southfront--2020-12-01--Azerbaijan President Aliyev Gives Victory Speech After Baku’s Forces Enter Lachin District

As has become customary , Azerbaijan ’ s President Ilham Aliyev gave another “ victory speech ” after Baku ’ s forces entered the Lachin District .
In his speech , as typical , styled in the manner of “ Big Brother ” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan , he , once again , praised the success , and had the “ us against the world ” attitude that ’ s become expected in Turkish and similar rhetoric .
He also promised for the regions to be developed further , as soon as possible .
“ Lachin is one of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with an area of 1,800 square kilometers .
The rich nature , historical monuments and underground resources of Lachin region are our national treasure .
Lachin distrct will play an important role in the future economic development of Azerbaijan .
First of all , we will return the people of Lachin to Lachin .
I sincerely congratulate the people of Lachin on this wonderful event and pay attention to it .
When Lachin was occupied , the region had a population of about 50,000 .
Now the population of Lachin district has reached @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our main tasks will be to return the people of Lachin to Lachin in a short time .
We will also try to return former IDPs to all other liberated areas as soon as possible.
” He also spoke of the Russian peacekeepers and the negotiations that took place with the Russian-brokered peace deal .
“ The strategic importance of Lachin region is also that the Lachin corridor passes through the territory of the region and through the city of Lachin .
As you know , this corridor is under the control of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ under the control of the Armenian armed forces and occupiers for many years .
I can say that the initial version of the joint statement signed on November 10 contained a provision that this corridor should remain under the control of the Armenian armed forces .
I protested , and as a result , the corridor came under the control of Russian peacekeeping forces .
I think this is a great achievement .
The Lachin corridor has been cleared of Armenian occupying forces .
I must also note that active work was underway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , especially shortly after the liberation of Shusha .
The initial version of the statement suggested that the width of the Lachin corridor be 30 kilometers .
I strongly objected to this and said that this claim of the Armenian side is completely unfounded .
There is no need for such a wide corridor to ensure security measures within the corridor .
Therefore , I considered it a completely unacceptable proposal and expressed my opinion .
Then , in the second option , the width of the Lachin corridor was 10 kilometers .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and as a result , an agreement was reached on a corridor 5 kilometers wide .
The five kilometers cover enough distance for us , for the Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh , and for security.There is no need for such a wide corridor to ensure security measures within the corridor .
Therefore , I considered it a completely unacceptable proposal and expressed my opinion .
Then , in the second option , the width of the Lachin corridor was 10 kilometers .
I did not agree to this , and as a result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ corridor 5 kilometers wide .
The five kilometers cover enough distance for us , for the Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh , and for security.There is no need for such a wide corridor to ensure security measures within the corridor .
Therefore , I considered it a completely unacceptable proposal and expressed my opinion .
Then , in the second option , the width of the Lachin corridor was 10 kilometers .
I did not agree to this , and as a result , an agreement was reached on a corridor 5 kilometers wide.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ control of these territories was central to the negotiation process , and no peace would have been reached without concessions such as these .
“ I must also say that in connection with the negotiation process – I want the Azerbaijani people to hear this information from me – it is no coincidence that the issue of returning the occupied territories to Azerbaijan was at the center of the talks .
This was our position .
But here , too , a step-by-step solution was envisaged .
We also supported it .
Return @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first stage , and return of Kalbajar and Lachin districts to Azerbaijan in the second stage with the exception of Lachin corridor .
The Armenian side has always raised the issue that if these 7 regions are returned to Azerbaijan , the status of Nagorno-Karabakh must be resolved at the same time .
It is another matter that Armenia was simply imitating the talks and did not intend to return any region to us .
However , in any case , their position was that 5 districts could be returned , but in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to Azerbaijan , Azerbaijan must either recognize the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh or recognize the voting to be held there , set a date for voting .
If Nagorno-Karabakh is granted independence , then Armenia will return the Kalbajar and Lachin regions to Azerbaijan , but the Lachin corridor would be given to Armenia , and the width of the corridor was not determined .
These were the issues on the table.
” He then said that there were “ those ” who oppose the agreement , but that wouldn ’ t be allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ I always said that if Lachin , Kalbajar and Shusha do not return to Azerbaijan , there can be no agreement .
My position irritated many in foreign countries .
I said that our territorial integrity must be restored .
I said that the option of war is never ruled out .
Not only that , all these years we have been mobilizing all our forces to strengthen our country , gather strength – both internationally and domestically , in solving economic problems , strengthening solidarity and unity in our country , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this power into the form of an iron fist , we have broken the enemy ’ s back , and today we have created a new reality .
If even a year ago some people told us to reconcile with the existing reality , today I say that everyone should be reconciled with the existing reality .
If anyone wants to interfere in the statement signed on November 10 , they will see our tough stance .
There are such attempts .
These attempts have a purpose to violate this agreement .
Because @ @ @ @ @ @ @ new security format has already emerged .
The establishment of the Turkish-Russian Joint Center was approved in the statement.
” He then concluded by saying that the Azerbaijani victory was absolute , and that the enemy was crushed and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan should go and do his job .
“ I want to say again that we have created a new reality , we have won , we have created a new reality by crushing the enemy ’ s head and driving the enemy out of our lands .
Everyone will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will be forced to reconcile , just as Armenia was reconciled .
This statement is signed by Pashinyan .
He signed it and was forced to .
He , in fact , signed the act of capitulation .
Armenia would either be completely destroyed or sign the deal .
What has someone else got to do with it ?
Let everyone go and do their job.
” Aliyev also gave a brief overview of what was destroyed or captured by the Azerbaijani forces : He then praised the war , and remembered the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first day of the war until today – from September 27 to December 1 , I have repeatedly addressed the people of Azerbaijan , shared the joy of victory , and gave the good news of our liberated cities .
I consider myself a very happy person .
Because this victory showed our spirit , our indomitable spirit .
It showed that the people of Azerbaijan never intended to reconcile with this situation , and all our people , very young children , old people , those who left those lands , those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the young generation who have never been in those lands , but from those regions , we all lived with a dream and realized that dream .
Today , all our dreams have come true .
This is a great happiness for each of us .
The war is over .
Civilians – 94 civilians were killed and more than 400 civilians were wounded by the savage enemy .
When the people whose houses were destroyed came out of the rubble , they said only forward .
You know , everyone should @ @ @ @ @ @ @ whole world that we are a great nation , an invincible nation .
We have won a victory on the battlefield , in the political arena , and this victory opens a new era for our country .
This period will be a period of development , security and progress .
I am already concluding my appeals on this topic .
I am sure that from now on , of course , in many cases I will say my words to my people .
But I would like to conclude my appeals on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Azerbaijani citizen : Jabrayil is ours , Fuzuli is ours , Zangilan is ours , Gubadli is ours , Aghdam is ours , Kalbajar is ours , Lachin is ours , Shusha is ours , Karabakh is ours !
Karabakh is Azerbaijan !
Love to the people of Azerbaijan !
Long live Azerbaijan !
” He said that Azerbaijan was prepared to trade and work together with everybody , just as it is doing so with Turkey .
Russia , Iran , even Armenia was welcome to cooperate with it .
MORE ON @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Azerbaijani Troops Are Entering Lachin District In Nagorno-Karabakh Region

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As has become customary, Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev gave another “victory speech” after Baku’s forces entered the Lachin District.
In his speech, as typical, styled in the manner of “Big Brother” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, he, once again, praised the success, and had the “us against the world” attitude that’s become expected in Turkish and similar rhetoric.
“I am very happy to say that Lachin distrct has been liberated from occupation. I heartily congratulate all the people of Azerbaijan on this occasion. The liberation of Lachin is a historic event. We returned Lachin without firing a single shot. We forced the enemy to do so. The brilliant victory on the battlefield led to the wonderful result that our three regions – Aghdam, Kalbajar and Lachin – were returned to us. We returned these regions without firing a single shot or losing a single soldier.”
He also promised for the regions to be developed further, as soon as possible.
“Lachin is one of the largest regions of the country, with an area of 1,800 square kilometers. The rich nature, historical monuments and underground resources of Lachin region are our national treasure. Lachin distrct will play an important role in the future economic development of Azerbaijan. First of all, we will return the people of Lachin to Lachin. I sincerely congratulate the people of Lachin on this wonderful event and pay attention to it. When Lachin was occupied, the region had a population of about 50,000. Now the population of Lachin district has reached 80,000. Of course, one of our main tasks will be to return the people of Lachin to Lachin in a short time. We will also try to return former IDPs to all other liberated areas as soon as possible.”
He also spoke of the Russian peacekeepers and the negotiations that took place with the Russian-brokered peace deal.
“The strategic importance of Lachin region is also that the Lachin corridor passes through the territory of the region and through the city of Lachin. As you know, this corridor is under the control of Russian peacekeeping forces. The corridor was under the control of the Armenian armed forces and occupiers for many years. I can say that the initial version of the joint statement signed on November 10 contained a provision that this corridor should remain under the control of the Armenian armed forces. I protested, and as a result, the corridor came under the control of Russian peacekeeping forces. I think this is a great achievement. The Lachin corridor has been cleared of Armenian occupying forces. I must also note that active work was underway on the initial version of the Declaration, especially shortly after the liberation of Shusha. The initial version of the statement suggested that the width of the Lachin corridor be 30 kilometers. I strongly objected to this and said that this claim of the Armenian side is completely unfounded. There is no need for such a wide corridor to ensure security measures within the corridor. Therefore, I considered it a completely unacceptable proposal and expressed my opinion. Then, in the second option, the width of the Lachin corridor was 10 kilometers. I did not agree to this, and as a result, an agreement was reached on a corridor 5 kilometers wide. The five kilometers cover enough distance for us, for the Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh, and for security.There is no need for such a wide corridor to ensure security measures within the corridor. Therefore, I considered it a completely unacceptable proposal and expressed my opinion. Then, in the second option, the width of the Lachin corridor was 10 kilometers. I did not agree to this, and as a result, an agreement was reached on a corridor 5 kilometers wide. The five kilometers cover enough distance for us, for the Armenians living in Nagorno-Karabakh, and for security.There is no need for such a wide corridor to ensure security measures within the corridor. Therefore, I considered it a completely unacceptable proposal and expressed my opinion. Then, in the second option, the width of the Lachin corridor was 10 kilometers. I did not agree to this, and as a result, an agreement was reached on a corridor 5 kilometers wide.”
He furthermore emphasized that Azerbaijan taking control of these territories was central to the negotiation process, and no peace would have been reached without concessions such as these.
“I must also say that in connection with the negotiation process – I want the Azerbaijani people to hear this information from me – it is no coincidence that the issue of returning the occupied territories to Azerbaijan was at the center of the talks. This was our position. But here, too, a step-by-step solution was envisaged. We also supported it. Return of 5 districts to Azerbaijan in the first stage, and return of Kalbajar and Lachin districts to Azerbaijan in the second stage with the exception of Lachin corridor. The Armenian side has always raised the issue that if these 7 regions are returned to Azerbaijan, the status of Nagorno-Karabakh must be resolved at the same time. It is another matter that Armenia was simply imitating the talks and did not intend to return any region to us. However, in any case, their position was that 5 districts could be returned, but in order to return Lachin and Kalbajar districts to Azerbaijan, Azerbaijan must either recognize the independence of Nagorno-Karabakh or recognize the voting to be held there, set a date for voting. If Nagorno-Karabakh is granted independence, then Armenia will return the Kalbajar and Lachin regions to Azerbaijan, but the Lachin corridor would be given to Armenia, and the width of the corridor was not determined. These were the issues on the table.”
He then said that there were “those” who oppose the agreement, but that wouldn’t be allowed and it would meet strong opposition.
“I always said that if Lachin, Kalbajar and Shusha do not return to Azerbaijan, there can be no agreement. My position irritated many in foreign countries. I said that our territorial integrity must be restored. I said that the option of war is never ruled out. Not only that, all these years we have been mobilizing all our forces to strengthen our country, gather strength – both internationally and domestically, in solving economic problems, strengthening solidarity and unity in our country, building an army. We have brought this power into the form of an iron fist, we have broken the enemy’s back, and today we have created a new reality. If even a year ago some people told us to reconcile with the existing reality, today I say that everyone should be reconciled with the existing reality. If anyone wants to interfere in the statement signed on November 10, they will see our tough stance. There are such attempts. These attempts have a purpose to violate this agreement. Because this agreement irritates some people that a new security format has already emerged. The establishment of the Turkish-Russian Joint Center was approved in the statement.”
He then concluded by saying that the Azerbaijani victory was absolute, and that the enemy was crushed and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan should go and do his job.
“I want to say again that we have created a new reality, we have won, we have created a new reality by crushing the enemy’s head and driving the enemy out of our lands. Everyone will be reconciled to this reality, they will be forced to reconcile, just as Armenia was reconciled. This statement is signed by Pashinyan. He signed it and was forced to. He, in fact, signed the act of capitulation. Armenia would either be completely destroyed or sign the deal. What has someone else got to do with it? Let everyone go and do their job.”
Aliyev also gave a brief overview of what was destroyed or captured by the Azerbaijani forces:
Equipment of the destroyed Armenian army:
Anti-tank vehicles – 53, Smerch – four, Grad – 97, Hurricane – 2, YARS – 1, TOS firearm – 1, S-300 anti-aircraft missile systems – 7 shooters the device was destroyed. Now, if they only calculate the cost, they will see how much we have dealt a blow to the Armenian army. Thus, 7 launchers, one S-300 radar and two S-300 detection stations were destroyed. Oborona radar station – 1 unit, TOR anti-aircraft missile system – 5 units, Osa anti-aircraft missile system – 40 units, KUB anti-aircraft missile system – 4 units, KRUG anti-aircraft missile system – 1 unit, outpost – 14 units, S-125 anti-aircraft missile system – 2 units, unmanned aerial vehicles – 22 units, Elbrus operational-tactical missile complex – 2, ballistic missile – 1, Tochka-U missile complex – 1, radio-electronic means of struggle – 5 pieces,R-142 command post vehicle – 2 units, Nebo-M radar station – 1 unit, various radar stations – 7 units, Reppelent radio-technical barrier vehicle – 4 units.
Destroyed and looted enemy equipment:
Self-propelled artillery “Acacia” and “Gvozdika” – 28 were destroyed, 5 were looted. Artillery of various calibers – 315 were destroyed, 37 were taken as military booty. Mortars – 63 were destroyed, 62 were looted. Private cars – 10 were destroyed, 93 were looted. Grenades – 178 looted. Tractor – 10, “Shilka” anti-aircraft gun – 5 loot. Firearms – 1380 firearms were looted. 7 command posts and 11 ammunition depots were destroyed. Tanks – 287 were destroyed, 79 were looted, a total of 366 tanks. The list goes on. Infantry fighting vehicles – 69 were destroyed, 47 were looted. Su-25 aircraft – 5 were destroyed. 252 trucks were destroyed and 270 were taken as military spoils of war.
He then praised the war, and remembered the victims of it.
“From the first day of the war until today – from September 27 to December 1, I have repeatedly addressed the people of Azerbaijan, shared the joy of victory, and gave the good news of our liberated cities. I consider myself a very happy person. Because this victory showed our spirit, our indomitable spirit. It showed that the people of Azerbaijan never intended to reconcile with this situation, and all our people, very young children, old people, those who left those lands, those who want to return, the representatives of the young generation who have never been in those lands, but from those regions, we all lived with a dream and realized that dream. Today, all our dreams have come true. This is a great happiness for each of us. The war is over. …. Civilians – 94 civilians were killed and more than 400 civilians were wounded by the savage enemy. When the people whose houses were destroyed came out of the rubble, they said only forward. You know, everyone should know this, and we show the whole world that we are a great nation, an invincible nation. We have won a victory on the battlefield, in the political arena, and this victory opens a new era for our country. This period will be a period of development, security and progress. I am already concluding my appeals on this topic. I am sure that from now on, of course, in many cases I will say my words to my people. But I would like to conclude my appeals on this period with the words of every Azerbaijani citizen: Jabrayil is ours, Fuzuli is ours, Zangilan is ours, Gubadli is ours, Aghdam is ours, Kalbajar is ours, Lachin is ours, Shusha is ours, Karabakh is ours! Karabakh is Azerbaijan! Love to the people of Azerbaijan! Long live Azerbaijan!”
He said that Azerbaijan was prepared to trade and work together with everybody, just as it is doing so with Turkey. Russia, Iran, even Armenia was welcome to cooperate with it.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
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southfront--2020-12-01--NATO Secretary General Outlines Plan To Increase Presence In Black Sea Through Ukraine And Georgia

On November 30th , NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg gave a press conference , prior to the Allied Foreign Ministers meeting .
Ministers will discuss the NATO 2030 initiative and the continued adaptation of the Alliance , Russia ’ s military build-up , the rise of China , and NATO ’ s mission in Afghanistan .
Jens Stoltenberg outlined that NATO has supported the US and other allies throughout the years , and also pointed attention to the New START which is running out in February 2021 , and it is in limbo .
He also said that the Black @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ministers will meet over the next two days to address key issues .
We will discuss the NATO 2030 project and the continued adaptation of our Alliance .
As well as Russia ’ s military build-up .
The rise of China .
And our mission in Afghanistan .
We went into Afghanistan to support the United States after the 9/11 attacks .
And to ensure that the country is never again a platform for international terrorists to attack our homelands .
We have been there for almost two decades .
And the country @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now see an historic opportunity for peace .
It is fragile , but it must be seized .
As part of the peace process , we have adjusted our presence .
The United States has recently decided to further reduce its troop numbers .
But NATO ’ s training mission continues , with over half of the forces from European Allies and partner nations .
No one wants to stay in Afghanistan longer than necessary .
In the months ahead , we will continue to assess our presence based on conditions on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Whether to leave , and risk that Afghanistan becomes once again a safe haven for international terrorists .
Or stay , and risk a longer mission , with renewed violence .
Whatever path we choose , it is important that we do so together , in a coordinated and deliberate way .
Ministers will also address Russia ’ s military build-up around the Alliance .
Russia is modernising its nuclear arsenal and fielding new missiles .
It is deploying more forces in our neighbourhood , from the High North to Syria and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Russian presence as a result of the crises in Belarus and Nagorno-Karabakh .
So , Ministers will discuss what more we should do to respond to Russia ’ s growing military activity .
And to maintain the arms control regime .
Including limitations on nuclear warheads , as the New START treaty is due to expire next February .
We will also be joined by the Foreign Ministers of Georgia and Ukraine in a separate session .
To address the security situation in the Black Sea region .
And our support for these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Sea situation , Stoltenberg , first of all , said that the aim of NATO 2030 is to strengthen NATO as a political Alliance , and that also means working , strengthening , working with partners , including with a partner like Georgia .
“ We are working closely with Georgia in the Black Sea , in the Black Sea Region .
We provide political support , but also practical support to Georgia .
We have stepped up our support by also now doing more in the maritime domain , including with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have more sharing of air traffic radar data , and are working jointly to address hybrid threats , as well as conducting joint exercises in the Black Sea Region.
” This is what Stoltenberg specifically answered to a question about the Black Sea .
The question came from Robert Lupitu from Calea Europeana : “ … how does NATO intend , and how will NATO continue to strengthen its defence posture in the Black Sea , considering also the incoming Biden administration , and what ’ s your take on that for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the recent exercises that both Allies , Romania and the United States had in the Black Sea in the Mihail Kogălniceanu air base a few days ago ?
” “ The Black Sea Region is of strategic importance for NATO and all NATO Allies , and we are working closely with our two highly-valued partners , Georgia and Ukraine , in the Black Sea Region , and , of course , also three NATO Allies , Turkey , Bulgaria and Romania are littoral states .
So , NATO has a significant presence in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a maritime presence ; we recently had Allied ships exercising there .
And we also have a deployment of a training brigade , a Romanian-led multinational brigade in Romania .
So , we have increased the NATO presence in the Black Sea Region and we are working closely with Ukraine and Georgia as partners , because we have seen that Russia has violated the territorial integrity and sovereignty of these two countries , with the illegal annexation of Crimea , and the presence of Russian forces in parts of what is actually recognised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our political support , our practical support , and we see that Russia is increasing their military presence , not least in Crimea .
And that ’ s reason why we need to further strengthen our presence in the region , and to also address this with our partners Georgia and Ukraine , as we ’ re going to do on Wednesday when we meet with the foreign ministers from these two partner countries.
” Essentially , Stoltenberg claims that NATO plans to further increase its presence in the Black Sea , through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ seen as the aggressor , and it is encroaching on both countries ’ territories and they are “ valued NATO partners ” and need to be used in the pressure against Moscow .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • U.S. And Australia To Jointly Develop Hypersonic Missiles , Germany Joins EU Effort For Hypersonic Defenses • German Defense Minister Reveals Her Wet Dreams About Dominating Over Russia

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On November 30th, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg gave a press conference, prior to the Allied Foreign Ministers meeting.
⚠ LIVE SOON ? 13:00 CEST ⚠ ? | Pre-Ministerial press conference previewing two days of #NATO #ForMin online meetings. https://t.co/5dfgMZOk3O — Jens Stoltenberg (@jensstoltenberg) November 30, 2020
Ministers will discuss the NATO 2030 initiative and the continued adaptation of the Alliance, Russia’s military build-up, the rise of China, and NATO’s mission in Afghanistan.
Jens Stoltenberg outlined that NATO has supported the US and other allies throughout the years, and also pointed attention to the New START which is running out in February 2021, and it is in limbo.
He also said that the Black Sea region needs addressing.
“Good afternoon. NATO Foreign Ministers will meet over the next two days to address key issues. We will discuss the NATO 2030 project and the continued adaptation of our Alliance. As well as Russia’s military build-up. The rise of China. And our mission in Afghanistan. We went into Afghanistan to support the United States after the 9/11 attacks. And to ensure that the country is never again a platform for international terrorists to attack our homelands. We have been there for almost two decades. And the country has come a long way. We now see an historic opportunity for peace. It is fragile, but it must be seized. As part of the peace process, we have adjusted our presence. The United States has recently decided to further reduce its troop numbers. But NATO’s training mission continues, with over half of the forces from European Allies and partner nations. No one wants to stay in Afghanistan longer than necessary. In the months ahead, we will continue to assess our presence based on conditions on the ground. We face a difficult dilemma. Whether to leave, and risk that Afghanistan becomes once again a safe haven for international terrorists. Or stay, and risk a longer mission, with renewed violence. Whatever path we choose, it is important that we do so together, in a coordinated and deliberate way. Ministers will also address Russia’s military build-up around the Alliance. Russia is modernising its nuclear arsenal and fielding new missiles. It is deploying more forces in our neighbourhood, from the High North to Syria and Libya. We also see an increased Russian presence as a result of the crises in Belarus and Nagorno-Karabakh. So, Ministers will discuss what more we should do to respond to Russia’s growing military activity. And to maintain the arms control regime. Including limitations on nuclear warheads, as the New START treaty is due to expire next February. We will also be joined by the Foreign Ministers of Georgia and Ukraine in a separate session. To address the security situation in the Black Sea region. And our support for these two valued partners.”
Regarding the Black Sea situation, Stoltenberg, first of all, said that the aim of NATO 2030 is to strengthen NATO as a political Alliance, and that also means working, strengthening, working with partners, including with a partner like Georgia.
“We are working closely with Georgia in the Black Sea, in the Black Sea Region. We provide political support, but also practical support to Georgia. We have stepped up our support by also now doing more in the maritime domain, including with the training of the Coast Guard. We have more sharing of air traffic radar data, and are working jointly to address hybrid threats, as well as conducting joint exercises in the Black Sea Region.”
This is what Stoltenberg specifically answered to a question about the Black Sea.
The question came from Robert Lupitu from Calea Europeana:
“… how does NATO intend, and how will NATO continue to strengthen its defence posture in the Black Sea, considering also the incoming Biden administration, and what’s your take on that for the Black Sea? And also, given the recent exercises that both Allies, Romania and the United States had in the Black Sea in the Mihail Kogălniceanu air base a few days ago?”
Stoltenberg answered the following:
“The Black Sea Region is of strategic importance for NATO and all NATO Allies, and we are working closely with our two highly-valued partners, Georgia and Ukraine, in the Black Sea Region, and, of course, also three NATO Allies, Turkey, Bulgaria and Romania are littoral states. So, NATO has a significant presence in the Black Sea Region. We have a maritime presence; we recently had Allied ships exercising there. And we also have a deployment of a training brigade, a Romanian-led multinational brigade in Romania. So, we have increased the NATO presence in the Black Sea Region and we are working closely with Ukraine and Georgia as partners, because we have seen that Russia has violated the territorial integrity and sovereignty of these two countries, with the illegal annexation of Crimea, and the presence of Russian forces in parts of what is actually recognised Georgian territory. We are stepping up our political support, our practical support, and we see that Russia is increasing their military presence, not least in Crimea. And that’s reason why we need to further strengthen our presence in the region, and to also address this with our partners Georgia and Ukraine, as we’re going to do on Wednesday when we meet with the foreign ministers from these two partner countries.”
Essentially, Stoltenberg claims that NATO plans to further increase its presence in the Black Sea, through Ukraine and Georgia. Russia is still seen as the aggressor, and it is encroaching on both countries’ territories and they are “valued NATO partners” and need to be used in the pressure against Moscow.
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southfront--2020-12-01--U.S. And Australia To Jointly Develop Hypersonic Missiles, Germany Joins EU Effort For Hypersonic De

U.S. And Australia To Jointly Develop Hypersonic Missiles, Germany Joins EU Effort For Hypersonic Defenses

On November 30th , the US announced a joint program with Australia to continue developing air breathing hypersonic vehicles .
The Southern Cross Integrated Flight Research Experiment ( SCIFiRE ) is an Allied Prototyping Initiative ( API ) under the Directorate for Advanced Capabilities within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering .
The US Department of the Air Force , under the direction of the Weapons Program Executive Officer , is responsible for the execution of the program .
The program aims to cooperatively advance air-breathing hypersonic technologies into full-size prototypes that are affordable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ capability , culminating in flight demonstrations in operationally relevant conditions .
The effort will also pursue potential co-production opportunities between the two countries , and leverages U.S. and Australian collaborative hypersonic activities over the last 15 years , namely the Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation ( HIFiRE ) program .
“ The SCIFiRE initiative is another opportunity to advance the capabilities in our Air Combat Capability Program to support joint force effects to advance Australia ’ s security and prosperity , ” Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld AO , DSC , Chief of Air @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Defence scientists here in Australia and our partners in the U.S. Air Force and across the U.S. Department of Defense on leading edge capabilities brings out the best in our Air Force team.
” In the next few months , Australia is expected to begin testing hypersonic missiles .
The move to quickly develop the air-launched hypersonic missiles comes after defense strategists warned the government it no longer has a decade to build up its defenses against potential threats .
On December 1st , Defense Minister Linda Reynolds is to announce the multi-billion-dollar @ @ @ @ @ @ @ committed to “ keeping Australians safe , while protecting the nation ’ s interests in a rapidly changing global environment ” .
China and Russia have also been developing a range of new weapons including hypersonic and long-range ballistic missiles .
Australia ’ s Defense Ministry will not reveal the estimated cost of developing the new hypersonic missiles but it is expected to run into billions of dollars .
A total of $ 9.3 billion was earmarked in this year ’ s Force Structure Plan for high-speed long-range missile defenses .
Under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ carried by the RAAF ’ s existing arsenal of aircraft including the Growlers , Super Hornets , Joint Strike Fighters and Poseidon surveillance planes .
The missiles could also be attached to unmanned aircraft such as the new Loyal Wingman drones .
The Australian Defense Minister said the experiments with the US would include demonstrations to show how the weapon performs in operational conditions , which would then inform future purchases .
“ Developing this game-changing capability with the United States from an early stage is providing opportunities for Australian industry , ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that deter actions against Australia also benefits our region , our allies and our security partners .
“ We remain committed to peace and stability in the region , and an open , inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
” Michael Kratsios , the Acting Under Secretary for Research and Engineering for the US ’ s Department of Defence , said the agreement was “ essential to the future of hypersonic research and development , ensuring the US and our allies lead the world in the advancement of this transformational war-fighting capability ” .
Separately @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in on the development of anti-hypersonic defensive weapons .
Under some pressure from France , Berlin changed its status from an observer nation to a participant country in the so-called TWISTER effort on October 24th , a Defense Ministry spokesman confirmed .
The project aims to field a space-based , early-warning sensor network and an interceptor moving at a velocity of more than Mach 5 at an altitude up to 100 kilometers sometime around 2030 .
That ’ s according to missile-maker MBDA , which has claimed the interceptor portion of the plan @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gen. Heinrich Brauß , a former NATO force planner and now an analyst with the Berlin-based German Council on Foreign Relations , argued the program is needed to quickly close a capability gap for protecting European airspace .
The US-Australia project , and the EU joint project are unrelated , but they ’ re all constituted from NATO member states .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Chaos And Armed Conflicts : U.S. Strategy To Dismantle Russia Is Already Working

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On November 30th, the US announced a joint program with Australia to continue developing air breathing hypersonic vehicles.
The Southern Cross Integrated Flight Research Experiment (SCIFiRE) is an Allied Prototyping Initiative (API) under the Directorate for Advanced Capabilities within the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering.
The US Department of the Air Force, under the direction of the Weapons Program Executive Officer, is responsible for the execution of the program.
“SCIFiRE is a true testament to the enduring friendship and strong partnership between the United States and Australia,” said Michael Kratsios, Acting Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. “This initiative will be essential to the future of hypersonic research and development, ensuring the U.S. and our allies lead the world in the advancement of this transformational warfighting capability.”
The program aims to cooperatively advance air-breathing hypersonic technologies into full-size prototypes that are affordable and provide a flexible, long range capability, culminating in flight demonstrations in operationally relevant conditions.
The effort will also pursue potential co-production opportunities between the two countries, and leverages U.S. and Australian collaborative hypersonic activities over the last 15 years, namely the Hypersonic International Flight Research Experimentation (HIFiRE) program.
“The SCIFiRE initiative is another opportunity to advance the capabilities in our Air Combat Capability Program to support joint force effects to advance Australia’s security and prosperity,” Air Marshal Mel Hupfeld AO, DSC, Chief of Air Force said. “Working with our Defence scientists here in Australia and our partners in the U.S. Air Force and across the U.S. Department of Defense on leading edge capabilities brings out the best in our Air Force team.”
In the next few months, Australia is expected to begin testing hypersonic missiles.
The move to quickly develop the air-launched hypersonic missiles comes after defense strategists warned the government it no longer has a decade to build up its defenses against potential threats.
On December 1st, Defense Minister Linda Reynolds is to announce the multi-billion-dollar plan, saying the Australian government is committed to “keeping Australians safe, while protecting the nation’s interests in a rapidly changing global environment”.
China and Russia have also been developing a range of new weapons including hypersonic and long-range ballistic missiles.
Australia’s Defense Ministry will not reveal the estimated cost of developing the new hypersonic missiles but it is expected to run into billions of dollars. A total of $9.3 billion was earmarked in this year’s Force Structure Plan for high-speed long-range missile defenses.
Under the plan, the hypersonic missiles would be carried by the RAAF’s existing arsenal of aircraft including the Growlers, Super Hornets, Joint Strike Fighters and Poseidon surveillance planes. The missiles could also be attached to unmanned aircraft such as the new Loyal Wingman drones.
The Australian Defense Minister said the experiments with the US would include demonstrations to show how the weapon performs in operational conditions, which would then inform future purchases.
“Developing this game-changing capability with the United States from an early stage is providing opportunities for Australian industry,” she said. “Investing in capabilities that deter actions against Australia also benefits our region, our allies and our security partners. “We remain committed to peace and stability in the region, and an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
Michael Kratsios, the Acting Under Secretary for Research and Engineering for the US’s Department of Defence, said the agreement was “essential to the future of hypersonic research and development, ensuring the US and our allies lead the world in the advancement of this transformational war-fighting capability”.
Separately, Germany announced that it would join in on the development of anti-hypersonic defensive weapons.
Under some pressure from France, Berlin changed its status from an observer nation to a participant country in the so-called TWISTER effort on October 24th, a Defense Ministry spokesman confirmed.
The project aims to field a space-based, early-warning sensor network and an interceptor moving at a velocity of more than Mach 5 at an altitude up to 100 kilometers sometime around 2030. That’s according to missile-maker MBDA, which has claimed the interceptor portion of the plan as a pet project.
The developer company, MBDA envisions developing a new “endo-atmospheric interceptor [that] will address a wide range of threats including maneuvering ballistic missiles with intermediate ranges, hypersonic or high-supersonic cruise missiles, hypersonic gliders, anti-ship missiles and more conventional targets such as next-generation fighter aircraft,” the company website states. “This interceptor will integrate existing and future land and naval systems.”
Retired Lt. Gen. Heinrich Brauß, a former NATO force planner and now an analyst with the Berlin-based German Council on Foreign Relations, argued the program is needed to quickly close a capability gap for protecting European airspace.
“Given the TLVS performance characteristics compared with the Patriot system, there should be no hesitation to approve the acquisition,” Brauß said. “I think — putting aside the repeated delays on the TLVS decision-making — that what this reflects is the argument that within Europe’s main military nations there needs to be yet greater focus on layered ground-based air defense capable of being used to engage targets throughout the emerging threat spectrum,” he wrote in an email. “TLVS and Twister are obviously at different stages of development and could be seen as providing complementary capabilities,” he added.
The US-Australia project, and the EU joint project are unrelated, but they’re all constituted from NATO member states.
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southfront--2020-12-01--UAE Condemns “Heinous” Killing Of Iran Scientist In Rare Break From Israel-Gulf Axis

Last Friday ’ s assassination of top Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh is putting immense strain on the newly ‘ normalized ’ ties between the United Arab Emirates and Israel .
The UAE late on Sunday issued a statement strongly denouncing the attack that it called a “ crime ” that could destabilize the region .
This after Tehran has vowed to retaliate , yet without giving details of what form this might take .
The UAE “ condemns the heinous assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh , which could further fuel conflict in the region , ” the Ministry of Foreign @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cited in .
“ The state of instability our region is currently going through , and the security challenges it faces , drive us all to work towards averting acts that could lead to escalation and eventually threaten the stability of the entire region , ” it added .
Signed on September 15 , the ‘ Abraham Accords ’ opened up formal diplomatic relations and economic dealings between Israel and the tiny oil-rich Gulf country for the first time in history .
Bahrain was also involved , and Sudan is said to be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ties , with the State Department now urging Saudi Arabia to follow .
As Bloomberg notes of the significance of the UAE condemning this latest attack : Jordan is also the latest regional voice to condemn the brazen assassination which occurred east of Tehran last week .
Some current and former diplomats in the West have also condemned the killing , widely suspected to have Israeli or even US intelligence involvement , as it sets a precedented that could open tit-for-tat illegal assassinations as a modus operandi for score settling among rival powers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC : • Iranian Nuclear Program Gains Steam Following Assassination Of “ Nuclear Soleimani ” Near Tehran • Policy Of Terror : Assassinations Of Nuclear Scientists In Iran

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
Last Friday’s assassination of top Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh is putting immense strain on the newly ‘normalized’ ties between the United Arab Emirates and Israel.
The UAE late on Sunday issued a statement strongly denouncing the attack that it called a “crime” that could destabilize the region. This after Tehran has vowed to retaliate, yet without giving details of what form this might take.
The UAE “condemns the heinous assassination of Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, which could further fuel conflict in the region,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said, as cited in Bloomberg.
Cleric holding an image of slain nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, via PBS.
“The state of instability our region is currently going through, and the security challenges it faces, drive us all to work towards averting acts that could lead to escalation and eventually threaten the stability of the entire region,” it added. Signed on September 15, the ‘Abraham Accords’ opened up formal diplomatic relations and economic dealings between Israel and the tiny oil-rich Gulf country for the first time in history. Bahrain was also involved, and Sudan is said to be the next Arab League member to normalize ties, with the State Department now urging Saudi Arabia to follow.
1 Amazing new details of the Fakhrizadeh assassination emerge in the Iranian press: IRGC affiliated Fars news reports the assassination was done using an automatic machine gun operated with a remote control and not with gunmen who were on the groundhttps://t.co/CLSaCuHp2J — Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) November 29, 2020
As Bloomberg notes of the significance of the UAE condemning this latest attack:
“The denunciation late Sunday was significant both because of the historically strained relations between Sunni Gulf Arab states and Shiite Iran, and the fact that Tehran has blamed the attack on Israel, which recently signed a normalization deal with the UAE.”
Jordan is also the latest regional voice to condemn the brazen assassination which occurred east of Tehran last week.
Some current and former diplomats in the West have also condemned the killing, widely suspected to have Israeli or even US intelligence involvement, as it sets a precedented that could open tit-for-tat illegal assassinations as a modus operandi for score settling among rival powers in the region.
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southfront--2020-12-01--Armenian President Calls For Government Resignation, As Azerbaijan Move Into Lachin Under Russian Su

Armenian President Calls For Government Resignation, As Azerbaijan Move Into Lachin Under Russian Supervision

On November 30th , Azerbaijan ’ s armed forces entered the Lachin district , as the deadline for Armenia to vacate it ran out .
Azerbaijan also apparently found a way to deploy some Turkish troops to Nagorno-Karabakh , since the peace deal didn ’ t include any Turkish peacekeepers , only Russian ones .
The Turkish Armed Forces ’ specialists on the disposal of mines and improvised explosive devices have begun to provide assistance to the Azerbaijan Army in liberated from occupation territories .
Turkish military specialists will carry out work on demining and clearing these areas from explosive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sessions for our engineering units .
Artsakh Republic President Arayik Harutyunyan gave some words of encouragement for the citizens .
There is some controversy regarding the settlement of Berdzor .
It is unknown if Azerbaijan ’ s troops will enter it or not .
The Lachin corridor , linking Armenia with Artsakh , runs through Berdzor , which in turn is located in the Kashatagh ( the Artsakh name of Lachin ) province – which has come under Azeri control under the terms of the Karabakh armistice .
But the fate of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mayor , the Russian peacekeepers told them yesterday that they have to lower the flag of Artsakh , and that the flag of neither side should be raised there .
“ Nevertheless the Russian peacekeepers didn ’ t specify whether or not the Azeri armed forces would enter Berdzor .
It ’ s possible that women and children have left the town due to safety concerns , but many have stayed .
Regarding the rumors alleging that only 200 residents should remain in the town as service staff for the peacekeepers – I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this .
Anyhow , right now the number of residents who stayed in Berdzor is a lot more than 200 .
I myself am in Berdzor , ” the mayor said .
The Russian peacekeepers are now stationed in Berdzor , while the local residents are waiting for further developments .
The situation is stable with refugees safely passing through the Lachin corridor , and there being no escalations .
Armenian Minister of Defense Vagharshak Harutyunyan received US Ambassador to Armenia Lynne Tracy .
At the request of the Ambassador , the Minister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the cessation of hostilities .
The issue of returning the captives , finding the missing and exchanging the bodies of killed was pointed out as a priority .
The possibilities of giving a new impetus to the Armenian-American cooperation in the field of defense were also discussed .
In Armenia , pressure on Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan appears to be mounting , as the Armenian President is also calling for early elections .
Armenian President Armen Sarkissian spoke at a meeting with representatives of the Armenian community of Russia during his private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he said are the following : • Armenia can get out of the post – war crisis in Karabakh by working together , through early elections .
• Emotions are now filling the hearts of not only the residents of Artsakh and Armenia , but of Armenians all over the world .
• Armenians need to stop dividing each other into “ black and white ” , learn from mistakes and create a country that everyone will be proud of , as well as an army that will win .
• In any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the government must go .
• Armenia needs early elections , and before that-the formation of a government of popular consent .
• The Constitution of Armenia did not create a system of checks and balances for the balance of power .
• Reconstruction should be done together , with the support of friends and allies , primarily Russia .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • In Video : Azerbaijani Troops Are Entering Lachin District In Nagorno-Karabakh Region • Turkey Deployed Sappers To Participate In Demining Campaign In Azerbaijani-Controlled Part Of Karabakh

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On November 30th, Azerbaijan’s armed forces entered the Lachin district, as the deadline for Armenia to vacate it ran out.
“According to the trilateral statement signed by the presidents of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Russian Federation and the prime minister of the Republic of Armenia, units of the Azerbaijan Army entered the Lachin region on Dec. 01,” the Azerbaijan Defense Ministry said.
Azerbaijan also apparently found a way to deploy some Turkish troops to Nagorno-Karabakh, since the peace deal didn’t include any Turkish peacekeepers, only Russian ones.
The Turkish Armed Forces’ specialists on the disposal of mines and improvised explosive devices have begun to provide assistance to the Azerbaijan Army in liberated from occupation territories.
Turkish military specialists will carry out work on demining and clearing these areas from explosive devices, as well as organize training sessions for our engineering units.
Artsakh Republic President Arayik Harutyunyan gave some words of encouragement for the citizens.
“I urge you to unite and get out of this situation with joint efforts. President of Artsakh. In this extremely difficult period for our Motherland, I have started political consultations with a wide range of political and public circles”, Harutyunyan said.
There is some controversy regarding the settlement of Berdzor. It is unknown if Azerbaijan’s troops will enter it or not.
The Lachin corridor, linking Armenia with Artsakh, runs through Berdzor, which in turn is located in the Kashatagh (the Artsakh name of Lachin) province – which has come under Azeri control under the terms of the Karabakh armistice. But the fate of the town remains vague.
According to the mayor, the Russian peacekeepers told them yesterday that they have to lower the flag of Artsakh, and that the flag of neither side should be raised there.
“Nevertheless the Russian peacekeepers didn’t specify whether or not the Azeri armed forces would enter Berdzor. It’s possible that women and children have left the town due to safety concerns, but many have stayed. Regarding the rumors alleging that only 200 residents should remain in the town as service staff for the peacekeepers – I don’t have any information on this. Anyhow, right now the number of residents who stayed in Berdzor is a lot more than 200. I myself am in Berdzor,” the mayor said.
The Russian peacekeepers are now stationed in Berdzor, while the local residents are waiting for further developments.
The situation is stable with refugees safely passing through the Lachin corridor, and there being no escalations.
A video was released showing Russian peacekeepers guarantee safe passage through Berdzor.
Armenian Minister of Defense Vagharshak Harutyunyan received US Ambassador to Armenia Lynne Tracy.
At the request of the Ambassador, the Minister presented the implementation of the agreements reached after the cessation of hostilities. The issue of returning the captives, finding the missing and exchanging the bodies of killed was pointed out as a priority. The possibilities of giving a new impetus to the Armenian-American cooperation in the field of defense were also discussed.
In Armenia, pressure on Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan appears to be mounting, as the Armenian President is also calling for early elections.
Armenian President Armen Sarkissian spoke at a meeting with representatives of the Armenian community of Russia during his private trip to Moscow.
The main things he said are the following:
Armenia can get out of the post – war crisis in Karabakh by working together, through early elections.
Emotions are now filling the hearts of not only the residents of Artsakh and Armenia, but of Armenians all over the world.
Armenians need to stop dividing each other into “black and white”, learn from mistakes and create a country that everyone will be proud of, as well as an army that will win.
In any country where such a tragedy has occurred, the government must go.
Armenia needs early elections, and before that-the formation of a government of popular consent.
The Constitution of Armenia did not create a system of checks and balances for the balance of power.
Reconstruction should be done together, with the support of friends and allies, primarily Russia.
MORE ON THE TOPIC:
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southfront--2020-12-01--In Video: Azerbaijani Troops Are Entering Lachin District In Nagorno-Karabakh Region

Late on November 30 , Azerbaijani troops started entering the Lachin district in the Nagorno-Karabkah region .
The district is @ @ @ @ @ as a part of the ceasefire agreement reached between Armenia and Azerbaijan earlier in November @ @ @ @ @ corridor , the road linking Armenia with the remaining territory of the Nagorno-Karabah Republic ( @ @ @ @ @ remain under the control of the Russian peacekeeping force .
Under the aforementioned ceasefire deal @ @ @ @ @ of the districts of Agdam and Kalbajar .
With the transfer to Lachin to the @ @ @ @ @ the first phase of the implementation of the ceasefire deal is nearing its end .
@ @ @ @ @ restoration of the transport link between the Azerbaijani mainland and Azerbaijan ’ s Nakhchivan Autonomous @ @ @ @ @ creation of the alternative road between Lachin and Stepanakert that would not pass through the @ @ @ @ @ THE TOPIC : • Turkey Deployed Sappers To Participate In Demining Campaign In Azerbaijani-Controlled Part @ @

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Late on November 30, Azerbaijani troops started entering the Lachin district in the Nagorno-Karabkah region. The district is being transferred to Azerbaijani forces as a part of the ceasefire agreement reached between Armenia and Azerbaijan earlier in November. Nonetheless, the Lachin corridor, the road linking Armenia with the remaining territory of the Nagorno-Karabah Republic (Republic of Artsakh) will remain under the control of the Russian peacekeeping force.
Under the aforementioned ceasefire deal, Azerbaijan already established control of the districts of Agdam and Kalbajar. With the transfer to Lachin to the hands of the Azerbaijanis, the first phase of the implementation of the ceasefire deal is nearing its end. The next step is the restoration of the transport link between the Azerbaijani mainland and Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic as well as the creation of the alternative road between Lachin and Stepanakert that would not pass through the Azerbaijani-controlled area.
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southfront--2020-12-01--Iranian Nuclear Program Gains Steam Following Assassination Of “Nuclear Soleimani” Near Tehran

US President Donald Trump is apparently set to slam the door and go to great lengths to show love to his friends in Tel Aviv before withdrawing from the White House .
On November 27 , Mohsen Fakhrizadeh , a prominent Iranian professor of physics and quantum field theorist , was assassinated near the Iranian capital of Tehran .
Formally , Fakhrizadeh was the head of its Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research , while Israel and the U.S. insist that he headed the Iranian nuclear weapons program .
Israeli media even called Fakhrizadeh “ the Nuclear Soleimani ” referring @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Force , who was assassinated by a US drone strike in Iraq on January 3 , 2020 .
That assassination almost led to a US-Iranian war and the White House even swallowed a ballistic missile strike on its bases in Iraq , while Iranian air defense forces accidentally shot down an airliner near Tehran .
Fortunately , a larger war was avoided , but the region entered into a new spiral of tensions between the Israeli-US bloc and Iranian-led forces .
The November assassination did not trigger an immediate military response from Tehran @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it will also have negative consequences for regional stability .
According to US and Israeli media , the development of the Iranian nuclear program requires the following factors : time , money and specialists .
Iran has already had a lot of time .
Trump ’ s “ maximum pressure campaign ” was intended to target the ‘ money ’ factor , but Iran ’ s so-called resistance economy survived despite the pressure .
Now , the US and Israel once again turned to the ‘ specialists ’ factor of this formula and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as a part of what they call the ‘ deterrence campaign ’ against Iran .
Initial reports say that the car of Fakhrizadeh was targeted by a car bomb explosion and then was subjected to gunmen fire at Absard city .
According to the Iranian Defense Ministry , Fakhrizadeh “ was severely wounded in the course of the clashes between his security team and terrorists and was transferred to a hospital , ” where he later succumbed to his wounds .
Later it appeared in the unofficial version of events , claims that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that was installed in the trunk of a Nisan pickup .
Then , the pickup and the gun were detonated .
The Iranian Fars News report insists that the entire attack lasted for only 3 minutes and that no gunmen were involved .
The assassination demonstrates the particular gaps in the security of such prominent and high-ranking persons .
It is no secret that the life of Fakhrizadeh was under threat for years , but he still moved around the country with a small security team with only two cars , and his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ posture may be partly explained by the cult of martyrdom on the all levels of Iranian society and the fact that Iranian officials are pretty close to ordinary people , especially in comparison with other Middle Eastern states .
These factors allow the current political regime in Iran to resist unprecedented sanctions , political and even military pressure from its opponents , but at the same time creates additional security difficulties .
Immediately after the assassination , the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Army were put on high alert and top Iranian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ attack .
Also , on November 29 , the Iranian Parliament decided to speed up the consideration of the bill that supposes to increase the level of uranium enrichment .
As a “ double urgency ” , it was ratified with 232 votes from a total of 246 MPs attending the session .
The final vote on the adoption of the law may take place on December 2 .
The bill states that Iran would now produce at least 120kg of uranium enriched to 20 % per year .
In comparison , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Trump administration unilaterally withdrew , allowed Iran to enrich uranium to a maximum of 3.67 % .
In addition , under the bill in consideration , the government will have to put in operation one thousand additional centrifuges at the Natanz and Fordo nuclear facilities within a year .
The bill also supposes an immediate return to the project for the reconstruction of the Arak nuclear reactor , which existed before the signing of the nuclear deal .
Therefore , instead of slowing down the Iranian nuclear program , the assassination of Fakhrizadeh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Iranian activity in the field .
The United States and Israel will likely call these actions a great threat to global security and state that they are obliged to respond to the growing Iranian threat .
The only question is what do the Israeli and US leadership expect ?
Did they really believe that after the years of resistance and regional standoffs , that the Iranians would surrender after an assassination of one of their scientists ?

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US President Donald Trump is apparently set to slam the door and go to great lengths to show love to his friends in Tel Aviv before withdrawing from the White House.
On November 27, Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, a prominent Iranian professor of physics and quantum field theorist, was assassinated near the Iranian capital of Tehran. Formally, Fakhrizadeh was the head of its Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research, while Israel and the U.S. insist that he headed the Iranian nuclear weapons program. Israeli media even called Fakhrizadeh “the Nuclear Soleimani” referring to the commander of the Iranian Qods Force, who was assassinated by a US drone strike in Iraq on January 3, 2020. That assassination almost led to a US-Iranian war and the White House even swallowed a ballistic missile strike on its bases in Iraq, while Iranian air defense forces accidentally shot down an airliner near Tehran. Fortunately, a larger war was avoided, but the region entered into a new spiral of tensions between the Israeli-US bloc and Iranian-led forces. The November assassination did not trigger an immediate military response from Tehran, but there are little doubts that it will also have negative consequences for regional stability.
According to US and Israeli media, the development of the Iranian nuclear program requires the following factors: time, money and specialists. Iran has already had a lot of time. Trump’s “maximum pressure campaign” was intended to target the ‘money’ factor, but Iran’s so-called resistance economy survived despite the pressure. Now, the US and Israel once again turned to the ‘specialists’ factor of this formula and they have capabilities to conduct politically-motivated assassinations as a part of what they call the ‘deterrence campaign’ against Iran.
Initial reports say that the car of Fakhrizadeh was targeted by a car bomb explosion and then was subjected to gunmen fire at Absard city. According to the Iranian Defense Ministry, Fakhrizadeh “was severely wounded in the course of the clashes between his security team and terrorists and was transferred to a hospital,” where he later succumbed to his wounds. Later it appeared in the unofficial version of events, claims that the attackers used a remotely-controlled machine gun that was installed in the trunk of a Nisan pickup. Then, the pickup and the gun were detonated. The Iranian Fars News report insists that the entire attack lasted for only 3 minutes and that no gunmen were involved.
The assassination demonstrates the particular gaps in the security of such prominent and high-ranking persons. It is no secret that the life of Fakhrizadeh was under threat for years, but he still moved around the country with a small security team with only two cars, and his car was not even armored. This posture may be partly explained by the cult of martyrdom on the all levels of Iranian society and the fact that Iranian officials are pretty close to ordinary people, especially in comparison with other Middle Eastern states. These factors allow the current political regime in Iran to resist unprecedented sanctions, political and even military pressure from its opponents, but at the same time creates additional security difficulties.
Immediately after the assassination, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps and the Army were put on high alert and top Iranian officials vowed to take revenge for the attack. Also, on November 29, the Iranian Parliament decided to speed up the consideration of the bill that supposes to increase the level of uranium enrichment. As a “double urgency”, it was ratified with 232 votes from a total of 246 MPs attending the session. The final vote on the adoption of the law may take place on December 2. The bill states that Iran would now produce at least 120kg of uranium enriched to 20% per year. In comparison, the Iranian nuclear deal, from which the Trump administration unilaterally withdrew, allowed Iran to enrich uranium to a maximum of 3.67%. In addition, under the bill in consideration, the government will have to put in operation one thousand additional centrifuges at the Natanz and Fordo nuclear facilities within a year. The bill also supposes an immediate return to the project for the reconstruction of the Arak nuclear reactor, which existed before the signing of the nuclear deal. Therefore, instead of slowing down the Iranian nuclear program, the assassination of Fakhrizadeh led to a public increase of the Iranian activity in the field. The United States and Israel will likely call these actions a great threat to global security and state that they are obliged to respond to the growing Iranian threat.
The only question is what do the Israeli and US leadership expect? Did they really believe that after the years of resistance and regional standoffs, that the Iranians would surrender after an assassination of one of their scientists?
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southfront--2020-12-01--Turkey Deployed Sappers To Participate In Demining Campaign In Azerbaijani-Controlled Part Of Karaba

Turkey Deployed Sappers To Participate In Demining Campaign In Azerbaijani-Controlled Part Of Karabakh

Turkey has deployed sappers that would participate in the demining campaign in the Azerbaijani-controlled part of the Nagorno-Karabkah region , @ @ @ @ @ on November 30 .
“ The Turkish Armed Forces ’ specialists on the disposal of @ @ @ @ @ have begun to provide assistance to the Azerbaijan Army in liberated from occupation territories .
@ @ @ @ @ out work on demining and clearing these areas from explosive devices , as well as @ @ @ @ @ engineering units .
We express our gratitude to the Ministry of National Defense of fraternal @ @ @ @ @ , ” the defense ministry said in a statement .
THE LAST DAY OF NOVEMBER @ @ @ @ @ HAVE COLLECTED 63 % OF THE MONTHLY BUDGET NEEDED TO CONTINUE SOUTHFRONT WORK AND FURTHER @ @ @ @ @ ARTICLE AND YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE MORE COVERAGE ON THIS TOPIC , SUPPORT OUR @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC : • Nikol ‘ The Basement ’ Pashinyan Makes Another Facebook Rant , Russian @ @ @ @ @ In Stepanakert

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Turkey has deployed sappers that would participate in the demining campaign in the Azerbaijani-controlled part of the Nagorno-Karabkah region, the Azerbaijani Defense Ministry reported on November 30.
“The Turkish Armed Forces’ specialists on the disposal of mines and improvised explosive devices have begun to provide assistance to the Azerbaijan Army in liberated from occupation territories. Turkish military specialists will carry out work on demining and clearing these areas from explosive devices, as well as organize training sessions for our engineering units.
We express our gratitude to the Ministry of National Defense of fraternal Turkey for the support provided,” the defense ministry said in a statement.
THE LAST DAY OF NOVEMBER. SO FAR, WE HAVE COLLECTED 63% OF THE MONTHLY BUDGET NEEDED TO CONTINUE SOUTHFRONT WORK AND FURTHER.
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southfront--2020-12-01--In Video: Kurdish Rebels Burn Positions Of Turkish Proxies In Northern Syria

The Afrin Liberation Forces ( affiliated with the Kurdish People ’ s Protection Units ( YPG ) announced that on @ @ @ @ @ at least 2 anti-tank guided missiles at positions of Turkish proxies in northern Syria .
@ @ @ @ @ place near the village of Basuti , allegedly resulted in the killing of 5 Turkish-backed @ @ @ @ @ the full-size image MORE ON THE TOPIC :

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The Afrin Liberation Forces (affiliated with the Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) announced that on November 27 their units launched at least 2 anti-tank guided missiles at positions of Turkish proxies in northern Syria. The attack, which took place near the village of Basuti, allegedly resulted in the killing of 5 Turkish-backed fighters.
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southfront--2020-12-01--In Photos: Russian Peacekeepers Fortify Their Positions In Nagorno-Karabakh

A closer look at one of the checkpoints of the Russian peacekeeping force in the Nagorno-Karabakh region : Click to @ @ @ @ @ to see the full-size image Click to see the full-size image Click to see the @ @ @ @ @ TOPIC : • Azerbaijani Troops Are In Lachin , But Unresolved Karabakh Status Remains Source @ @

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A closer look at one of the checkpoints of the Russian peacekeeping force in the Nagorno-Karabakh region:
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southfront--2020-12-01--Military Situation In Afghanistan On December 1, 2020 (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in Afghanistan : • On December 1 @ @ @ @ @ killed or wounded near the Khwaja Umari area by airstrikes of the Afghan Air Force @ @ @ @ @ , Taliban artillery shelled positions of the Afghan army in the Panjawiy area ; • @ @ @ @ @ reportedly blown up the Khwaja Sabz Posh bridge in Faryab ; • On December 1 @ @ @ @ @ in the city of Kabul ; • On November 30 , Taliban artillery shelled positions @ @ @ @ @ Chaki district ; • On November 30 , Minister of Foreign Affairs Haneef Atmar met @ @ @ @ @ Ben Zayed in Abu Dhabi ; • On November 30 , two people were wounded @ @ @ @ @ Kabul ’ s PD7 .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • More Than 30 Killed @ @ @ @ @ Afghanistan ’ s Ghazni ( Video ) • The Pentagon Has Closed Ten Bases In @ @ @ @ @

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A brief overview of the recent developments in Afghanistan:
On December 1, 6 civilians were allegedly killed or wounded near the Khwaja Umari area by airstrikes of the Afghan Air Force;
On December 1, Taliban artillery shelled positions of the Afghan army in the Panjawiy area;
On December 1, Taliban reportedly blown up the Khwaja Sabz Posh bridge in Faryab;
On December 1, an IED explosion erupted in the city of Kabul;
On November 30, Taliban artillery shelled positions of the Afghan army in Chaki district;
On November 30, Minister of Foreign Affairs Haneef Atmar met with his UAE counterpart Abdullah Ben Zayed in Abu Dhabi;
On November 30, two people were wounded in an IED explosion in Kabul’s PD7.
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southfront--2020-12-01--Azerbaijani Troops Are In Lachin, But Unresolved Karabakh Status Remains Source Of Tensions

The Nagorno-Karabakh region has been nearing the end of the first phase of the implementation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani ceasefire deal that started on November 10 .
Late on November 30 , Azerbaijani troops started entering the Lachin district in the Nagorno-Karabkah region .
This district is being transferred to Azerbaijani forces as a part of the ceasefire agreement reached between Armenia and Azerbaijan earlier in November .
Nonetheless , the Lachin corridor , the road linking Armenia with the remaining territory of the Nagorno-Karabah Republic ( Republic of Artsakh ) will remain under the control of the Russian peacekeeping forces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Azerbaijan already established control over the districts of Agdam and Kalbajar .
The next step is the restoration of the transport link between the Azerbaijani mainland and Azerbaijan ’ s Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic as well as the creation of an alternative road between Lachin and Stepanakert that would not pass through the Azerbaijani-controlled area .
Another important factor is the status of Karabkah .
The Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement signed by the sides did not address this question , and , therefore , it still has to be settled .
Baku insists that Karabakh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all on what the Armenians leaving there can count on is some cultural autonomy .
At the same time , the Armenian leadership , led by Nikol ‘ The Basement ’ Pashinyan continues its international campaign asking for at least somebody to recognize Nagorno-Karabkah as an independent state because Yerevan itself does not want to do this by itself .
Recently , the French Senate adopted a resolution asking the government to recognize the Republic of Artsakh as an independent state .
This move was presented by Armenia as a large-scale diplomatic victory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is non-binding and on an official level France does not recognize the state of Artsakh .
And even if it does so , it is unclear how Paris would be able to influence the situation in Karabakh .
Even in the hottest days of the Second Nagorno-Karabkah War , France limited its support to the Pashinyan government to diplomatic concerns .
Some large-scale French-led sanction campaign against Azerbaijan and Turkey over these questions seems like a scenario mostly existing in the dimension of Armenian fairy tales .
In the current conditions , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Russian peacekeepers and the commitment of the sides to the ceasefire regime .
Nonetheless , the question of Karabakh ’ s status remains the important factor in that , in the event of the inability of the sides to come to a comprehensive diplomatic solution making mutual concessions , could once again fuel instability in the South Caucasus .

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The Nagorno-Karabakh region has been nearing the end of the first phase of the implementation of the Armenian-Azerbaijani ceasefire deal that started on November 10.
Late on November 30, Azerbaijani troops started entering the Lachin district in the Nagorno-Karabkah region. This district is being transferred to Azerbaijani forces as a part of the ceasefire agreement reached between Armenia and Azerbaijan earlier in November. Nonetheless, the Lachin corridor, the road linking Armenia with the remaining territory of the Nagorno-Karabah Republic (Republic of Artsakh) will remain under the control of the Russian peacekeeping forces.
Under the aforementioned ceasefire deal, Azerbaijan already established control over the districts of Agdam and Kalbajar. The next step is the restoration of the transport link between the Azerbaijani mainland and Azerbaijan’s Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic as well as the creation of an alternative road between Lachin and Stepanakert that would not pass through the Azerbaijani-controlled area.
Another important factor is the status of Karabkah. The Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement signed by the sides did not address this question, and, therefore, it still has to be settled. Baku insists that Karabakh is an integral part of Azerbaijan and all on what the Armenians leaving there can count on is some cultural autonomy. At the same time, the Armenian leadership, led by Nikol ‘The Basement’ Pashinyan continues its international campaign asking for at least somebody to recognize Nagorno-Karabkah as an independent state because Yerevan itself does not want to do this by itself.
Recently, the French Senate adopted a resolution asking the government to recognize the Republic of Artsakh as an independent state. This move was presented by Armenia as a large-scale diplomatic victory, while in fact the adopted resolution is non-binding and on an official level France does not recognize the state of Artsakh. And even if it does so, it is unclear how Paris would be able to influence the situation in Karabakh. Even in the hottest days of the Second Nagorno-Karabkah War, France limited its support to the Pashinyan government to diplomatic concerns. Some large-scale French-led sanction campaign against Azerbaijan and Turkey over these questions seems like a scenario mostly existing in the dimension of Armenian fairy tales. In the current conditions, the regional stability in Karabakh is guaranteed by the Russian peacekeepers and the commitment of the sides to the ceasefire regime.
Nonetheless, the question of Karabakh’s status remains the important factor in that, in the event of the inability of the sides to come to a comprehensive diplomatic solution making mutual concessions, could once again fuel instability in the South Caucasus.
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southfront--2020-12-01--Several People Killed, Multiple Injured In Car Ramming Attack In Germany’s Trier

At least 4 people were killed and 15 others were injured in a car ramming attack in Germany ’ s @ @ @ @ @ media .
After this , security forces stopped the vehicle and arrested the driver .
@ @ @ @ @ person , one vehicle has been secured .
Two people have died , according to @ @ @ @ @ to avoid the downtown area , ” Trier police tweeted .
The driver of the @ @ @ @ @ man from the Trier area .
He has been detained by police but no details @ @ @ @ @ provided yet .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • More Than 30 Killed In New @ @ @ @ @ s Ghazni ( Video )

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At least 4 people were killed and 15 others were injured in a car ramming attack in Germany’s Trier, according to local media. After this, security forces stopped the vehicle and arrested the driver.
“We have arrested one person, one vehicle has been secured. Two people have died, according to preliminary indications. Please continue to avoid the downtown area,” Trier police tweeted.
The driver of the vehicle is reportedly a 51-year-old man from the Trier area. He has been detained by police but no details about his identity have been provided yet.
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southfront--2020-12-01--War In Ethiopia’s Tigray Region Shows No Signs Of End Despite Advances Of Government Forces (Map Upd

War In Ethiopia’s Tigray Region Shows No Signs Of End Despite Advances Of Government Forces (Map Update)

Click to see the full-size image The war between the federal government and the Tigray People ’ s Liberation Front @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Tigray region despite recent claims of the authorities about the victory over the @ @ @ @ @ 30 , clashes between government forces and the Tigray People ’ s Liberation Front ( @ @ @ @ @ ; • On November 30 , clashes between government forces and the TPLF erupted north @ @ @ @ @ November 30 , the TPLF allegedly recaptured May Tsemre from government forces ; • The @ @ @ @ @ of Abiy Ahmed to let them access Eritrean refugees in camps in Tigray region .
@ @ @ @ @ in these camps .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • War In Ethiopia ’ s @ @ @ @ @ Provincial Capital To Government Forces ( Map Update ) • Battle Goes On In Northern @ @ @ @ @ Down By Tigray Rebels ( Video , Photos )

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The war between the federal government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front is stil raging in Ethiopia’s Tigray region despite recent claims of the authorities about the victory over the rebels.
On November 30, clashes between government forces and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) erupted near Wikro;
On November 30, clashes between government forces and the TPLF erupted north of Aksum;
On November 30, the TPLF allegedly recaptured May Tsemre from government forces;
The UNCHR called on the Government of Abiy Ahmed to let them access Eritrean refugees in camps in Tigray region. Food supplies reportedly run low in these camps.
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southfront--2020-12-02--Hundreds Of Syrian Mercenaries Have Returned From Karabakh: Monitoring Group

Hundreds of Turkish-backed Syrian mercenaries have returned from the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh where they fought for Azerbaijan , the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights ( SOHR ) reported on December 2 .
According to the London-based monitoring group , Turkish efforts to settle the mercenaries in the region failed .
Baku refused to allow Syrians to stay .
Last month , several sources revealed a Turkish plan to settle Syrian mercenaries along with their families in Nagorno-Karabakh .
Ankara reportedly set up offices in the occupied Syrian region of Afrin to facilitate the plan “ over 900 fighters of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in batches , with latest batch arriving in Syria last Thursday , ” the SOHR said in its report .
“ More batches are expected to return in the next hours or days.
” The mercenaries who returned to Syria have reportedly received a part of their payment only , with the rest set to be paid within a few days .
Around 2,580 Syrian mercenaries , all recruited by Turkey , supported Azerbaijan ’ s offensive on Nagorno-Karabakh .
At least 293 were killed by Armenian forces .
Azerbaijan , which used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s frontlines , is not apparently interested in their services anymore .
Many of these mercenaries are known to be radicals , which explains Baku ’ s rejection of Ankara ’ s settlement plan .
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Hundreds of Turkish-backed Syrian mercenaries have returned from the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh where they fought for Azerbaijan, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) reported on December 2.
According to the London-based monitoring group, Turkish efforts to settle the mercenaries in the region failed. Baku refused to allow Syrians to stay.
Last month, several sources revealed a Turkish plan to settle Syrian mercenaries along with their families in Nagorno-Karabakh. Ankara reportedly set up offices in the occupied Syrian region of Afrin to facilitate the plan
“over 900 fighters of Turkish-backed Syrian factions have returned to Syria in batches, with latest batch arriving in Syria last Thursday,” the SOHR said in its report. “More batches are expected to return in the next hours or days.”
The mercenaries who returned to Syria have reportedly received a part of their payment only, with the rest set to be paid within a few days.
Around 2,580 Syrian mercenaries, all recruited by Turkey, supported Azerbaijan’s offensive on Nagorno-Karabakh. At least 293 were killed by Armenian forces.
Azerbaijan, which used Syrian mercenaries as cannon fodder on Nagorno-Karabakh’s frontlines, is not apparently interested in their services anymore. Many of these mercenaries are known to be radicals, which explains Baku’s rejection of Ankara’s settlement plan.
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southfront--2020-12-02--Dalio: The United States Is At A Tipping Point That Could Lead To Revolution Or Civil War

It was almost exactly ten years ago that we first predicted that the Fed ’ s “ moronic ” QE which has sparked an unprecedented class , income and wealth divide , “ positions US society one step closer to civil war if not worse.
” This prompted Time magazine to mock our forecast , although we doubt the author , currently at Bloomberg where pretty much every financial op-ed writer eventually ends up , is laughing today after an almost identical assessment of the current situation , if ten years delayed , was published by a far more “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ commentator , Ray Dalio .
In the latest installment of his ongoing series on the changing world order published on his LinkedIn page , Dalio finally turned to ground zero in what will be conflict of the 21st century – class and power struggles – and mused if the U.S. is at a tipping point that could move it from what he says is “ manageable ” tension to a full-blown revolution .
“ People and politicians are now at each other ’ s throats to a degree greater than at any time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wrote noting that disorder is rising in a number of countries .
“ How the U.S. handles its disorder will have profound implications for Americans , others around the world , and most economies and markets.
” “ It is in this stage when there are bad financial conditions and intensifying conflict , ” wrote Dalio .
“ Classically this stage comes after periods of great excesses in spending and debt and the widening of wealth and political gaps and before there are revolutions and civil wars .
United States is at a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ from manageable internal tension to revolution and/or civil war.
” The founder of Bridgewater urged his readers to think about class issues that can become inflamed during stressful periods , as the struggle over wealth and power tends to be the “ biggest thing affecting most people in most countries through time ” , Bloomberg recapped .
“ One timeless and universal truth that I saw went back as far as I studied history , since before Confucius around 500 BC , is that those societies that draw on the widest range of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their merits rather than privileges are the most sustainably successful because they find the best talent to do their jobs well , they have diversity of perspectives , and they are perceived as the most fair , which fosters social stability , ” Dalio wrote .
We doubt that the pervasive cancel cultures that permeates US society today , or the ubiquitous central planning by the Federal Reserve coupled with manipulated central markets to promote a socialist agenda and to allocated capital and talent as the government sees fit , in the process @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to every again claim to be fair or merit-based .
Below are some of the key quotes from Dalio ’ s essay : • “ How people are with each other is the primary driver of the outcomes they get.
” • “ The United States is at a tipping point in which it could go from manageable internal tension to revolution and/or civil war.
” • “ To be clear , I am not saying that the United States or other countries are inevitably headed that way ; however , I am @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time to know and watch the markers in order to understand the full range of possibilities for the period ahead.
” • “ The lessons and warnings of history are clear if one looks for them , most people don ’ t look for them because most people learn from their experiences and a single lifetime is too short to give them those lessons and warnings that they need.
” • “ I can not overstate the importance of class struggles relative to individual struggles .
We , especially those in the United @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pot , ” tend to think more of individual struggles and not give adequate attention to class struggles .
I didn ’ t fully realize its importance until I did my extensive study of history.
” • “ While I love that the United States is the country where these class distinctions matter least , people ’ s classes still matter in the U.S. and they matter a lot more during stressful times when class conflicts intensify.
” • “ When wars—civil or external—happen you will have to decide whether you want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
When in doubt get out .
You can always get back in , but you might not be able to get out.
” • “ You individually , and those who are leading , need to have a realistic understanding of the circumstances you are in , the range of possibilities that exist given these circumstances , and how to make decisions to produce the best possible outcomes given these circumstances.
” • “ You also need to be very adaptable in order to do the things you might need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of possibilities.
” • “ You can have a better future if you put deferred gratification ahead of immediate gratification ” His full essay “ The Archetypical Cycle of Internal Order and Disorder “ , can be found here .
MORE ON THE TOPIC : • Biden ’ s Choice For Secretary Of Homeland Security Accused Of Selling Green Cards To Chinese Citizens • U.S .
Reportedly Harassed Chinese Shipping And Airliner Crews , As Beijing Vows Countermeasures

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Originally appeared at ZeroHedge
It was almost exactly ten years ago that we first predicted that the Fed’s “moronic” QE which has sparked an unprecedented class, income and wealth divide, “positions US society one step closer to civil war if not worse.” This prompted Time magazine to mock our forecast, although we doubt the author, currently at Bloomberg where pretty much every financial op-ed writer eventually ends up, is laughing today after an almost identical assessment of the current situation, if ten years delayed, was published by a far more “respected” by the likes of Time commentator, Ray Dalio.
In the latest installment of his ongoing series on the changing world order published on his LinkedIn page, Dalio finally turned to ground zero in what will be the conflict of the 21st century – class and power struggles – and mused if the U.S. is at a tipping point that could move it from what he says is “manageable” tension to a full-blown revolution.
“People and politicians are now at each other’s throats to a degree greater than at any time in my 71 years,” Dalio wrote noting that disorder is rising in a number of countries. “How the U.S. handles its disorder will have profound implications for Americans, others around the world, and most economies and markets.”
“It is in this stage when there are bad financial conditions and intensifying conflict,” wrote Dalio. “Classically this stage comes after periods of great excesses in spending and debt and the widening of wealth and political gaps and before there are revolutions and civil wars. United States is at a tipping point in which it could go from manageable internal tension to revolution and/or civil war.”
The founder of Bridgewater urged his readers to think about class issues that can become inflamed during stressful periods, as the struggle over wealth and power tends to be the “biggest thing affecting most people in most countries through time”, Bloomberg recapped.
“One timeless and universal truth that I saw went back as far as I studied history, since before Confucius around 500 BC, is that those societies that draw on the widest range of people and give them responsibilities based on their merits rather than privileges are the most sustainably successful because they find the best talent to do their jobs well, they have diversity of perspectives, and they are perceived as the most fair, which fosters social stability,” Dalio wrote.
We doubt that the pervasive cancel cultures that permeates US society today, or the ubiquitous central planning by the Federal Reserve coupled with manipulated central markets to promote a socialist agenda and to allocated capital and talent as the government sees fit, in the process bypassing capitalism, will allow US society to every again claim to be fair or merit-based.
Below are some of the key quotes from Dalio’s essay:
“How people are with each other is the primary driver of the outcomes they get.”
“The United States is at a tipping point in which it could go from manageable internal tension to revolution and/or civil war.”
“To be clear, I am not saying that the United States or other countries are inevitably headed that way; however, I am saying that now is an especially important time to know and watch the markers in order to understand the full range of possibilities for the period ahead.”
“The lessons and warnings of history are clear if one looks for them, most people don’t look for them because most people learn from their experiences and a single lifetime is too short to give them those lessons and warnings that they need.”
“I cannot overstate the importance of class struggles relative to individual struggles. We, especially those in the United States, which is a “melting pot,” tend to think more of individual struggles and not give adequate attention to class struggles. I didn’t fully realize its importance until I did my extensive study of history.”
“While I love that the United States is the country where these class distinctions matter least, people’s classes still matter in the U.S. and they matter a lot more during stressful times when class conflicts intensify.”
“When wars—civil or external—happen you will have to decide whether you want to be in them or get out of them. When in doubt get out. You can always get back in, but you might not be able to get out.”
“You individually, and those who are leading, need to have a realistic understanding of the circumstances you are in, the range of possibilities that exist given these circumstances, and how to make decisions to produce the best possible outcomes given these circumstances.”
“You also need to be very adaptable in order to do the things you might need to do that are outside your current range of possibilities.”
“You can have a better future if you put deferred gratification ahead of immediate gratification”
His full essay “The Archetypical Cycle of Internal Order and Disorder“, can be found here.
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southfront--2020-12-02--Map Update: Military Situation In Nagorno-Karabakh On December 2, 2020

Click to see the full-size image A brief overview of the recent developments in the Nagorno-Karabakh region : • As @ @ @ @ @ displaced persons have returned to their homes in Karabakh with the assistance of Russian peacekeepers @ @ @ @ @ 2 , Russia reported that more than 34 hectares of land and about 12 kilometers @ @ @ @ @ mines and IEDs and 1077 explosive objects were found and destroyed ; • As of @ @ @ @ @ local residents turned for medical help to specialists of the special medical unit of the @ @ @ @ @ in the airport of Stepanakert ; • As of December 2 , more than 100 @ @ @ @ @ military surgeons , anesthesiologists , resuscitators , therapists and epidemiologists , were deployed as a @ @ @ @ @ unit in the Stepanakert field hospital .
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A brief overview of the recent developments in the Nagorno-Karabakh region:
As of December 2, 27,000 displaced persons have returned to their homes in Karabakh with the assistance of Russian peacekeepers;
As of December 2, Russia reported that more than 34 hectares of land and about 12 kilometers of roads were cleared from mines and IEDs and 1077 explosive objects were found and destroyed;
As of December 2, about 70 local residents turned for medical help to specialists of the special medical unit of the Russian Ministry of Defence deployed in the airport of Stepanakert;
As of December 2, more than 100 military medical specialists, including military surgeons, anesthesiologists, resuscitators, therapists and epidemiologists, were deployed as a part of the special medical unit in the Stepanakert field hospital.
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