Падение ИЛ 76, новости из Техаса, Трамп против Байдена. Итоги недели с Алексеем Пилько.

Summary

The script covers a range of significant international news topics. A key focus is the downing of a Russian IL-76 aircraft, allegedly by Ukraine, which was carrying Ukrainian prisoners for a prisoner exchange, sparking debates on intent and repercussions. The script also highlights the Republican primaries in the U.S., with Donald Trump emerging as a strong candidate, and potential scenarios in the U.S. presidential race involving Michelle Obama. Other topics include the escalation of the conflict at the U.S.-Texas border over illegal immigration, NATO's expansion with Sweden's impending membership, and the potential withdrawal of U.S. troops from the Middle East. Additionally, it touches on European defense concerns, Ukraine's gas transit negotiations, Azerbaijan's stance in the Council of Europe, and Ukraine's territorial claims against Russia.

Takeaways

• 😳 Ukraine admits shooting down Russian prisoner exchange plane over Russia, calls it a 'provocation'.
• 🇺🇸 Trump poised to become Republican presidential nominee in 2024 despite opposition.
• 😠 Border tensions flare between federal government and Texas over illegal immigration.
• ⚔️ Signs emerge of US withdrawing troops from Middle East to focus on China threat.
• 🚨 Sweden's NATO membership approved, altering European security architecture.
• 🇪🇺 European leaders warn of threat of Russian invasion, pushing military buildup.
• 😕 Azerbaijan follows Russia in freezing membership in Council of Europe parliamentary assembly.
• ⛽️ Slovakia says Russian gas transit through Ukraine will continue despite war.
• 😡 Zelensky decree lays claim to large swathes of Russia with ethnic Ukrainian populations.
• 🎯 After annexations, Ukraine and Russia engage in information warfare over territory.

Q & A

What was the primary international news regarding the crash of the Russian military transport plane IL-76?

The primary news was about the crash of the Russian military transport plane IL-76, which was carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war for an exchange. Ukraine admitted that it shot down the plane but claimed it was a provocation by Russia.

What are the two main theories about the unintentional targeting of the IL-76 by Ukrainian air defense?

The first theory suggests it was a 'roaming air defense' that accidentally targeted the plane, unaware it was carrying Ukrainian prisoners. The second, more serious theory, hints at internal conflicts within Ukraine, suggesting it was a deliberate act by Ukrainian military forces against President Zelensky.

What is the significance of the UN Security Council meeting regarding the IL-76 incident?

The meeting was significant as it discussed the tragedy, but it ended without a resolution since at least three permanent members (the USA, the UK, and France) support Ukraine and would not allow an anti-Ukraine resolution.

What are the key dates and predictions regarding the Republican primaries in the USA?

The primaries took place in New Hampshire, and the crucial primaries in South Carolina are scheduled for February 24th of this year. Donald Trump is the leading candidate for the Republicans, and his victory is considered a nightmare for the Democrats and some Republican elites.

How is the conflict on the southern border of the USA described?

The conflict is described as an intense situation between federal authorities and the state of Texas over illegal immigration. Texas authorities, supported by 25 other states, have taken border security into their own hands due to the federal government's perceived failure to address the issue.

What is the significance of the potential withdrawal of US troops from Iraq and Syria?

The potential withdrawal signifies a major shift in American foreign policy, indicating a reduced focus on the Middle East and a pivot towards addressing concerns in Eastern Asia, particularly the tensions involving Taiwan, the Korean Peninsula, and the South China Sea.

What is the controversy surrounding the events in the Gaza sector and the International Court of Justice?

The controversy involves South Africa accusing Israel of genocide in the Gaza sector. The International Court of Justice is expected to make a decision on this accusation, which holds significant implications for the situation in the Middle East.

What does the expansion of NATO by including Sweden and potentially Finland signify for Russia?

The expansion signifies a major shift in the European security landscape. If NATO's expansion is perceived as a success for Russia, it might not significantly affect the balance of power. However, if perceived negatively, it could pose serious challenges for Moscow.

What is the current situation regarding the gas transit issue involving Ukraine, Russia, and Slovakia?

The current gas transit contract expires at the end of the year, and there's uncertainty about its renewal. Discussions between Slovakia and Ukraine have led to conflicting statements about the continuation of Russian gas transit through Ukraine to Slovakia.

What are the implications of President Zelensky's decree concerning the rights of Ukrainians living in certain regions of Russia?

The decree, which points to regions like Bryansk, Belgorod, Kursk, Voronezh, Rostov, and Krasnodar, is seen as an informational counteraction to Russia's recent incorporation of four regions formerly part of Ukraine. This move is unlikely to have immediate consequences but is significant in the context of the ongoing information warfare.