I did hear something interesting in a video earlier.
Jeffrey Sachs stated that an ex-Australian PM contacted him and spoke about what Germany gave USSR as quid pro quo for German reunification. Apparently Chancellor Kohl 1982–1998 when asked told our ex-PM that the Germans promised never to (support) expansion of NATO eastwards.

See here.
http://www.youtube.com/live/15Z1pTg6q-c?t=893

He didn't say which PM, but I think it might be Keating.

Hi AC,

The Ukrainian drone advantage has given them almost complete air superiority about a hundred miles into Russian territory. This is allowing them to starve the front line and inflict huge damage. Crimea is almost cut off and under siege.

Russian territorial losses may well accelerate at least until they can find technical counters. Throwing meat wave attacks via a mobilisation may not work. They might be forced to retreat.

https://youtu.be/Z4LlEtYCRAc?si=9zhrBUuFBrLTXsVu

"In later interviews (e.g., 2014), Gorbachev clarified that the topic of broader NATO enlargement "was not discussed at all" in those years. Baker's (James A Baker) statement was in the specific context of East Germany, not a general ban on expansion. He noted that the assurances given were fulfilled regarding Germany."

Hi Fester,
The defense of Konstantinivka has collapsed.
Russians will probably take the city entirely within a few weeks.
They did get pushed back in Stepnohirsk.
They're closing in on Orikhiv.

Hi AC,

Konstantinivka has been a major objective of Russia, but given the number of premature claims of ground taken I'd wait for confirmation, but it does look as if Ukraine will lose the city.

Ukraine's strategy has been one of attrition whereas Russia has been one of terrorising civilians and sacrificing troops and equipment for small gains. Attacks on Russian oil refining has been the most significant event of the war. When Russian citizens cannot get fuel they know that things are not going well.

With the dominance and expansion of Ukrainian drone attacks it could be more difficult for Russia to supply and maintain advances. If Russia doesn't counter this in the next few months the whole front is in trouble.

Oh no! I just booked a package holiday with 'Trip-A-Deal' for 10 days in Ukraine, off to Konstantinivka, then down to Stepnohirsk, followed by a few days in Orikhiv. I was told we would get to see the Worlds 'Biggest Pile Of Rubble' in Konstantinicka, its bigger than the 'Big Banana' and 'Big Pineapple' combined! Don't want to miss that!