuries , but the Armenian leadership expelled 100,000 Azerbaijanis from their native lands at the time .
After that , the same situation was observed in Nagorno-Karabakh .
The Armenian side used force to commit a war @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , perpetrated the Khojaly genocide .
Then , in May 1992 , the occupation of Shusha and Lachin created a geographical link between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh .
The occupation of Kalbajar district in April 1993 aggravated the situation and , in fact , led to the continuation of the policy of subsequent occupation.
” Erdogan praised the victory , and said that Armenia could cooperate with Turkey and Azerbaijan , but it simply needs to undergo a regime change before that .
As such , it is likely that provocations such as the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place , with variable frequency , and a possible “ security operation ” is coming on the way , since that is how Ankara appears to deal with situations such as these , Idlib and northeastern Syria stand as examples .
The Advisor to the president of Artsakh Davit Babayan calls the Azerbaijani attack attempt , launched on December 11 in the southern direction of the Defense Army , a provocative action also against Russia .
“ There has been a provocative attempt to move forward , which was prevented .
Fortunately , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ actions are directed both against Artsakh and Russia .
The possibility of such provocative actions is not ruled out in the future as well , but I think that the response will always be tough , including also by the peacekeepers .
We need to clarify the circumstances of the incident ” , he told Armenpress .
Meanwhile , the Russian peacekeeping forces appear to be keeping the situation stable .
The Russian peacekeepers have equipped the checkpoints with “ Checkpoint ” fortifications , which are designed to protect servicemen from firearms and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out round-the-clock surveillance of nearby areas .
The RF Ministry of Defense website informs about this .
The outlines of the “ checkpoint ” are equipped with GNT-2 and GNT-3 gabions .
This structure fully protects the Russian peacekeeping force at this checkpoint from firearms and splinters .
The infrastructure of the checkpoint also includes two comfortable modules for staff accommodation , for cooking and eating , as well as a transport technology module , equipped with permanent power supply units .
All modules are equipped with the necessary household appliances , dishes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ conditioning systems .
It is also possible that Armenia hopes that in the case of a more serious provocation , the Russian armed forces would be actually put in a situation where they need to fight on behalf of Artsakh and Armenia , which is questionable , at best .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Erdogan Makes Territorial Claims Towards Iran On Behalf Of Baku , Gets Immediately Rebuked

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On December 11th, clashes in Nagorno-Karabakh appear to have resumed.
Both the Armenian and Azerbaijani sides blame each other.
According to initial reports, Azerbaijan’s media claimed that Armenian forces began an armed provocation in the Gadrut region, and an Azerbaijani soldier was wounded.
This was then denied by the Armenian side.
Armenian Defense Ministry spokesperson Shushan Stepanyan made the following announcement:
“Azerbaijani Armed Forces tried to attack the Armenian post in the south of Artsakh, there was an exchange of fire. On December 11th, at around 20:40, the enemy attempted to attack one of the positions of the Defense Army in the southern direction. As a result of the firefight, three military reservists were wounded of varying severity, their lives are out of danger. An investigation is underway to clarify the circumstances of the incident, Artsakh Defense Army reports.”
This, again, took place in the Gadrut region.
There are no reports of any further clashes, but it appears that the peace deal and the deployment of Russian peacekeepers isn’t guarantee enough that hostilities will not continue at any moment.
However, claims and reports such as these could be used as an justification of starting another “security operation” and not exactly an “offensive” in order to guarantee security, which could be used to push further.
In Azerbaijani social media there are rumors that back on December 9th, Azerbaijani servicemen were killed after a raid on Gadrut.
It is reported that three servicemen of the Armed Forces of Azerbaijan were killed, one of them is Rahib Azizov. In addition, Azercell employees who were installing equipment in the occupied territories were “wounded and/or killed”. Azizov’s funeral took place on December 10th.
His alleged photograph is also being shared.
This could also be propaganda, preparing the people for another push on Nagorno-Karabakh, or a security operation.
In addition, on December 11th, an audio recording leaked, showing a conversation between Artsakh President Arayik Harutyunyan and member of Artsakh parliament Ruslan Israelyan.
Armenian media claim the conversation is with an Artsakh “unknown person”, but Israelyan confirmed that he was the “someone” in the recording. SOURCE
In the conversation, as can be seen on the transcript and heard in the audio, the Artsakh President spent 10 days asking Armenia for help, but no additional forces or weapons were deployed, which is further testifying to the mismanagement by Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and his aides.
The president also admitted to lying to the population, making it seem like the war was much more equal than it actually was, and they were expecting the Azerbaijani forces to reach Stepanakert in a matter of days.
It appears that Armenia’s problems are likely just beginning, as it should be reminded that during the Victory Parade on December 10th in Baku, both Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev, as well as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan made some interesting claims.
Aliyev said that “Zangazur, Goycha and Iravan districts are our historical lands.”
“Our people have lived in these lands for centuries, but the Armenian leadership expelled 100,000 Azerbaijanis from their native lands at the time. After that, the same situation was observed in Nagorno-Karabakh. The Armenian side used force to commit a war crime against the civilian population of Azerbaijan, perpetrated the Khojaly genocide. Then, in May 1992, the occupation of Shusha and Lachin created a geographical link between Armenia and Nagorno-Karabakh. The occupation of Kalbajar district in April 1993 aggravated the situation and, in fact, led to the continuation of the policy of subsequent occupation.”
Erdogan praised the victory, and said that Armenia could cooperate with Turkey and Azerbaijan, but it simply needs to undergo a regime change before that.
As such, it is likely that provocations such as the one from December 11th are to take place, with variable frequency, and a possible “security operation” is coming on the way, since that is how Ankara appears to deal with situations such as these, Idlib and northeastern Syria stand as examples.
The Advisor to the president of Artsakh Davit Babayan calls the Azerbaijani attack attempt, launched on December 11 in the southern direction of the Defense Army, a provocative action also against Russia.
“There has been a provocative attempt to move forward, which was prevented. Fortunately, we do not have losses. These actions are directed both against Artsakh and Russia. The possibility of such provocative actions is not ruled out in the future as well, but I think that the response will always be tough, including also by the peacekeepers. We need to clarify the circumstances of the incident”, he told Armenpress.
Meanwhile, the Russian peacekeeping forces appear to be keeping the situation stable.
The Russian peacekeepers have equipped the checkpoints with “Checkpoint” fortifications, which are designed to protect servicemen from firearms and splinters, as well as to carry out round-the-clock surveillance of nearby areas. The RF Ministry of Defense website informs about this.
The outlines of the “checkpoint” are equipped with GNT-2 and GNT-3 gabions. This structure fully protects the Russian peacekeeping force at this checkpoint from firearms and splinters.
The infrastructure of the checkpoint also includes two comfortable modules for staff accommodation, for cooking and eating, as well as a transport technology module, equipped with permanent power supply units.
All modules are equipped with the necessary household appliances, dishes, electrical appliances, heating and air conditioning systems.
It is also possible that Armenia hopes that in the case of a more serious provocation, the Russian armed forces would be actually put in a situation where they need to fight on behalf of Artsakh and Armenia, which is questionable, at best.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
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southfront--2020-12-12--Your Support Is Vital To Keep SouthFront Alive

Thanks to your regular support , SouthFront survived in the previous months despite the large-scale censorship and pressure campaign aimed against our endeavour .
( MORE HERE ) Unfortunately , regular attacks and the increasing censorship led to particular results and damaged SouthFront .
In October and November , we were undertaking efforts to keep SouthFront alive .
This work , together with your support , allowed us to continue working even in these hard times .
But the situation is not improving and there are no indications that the pressure against SouthFront will be reduced anytime soon .
There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ give up and continue its struggle for the freedom and justice .
However , we will not be able to do this without your continuing support .
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This is about 38 % of the monthly budget needed to continue SouthFront work and further .
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DEAR FRIENDS,
Thanks to your regular support, SouthFront survived in the previous months despite the large-scale censorship and pressure campaign aimed against our endeavour. (MORE HERE) Unfortunately, regular attacks and the increasing censorship led to particular results and damaged SouthFront.
In October and November, we were undertaking efforts to keep SouthFront alive. This work, together with your support, allowed us to continue working even in these hard times. But the situation is not improving and there are no indications that the pressure against SouthFront will be reduced anytime soon. There is no doubt that SouthFront will not give up and continue its struggle for the freedom and justice. However, we will not be able to do this without your continuing support.
THE SITUATION IS CRITICAL
Since December 1, we’ve collected 2125 USD. This is about 42.5% of the monthly budget needed to continue SouthFront work and further.
Unlike propaganda structures funded by the Euro-Atlantic establishment, SouthFront operates thanks to the audience’s donations. We will not be able to survive without your help.
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southfront--2020-12-12--Supreme Court Tosses Texas Bid To Overturn Election

The Supreme Court on Friday tossed a last-minute bid by the state of Texas to overturn the 2020 election by challenging the results of four battleground states .
Citing a lack of standing , Justice Samuel Alito wrote in a brief order that the state “ has not demonstrated a judicially cognizable interest in the manner in which another State conducts its elections , ” adding “ All other pending motions are dismissed as moot.
” In doing so , the justices shut down a long-shot bid for Texas to challenge Biden ’ s wins in Pennsylvania , Michigan , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ by 17 other states and over 100 House Republicans .
Justices Clarence Thomas joined Alito in stating that they do not believe the court has the authority to outright reject Texas ’ s request , writing instead “ I would therefore grant the motion to file the bill of complaint but would not grant other relief , and I express no view on any other issue.
” Earlier in the day , President Trump tweeted : “ If the Supreme Court shows great Wisdom and Courage , the American People will win perhaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and our Electoral Process will be respected again !
” Notably , Trump appointed three of the court ’ s nine members – causing Democrats to cry foul at the prospect of the highest court in the land deciding the outcome of the 2020 election .
Trump himself suggested several times that filling Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg ’ s seat with Justice Amy Coney Barrett was essential in the event that the election ended up at the Court .
The case was filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton , who asked the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the above-mentioned states so that their GOP-controlled state legislatures could decide who won instead .
AGs from Pennsylvania and Michigan have responded to the decision : The Texas GOP , meanwhile , suggests that “ law-abiding states should bond together and form a Union of states that will abide by the constitution.
” MORE ON THE TOPIC : • A Return to Containment : Kennan and the Responsible Use of Power – Part 5 • YouTube ’ s 2020 Election Policy : You Can Say What You Wish , As Long As @ @ @ @ @ @ @

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
The Supreme Court on Friday tossed a last-minute bid by the state of Texas to overturn the 2020 election by challenging the results of four battleground states.
Citing a lack of standing, Justice Samuel Alito wrote in a brief order that the state “has not demonstrated a judicially cognizable interest in the manner in which another State conducts its elections,” adding “All other pending motions are dismissed as moot.”
In doing so, the justices shut down a long-shot bid for Texas to challenge Biden’s wins in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia and Wisconsin – which was joined by 17 other states and over 100 House Republicans.
SO ITS 7:2 ON LEAVE TO FILE AND 9:0 ON THE SUBSTANCE IT'S GAME OVER. pic.twitter.com/2gpADLR7s9 — Adrian McKinty (@adrianmckinty) December 11, 2020
Justices Clarence Thomas joined Alito in stating that they do not believe the court has the authority to outright reject Texas’s request, writing instead “I would therefore grant the motion to file the bill of complaint but would not grant other relief, and I express no view on any other issue.”
Earlier in the day, President Trump tweeted: “If the Supreme Court shows great Wisdom and Courage, the American People will win perhaps the most important case in history, and our Electoral Process will be respected again!”
If the Supreme Court shows great Wisdom and Courage, the American People will win perhaps the most important case in history, and our Electoral Process will be respected again! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 11, 2020
Notably, Trump appointed three of the court’s nine members – causing Democrats to cry foul at the prospect of the highest court in the land deciding the outcome of the 2020 election. Trump himself suggested several times that filling Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s seat with Justice Amy Coney Barrett was essential in the event that the election ended up at the Court.
One hour ago Fox News released a poll that said "68% of Republicans believe the election was stolen from President Trump." Overall: 36% of American voters say they think he was robbed. https://t.co/qr3ch6p4lK pic.twitter.com/T6Vteerkw9 — Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) December 12, 2020
The case was filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who asked the Court to invalidate over 20 million votes in the above-mentioned states so that their GOP-controlled state legislatures could decide who won instead.
AGs from Pennsylvania and Michigan have responded to the decision:
Michigan AG @DanaNessel, whose state was also targeted: “Today’s Supreme Court decision is an important reminder that we are a nation of laws, and though some may bend to the desire of a single individual, the courts will not." pic.twitter.com/l1lW6HdQT8 — Adam Klasfeld (@KlasfeldReports) December 12, 2020
The Texas GOP, meanwhile, suggests that “law-abiding states should bond together and form a Union of states that will abide by the constitution.”
The @TexasGOP is out with a statement in the wake of the Supreme Court decision, all but calling for secession: “Perhaps law-abiding states should bond together and form a Union of states that will abide by the constitution.” pic.twitter.com/4bB3gk88t4 — Adam Kelsey (@adamkelsey) December 12, 2020
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