My Understanding of Conflict

       Intro-Logue

Born in Danvers Massachusetts date and year of ----------------------. Given the name of ---------------------------- – by my father. Shortly after my birth my family and I moved to Exeter New Hampshire, briefly moving away to Hampton Falls New Hampshire where I attended Lincoln Akerman School. Only making it to the 7^th grade, before moving back to Exeter where my mom and now stepdad purchased a house upgrading us from a four-bedroom apartment to a nice residential neighborhood.  I grew up middle to lower class but was given everything I needed while growing up. My childhood was ideal all-considering I’m very grateful for my parents.

Graduating from ------------ High School in December 2006, I took a few months off to deeply think about what I’d like to do in the future. Coming across the same decision I made years earlier to join the United States Marine Corps. I enlisted in June of 2007 and left roughly a month later in July 2007. After 13 weeks of basic training at MCRD Parris Island South Carolina we were given 10 days of boot leave before returning to Camp Lejeune North Carolina to complete Marine Corps Combat Training another four weeks of in the field high operational tempo training. From there we’re sent to our MOS training schools instead of infantry continue their training at the school of infantry aboard Camp Geiger North Carolina. I was lucky enough to be sent to Fort Leonard Wood Missouri(sarcasm) – for Motor Transportation training, unfortunately after arriving to the training barracks I was immediately summons to higher headquarters due to a mishap made by my recruiters while enlisting. Apparently at no fault of their own, Motor Transportation 3533 series MOS “over-recruited” for that physical year of 2007. Thus, forcing them to change my current Motivation of Specialty (not it’s actual acronym) from a 3533 to a 3531 basic motor transport operator rather than having additional endorsements on my military operator’s license.

I should also mention while attending formation one day, the platoon GySgt. called me out of formation to tell me that a special agent from the F.B.I. It was only later I found out this had something to do with my secret clearance application, but during the interview I was unaware of this fact. During this time if you had misdemeanor charges while entering any D.O.D service(s) you were forcibly subjected to these types of interviews before you were allowed to continue your service to the nation. After questioning was concluded she had mentioned if there were any follow up questions that she would return or some other “Special-Agent” would and continue with another interview, this fortunately never happened.

After graduation from Motor-T school – you’re immediately sent to your apparent unit, not of choice but out of necessity to the all-mighty Marine Corps they do include a wish list which may almost be laughable considering I was given my third choice. Camp Lejeune North Carolina – my first choice was Japan, my second was California. Unfortunately for me Camp Lejeune was next in line for deployment(s) to Iraq in order to take over the entire central and southern sectors of the Iraqi country. Before completely handing over the responsibility to the Army in early 2008 – I make it sound short and sweet, but most Marine Corps units due to operational tempo generally only deploy for 6-to-7-month increments. Being that I deployed with the entire M.E.F(Marine Expeditionary Force) we were extended for well over a year deployment - 410-day orders to be exact. You don’t realize it at the time but being in a country for that long takes its toll on you mentally and physically, I’d prefer to be older and more mature (during my deployments) therefore I could have taken in the experience from a much different perspective. I lost most of my photos from my trip to Iraq, unfortunately I cannot find the hard-drive they were first collected in, thankfully I was able to save some due to social media. But most of them at this time have been lost due to my lack of maturity.

This is my interpretation of the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine, from the perspective of a western NATO standard military serviceman. Somethings stated in this text are fact, and others simply speculation, please keep these things in mind while reading. This is my personal journey through Ukraine and Eastern Europe, and the events that lead me to write this book on the conflict rather than continue fighting on the frontlines, participating in hostilities. My views, opinions, beliefs, events and or perspectives are simply a reflection of my own thoughts, and considerations – they do not represent anyone else.

                             Chapter 1 - Introduction

I’ve searched far and wide, to replace a feeling, unfortunately for me I’m not able to find, call it survivors’ guilt or adrenaline junky, they both don’t offend me. Simply put it’s more for the complexed sake of the current people who suffer, is mainly why I feel compelled to include myself in the fight within the borders of Ukraine. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to visit the country of Ukraine multiple times. It could also be ignorance, I’m not necessarily ashamed to admit the United States of America and its allies have some special interests benefits within Ukraine. Very realistic possibility, all one can hope for is to one day be recognized for our bravery, and get compensated in some way, and if we’re not I won’t try to indict anyone. I’d consider it a shame, or embarrassing, to our nation’s truly brave heroes who understand the struggle these people are experiencing and only want to show them we’re willing and able to suffer with them, and that they’re not alone. Believe it or not, some Americans know how to suffer, but aren’t many to speak of unless they’re a veteran(s), immigrant(s), and or government contractor(s).

Therefore, I believe it is time to continue with my life’s journey, and experience a completely different perspective from my own, in a completely foreign country which is currently under siege by it’s much larger neighbor Russia. I tend to agree with some political analysts who predict if Ukraine were to fall, including Moldova; Russia would more than likely target the Suwalki Gap (Poland & Lithuanian borders) in-order to cut off the Baltic States of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia from the rest of NATO. Also creating a land corridor between mainland Russia and the isolated enclave of Kaliningrad. Regardless of whether the conflict in Ukraine was caused by directly or indirectly by NATO enlargement. The civil people of Ukraine do not deserve the kind of treatment received by the Russians, and I speak of the indiscriminate shelling of civilian infrastructure, housing, and water availability. Again, I’ll emphasize this, regarding U.S citizen interests, if Ukraine falls the potential of Russia and NATO going to war soon is virtually unavoidable, Russia will realize it cannot hold a candle to NATO(s) military strength. Which point the Russian Federation and the United States of America/NATO will participate in a general nuclear exchange. I can understand the Publics fatigue of war, this is an understandable position considering the countries domestic problems currently. To ignore this problem in Europe as history has told us if ignored will create a much larger problem in the very real near term.

I’m also writing this for myself in the future to read if I make it through this hard time. Most would probably assume that I have some personal vendetta against the Russian people. I’d like to believe they’re wrong, maybe I disagree with the Russian Militaries actions. From the brutality I witnessed for myself in places like Bucha, Irpin, and Izium Ukraine; you really start to grasp the dislike between Ukrainians and Russians. No one is mentioning Russophobia rhetoric, only those who are responsible should face justice for the actions of their soldiers of which they command and gave direct orders to. I’ve also had close friends who’ve been decimated in this war very recently, in the most fought over city/town/village in eastern Ukraine. Bakhmut City Donetsk  Oblast, video clearly shows sometime in late January 2023 an anti-tank missile target a non-combatant ambulance recovering wounded from the battlefield in-order to evacuate them to a more suitable location. The video is very easily found via the internet, I recommended turning down the volume to avoid the moans and groans of injured innocent non-combatant paramedic volunteers purposefully targeted via laser guided anti-tank missile. The Russian ministry of defense claims they targeted mercenaries supporting the Ukrainian military in active combat operations.

I hate taking sound bites from mainstream journalists but, it’s hard to believe humans are still conducting trench warfare almost 110 years after WW I. Until recently I’ve only read books or watched movies about world war one, and the horrors associated with conventional trench warfare. The very same thing the Ukrainian and Russians are participating in currently in Northeastern, Eastern, and Southern Ukraine. The change in landscape you see between before and after photos can only resemble the Somme in France. The only difference is time date and location, December 2022 Donbas Ukraine you could hold them side by side with photos from the Somme 1917. We shouldn’t forget, children of Ukraine are growing up in the depths of one the worst conflicts seen since World War two, unimaginable. Hard to speak on this subject, my observations and intellect tell me, and entire generation of young children will grow up with a severe form of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder not to mention the endless cases of traumatic brain injuries etc. the future of Ukraine’s coming generations are uncertain in my opinion. Hopefully I’m wrong and a much stronger generation takes hold and they come out of this better, the future only knows.

I’d like to think this will create a younger generation of Ukraine with more resolve, respect for life, and stronger society communities’ values. They’ll be closer as Ukrainians knowing what they stand for and the identity they’d like to protect, promote, or represent.

How have we ended up here? Whose really to blame? Human natures to blame - would be my response to both questions. Most Russian people only expressed discontent with the “special military operation” Putin launched back on February 24^th, 2022, at the very beginning; I will admit such protests were brutally suppressed but no signs of further protests exist. Rapidly approaching the one-year anniversary of this “special military operation,” we’re yet to witness any real breakthrough(s) from either side since the initial start of the “full-scale invasion” and when the battle for Kyiv started.

Then Kyiv, was able to retake Kharkiv Oblast, and Kherson city last summer and fall. Now it would appear from my perspective that both sides are experiencing a stalemate which both sides are active in trying to break. From my research it would also be apparent both sides are limited in resources like ammunition, artillery, night vision goggles, first aid medication(s), and so on.   

Regardless of the past we’re now faced with one of the most uncertain times ahead. I think it’s hard to predict now what exactly will happen, but I hope like hell Ukraine succeeds just for their own-sake I don’t really care about what they chose to do in the future really, it’s none of my business. But I also think it’s important they get to control their own fate and future of the country.

The Science community believes we’re “90 seconds to midnight” otherwise known as nuclear annihilation. This is clearly significant because this will ultimately effect every single human being on this planet if these events were to occur. So, I guess the biggest question of all is – what “red-lines” must be crossed in-order for the Russian Federation to place nuclear weapons on the table for preemptive strikes, against Ukraine or the west? Some day hopefully the American people will realize why some are so invested and concerned about this conflict, it would appear to me they’re simply to ignorant to see the true threat from Russia – currently. They’ve recently made claims they’re going to take a step back from the NEW START treaty therefore giving them the ability to continue to test nuclear weapons within their territories. Huge mistake, and just another escalation towards weapons of mass destruction use.  

From my own experience of active combat operations pales in comparison to the operational tempo the Ukrainians and Russians are currently experiencing on the frontlines of eastern Ukraine. Complete war of attrition most call it, referring mostly to the tactics of world war one; with the introduction of modern tech including satellite internet, drones via tablet or mobile device control. The use of drones is completely foreign to my understanding of warfare, I can only imagine the kind of havoc the insurgency in Iraq could have cause if drones were readily available on the commercial market. Ukraine estimates of the Russian death tolls are staggering, roughly estimating on todays current date of February 21, 2023, around 150,000 (updated throughout my writings) Russian deaths. Considering the war is barely a year old those numbers are unimaginable, and I struggle to consider what the numbers could be collectively by this time next year. Ukrainian security and defense officials claim that Russia could potentially be holding in active reserve near or around the Ukrainian borders currently occupied by Russia to be around 500,000. Therefore the Ukrainians have decided to start another mobilization drive knowing any kind of offensive actions moving forward will more than likely be very costly to overall military manpower. Most western experts expect general mobilization from the Russians could be just around the corner depending upon the outcomes of this years winter and spring offensive(s). Still just speculation, its hard to argue this could come to be in the near term.

Institute of the Study of War think tank claims NATO and Russian Federation closer to war then they’ve ever been in their long histories. Most NATO officials claiming we’re ready to fight, if necessary, Northern Atlantic Treaty Organization troops have doubled along the Russian and Belarusian borders in the last year, causing only more tension for concern among Russian and NATO/EU leadership(s). Finland’s close to becoming a NATO member, to include their 800-mile-long border with Russia. Are we blindly walking into the next World War? It’s still to be seen thus far, China has yet to support Russia militarily. From my knowledge they’ve only sent non-lethal aid to this point in present day unless this information has been kept from us, the only countries I’m aware of that have openly given Russia weapons/lethal aid, North Korea, and Iran (China could potentially be funneling weapons into Russia via North Korea but zero evidence exists thus far). I’m sure China intends to exploit Russia buying cheap oil/carbons which should keep Russia’s economy afloat for a while, but long term is yet to be determined. This is an incredibly dangerous situation causing countries to take sides, in which has cause global destabilization, food, and energy crisis still looming. Ukraine still believes it’s to late in order to negotiate with the Putin Regime, stating “we have no reason to believe him or anything he claims.”  With that being most of the countries outlook, the end of the war seems far from over.

Like the memoirs of World War 1 soldiers – I can’t help but feel this is my generations time to shine on the global stage. There’s an unspoken calling to be apart of it, we don’t want to miss our opportunity to make a difference in today’s history. Not too mention throwing a knife in Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin’s plan to take the hole of Ukraine and turn its people into Russian slaves is also a driving motivating factor. Russia was given ample opportunity to turn themselves into a prosperous democratic nation in the beginning of the 1990’s.  Because democracy can be complexed, and hard to negotiate at times, the Russian leadership at this time would rather go back to an older style centralized controlled system. Knowing they’d probably lose their current quality of life they decided to side with the current ruling party and destroy any chance of democracy working in their country, it was simply sabotaged from the very start. Boris Yeltsin created this oligarchy and had no interests in giving up power or the presidency/protection therefore he was forced to find a successor who’d protect him from future investigations, guaranteeing Boris Yeltsin and his family a trouble-free retirement after giving the power over to Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin. Putin lived up to this agreement understanding the power he now wields.

                           Chapter 2 - Russia

I should absolutely start off by saying Russia’s population is extremely well read, and educated. Yes, you can argue the United States has a better University or College system, but we’re not talking about that, I’m talking about the 1^st grade through 12^th grade public educational system is much better than the United States public school system, compared to Russia. Hands down, speak to any Russian born citizen whose gone completely through their school systems and I would argue they most likely speak better English then most American’s can. Most are even taught English at an early age, 2^nd grade they’re given the first lessons of English, and from their it’s the responsibility of the student to uphold such studies.

Most teachers in Russia will agree, in Russia you will be much more successful in life, and make a better salary or living by being fluent in the English language. Not many American born citizens can say the same, maybe Spanish, French, or German; but hardly anyone can speak fluent Russian, and if they do, they’re probably viewed with great suspicion in the United States currently.

Joseph Stalin’s era help define the older generation of Russia, most older demographics of Russia admire Joseph Stalin for the sacrifices he made to the “Motherland”. It’s incredible for a western book writer like myself to imagine having admiration for one of the 21^st century’s most notorious mass murders. Liquidating almost 30 million of his own people i.e., Georgians, Ukrainians, Belarusians, and Russians included. In today’s modern era of information flow, how could this be true? Russia in every sense of the word, is a true enigma – and will challenge anyone’s perspectives on life, understanding of human culture, and history; historians struggle to explain this dilemma, still to this very day.

Realizing I’m of Russian decent, 23 and me proved I was about 25% Kyvin Rus [Ukrainian & Russian] and the rest of me is Scandinavian, Irish, and a small percentage of Native American. Therefore, my understanding of the Russian perspectives’ clearly misunderstood. Unlike most I’ve at least tried to educate myself more on Russia’s long history and why they respond to different situations the way they do; they’ve been invaded by land more times than I can count. I should also mention, they’ve had to struggle more as a nation in recent history, losing almost 30 million people just in the short period of World War 2. Russia has so much potential, but the peoples lack of political ambitions leads to a more centralized government. We should also mention up until very recently there was an unwritten rule/law/policy between the Russian people and its government officials. Stay out of politics and we’ll stay out of your personal lives. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has broken this unspoken policy, by decree of “partial mobilization” – which only had a more dramatic affect on the more educated people of Russia. These fortunate few realized what was happening in their country and made the wise decision to leave rather than being mobilized in to a conflict they really want nothing to do with. I believe the estimates show roughly 700,000 Russian citizens have fled to Georgia, a southern Caucasus Mountain Country. The bulk of Russians have also fled to Finland (until the border was restricted), Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Mongolia. Some statistics show a small number of Russians (ranging from roughly 10,000 to 20,000 people) have switched sides claiming to represent “Free Russian Legion” and opposition group to the current Regime in the Kremlin.

To drag American perspective into the conversation, what Russia has done, would be like the United States of American invading portions of Canada straddling along the American side of the border, taking cities like Toronto, Montreal, Quebec, or Winnipeg; and hold these cities by force – while creating a crazy narrative of these provinces are “ethnically Native American.” This would be a complete outrage to the wider global community and every country that could would jump on board with Canada in the protection of their territorial integrity. It would be a ridiculous strategic blunder, on our part. So, from a standpoint of “western logic” some would say, this idea seems completely far-fetched to pursue, but I guess the other side of the argument could be my logic is construed by western media and propaganda. I tell people who only watch Fox News, you’re only being shown one side of the coin. On the other side of every coin there’s a different story and perspective foreign from our own.

Though I’m a patriot to this great nation – I admit we’ve made our share of political blunders; when opportunities arose for better relations with Russia, we threw them away due to our own inability to agree, it seems on anything. Ignorance is the true meat grinder of life, no matter how you shake it, for what ever reason peace is simply only attained by force (in this reality). We’re complete apes for behaving this way - Russian leadership(s) included. They’re only dreams of peace in my mind, I can only wish for a better tomorrow. Leaders of countries are only getting wealthier from this conflict creating only a bigger divide and bigger incentive to continue. This is the military industrial complex; it has grown so big an influential who can stop it? I’m not sure if anyone has the answer to that question nor the power to stop it.

Unfortunately my gut feelings are if the older “generation kill (9-11 veterans)” don’t continue to support the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Then in 10-20 years’ time we’ll have a much less experienced much more soft generation fighting against a much harden Russian generation. Which in my opinion could lead to a much greater disaster, a time when my generation will be too old to fight or being a valued asset on the battlefield. It only saddens me to think my life could end on the continent of Europe, but I’ve accepted my fate long ago.

Trying to convince/explain my position moms’ generation or older of this fact is extremely hard. Some understand of the difficulties in war-time and the unpredictable nature they can take on, are we witnessing the domino effect of a greater war?

China recently purposed a 12-step peace/ceasefire deal between Russia and Ukraine. Though I won’t site them here it seemed largely beneficial for the Russians if the peace deal were to be implemented. Most open source intelligence agencies are currently looking for leads/links to see if communications between the Russian Federation and the Chinese Communist Party intend to do business in regards to China supplying Russia with everyone diems as “lethal aid”.  Most analyst are concerned about a future lend-lease policy where China supplies Russia with tanks, artillery, ammunition, and armored personnel carriers. The amount of Chinese influence that will occur in Russia after such a policy is sign. This would ultimately create a response from the “collective west” as Russian propogandist like to refer NATO/EU as; this would most likely become a reality.

NATO countries wouldn’t hesitate to give Ukraine any weapons asked for including fighter jets F-16’s and A-10 warthogs. Only escalating the war/crisis further, this has many political and military analyst worried at this current phase of the conflict. Poland delivers German made Leopard 2A4 tanks to Ukraine, Russia’s response was to suspend all further oil deliveries to Poland until further notice.

If global political climate doesn’t change dramatically within the next year, in my humble opinion World War 3 is imminent. Will we just hybrid proxy war ourselves into a larger conflict, is yet to be witnessed but the feeling is emerging (including Syria).  Russia seems to have zero ambitions to change – only doubling, tripling down on their current position(s). I struggle to see a near term end to this crisis/conflict/war, this conflict will dominate the next POTUS election, which Russia will love.

After spending another month in Ukraine there’s no end in sight, both sides have dug their heels in, and refuse to take their feet off the war path gas pedal. It would appear to me Russia and it’s people take pride in the amount of suffering they’re willing to endure. Which doesn’t give me a warm and fuzzy feeling inside, only more casualties. I admit Russia is a tough country, there’s never been any doubt, but their war doctrine’s simply barbaric. I used to admire Viacheslav Alexandrov ich “Slava” Fetizov – a famous hockey player, who defective from the Soviet Union to come make “good money” playing in the National Hockey League. Currently because of his position in Russia’s inner elite, my admiration for him has change significantly. Scott Ritter goes on Russian state owned television to say give the American People a chance to change or see the Russian-Truth. Both sides have turned this into a war of information, it’s hard to see through all the minutia.

We must also admit Russia has been invaded several times due to its vulnerabilities and border problems. To some extent I can understand the hostilities from a Russian perspective, or Russian political spectrum. Attempting to invade a neighboring country – that knows you maybe better than you know yourself, can lead to unpredictable outcomes not even a crystal ball can predict. Russia has opened a can of worms they can no longer shut themselves. For humanities sake this is by far the scariest part, in my humble opinion, regardless now of whose right or wrong. Something has started that neither side can currently fix or resolve - where this event leads will be anyone’s guess.

 I struggle within reason to predict anything, I only try to educate people on just how significant these events are, and how close they’re occurring to NATO’s borders. Article’s 4 and 5 are nothing to speak lightly on, we’re talking about witnessing the largest war on European soil ever, in it’s history of existence. Some need to wake up including leaders of countries and realize where this is going, and how do we fix it.  

Leadership in the United States of America’s going all in, on Ukraine taking their country back, but are we sure Russia’s not willing to go all in on keeping what they’ve gained so far? A double edge sword if I’ve ever seen one, it will take a miracle at this point for either side to win, which country will become more war fatigued faster than the other seems to be the name of the game currently. Will more ammunition, modern battle tanks, help Ukraine to victory, or will China become more slowly involved to give Russia weapons, this could be anyone’s guess. I pray almost every day for this war to come to a peaceful diplomatic end. Trying to negotiate an off-ramp seems nearly impossible current day.

I admire Russia’s leadership wanting to unify their country under one “just” cause, but if you understand history – there will always be dissident’s who opposed the status quo. The fear of the country collapsing in the future must scare Russian leadership to act in such ways.  According to their own people, the goals set by the government seem to be unclear. The over all strategy from an observer’s perspective seems to change often. This must confused the Russian public – according to most state television in Russia the good will gesture of retreating from Kyiv, was done out of the kindness of Russian leadership. Considering the day war/special military operation started there was immediate chatter about the war only lasting a few months at most, before the Kyiv administration would fall. One would logically think the Russian people would act harshly against their government for failing to reach such goals, but I see no evidence for any type of revolution. Which for the Kremlin must sound like the green-light to continue such a war of this type and magnitude, while they quietly continue a conscription, mobilization decree.

Mothers of the Russian Federation must realize they have the power. Women throughout history have shown their strong in these types of situations. But from what evidence I can gather, we only see the exact opposite of evidence for this action from that particular demographic. How long can they ignore wooden caskets coming home? It appears they’re hiding the true numbers of casualties.  This is the current difference or divide between Western Logic and Russian Logic. In my opinion, if we had these kinds of losses in the first year of Iraq – which was terrible mind you but we had a small fraction of the losses. Compared to Russia’s performance in the first year of the Ukraine War. Right now, in America we’d be burning cities calling for our boys and girls to come home without question. That’s the difference, they fear their government(s) – Americans do not. We’ve proven in many different instances that when we become unified, change can be created. We have used non-violence to stop Vietnam War, we put an end to the Iraq War. I hate mentioning the Afghanistan debacle – but we did that too.

Believe me when I say this to all Russians we’ve made our mistakes, no one is denying this fact, we deserve to be called out for such actions in my opinion, maybe the current administration doesn’t like to be reminded. Keep doing it I don’t mind; in fact, I think it helps keep Democracies honest.

Piss them off enough, and any democracy including such places like the U.N security counsel will find a loophole or backdoor in order to isolate you from the rest of the international community (even more). If you remember correctly, when the U.N was established after World War II the successor to the League of Nations. It was originally the U.S.S.R – the permanent member, not the Russian Federation. The other members allowed you to take the role, I think it’s only fair they have the right to revoke it. When a country is no longer responsible enough to have it. Again, let’s not forget something here, Russia started this War, yet can no longer end it nor solve the problem.

Neither can the west, but again we didn’t start the conflict. Yes, we’re feeding it but that’s a completely different matter I’ll get to later. That could be defined as the current administration concerned with the conflict spilling over into NATO territory. And or also, wanting to exploit Ukraine for some natural resource like Titanium, used in areo-space, (both parties have special interests in Ukraine this is crystal clear) etc.  

Russian narratives leading up to the war; Denazification, and demilitarization of Ukraine. I’ve traveled far and wide southern Ukraine Odesa, Mykolaiv, Davida Brid, Adamivka, Uman, Ternopil, and many other southern Ukrainian villages. To include others in the north as well, from my latest visit to the country. Right now, I’d like to focus on the south – during my first visit essentially the entire month of April 2022, and a small part of the end of March 2022. I’ve been in search of “neo-Nazi likes” – or “far right ultra-nationalists” in the country of Ukraine.  Azov Battalion would be the place to go according to main-stream media prior to the war beginning on February 24^th, 2022. I was embedded with the group for a short period and found zero evidence of neo nazi like attitudes or ideologies within the battalion. Now I’m not suggesting there’s zero evidence for it throughout the country, that would be false.

This idea the media tried selling us much earlier in the war, was Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, is deeply attached to the ideals of Ukrainian Cossacks. I believe at one point he tried linking his family’s heritage to the origins of Ukrainian Cossacks. Because of their famed history of fighting against Napoleon’s Grande Armie. Some records also show stories of Cossacks keeping the German Army at bay while the 2^nd and 3^rd Russian armies could have a safe retreat in World War I. They’re so beloved, Ukraine’s national anthem includes them throughout the entire song. This is part of the connection Putin tried selling his people on this made-up idea Russians and Ukrainians are in fact the same people. At this point one could argue, Putin has turned ethnic Russians living in Ukraine against him. I’ve interviewed plenty of people living in non-occupied territory in Ukraine proper, claiming to be Russian who’ve ultimately turned against their own country in support of the one they currently live in. Due to the shelling bombing of February 24^th, 2022, people don’t forget the magnitude and destruction that occurred then and still occurs today’s date of writing March 28^th, 2023. I can adamantly say both sides are losing large sums of middle–aged adults – destroying yet another young demographic in this region of the world.

Current talking points in Russian media; Russia transfers tactical nuclear weapons to Belarus. What this signifies or represents to the west. It’s also signaling to its audience United States wants Nuclear War with Russia. It’s unclear to some Kremlin commentators, why Russia is not waging war against the west? Because clearly to them the west is waging war against Russia, with their ammunition(s), advisors, and foreign fighters, is a clear-cut example of the west using all its military might to bring down the Russian Federation.

Let me be clear, our navy hasn’t touched the Black Sea, therefore I don’t see a single Marine Corps division knocking on your Crimean doorstep. Second, maybe when I see the U.S Army’s 1^st Infantry division in Poland and the 6^th fleet passing Istanbul Türkiye; I’ll finally admit the United States is about to strike Russia. Fortunately for you the 101^st airborne division is not set up for full scale invasion type operations, they would dearly need support from multiple different branches. So, to claim you have no other choice but to wage war against the west on a regular basis is simply calling for your own collapse. I would strongly advise against such calls to action.

Chaos the Oligarchs spout – “complete chaos, killing of your own people, and innocent people. Complete mistake, he is Satan they claimed (referring to Putin and his inner circle).” This is the conversation between two Oligarchs in Russian elite circles. Talking about how badly the military industrial complex, and security services have led Vladimir Putin into a war he cannot control himself.  Claiming to have been beaten by “Kvartal 95” Zelensky’s old comedy television studio. You never hear this kind of truth come from the Russian media, but every so often you get small glimpses of truth (from Russian commentators). Slowly you understand via connecting dots on opposite sides of information channels. You start getting the idea that something is definitely rotten in Russia. Their dear leader hasn’t been given truthful reports of the true state of their military nor its capabilities abroad or even next door. This conversation I would consider to be extremely embarrassing for the Russian Leadership. Lies buried atop more lies only lead to catastrophe short, mid, or long term; the truth will always come back to haunt you.

Propaganda is extremely one-sided in Russia, realistically only giving Russians one narrative, perspective, or ideology to chose from. Not saying we should pity the Russians for this problem, but maybe bring to their attention, sensor ship generally is a bad thing, and can have serious consequences in societies.  Information, if used right or wrong can be an extremely powerful tool to achieve certain agendas/goals, which can coerce the public into having certain views, which may be harmful to their own interests.

Satellite images recently released show a reoccurring pattern shaping the southeast region of Ukraine. Russian conscripts and mobilized soldiers are currently digging miles upon miles of trenches, clearly expecting some counter offensive to happen in the near future. Via Ukrainian Armed Forces.

                              Chapter 3 – Ukraine

Ukraine’s struggle against Russia and other invading countries starts long before Russia was even considered a state, territory, or country. Kyivan-Rus; notice the first word in “Kyivan-Rus,” were considered some-what of the same country Kyiv was the capital. Therefore in-terms of statehood Ukraine could be the sole reason for Russia’s existence. Without Ukraine’s culture and orthodox Christian heritage, Russia may still be controlled by the Mongolian Khanate. Ukraine’s most recent struggle for independence started 30 years ago, in 1991 after the full collapse of the U.S.S.R. Since that time, Russia has inched closer and closer to war with Ukraine, slowly and methodically under the guise of protection of ethnic Russians. The West only noticed until it was already happening, Ukraine at first tried dousing the flames of war – claiming please don’t listen to reports; in hopes of keeping their economy afloat. Still foreign investment halted for a short period but has since returned due to the stability of the front lines.

Still Ukrainian history is still extremely unique and complexed in that they truly come from a nomadic warring tribesmen and women, dating back to the days of the first Cossack 1000 BCE. A true Warrior spirit society based off nomadic law, living off their land only to protect what they saw as their own. These nomadic people(s) can really lay claim to Ukraine’s statehood. It is also the location where most historians agree, modern day humans domesticated the horse. Ruthenia (1300 BCE) can also lay some claim to modern day Ukraine. Though some land lay in modern day Belarus, and Poland.  This location of Europe has been very fluid in changing hands between different factions of leadership. Much of Ukrainian land was dominated via Mongolian Khanate to the east, including most of southern Ukraine and modern day Crimea.

Ukraine has a long-prided history of defending their lands against the Russian Empire throughout the 17^th and 18^th centuries. They also resisted Soviet rule for most of the beginning of the 19^th century when the Romanov dynasty ceased to exist and the Bolsheviks took power. During the Russian civil war Crimea was one of the last stronghold(s) held on guard with white Ukrainian and Russian forces resisting Bolshevik rule. We as “western inhabitants” must realize how long Ukraine has been fighting for independence and why this war matters so much too them. You could put forth a strong argument that Ukraine has been fighting for its own independence longer than the United States has been in existence. So for us to have a better understanding of what exactly they’re fighting for, you must visit the country and take in a sense of the overall atmosphere. At least when I visit the country, you get a sincere sense of how many people have fought and died on these lands. Millions of people have lost their lives within the boundaries of its territory. One can sense a heavier atmosphere, it’s not something you can see, smell, or hear. It’s more of a transparent energy that surrounds you, a feeling of despair something you can almost see in Ukrainians eyes. I have a dear friend who lives in Ukraine, we’ve spoken now for multiple years, and have grown quite a strong bond as humans and understanding each other. Though he’s much younger than me, we still share something in common. We’ve both experienced war at a fairly young age, one by design, the other via force, he never asked to be part of this war, nor did he seek it out. Now his older brother is fighting a bloody war neither of them desire. My friend I speak of we’ll call “Flex” – he now hardly gets to see or speak to his brother, considering the operational security, and tempo of this war is quite high, and unforgiving. Wondering day to day whether he’s safe or in a difficult spot, though they’re in the same country, Ukraine is roughly the size of Texas. Which puts them easily eight to ten hours drive away from each other on a regular basis.

Ukraine since the start of their most recent war, have seemed to show a level of competence no military expert or analysts predicted. Completely relying on U.N models and NATO computer simulations to predict the outcome was clearly wrong. Most analysts believed Kyiv could potentially fall in three to five days; this was a miscalculation made by either side Russia and the U.S. Ukraine held firm in their values and strengths, almost as if knowing the Russian side was bloating numbers and capabilities. In my opinion it was bit of a gamble, but it was a gamble Ukraine really had no other choice in taking, besides resigning and fleeing the country was the only other alternative, or trying to control the country from another adjacent country i.e. Poland or Lithuania.

Other Ukrainians I’ve spoke to are utterly convinced of victory, to this point I have no reason to doubt them. They’ve shown their strength on the global stage, proved all western military experts wrong, and continue to do a much better proficient job than the opposing side. From the younger generation to the older generation, they’re of one belief we’re going to stay in “the fighting mood, until the fighting is done.” Not only is this a remarkable story of resilience, but of sheer human strength under pressure and what can be made possible if a group of people believe in their cause strongly enough. Ukrainians always say, “what other choice do we have?” My response is generally disliked – “lay down your arms and accept Russian rule.” They’d seem to die rather than to become “Russki slaves”.

When so-called “military experts” claim the next four months of the war will be decisive – find that hard to believe. I think this war will last much longer than anyone’s willing to admit on record; Ukrainians believe with the right combination(s) of weapons they could end this war by next summer 2024, including re-taking Crimea. I tend to believe the Ukrainians, but will they be able to get the job done without more western made weapons i.e. F-16 fighter jets, and A-10 warthogs (also known as one of the most capable air to air fighting aircraft ever made, and the others called a tank buster). Or will the west give in to Russian rhetoric and believe its to much of an escalation, therefore giving into Russian pressure and influence. Russia’s aware of Ukraine’s tank deliveries are just right around the corner, when this happens – Ukraine will be given the ability to break through well dug-in Russian positions spear heading the assault group(s). Clearly Russia fears this ability which has caused them to dig-in significantly along grounds they’ve gained in recent months.

One can argue time for either side, U.S. Presidential Elections are right around the corner. Therefore one could argue against time being on Ukraine’s side; but does Russia really have time on their side? Higher quality weapons are making there way to the Ukrainian battlefield as we speak, and as I record it. From my experience Ukrainians seem to catch on quickly to western made tech, which is a scary thought for Russian field commanders and their future decision making. Some intercepted phone calls release via Ukrainian security services, tells the same story of defensive mind-set in Russian command, not offensive. Taking newly mobilized soldiers away from the front lines in order to dig trenches along vulnerable or perceived vulnerable positions. Is not a sign of an Army preparing for a future offensive, but on the contrary, they’re preparing for a defensive effort to keep liberating Ukrainian soldiers out. This clearly signals to the Ukrainians they’re on the right path, and to continue doing what they’re doing in order to achieve success.

Walking around any city in Ukraine you will see recent memorials constructed for those lost since the start of the war in 2014. Photos are constantly updated showing those from the region who’ve recently died during combat or hostilities. While staying in Uman for a short period, I noticed because it’s such a smaller Ukrainian town/village; I was the talk of the town, why is a westerner here, what were my intentions. Luckily my friend Flex was able to quell the rumors and fill them in on my pro-Ukrainian beliefs. He knows I’m just looking to help their cause in anyway shape or form, yes training Ukrainians to fight also helps therefore I’ve also taken action in doing so, teaching random civilians weapons conditions and how to safely handle a loaded or hot firearm. These people are motivated and ready to participate in hostilities if necessary; I saw zero fear in their eyes’ only determination, which even made me feel nervous at times, because even U.S Marines struggle to hold such a serious demeanor all the time.

After about five days in Uman, I felt it was time for my journey to continue on. I had heard through the underground the interviews I was seeking were located in Zolochiv, Ukraine. A city located roughly four hours west of my current location.  The question still remain in my mind, where were all of these Neo-Nazi Ukrainian soldiers our media covered back when Russian initially invaded Ukraine back in 2014. I found literally zero evidence for it while embedded with Azov battalion; which Vice News did a long mini-documentary piece on it, claiming the youth of this region was being poisoned by this ideology. Again I found a unit highly skilled and trained to fight a current enemy, not one white supremist to speak of. Maybe they were hidden from me, but they knew I wasn’t some mainstream war-correspondent, but rather an independent book writer trying to understand this conflict at its deepest roots. I truly tried to create a space to speak freely and unhinged. I also allowed them to sign contracts to have the ability to recant anything said in the interview process. Regardless of this contract, no one spoke about having far right ultra-nationalist views, they were only seeking peace and stability for their people and families they protect.

I was told Zolochiv would be where my future interviews lay, the people I so actively search for maybe temporarily located in this direction; giving me a small window to get there. Meeting this person was much harder than expected, he hid his true identity from me, only referring to himself as “Hrolf”. I was meeting with this person under the guise of wanting to join his unit, which was actively fighting in the south east of Ukraine. What people have to realize is that a large portion of people who fight in wars have these kind of views, it’s completely unavoidable in my opinion, war almost attracts these types of people with radical or racial views. So before we go on judging anyone for these views we must take a second and realize we haven’t grown-up in their shoes nor do we understand what kind of upbringing they may have had, good or bad. It is not my job nor my ambition to judge anyone for their views or opinions, my job is only to talk about whether something should or shouldn’t be done about it. Every country has a racial, white supremist, or far right ultra-nationalist problem. So we shouldn’t judge or criticize Ukraine for a problem we here in America have as well. I think it’s only fair I say this before continuing on with my writing(s) of the conflict. I would even call the interview a letdown, considering this person wasn’t very interesting as maybe I foresaw him as being. Now most people wouldn’t generally put themselves in direct contact with someone who could be potentially so dangerous. I myself think it’s at least worth seeing, prior to writing anything about the subject.  Only fair, but immediately after meeting this gentleman, he immediately asked if I had any of these types of views. Almost calling me out for having them, I wanted to test the situation saying, “yes I have tattoos people may mistake as radical or right leaning.” His immediate response was, “take off your shirt and show me right now” Hrolf demanded. I told him I would, but I also wanted to see his tattoos before going any further. He kindly reciprocated the offer and  rolled his sleeves up to show me a blatant “black-sun” tattoo. Take it for what you will, but I immediately associated that “ink-work” with the “Nordic-front movement” which is a Neo-Nazi like group associated with sharing views of the far right extreme (located in most Scandinavian countries). Maybe he doesn’t have those views anymore, but it’s clear to me he once had these views, and still sports the tattoo with pride. This is just my interpretation, I could be wrong, but it is highly doubtful I’m really far off from the truth. I had Ukrainian Officers tell me, that’s generally where we send people of those ideals or beliefs, and keep them as far away from the media as possible. Just in the short period I was at the recruiting station in Zolochiv Ukraine, I saw him tackle another soldier into through the double doors and back into the recruiting office(s); simply because the man he assault was questioning him about his heritage of being a “true-Cossack”. Which seem to anger “Hrolf” quite substantially, considering it is believed he originally held a Danish Passport (from Denmark). He does have a wife and two children living in Ukraine, he appears to be quite cultured speaking English and Ukrainian very well, but also seems to have an attitude which leans towards violence rather than negotiations. There was something about the way he showed me his tattoos that really gave away his hand. He was showing them off, so to speak, in a strong manner of pride and reflection. I refuse to mention the unit or where I believe they’re operating out of, simply out of respect for their lives, and operational security. I used to practice this code while on active duty, and out of respect for those duties I will not disclose any more information about his group. Just know I have serious suspicions about this group having far right leaning views; but they carry no influence over the broader Ukrainian military, for the most part their militaries a lot like ours with a lot of good-hearted people participating in the hostilities to protect their homeland.

During my second visit to Ukraine, which I believe was a much more informative visit. Due to the interviews conducted and the help I received from many other Ukrainians direction. I made my way to Kharkiv Oblast, because I spent time with some military representatives I will not discuss exact locations, because those locations are still actively being fought over. So, for their safety and operational security, which all Ukrainians take very seriously, I’ll try to fill in the blanks by using towns and villages names that have no military connection or significance, and or put anyone at risk.

My biggest challenge while there helping, was trying to explain the word “peace” to Ukrainians. They struggle to grasp this idea, nor understand what it even means, I’m still not even sure if they have a word for peace in their language. Incredible to deeply think about, we’ve had our hippy movements because we’re privilege enough to grow up in a society that accepts these kinds of behaviors. Ukrainians have never been given the opportunity to understand what “peace” means. Imagine growing up in a world, where all you understand from day one is war/conflict/crisis. I’d be a much different person today, if I’d grown up in a place such as Ukraine. My perspectives and outlooks on life would be wildly different than they are now. Though we’re still human beings with things in common, we also differ greatly.

If you ever visit Ukraine, maybe you’ll start to get an idea of just how complexed this conflict, war, or special military operation is, and how hard it is to understand not being from that particular country. I’ve met Russians, who’ve defected from Russia proper to fight in the name of Ukraine, and the “Free-Russian Legion” to include a “Chechen battalion”, “Georgia Legion”, and I’ve also spoke with soldiers claiming to be “Belarusian”.  Not too mention the countless Ukrainians willing to speak to me about their difficult situation, I kept hearing the words, “ah you’re a patriot!” While having a conversation with someone new I met on a bus ride to a new village or city. It’s incredible how educated Ukraine’s people are, they’re all extremely well read, have strong understandings of identity and culture, Americans education sector pails in comparison. We almost can’t understand this conflict, and its complexities, problems, and historical meaning.

Some Ukrainians suggested I apply to interview someone on the DPR (Donetsk Peoples Republic) or LPR (Luhansk Peoples Republic) side of the front line, and see if my application would be granted. They had a liaison for exchange of dead soldiers remains, which you can apply to interview someone on the opposing side. Why it seemed like a joke afterwards, my application was denied within 45 minutes of submitting it. Clearly the Ukrainians wanted to show me, I am also the enemy to them, and my presence is not welcome or tolerated. It was a lesson learned into the realities of who the Russians think they’re fighting against.

If we can begin to understand my first visit to Ukraine, it was very different from my second. We have to remember I arrived in Ukraine just weeks after the full-scale invasion started, at the end of February 2022. They were eager to put weapons into the hands of anyone willing to fight for them (especially someone with combat experience). Therefore, it only took me a few days to have a simple picture taken, and within a few hours told to familiarize myself with an AK-74. Thankfully during my deployment to Iraq, I was fortunate enough to attend a course called tactical squad-leadership course. There I was taught how to assemble and disassemble AK-47(s) and AK-74(s) weapons platforms and fire them repeatedly.

Once again it was the first time, I’d be taking a weapon made before I was born into combat, a bit earth shattering when you’re simply used to brand-new M4(s) made by Colt only a few years prior to the deployment you’re currently on. The United States Military is a lot more suited for combat than compared to the UAF (Ukrainian Armed Forces) this is not a dig at them, just the true circumstances. But I did as I was told and showed them, I was about their cause, (recently traveling thousands of miles to do so) and stood for freedom, and I was attached to the 36^th Marine Corps Brigade (Mykolaiv). Traveling from Odesa Ukraine towards Mykolaiv Oblast, and Mykolaiv city. While on approach to the city the convoy I was mounted and attached to came under random artillery fire, at this time the language barrier was quite great and I was accompanied by another Ukrainian whom spoke English well enough to translate in case of emergency. The vehicle then began to drive faster, for roughly 15 or 20 minutes straight, before coming to an abrupt halt and the driver tells us “To get the fuck out”. This was our queue that the mission had begun; at the beginning I counted 175 Marines (in our company/team) in all including officers. From that point we broke off into smaller groups of 4 or 5 men, we were reconning a safe place to get gear across an adjacent river blocking our path to Mykolaiv proper. Taking main roads would make us easy targets for artillery to dial in on. Thus we’re forced to look in places where Russians days before could have laid landmines – because intelligence was so basic/limited back then and the U.S really wasn’t feeding them the kind of intelligence they are now.

Essentially an entire company sized element was moving blindly through a treeline the enemy could have mined days before or booby trapped and would have been hell on earth for us if this were true, no thermal imagers, no night vision goggles, nothing. Thankfully for our sake(s) the Russian Armed Forces mined the main road and its surrounding shoulders, instead of the surrounding tree lines. So, I guess you could argue we made a decent guess to whether the enemy would be clever enough to mine the tree line or road - we picked tree line, and we came out alive. We also had geography on our side, Ukrainians know their land better than anyone, and know how to move within certain terrain in-order to deceive an invading enemy.

Each fire fight was extremely intense, rates of fire amounting cyclic rates at times, just to lay down suppressing fire, if we did happen to come across enemy positions of V.D.V. These groups would in fact stand and fight for their gained position(s) intelligence reports clearly stated. Once the Russians realized we had the entire city surrounded with artillery and anti-tank weapons, they quickly retreated from the proximity of the city center. Only to shell it hours later once we get settled into positions. For this trip I only carried a rifle for six days, some grenades, my team was also given a javelin, their expectations of me having an understanding on how to use it was wrong. But as they say in the Ukrainian military, “Thank god for YouTube.” My weapon was mostly on automatic unless pulling duty at night, too much muzzle flash can quickly give away your position(s) to snipers and get your ass killed in a hurry. Basic riflemen knowledge taught to me early in my enlistment.

Right away he and I (my Ukrainian handler and translator) both realized this probably wasn’t the safest idea, considering when all hell breaks loose, they’re only speaking their native tongue; and I haven’t gotten the slightest idea/clue of what they’re saying. Regardless we were at the point of no return before realizing, so I had to at least survive this one 6 day operation before they would transfer me to a more English speaking friendly Unit one of the commanders spoke of recently. Still the next five nights and six days were complete hell on earth, I was use to an insurgency in Iraq, some IED(s) maybe a few pop-shots and RKG-3(s). I’ve never been shelled with 152mm shells for hours and hours on end. Luckily I brought a mouth guard from home and was able to sleep with it in my mouth. It helped my head from vibrating while I tried to sleep under heavy-bombardment. Fortunately for us our urban combat skills were far superior to the enemy, we were able to draw them into a dysfunctional retreat. Unfortunately for us we were unable to hold it for long, not blaming any commander(s); but our logistics lines were greatly stretched and we would run out of ammunition in a few weeks if we were to try and hold the city against a flanking attack from the Russian armed forces and Airbourne V.D.V. In any case – we made an orderly retreat to where we knew our logistics would hold firm until reinforcements could support us. Nechayane, Mykolaiv Oblast, from there I was transferred back to a holding unit in Odesa. From Odesa I was told I would be moved to the international foreign legion and the Recruitment center at that time was in close proximity to Lviv, Ukraine.  During this time period, the international legion was extremely paranoid due to an airstrike that occurred while they were located in Ivano-Frankivsk. It was also well known at that time the international legion had a very big corruption problem, due to them having corrupt intelligence officers who’re very well connected within the country, and still reside in the country to this day. It was then I realized if you were not well connected in the country your ability to go places with the military was limited.

Instead, acting like an independent journalist and or book writer got me places I would have never dreamed of going otherwise. Kharkiv Oblast was a true journey through such a war-torn part of the nation, we also traveled close to the border of Russia (maybe 200 meters from the border), while in Kharkiv Oblast, I saw the trenches that were currently manned by border patrol troops and security-forces armed to the teeth with anti-tank weapons, and mortars. Ready for when Russia tries to make a move from Belgorod Oblast towards Kharkiv (considering they’re very close in proximity to one another). The soldier I was accompanying asked for me to keep his real name a secret, but his call sign was “Zulu”.  So Zulu and I approached a small town directly on the border with Russia called Hoptivka, where the once largely used E105 was erected many years ago in Soviet times is now completely blocked off on either side denying access from either party trying to gain access. It was an Erie feeling to say less, you clearly felt tension while being there, no one besides a few suburban locals still live in the town considering the ground is littered with craters from artillery shells impacting. The locals still living in the town were willing to speak a little about the beginning of the war, and the overflow of Russian vehicles that crossed over the border was extremely overwhelming, and suddenly their future(s) was uncertain. We should also remember until very recently these people were living under Russian Occupied rule. Marshall law was very harsh, and punishment was frequently brutal.

Heaven forbid Russian authorities found out someone in the village may have participated in hostilities back in 2014/2015. They’re eyes would be pulled out finger nails de-nailed and tortured to death with an old soviet radio, converted into a torturing device; electrocution. Some stories I was told are still too brutal for me to put into words, absence words for this kind of brutality. One can only pray these people who commit these atrocities have their day of judgement.

Who can rationalize Russian behavior, at this point, we hear of mass killings, mass rape of anyone or anything. Whatever they touch or run into they torment, habitually, over and over, forcing a clear message to the public, we don’t want to be here and we’re going to take that frustration out on you. I cannot think of the madmen atop this evil regime, who allow their soldiers to act in such a manner. We in western society may never understand the cruelty shown, imagine what they’d do to a NATO country, if they’re willing to treat their “brothers and sisters” this way. It would be genocide against a NATO country. It’s now ridiculous to think Ukraine would surrender, under such circumstances. Ukraine has proven they’re strong and unified to fight against one thing, and that’s Russia’s invasion and occupations of their historical lands since 1991 (post-collapse of U.S.S.R). If we truly want this war to end, give them everything they ask for, if we truly want this war to end soon give them what they ask for. I’m not promoting any administration of President, I’m simply saying if we want this war to end, unfortunately it will only end by force, this is the only language Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin understands (this is coming from the Ukrainian perspective).

I’ve also gotten the chance to meet multiple Belarusians and their perspectives fascinating. The elder community in Belarus has such a rotten attitude towards Ukrainians, some Belarusians think Ukrainians are eating their own children rather than have them raised by a Russian society. This is how wild and misunderstood narratives can become in a place where there’s total control over free speech, and free press or media. Even under such pressure from both of its neighbors to the east and north, Ukraine continues to fight. This should ultimately be anyone’s story about Ukraine, against every odd they’ve shown nothing but resistance. Who wins in conflict, it’s a complex question, something that can only be defined by the future of the nation that’s currently fighting one for their very survival. I only raise the question so early in my quest for answers because I truly will never understand why politicians are so fast running head first into conflict/war/military operation(s). Hasn’t anyone learned from our mistakes, in that wars/conflicts are so unpredictable they’re simply just not worth fighting. Diplomacy, negotiations, and peace treaties are so much more effective towards a prosperous nation. War only destroys and divides societies and forces the common man to pick a side; opposed to them focusing on raising a family or worrying about their own futures.

Zelensky unifies a previously divided nation of Ukraine; something at the beginning of the full scale invasion most thought he would be unable to accomplish. Just another example of bad western analytics, the current U.S. administration called his administration and asked him blatantly if you need an escape route out we’ll provide you one. Instead, his now famous response of “I don’t need a ride, I need ammunition” will remain in the history books for many life times to come. In the face of danger he chose bravery, these words inspired millions across the world, they inspired me to be a better person and face fears I never thought possible. While visiting and trying to understand Ukraine, they treated me with respect, no real difference between their own people, but showed gratitude when they could. They are two experiences I will never forget, for as long as I live, these are just some of the reasons that compelled me to write a documentary questioning conflict. 

Ukrainian children are probably my biggest concern for Ukraine’s future. Here in safe America, yes we have gun violence, but nothing is scarier than getting shelled for hours on end day after day. Can only create some of the worst Post Traumatic Stress Disorder known to mankind, I’m still struggling today with events/images I experienced in Ukraine, and Iraq, I can only imagine the amount of damage incurred via living there permanently in Ukraine.

I hope this conflict creates a more resilient generation there, or it could cause an entire young, youth generation to have a bad drinking problem at an early age; to put it lightly. All the while Russia is dooming an entire generation of children, teenagers, and young adults to become institutionalized towards the gears of war, violence, and weapons knowledge. People back home cannot understand this concept, I try explaining to them, but they always stray towards the potential for positivity. Ukraine is a completely different world foreign to our own, so foreign most Americans who’ve only ever left our great nation for pleasure – can only seek to understand, or conceptualize. Yes I am a man of faith, but Ukraine will challenge anyone’s faith, before visiting remember these words grace, gratitude, humility, tolerance, and forgiveness. Because you will need them in your journey through the countryside, seeing the damage of infrastructures’ only half the story, you have a greatly damaged population shaken by war and violence. We must never forget those who fight for their very own freedoms, and we shouldn’t forget the ones left standing after the dust has settled.

I think the international community should do more for Ukraine’s children – create world wide foundations to better their futures in the near term. So many solutions can be started now in-order to better relations with Ukraine and help them through this dark time. Ukraine’s conflict has become very personal to me, considering the damage its inflicted on me; but this must not be about me and only my journey from what I’ve learned in being there. I feel compelled to tell the world a different story than what the mainstream media covers. This should be important to everyone, Ukraine is fighting our war, a war against totalitarianism autocratic rule; in all our names. They shed blood while we sit comfortably from the safety of our own homes. It’s no longer about which side is right or wrong, it’s gone so far beyond this point. It should be more about what’s right in front of you, who attacked who, Ukraine didn’t attack Russia, Ukraine has been annexed via Russia multiple times throughout history. Now because it dominates the headlines here in America we think we’re smart and entitled enough to put our two cents in? Ridiculous behavior on either side, we should be only looking at the bigger picture here, and nothing else, oh and we should be grateful as fuck we’re not the ones fighting it. Not only would we have domestic problems, but we would also have to explain to hundreds of thousands of mothers why they’ll never see their kids again.

Zelensky administration is still reluctant to negotiate with the Putin regime, so until Putin is taken out of power, or Zelensky’s people do the same, the war will continue. More casualties, more suffering, and more war, will continue until either side gets war fatigue first. Its honestly that simple, yes the next few months could be decisive, but doubtful, they could prove Ukraine could ultimately win the war yes, but a strong maybe is also involved in that answer as well. I’m not as convinced as some western analysts are, nothing against Ukraine I love the people and the country, but they’ve got a long way to go, in regards to fixing their corruption problem(s) i.e. oligarchs still exist in Ukraine, whom of which still wield a lot of power with in parliament or the Ukrainian Rada. These are problems the current administration will have to sort out. Ukraine has proven a lot thus far, but still has a long way to go, if it’s peace they ultimately seek.

I thoroughly enjoy visiting Ukraine, without question the architecture, culture, and opinions you experience is unlike anything you’ll encounter in the America(s). They seem to live a much simpler life style than us in the U.S. If you own property where your house sits – more than likely you also take care of a small farm, complete with chickens, goats, pigs, and cattle. It’s almost as if you’ve taken a time machine back into the past, yet some of the youth seem more technologically inclined, more resourceful, than most of our youth in the west.  Food in Ukraine is some of the most unique I’ve ever encountered, but enjoyable all the same. The road side vendors are endless with unique different varieties of wraps, sharmawa(s), and chicken burgers (which are delicious). They’re so creative and with the food they do have it’s simply astonishing. All veggies are pickled and jarred, available for keeping long term. I was also lucky enough to visit McDonalds while in Ternopil – which I think you could argue was better than U.S. McDonalds.  That is something I’ll miss until my return to Ukraine is the food and service. People there just feel lucky to be alive and not dead from airstrikes, they’re grateful for what they have and don’t understand entitlement or privilege.

We staged our team of volunteers in Adamivka Donetsk Oblast, roughly 10 vans/buses, plus security vehicles; mainly 4x4 SUV(s) and trucks. Once the “boss” realized I had a Marine Corps, background combat uniforms, he immediately handed me weapon telling me to keep my plate carrier, and Kevlar on at all times. While staging in Adamivka we’re briefed on the mission for the following day, I will not disclose our exact destination because it is believed to be heavily contested between both the Ukrainians and Russian sides, currently. So, for the importance of this story, I’ll say it was as small village south of Sivers’k Ukraine. Though our mission really only called for the evacuation of some civilians who’ve which would like to be evacuated, the other groups of individuals would be given generators and humanitarian aid packages, and lists would be made of the remaining people holding firm in the village, to give accurate numbers back to the security services in case of future war crimes committed in that particular location. Unfortunately for us, once arriving in the village multiple launch rocket systems started to close in on our location in said village. Forcing our “boss” to make the hard choice of digging in for the night, and move under the cover of darkness early in the morning hours the following day. I was not prepared mentally or physically for the next 12 hours, artillery, and mortar shells continuously fell close to our positions fearing they could try to overrun the village we decided to keep roving post(s) outside around in well-hidden positions to ensure Russian soldiers VDV, or a small SRG(s) were not enclosing on our positions in the village. Only a week prior these teams were going into villages completely unarmed and without any proper security, this clearly needed to change after multiple volunteers were targeted via anti-tank laser guided munitions. To say the mood was tense going into the evening hours would be an understatement. The thought of the village being surrounded consumed my thoughts, and actions. Gratefully the team leader in-charge of the security team finally made an executive decision at around 05:00 hours we’d exfil this village in a quick manner. This quick manner turned chaotic when the road we were traveling on began to light up, like a Christmas tree. From falling thermite, and or white phosphorus, we clearly turned off the roading using a farm road running perpendicular to the T0513. We were very lucky to have the security team we did, they were extremely professional, and new the local terrain well enough to make such an exit with 20 plus vehicles. To not get us mixed up a clown show of a turn around trying to avoid active shelling ahead, was extremely impressive to me. I will not disclose mention the name(s) of this security team, because it’s of my belief they’re still actively working within the borders of Ukraine.

I must include, 52 different nations peoples are current fighting on behalf of Ukraine, on the territory currently. From my estimations the numbers of Foreigners greatly exceed 10,000 – the number is closer to double that in my opinion and from data-statistics I was able to uncover. Most major media coverage will claim the numbers are closer to 7,000 – 10,000 strong.   

                          Chapter 4 Ukraine – Russia War

People in the west vaguely remember the “original-conflict story” of the Ukraine vs. Russia war starting in 2014. Russia fearing the lease on the Port of Sevastopol would not be renewed due to the new administration in Kyiv. Also due to the maidan revolution occurring in Kyiv after Viktor Yanukovych passed a deal with Russia opposed to signing a deal with the European Union favorably. Ultimately removed from power days later, Petro Poroshenko soon followed as the 5^th President of Ukraine. Putin then gave the order to Wagner PMC (Private military company) to annex Crimea by force if necessary, clearly using professional soldiers to swiftly move-in and take all permanent military strongholds throughout the peninsula. Without any bloodshed mind you, Ukraine ministry of defense soon realized they were so unprepared, any resistance would be futile. Therefore, Ukrainian troops were given the swift order to disarm themselves and to make their way back towards Kherson Oblast for a debriefing and unfortunately relocation of where they will be living in the near to long-term.  

Soon there after the annexing of Crimea via Russia. If you follow headlines from that part of the world, you’d notice a separatist movement taking hold in Eastern Ukraine. Donetsk Peoples Republics and Luhansk Peoples Republics were then “established” mainly with the support of Russian militants and Wagner forces. Igor Girkin (alias “Strelkov” former FSB officer / and has ties to the GRU) also had a main role to play in this land grab, essentially being label by western media as the mastermind behind the downing of Malaysia flight 17 a commercial airliner, 298 innocent people died due to his actions and orders.

Following 2014 – 2015; skirmishes would erupt from either side. Frequent attempts from each side to take back occupied territories would occur with rapid frequency depending upon the time of year. Most did not realize how substantial these losses were until after the full-scale invasion happened on February 24^th, 2022.

Now leaked documents show’s Putin’s regimes real plans for Ukraine following a successful occupation. Ukrainian nationals would be rounded up and concentrated within the territories of Russia proper. Put there for extermination – to quell the expected protests and uprisings (still not confirmed independently). Creating door to door terror within the country, for as long as it takes to extinguish the resistance movement(s).  Just, the history between these two nations is so deeply routed in conflict, crisis, and despair, its completely unimaginable to most who attempt or try to understand (from the western world). All you can really do is tell the truth about what you’ve seen, and try to take those images from your mind and articulate them into words on paper or computer screens. I challenge anyone to try, and not include their own bias nature while describing this subject, I’ve tried to gain access to the Russian side, but clearly if you apply for this while actively staying on the Ukrainian side; your efforts will be ignored by the Donetsk Peoples Republic or Luhansk Peoples Republic side(s).

I can only research information that’s available to me, by denying access to western journalists and book writers, only fuels speculation about Russia hiding even more than what has already been witnessed, or discovered. Very hard thing to prove otherwise for me at least considering I have such recent visa’s to Ukraine, DPR authorities took one look at my photo copied passport and gave themselves a chuckle before denying my request. Considering the conflict between the east and west so far, their decision seems completely understandable. Yet without risk comes very little rewards, and successful people, in their respective fields of work know.

Russia also seems to forget parts of Joseph Stalin’s reign; Holodomor genocide, and the collectivization farm(s) act. All the while creating a Kulak class of people all throughout Ukraine, during the early stages of Stalin’s rule. From the considerable research I’ve done myself thousands of Ukrainians were sent to the Gulag penal-colonies, due to political dissidents. Essentially a modern-day political prisoner(s) camp.  In those days, you could be jailed for up to 8 years for making a joke about the current regime.

Russia is clearly very rich in culture, landscape diversity, and ethnic diversity. I believe the only thing they’re missing is public political will. Yes they’re strong when facing war for their government. Convincing a modern-day Russian to stand-up against their government, you’d have better luck in telling them to move out of the country; avoiding the fight. Yet doing nothing about the political aspirations of the current ruling government. If Americans were witnessing a similar war with Mexico or Canada (to compare Russia/Ukraine conflict to the people of the United States), our cities would be burning to the ground until or boys and girls return home. The Russian peoples perspective will always escape my logic, even those who are strongly opposed to the war, I still cannot speak to their psychology in any way. Call it a cop-out but Ukraine’s perspective, logic, and stance seems to make a lot more sense to me, but still I’m an American with an unbalanced view of the situation. Unlike most Americans I at least take the time to try.

Let’s go back to the days of the ‘Cossack’- Vladimir Putin has seemingly obsessed over this group, not only this group but the orthodox church too. Which is simply incredible considering historical records show, Cossacks were mainly Ukrainian people or even sometimes outcasts from the Crimean Tatar region. Putin would love to believe in such hypocrisies – but the historical facts show a different story than he likes to tell. Russian leadership thinks by creating a Cossack Battalion/Brigade Russian historians would follow suit, in support such valued commitments via the Russian Leadership. The fact of the matter still remains to be seen, from a stand-point of understanding their own history, yes the history is messy; but crystal clear in-regards to the origin stories behind the original Cossack(s) dominion(s). It is my humble opinion that Ukraine is the rightful origin story, calling themselves the land of the Cossack, not Russia.

Both Ukraine and Russia pride themselves on the amount of suffering they’re populations are willing to endure [it would appear from an outsiders perspective]. If you were to compare youths between western Europe/American youth upbringing and eastern Europe upbringing, the pictures you would paint, would not look similar at all. People of this region of the world have a deep-rooted history of resistance against invading armies to include Ukraine. When you visit a country like Ukraine or any eastern European country for that matter the scars of the past still cuts deep into the psyche of the people who still reside there.  They haven’t forgotten their past(s), and simply refuse too.  The symbol of the ‘Cossack’ is sacred to Ukrainian culture and heritage, it represents in sorts of a stronghold within the minds of most Ukrainians. I believe it’s the reason they fight so fiercely; most in the west ignored this prideful past in examining Ukraine’s future fight with Russia. Western analysts completely overlooked this fact of history, in Ukraine’s dark history of resistance against occupying invaders. We overestimated the Russian Armies/ and capabilities, which is shameful at best for western think tanks. We owe a great deal of gratitude towards Ukrainian people, considering they’re shedding blood, so we don’t have too. When taking into account a country’s capabilities, it is my belief, to properly analyze a country’s current situation, you must take a long, strong look at the country’s past, to understand what they’ll do in the future. Something we in the west often do not consider, nor take into account when trying to guess which way the pendulum will swing next.

We (we as the people of the west) are so completely blinded by our own success; it makes us completely ignorant of blatant facts. In today’s world you can put facts in front of someone only to be ignored, with a response of “results can be bought and paid for”.  True but which historians are making money off telling a false historical event? Maybe when the internet wasn’t around, historians could potentially get away with such telling’s of false events. In today’s day an age, it’s extremely hard to get away unscathed. Basically the point I’m trying to get across, is in-order for us in the west to understand the conflict, we need to take a moment reflect and realize we’ll never understand this conflict until we can see it through the eyes of someone whose currently involved. Otherwise I’m of the opinion, you’re simply wasting your breath, time, and energy sitting around at home attempting to understand the conflict, via mainstream media, news, events, and press.

In recent days there have been multiple strikes upon Russia proper, Ukraine hardly takes blame for such actions, but its almost crystal clear where the strikes originate from. In a panicked gesture Russia has placed it’s most sophisticated air defense systems where they’re most needed, in Ukraine; Nope atop of the Federal Security Services building to protect the decision makers in Moscow.  I’d love to speak with these decision makers in Moscow, just for one day, I would love to pick the brains of people who use such logic to take action, and decision making skills. Hardly seems ridiculous to western observers, right? Why would you tell your enemy via channel 1 news in Russia where exactly we’re putting our air defense systems. You’re essentially telling your enemy where not to aim their weapons. Weakening other locations along the boundaries of Ukraine proper in sacrifice to using them closer to the capitol where they’d appear to be much less needed. How was such a capitol fortress like “Moscow” not already protected via air defenses in the first place, the mismanagement of Russian capabilities becomes more and more bizarre to me as each day passes.

Yet the Ukrainians have done a phenomenal job at keeping their air defense locations a secret, constantly moving them or reconstructing dummy platforms to fool, or deceive the enemies air to ground strike capabilities. Kyiv is currently one of the most heavily defended cities in the world, and most do not have a clue where they put the air defenses around the city, because Ukrainians are very discipline to operational security. Can the Russians say the same about their militaries/people’s discipline?

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to visit all along the frontlines, to include Kupiansk, Svatove, and Kremina sectors in the north. Sloviansk, Chasiv Yar, and Avdiivka in the east, Kherson, Zaporhrhzia city in the south. If you’re to visit Ukraine tomorrow these are the locations witnessing the heaviest of fighting present day. Clearly I left out Bakhmut city, because at the time no foreign journalists, or book writers were allowed near the city due to safety reasons. Bakhmut city has in fact changed hands a few times in the past – since the start of the war in 2014. Ukrainian Armed Forces was able to push out the invading force in early 2015 and has remained under Ukrainian control since. Russia is currently making a large effort to take the city by surrounding it and cutting it off from frequented supply routes, unhindered by the fighting. This mildly small offensive has cost Russia dearly in-regards to manpower strength and overall moral to follow through with a victory. We in the west would call this a Pyrrhic Victory – symbolic at best; the 7^th President of Ukraine ‘Zelensky’ has said on previous occasions that “if” Bakhmut were to fall, the doors to Sloviansk and Kramatorsk would be open to the Russian invaders.

Landmines for decades to come, once the war has come to an end, the monumental effort to demine their country could potentially take years, if not decades to make safe, and secure. Again, imagine Texas being covered by 3% of its land area with landmines. This is currently Ukraine’s biggest future problem; robotics needs to step-up in creating safer technology to destroy landmines. Did the U.S litter Iraq or Afghanistan with landmines? This isn’t a morality comparison but the types of landmines we’re witnessing don’t maim or injure, they kill. This unfortunate circumstance will take Ukraine and it’s allies decades to correct.

Current headlines have been dominated by Xi Jinping’s visit to Moscow, more than likely to avoid a public snub; Putin asked Xi behind closed door talks about potentially selling or trading military grade weapons for hydro-carbons. Another dominating headline is Russian Federation repositioning of tactical nuclear weapons to the territory of Belarus. More nuclear saber rattling in my personal opinion, when the U.S enters snap-count or a higher level of DefCon; I wouldn’t get too concerned or worked-up by the headline. “Reuters” reports “Russia’s war on Ukraine the latest: Ukraine says Russian forces stymied in Bakhmut.” With that being said, Russian forces appear to be relentless in their attempts to take the Eastern Donbas cities of Bakhmut and Avdiivka. Ukrainian officials claim they’re making very little progress if any, currently. Ukraine is also claiming to have evidence showing Russian Recon units refusing to follow orders all along the frontlines. This has become more and more frequent, considering the incompetence shown in past combat operations. For example, Vuhledar recently an assault battalion attempted to assault the town of Vuhledar, which turned into a complete utter-failure and force route/retreat. You can find stories similar to Vuhledar, everywhere along the front line, which is mortifying to someone who knows just how bad missions can go. Trying to explain the intensity and frustration while under bombardment, or shelling is extremely hard, if you yourself has never been through it. The scariest most helpless feeling I’ve ever encountered, absolutely nothing you can do besides dig-in and pray none of the artillery shells located your position. I have humanity towards either side, it would appear none of the Russians want to be there, like most of our feelings in Iraq. On the other hand Ukraine’s moral and reason for being is much more clear to them, something right now Russians cannot relate too.

Attempting to explain what may happen next, in my belief is nearly impossible, maybe everyone should start accepting a more spiritual way of existing. Only then may we start to understand one another better, in a more fundamental way perhaps. My significant other clearly states all the time, “we’re simply just apes with extremely powerful weapons.” Her comments echo around me because the statement couldn’t be more truthful. The barbaric nature of our behavior should be alarming to anyone, observing from any direction. China has even tried to distance themselves from the conflict due to some of the headlines. Though they still vote to abstain in the U.N Security Counsel.

Reuters reports from Kyiv; Ukraine was responsible for striking a power-bloc and railway system in Melitopol Ukraine (Russian occupied Ukraine). Russia also recently made the “claim(s)” of shooting down a GLSDB (gliding smart bomb made via U.S.A). This war seems to escalate hour by hour, day by day. Why more people are not concerned about this is incredible, domestic problems sure, but we have real trouble in Eastern Europe currently. Which could potentially lead to the end of mankind, end of all existence, Armageddon some would claim. Yet no one seems to care, we lose interest in war rather quickly, because we simply do not want to know the facts or truth. I’ll admit I am no intellect, or mathematics person, history interests me clearly; but I’ll be the first one to tell you I’ve never excelled anywhere in academics aside from writing. What I do have is charisma, and a true thirst to learn about new cultures, religions, and interests. I’m always willing to listen if you’re willing to speak to me; unless I’m sick or unconscious – I’ve always been a good listener. Some tell me I’m decent at fitting in with the unlikeliest of crowds. When it comes to meeting new people, I’ll risk anything, especially if they’re eager to speak with me. These are the risks some writers must take to write a life’s journey.

Realizing soon after my second visit to Ukraine. While serving in their armed forces, your travel and freedoms are heavily restricted; but someone who will remain nameless, filled me in on a secret. Claim you’re an independent journalist and see where this journey will take you, it was honestly the best advice anyone could have given me at the time. The next day I was on a train headed for Kharkiv, there my contact had someone to meet me and gave me a nice comfortable place to stay during my stay in Kharkiv. I did have body-armor for my own personal safety, and those accompanying me had the same, or similar set-up. They were armed I was not, but at the time, knowing what I was about to do meant more; just do what I’ve always done best write about what you see. My first stop after Kharkiv was quite the distance away via SUV, almost A 9 hour ride with check-points to get to Lyman. Where soldiers stationed there, and locals both informed me shelling and airstrikes take place there in Lyman every day. From my 3 day stay there I did experience this first hand, luckily for me and the people staying in the same building as I, we had a safety shelter/bunker to run to incase of bombardment. Soon after visiting Lyman, we made our way to Sivers’k to witness their level of fighting within trenches, using modern drones to drop grenades onto unsuspecting victims just a mere 150 meters away. The discipline they must endure while undergoing attacks must be frustrating to say less; trench warfare will test anyone’s spirit to fight. Holding your sectors of fire, and not compromising your own position(s); all the while you watch your friends position getting hit really hard via indirect fire can test anyone’s moral-values and virtues. Being trained in this manner you would know how important holding those sectors of fire can be for your entire platoon, because if not held effectively the enemy could easily flank your entire position and you would be quickly overrun. The horrors of trench warfare come back to haunt us in the 21^st century, who could have predicted this? Most military experts find this way of fighting to be so extremely obsolete, NATO being the opposing force would seek out any other way to not fight in this manner knowing just how costly it is to moral, and casualty rates are generally sky high. I was also given short access to a recently liberated trench once controlled by the Wagner forces.  Not sure if it was staged previous to my arrival but it was clear they were trying to show me what kind of slobs they were dealing with, shit/piss holes real close to living quarters, dug-outs. Trash laying about everywhere, no effort to try and consolidate, just a complete moral disaster from the Ukrainian perspectives.

April 1^st, 2023, has concluded several different area(s) of attack via Russian backed Forces. Kupiansk front, Russian forces attacked Dvorichna, Kutkivka, Zapadne, Masiutivka, Kupiansk, Pishchane, Krokhmalne, and Novoselivske (Kharkiv Oblast). To include the Lyman front(s), Russia conducted unsuccessful combat operations in the south of – Kreminna, and Verkhnokamianske, and continued to shell places like, Nevske, Kolodiazi, Dibrova, Bilohorivka, and Rozdolivka (Luhansk Oblast).

Bakhmut city continues to see a steady stream of fighting, but Ukrainian Armed Forces continue to hold the city bravely [has since fallen to Russian troops]. Russia also attempted to conduct offensive operations near, Bohdanivka (Donetsk Oblast), and continuously shelled Vasiukivka, Orikhovo – Vasylivka, Novomarkove, Bakhmut, Ivanivske, Chasiv Yar, Kurdiumivka, Dyliivka, New-York (Ukraine), and Druzhkivka. It’s incredible to think this happens every single day in Ukraine, and the attacks from Russia continued on April 1^st.  Avdiivka and Marinka front(s), Russia conducting unsuccessful combat operations around, Avdiivka, Sieverne, Pervomaiske, and Marinka. Continuous shelling also occurred in these locations as well; Avdiivka, Orlivka, Netailove, Krasnohorivka, Herohiivka, and Marinka.

On the Shakhtarsk front-line (Donetsk Oblast) Russia deploys UAV(s) in order to adjust artillery fire upon the villages of Pobieda, Novomykhailivka, Vuhledar, and Velyka-Novosilka. Russia did not conduct any combat operations in the direction(s) of Zaporizhzhia, or Kherson front(s). Though they were observed reinforcing their defensive positions around the clock. – Source Ukrainska Pravda.      

                       Chapter 5 – US/NATO/EU Response

Never assume/underestimate the capabilities of your enemy/advisory. You will be harshly disappointed after every engagement.  It became more clear to me that the west would support Ukraine, when the battle of Kyiv occurred and Ukrainian Territorial defense groups were successful in pushing back the Russian onslaught. Once western leadership were somewhat confident Ukraine could successfully defend itself with western Technology, U.S military based think-tanks started brainstorming ideas on how to give Ukraine the best combinations of weapons in-order to halt Russian advancement. Anti-tank weapons were in short supply at the very beginning but within weeks after the full-scale invasion started, U.S and its allies approved the continued flow of western weapons into the Country of Ukraine. A clear message to Vladimir Putin, we allowed you to invade the country of Georgia, we didn’t get involved (2008). We sat back and watched you annex Crimea in 2014 using the now famously quoted “little green men.” Directly following the annexation of Crimea, separatists’ movements started to occur in the eastern region of the country (Ukraine). Known as the Donbas region, Donetsk Peoples Republics, and Luhansk Peoples Republics then started to take hold over power in the Oblasts; the west did nothing.

Now the U.S leadership believes using the cooked frog method will ultimately limit escalation and predicts by the time Putin notices it’ll be over. As we hope, my humble opinion, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin has opened a can of worms in modern-day warfare neither he nor the west can close, or fix.  Considering I’m not the brightest person on planet earth, this conclusion has reached higher command, and more than likely scares the shit out of them as much it does me. There was a short period near the 6^th month of conflict between Russia invading Ukraine, where senior leadership were discussing openly if Putin were to give the order to use a tactical nuclear device, we’d respond by sinking the entire black sea fleet, and possibly attacking the Kaliningrad exclave. Maybe a month following these two presented events, the science community moved the Atomic Doomsday clock “90 seconds to midnight.” The closest to midnight we’ve been since the Cuban missile crisis; clearly an important moment in history, no one can deny and shouldn’t ignore.

I think of the future generations who may have to fight this future hybrid war, my fear ultimately is our biggest downfall as a strong country. Society becoming so soft the enemy starts to notice, and when they believed the time is right they’d strike, like Russia. China is clearly sitting back taking notice to the response of the so-called “collective western establishment.” If our last strong generation can fight this now, I believe it could potentially save thousands of lives in the future. Russia’s younger generation is tougher then ours, and willing to endure hardship much longer than we can, we’ve been spoiled in the sense of suffering at the hands of our own government. Though I agree they’ve involved themselves in some shady activities, nevertheless our society remains more free and involved. We understand when it’s time to come together and put aside our in-fighting and stand together. Are we too divided to accomplish this in the present day?

Education is the key to a prosperous global political climate; and allowing people to travel more freely in-order to educate themselves more frequently on other religions, views, opinions, perspectives, and ideas. Unfortunately, international travel has always been extremely expensive, and hard to accomplish, therefore limiting millions to travel within their own-countries’ borders. Shrinking one’s perspective to their respective neighborhoods – this to me is the biggest failure, if more people were to travel, they would see we’re more a like than you could ever imagine.

Every election cycle in the US/NATO/EU blocs have been overwhelmed by the Russia – Ukraine war. Therefore, support has so far continued strong on behalf of Ukraine’s defense of Russia’s unprovoked invasion of their much smaller neighbor. This sound bite has dominated press headlines for over a year now and continues to be carried strong. Yet support could dwindle if a Republican like Donald Trump were to retake POTUS in a future election. Thus it is hard to say which side time is on, whether the Russians think they can out wait western arms deliveries, and praying for a miracle in the white house/senate elections? Or is Ukraine seeking a miracle from western weapons and technology? Could the west be inadvertently fueling a much larger war to come? These are the fears of most well-read Americans on this subject (Ukraine – Russia conflict à global conflict).

Most western observers tend to believe if Ukraine were to in-fact retake the almost impenetrable area denial peninsula of Crimea from Russia. Russia would seize to exist as a state, is Russian collapse really what we want in the west or in our best interests? ‘If’ the Russian Federation were to really collapse after the retaking of Crimea by Ukraine, whose now responsible for securing all of Russia’s nuclear weapons post-Russia collapse? Just think if one of those nuclear weapons were to fall into the wrong hands, the consequences are unimaginable.  A marine like me can hardly do anything to stop, besides write about my fears of these events coming to reality near you.

Presidential candidacy seems to rely on the outcomes of Ukraine and its success on the battlefield, to prove Bidens cooked frog strategy a success. Elections are next year 2024 – which is fast approaching, Ukraine knows this, and also knows victories will help influence such an election race. I disagree with those who believe Ukraine has time on it’s side, all it takes is one unfavorable election and their support from U.S and Allies could stop suddenly. They’re not stupid, they know this could happen, thus they’re screaming for as much support now, in case this event does come to reality. They’ll have hopefully received enough weapons to achieve victory; I believe that is the hope.

 So, who wins in conflict? No one wins in conflict, they’re only both losers, no winners. Though Ukraine won’t admit true casualty figures, well to me it seems obvious their numbers are staggering too. The defense of Bakhmut city is absolutely pushing out statistics that’ll make anyone’s knees tremble. I personal know of a unit that entered Bakhmut (for security reasons I will not disclose the units name or region of origin) 380 strong men and women went in, and roughly less than half came back less than a week later alive and somewhat healthy. 33% combat ineffective is a real statement – that is also being practiced via Ukrainian Armed Forces.

After being in Ukraine twice now and for a substantial amount of time each visit, I’ve personally grown an attachment to the country, whether it be the people, culture, and architecture, I’m not sure. Each time I go its hard for me to say good-bye as if a little part of Ukraine has become home to me. The people there are so open and less opinionated than in the U.S, it’s just culture I adapt very easily too.

According to the Institute of the Study of War “Russian forces continued ground attacks along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line.” They also claim; “Fighting continues in the Donbas town of Bakhmut, though Russian assaults are still at a reduced level compared to recent weeks.” Clearly from these statements Russia is still conducting offensive actions in multiple places along the front line. Maybe at a reduced level from recent weeks, but this offensive action still ties down some of Ukraine’s best troops, denying them the ability to go on a mass counter-offensive action themselves.  Most events recorded or quoted here are real-time reports using mainstream media sources, as I write this text. “Cargill grain exporter Inc., one of Russia’s largest grain exporters will no longer elevate grain from its ports in Novorossiisk, Russia; this port is located along the black sea” – according to Olga Popova a writer for Reuters.  A food crisis is looming for a large percentage of the developing world.

General Mark Milley, Chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, was quoted in saying; “It’s a slaughter-fest for the Russians” Milley said. “They’re getting hammered in the vicinity of Bakhmut and the Ukrainians have fought very, very well.” Clearly the Biden administration is behind Zelensky and their claims of being able to push Russia out of their sovereign territory, and crush the Russian military on the battlefield in the process. Without spilling a drop of American soldiers blood, so to speak; any American entering Ukraine who wishes to fight on their behalf, are a representation of Ukraine, not the United States of America.

Ukrainian Air Defense Major has called for F-16(s) or any type of fourth generation air to air fighting aircraft, claiming the Russian Air Force is starting to adapt new tactics in order to deceive or trick Ukrainian pilots into an unfair fight advantage for Russia. One MiG 29 was duped into thinking only one Russian aircraft was patrolling, only to soon realize he had two enemy MiG-29(s) to his rear, only shortly after the pursuit began. Unfortunately for the Ukrainians the Biden administration has been reluctant to escalate the conflict, by providing the Ukrainian Armed Forces with fourth generation aircraft. Fearing an unpredictable response from Russia, could be more harmful to Europe.

Fortunately for Ukraine we’re seeing many different types of advance ground fighting weapons finally start to roll off the train rails throughout the country. U.S. and its allies believe this will have more of an immediate effect on the ground war itself, causing Russia to push back it’s air-defenses and air-field(s) even further from the front lines causing air patrols to become more controlled or limited by Russian Air Force(s).

Another country we should all keep our eyes on, is Israel. The tensions between themselves and Iran are increasing by the day, several recorded air attacks via Israeli Air Forces were conducted recently on the territory or Iran. Which is only causing tensions to further rise in the region, as Israel looks to better its relations with Ukraine in the coming future it would seem. Distancing themselves further from Russia as the harsh realities come to light, concerning the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

In a recent night-time video from Yevgeny Prigozhin said that Bakhmut was now Russian “in a legal sense”. However admittedly Ukrainian forces still occupied and conduct operations in the western districts of the city. Ukraine dismissed the claims, and video as a public relations “stunt” via Yevgeny Prigozhin, and the Ukrainian Military still controls Bakhmut city. “The enemy has not stopped its assault on Bakhmut. However Ukrainian defenders are courageously holding the city as they repel numerous enemy attacks” – the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Analysis at the Institute for the Study of War said Ukraine still held much of the city – although Russian troops were attempting to envelope it from the south and east. According to the ISW, the city council building is in part of the city previously claimed by Russian Wagner forces, as it approaches from the east (where Yevgeny Prigozhin recently lifted the Russian Flag). Work Sited from the BBC news Europe.

Finland is set to Join NATO; as the 31^st country on April 4^th, 2023; this will add 830 miles of land border with Russia. Creating a new Northern Flank with Russia NATO must now defend, but Helsinki is a very capable country themselves. But one can understand security guarantees, and not wanting to ever risk being isolated if ever having to fight Russia on their own again. Finland’s population only being a small fraction of Russia’s. Russia’s population being 145 million respectfully, because that number could be manipulated. Most consensus agree Russia’s population exceeds 128 million people. But Russian statistics say otherwise. Even with Sweden backing them it still would be much less men to stimulate the surge of troops Russia could potentially muster in the future. If they do get their act(s) together long-term, which is still questionable in most people’s opinions.

The information war has been in full tilt mode, since before the beginning of Russia’s full scale invasion, both sides seemingly implementing a strategy of tit for tat, when expelling diplomats on suspicions of spying or espionage. Geopolitics can be extremely complex, and heavily misunderstood. Russia terrified of the Volga-grad gap’s vulnerabilities, and by extension in the northern and southern Caucasus Mountains. This perfectly justifies Putin’s logic to all his Oligarchs with close ties to Parliament.   

                 Chapter 6 – The information war

Battle for information includes both sides projecting their own opposing sides casualties’ statistics and collections. Ukraine claiming in the 400^th day of war, Russia’s losses exceed 174,000 dead; the amount maimed or injured triples this number. Ukraine has suffered similar numbers to include civilians, Norwegian intelligence estimates roughly 100,000 Ukrainian soldiers dead, and roughly 30,000 civilians dead. Both sides of statistics have yet to be independently confirmed. One article I found fascinating today was claiming and American with some part of the foreign legion said, “the life expectancy of an ordinary infantrymen’s four hours in Bakhmut.” Take that for face value if you’d like, it could be reality but it’s very hard to confirm these claims without having better battlefield analytics; and through the fog of war.

Don’t be fooled by your own illusions of right or wrong, some things can only be discovered by experience, using methods of humanity, and soul, to figure out someone’s true intentions. Morale is such a hard word for me to describe yet, if you were to visit Ukraine, you’d find loads of strong morale around every street corner, and every person seeking victory on the streets of even a small town/village like Uman, Ukraine. A good friend of mine lives in Uman, Ukraine (which has one of the largest Jewish populations in Ukraine per-capita) we’ll call him “flex” because he’s strong, physically and mentally. Trying to describe the word “Peace” to Flex, this was extremely difficult, because since he can remember his country has been at War with Russia.

Hating Russia, and Russians, has been ingrained into his psyche. I told him over and over again, when the war with Russia ends you will find “peace” my friend. Also giving him advice to avoid hatred, and that darkness will only bring on more darkness, he must learn to respect his enemy no matter what he may take from you. Most Russian soldiers are forced to be there against their own will(s). This is something everyone should keep in mind when criticizing the Russian military in general. The point I’m trying to make is, information can fool anyone into believing they themselves are 100% right. In my humble opinion there’s no such thing in today’s reality of information flow; it’s all being manipulated in one way or another.

Trying to find concrete information in a hamster wheel of media cycles seems nearly impossible. I won’t include any applications that’ll help you find factual headlines and news just know they do exist, and are extremely helpful with connecting the media dots of liberal and conservative agendas. This is truly information people need to understand when constructing views and opinions on certain subjects, looking at whose funding the operation or media channel, money trails are always telling of someone’s true interests. Information space has become so powerful, and can direct public interests in certain directions according to the companies agenda/narrative/interest. Impacting markets all across the globe, and feeding consumerism at its most valuable core. Trade exchange, free market(s) has become such big business, no interest is higher, for any country currently.

Energy, micro-chip, and food shortages are coming, there’s no doubt – this crisis will trump damages of any war currently taking place, forcing governments to make extremely hard choices on which countries to potentially feed in the future. The media space should be active in looking for off ramps for both sides to quell the conflict and fighting.  Instead of this we’re seeing the media space only fuel the conflict further it would appear. My understanding of geopolitics is limited from what I’ve personally researched via the internet; though finding confirmed information can be difficult, and time consuming to find. Why are we fueling so many crises at once? Yet making zero attempts to solve any of them, and only appearing to be solving “climate change.” Everyone should be concerned with our children’s futures. Wanting to make a point of let’s start solving problems rather than creating them, sincerely. Let’s stop pretending nothing’s wrong and start getting more involved in our communities, giving everyone a voice; then seek compromise. It’s fairly simple in a society such as ours, we’re very lucky to have it, so maybe we should use it to our advantage(s).

Resolution to the conflict can be challenging to state without offending one side or the other. Considering I haven’t visited modern day Russia, there’s no way I can understand their ways of thinking, currently. One day maybe the political climate will change and I’ll be able to visit in the future.  Until then I’m forced to formulate opinions based on things I read in books and encyclopedia(s). 

The rhetoric they spew via state own media stations (in Russia) is incredible if compared to western media talking points. Nuclear saber rattling on a regular basis, making threats towards all western countries. We’re closer to war with nuclear power more than we’ve been in our recent history, if ever (according to Kremlin run state media) . How could this not concern more politicians? It’s quite alarming if I’m being honest, the way our media narrates it, nuclear war or war with China could be any day now. We should be seeking peace not war, this idea of hegemony should be shared amongst countries and societies. Spread the idea of being more active in solving this war, by being creative and compromising in the ideals of any peace deal or negotiations. I’m definitely no politician but diplomacy doesn’t appear to be that hard, unless we do in fact have some greater interests in Ukraine. Or could it really be to destroy one of our lasting enemies after all, and possibly witness the collapse of the Russian Federation? Again think of the amount of nuclear weapons that would have to be secured by a competent nation, it would be an undertaking of enormous magnitude. To be sincere, I’d really hate to see the collapse of the Russian Federation, but their leadership(s) seemingly walking straight into a trap of dissolution.  

Vladimir Putin regularly states, this special military operation to be an existential threat to the existence of the Russian State. Sending a clear signal to the west, they are in fact worried about their demographic problem(s) and plan on doing something about them. Seemingly from my perspective the United States and its allies careless about Russia’s demographic issues. I also believe they’re voices in senate or even the white house (ISW) against arming Ukraine to the point it completely steam-rolls Russia on the battlefield; sincerely.

Volodymyr Olesandrovych Zelenskyy – 6^th President of Ukraine; currently Ukraine’s and millions of others hero. Deservedly so, he stood firm in the face of Russia’s full-scale invasion, inspiring myself and millions of other people to act on their behalf. Zelenskyy was also named the “Time Person of the Year.” Born to Jewish parents in January 1978, then Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic, raised in a city called Kryvyi Rih. His father was a Professor and computer scientist at the Kryvyi Rih State University of Economics and Technology. President Zelenskyy clearly didn’t come from a chief – but from a Doctor of Science and mathematics. No other leader in recent history has inspired so many people to act so strongly in the face of such destruction. I’m also of the belief he’s withholding true casualty figures to maintain morale within society and troops. One could argue he and his cabinet/administration/inner circle have done a phenomenal job in the informational war space. Which helps maintain his country’s morale and he makes a point to send a message via telegram almost every day, especially when new developments arise on the front line. Keeping society calm is half the battle for him and his inner circle it would seem. He knows people are getting tired of war on both sides, but he’s especially worried about his own. My belief is whose ever society can wait-out the other will be decisive on the battlefield. Keeping your composer under such constant pressure must drain the strongest of mentally tough people, including President Zelenskyy. From the appearance of the opposing side Russia, the war is also starting to have a dramatic affect on them as well. Putin is constantly shifting different Kremlin players against one another. Almost as if he’s unaware of what to do, or how to draw attention away from himself, and his apparent mistakes. President Zelenskyy is also living up to his promise of getting rid of corrupt officials, I think the record shows over 500 different Ukrainian officials have been relieved of their post(s), or forced to resign. The opposing side claims he’s doing it to consolidate power amongst his colleagues.

Regardless however, Ukraine will have one of the most modern days tested militaries in the world concluding this conflict. Which in the subject of security its good news for Ukraine. Having to participate in constant trench warfare since 2014 will harden any society substantially so. The horrors associated with trench warfare cannot be understated, the health issues that come with trench warfare can be almost worse than the fighting itself. Living conditions are atrocious, making sure your being sanitary can be extremely challenging depending upon your current location. I personally stayed in locations where the “toilet” walk was roughly 500 plus meters, and the “bathroom” or shower facilities were roughly a 2 kilometer walk. So think of walking in full flak and Kevlar while wearing shower gear and shower shoes for almost 2 kilometers just to take your bi-weekly shower. Considering the conditions, we had in Iraq these were completely inferior. Luckily Ukrainians have some heart and rotate you out every five or six days to and from the front line in order to give their troops some rest and relaxation. The biggest mental drain for soldiers I experienced was knowing where you’re heading back too. I called it a “mind-fuck from hell.” This did give Marines/Soldiers/Border guards/Police officers a chance to go home for a few days and visit their families. Considering Martial-Law was implemented after the first few days of the war, the latest one is allowed to be out is 23:00 or 11:00 pm for us United States folk. Thus smoking indoors indicative of modern day life in Ukraine, unlike the U.S where you can no longer smoke indoors anywhere. Beside the architecture there are many minuet differences between Ukraine and the United States of America, which can be observed daily, too many to list.

During my first visit to Ukraine I traveled to the city of Odesa initially, because there I had connected with a Marine supporting the 36th Marine Corps Brigade (Mykolaiv). Within a few days, my background check was complete, next of kin paperwork filed, and a photo of myself taken in front an American and Ukrainian flag(s). No contract was signed at this time, only signatures required were for my background check, plus another for my rifle issue number in order to have an armory to turn my rifle back into once my fighting days were complete. From there we traveled to a small village which is now firmly under Ukrainian control of Nechayane (to collect ourselves gear-up, and get briefed on the coming operation ahead), Mykolaiv Oblast. It was clear to me we were staging for an assault with another adjacent territorial defense group, though both groups were never introduced prior to this operation, the mood was apprehensive. 

M14 was the road we were supposed to travel, but instead of driving directly on the road, for security reasons we chose to drive on the dirt farm roads running parallel with most of the route to Mykolaiv. It was obvious when we were approaching because that’s when the shelling started raining down around our vehicles. At which point our driver started increasing the speed of the vehicle, for an extended period of time (15-20 minutes I would assume) my attention mainly drawn to the shelling. Then after making an abrupt stop, the driver told us to get “the F*ck out!” So we obliged this notion of gratitude and continued on with the mission at hand. When I tell you my legs tremble while writing this text(s) reliving the moment, my teeth are clinched and my legs shake. Because it was complete darkness no aircraft were air bound yet. Though both sides air defenses were effective at this time air superiority was still contested.

We began traveling on foot through a tree-line, knowing we were close to the city we decided to dig in and at least have a place to always fall back on. A citadel or alamo so to speak, because we were still very unsure what kind of fighting we would run into the following day.

The unit I was with luckily was armed well to take on multiple different types of weapons systems, such as anti-tank weapons, various types of claymore mines/landmines, and a few drones spread throughout the teams. Each one of us knew it was the beginning of April and the weather there at night could still get below freezing. Forcing us to really dig a dug out to have a fire that night, and a place for people to warm themselves up, especially those on watch/duty/post.

We were kindly woken up by artillery volley in the distance probably 2 kilometers away, at which point we decided to make sure our position was well hidden so we were not targeted. Our mission was only to observe troop movements and not to compromise our positions, yes we were well armed but that was only a contingency plan in case someone found us who shouldn’t. We also wired a bridge close to our flanking position to blow-up in case things went real south. Luckily no drastic measures had to be met or taken (to this point).

I was very impressed how the Ukrainians were able to organize so quickly at the beginning. On the third day, we observed what we assumed was an SBG (Russian Sabotage Recon Group); we quickly repositioned ourselves to fight, when an RPG ripped through a part of our dug-out. We later found that to be kind of a waste besides a wake-up call to start shooting later on, so in some awkward way we were grateful for the alarm. Which point we knew it was time to bound towards our flank (left) considering that’s where we heard most of the fighting taking place. Staying disciplined to trench line warfare, only a small contingency of us decided to bound and reinforce, I was the last person to bound out of four Marines. Myself being the last man, it was my job to maintain security in the rear, ensuring no enemies get between us and friends; that could turn our reality into a nightmare quickly.

Once we approached our team members location, the fire fight erupted even further, I got down quickly hearing bullets whizzing above my head and body. Forcing us to low-crawl for about 50 feet to reach a safer location, with better cover. We finally reached safer cover, this point realizing no one was hurt or in trouble yet. Two of us decided we should head back in the other direction to hold our rear positions strong in case this attack was a in fact a decoy. Thus repeating the process of low-crawling, basically skull-dragging because the fire fight was still erupting, believed to have heard even more RPG(s) deployed above my head only to miss the trench for a second or third time.

Again another fire-fight erupts, but this time with different various types of indirect fire. Mortars, shelling, and BMP-2(s) seem to have found our position. This was starting to turn into the enemies’ favor, thankfully we had drones which saw them coming and we were able to prepare. Using Rocket propelled grenade launchers H.E rounds we were able to buy ourselves time to exfil the location we were currently occupying. We were prepared to use the recoilless rifle and or javelin if needed, but our platoon commander was wise enough to have patience until we really needed them. Gratefully of course our original plan of hammering them with RPG’s was successful enough to move, towards APC(s) armored personnel carriers, for more fire power and cover.

Moving through a field you knew was being watch via Russian drones was a scary feeling. You thought any second could be your last if they put a well-placed mortar shell or artillery shell in the right spot, right time; eyes shut and game over.  

 I’ve mentioned in past passages – the language barrier became too much of a liability, and after our quick 6-day op. I was transferred to a different unit. That quickly turned into a nightmare because of the disorganization, at that time April 2022 of the International Foreign Legion. Remember I went from already being armed, to having my weapon turned in, and sent to another unit I hadn’t served with at all thus far, and told to get in- line.

Overwhelming to say less, and they wanted to send me back to the northern front line almost immediately after my arrival, with a bunch of people I wouldn’t be given the opportunity to meet before getting to their location. From what information you can get at the rear, the foreign legion was fighting in urban combat at that very moment. Trench warfare had not really begun besides in the Donbas regions, and not training at least for a couple days before being thrust into urban combat; in a city I’ve never heard of kind of intimidated me a little bit.

I tried a different method; it’s called diming myself out – and see where volunteering myself would take me. Like the old saying goes, while in the military never volunteer for anything, especially in the Ukrainian military.

Adventures always interest me the most in life, fortunately for me I’m slimly lucky to tell the story, to be quite blunt volunteering is as exciting as one would think. Providing security for humanitarian aid workers, for civilians caught in a city close to the fighting, yes I was armed, not getting paid; yet doing the world some good (so I thought). Bringing 20 tons of dog food to shelters every other day, if I had more money saved at the time I would have stayed longer.

Yes it was dangerous because in order to reach some of these places, it required you to get close to where the fighting is occurring. Why I’m writing these two paragraphs in the “information war” chapter, is because information drove me to these places. I’ve been following the war since the annexation of Crimea, and paid close attention when maidan happened. I was privy to this war more than likely taking place, I actually believed it would have happened sooner. Considering the history between President Joe Biden and Russian Federation’s President Vladimir Putin if you’ve ever researched a conversation in one of their “private meetings.” I believe then Vice President Joe Biden told President Vladimir Putin; “I don’t think you have a soul.”

Simply put information caused me to go to a place like Ukraine, spend hard earned money to get there, just to get a glimpse of what’s actually happening. And I’d still say it’s hard to explain, and extremely complicated. None of which any of us Americans could understand; not even a little, maybe marginalized Native Americans, but I’d say for the most part we are greatly privileged in comparison.  

The way they fight with artillery as their main weapon of choice, is honestly the scariest thought of all for me being a Marine. It’s honestly the most terrifying thing, just consider the raw intensity of 152mm artillery shells raining down on you for hours on end. Your first immediate thought is “F*ck everything else dig in now!” Pray nothing strikes your position, or they’re not directing fire via drone, because we’ve seen they can be pretty accurate while using this platform. Withstanding long periods of bombardment was the biggest test of all, the feeling of helplessness, and frustration consumes you. Knowing if you take one step out of your hole, the chances of you dying increase significantly, by the second. While being attacked and holding a position in a trench actually brought me back to my days in Marine Corps Combat Training, at Camp Geiger, Devil-Dog, North Carolina. There I was taught how to defend a well-built trench, given only e-tools, we were told to dig in and defend our sectors of fire. Muscle memory was compounded into our heads, even if your buddy to the right is taking fire man your sector of fire and do not compromise the entire position. Otherwise risk giving away your position and allowing the assaulting enemy to flank your intrench position.

So with a translator, I passed along this valuable knowledge onto whoever would listen, thankfully it caught the attention of a commanding officer(s), and he placed me partially in-charge of an entire platoon (temporarily). Sometimes even helping fortify different positions (in Kupyansk, Svatove, & Kreminna sectors) Ukrainians knew how to build functional trenches they just needed some help spreading that dynamic out among an 800-mile front line. I didn’t make a real impact, only helped pass my knowledge onto anyone who’d listen. If we could make sense of it through translation great if not, I’d move on to the next interview or adventure.

After only being there for two short weeks you already start to grow accustomed to the air raid sirens, and rarely seek cover or shelter. Most just recommend you stay inside, and not venture outdoors. Rather than seek an actual bomb-shelter, just stay in your apartment and pray a rocket doesn’t rip through your building. Terrible feeling actually, luckily none of the rockets hit any of the locations I was staying at though a few strayed close. None struck any of the buildings I was staying in then.

I’ve visited Kyiv once, the capital of Ukraine, I wouldn’t say it was underwhelming just not what I expected, apparently a lot of locals have left, which has caused a massive impact on its economy. Forcing more and more Ukrainian people below the poverty line, and food, utility payments become more of an issue. Still a beautiful city, just a shadow of its former self, due to the war occurring on its own soil. You can’t say much better for Kharkiv either, almost of third the city had been destroy by Russian bombardment and shelling. Maybe Russia is trying to erase Ukraine off the map.  

Another important headline recently, “U.S. Citizen Wall Street Journalist – Detained in Russia on espionage related charges.” Journalists from the Wall Street Journal and Fortune, have stated very clearly in recent reports of Mr. Evan Gershkovich being detained for simply telling the truth about Russia’s current dwindling economy. 

Just another tit for tat moves from the Russians to posture themselves further away from western media and international law. Citing they live and breath by their own laws, and belief systems, none of which should include “Western ideals.” Interpret that how you will, I’m still lost on the concept of “Western Ideals.” American and European cultures are so different, how could we have the same ideals?

“International Criminal Court; issued arrest warrants for President of the Russian Federation - Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, and Maria Lvova-Belova, Russian Commissioner for Childrens Rights. Alleging responsibility for the unlawful deportation and transfer of children during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.” –https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ICC_arrest_warrants_for_Vladimir_Putin_and_Maria_Lvova-Belova

Metro newsletter and headlines claims; Woman who “handed pro-kremlin blogger statue that exploded” detained in Russia. Kremlin insiders clearly pointing the blame on collaborations between U.S. foreign intelligence agencies, alongside Ukrainian foreign intelligence operatives. The information space is only getting more volatile, literally by the second. Information can be passed, processed, and consumed so quickly these days; media press organizations struggle to stay ahead of the next breakthrough story/headline.

Deutschland/Germany Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck who’s also the economy minister. Arrived unannounced in Kyiv Monday. Travelling with a business delegation including Germanies main lobby firm the Federation of German Industries. Clearly signaling to the Kremlin where their confidence lies; in Ukraine.

During my visit to Poland, and Germany, the news seems to send a very similar message, the Russian aggressor must be stopped. Though the people who reside in these countries seem very grateful to be living just next door. Thus it’s my belief the support for Ukraine will continue from most of these countries just so long as they keep the fighting in Ukraine. Once it spills over into a European Union, or NATO country it’s anyone’s guess where public opinion could turn too.

The Associated Press – a story by Hanna Arhirova wrote 4/3/2023. With the headline of “With no peace in sight, NATO countries eye more Ukraine help.” Have been quoted writing “The Russians never run out of ammunition, equipment and personnel whom they use as cannon fodder to keep trying to storm cities.”

 Bulgaria’s most recent election show’s Borissov as the winner and will soon be mandated in creating his new cabinet for government in Bulgaria. This couldn’t be worse news for those expecting a difference in living standard, long term. Borissov’s party seems to stray away from western leaning influence, and tends to favor the east, such countries like Türkiye, and Russia. This new modern cold war is heating up on all fronts, allies, and enemies alike.  

         Chapter 7 – Present-day Cold War Mentality

Did the West really end the cold war, once Germany/Deutschland was unified? Or did it happen when the full dissolution of the Soviet Union happened? Regardless according to President Regan, it was a clear cut victory for western intelligence, and efforts. I believe many people were and still are upset over the collapse U.S.S.R. (In Russia) It’s quite clear to me the war they’re currently engaged in today is because the Soviet Union collapsed. Otherwise, Ukraine and Russia would still be the same country present-day. It’s almost my belief a large majority of Ukrainians wanted freedom/independence post-collapse; this is also quite clear to me.

Russian leadership, and ideals say otherwise, but I see no problem with countries wanting freedom, so much so they’re willing to fight a bloody conflict for it. Therefore, it’s hard to say Ukraine doesn’t want independence, and it’s hard to say whether Russia ever wanted to give them that independence, it appears they were forced into such a deal during the full-collapse of the Soviet Union. These events clearly happened for a reason, the people had spoken, and now your meager attempts at putting it back together like a puzzle will clearly fail. Or potentially kill millions in the process.

I’d say I have a pro-western view of the cold war between capitalism and communism. Though I never lived under communism, I can only imagine the horrors gone through by poverty strife communities had to endure, during this time period.  My views are clearly manipulated via western media sources, and narratives. If the U.S.S.R was so grandiose, why was it so quickly disintegrated, when the time arose? Again I wasn’t there when this event was taking place, I was hardly 4 years old living in the United States.

Eastern Europe’s landscape and fluidness of changing conquerors’ hands fascinates me – it’s so rich in historical events, value, that clearly had a ripple effect on anyone with a European heritage, it’s sometimes hard to fathom. Eastern Europe has always existed as land worth fighting for; whether it be over control via the Black Sea and Crimea, or the fertile plains that stretch from Germany like cone shape, all the way to Russia’s door step. This stretch of land has always been cause for concern, for Russian leadership, they know first hand just how deadly this flat easily traversable land can be to invaders. Russia will do almost anything to protect this corridor of land to include the Volga-grad gap.

Modern-era Cold War battle landscape looks much different from 30 years ago. Now Cyber security and cyber-attacks have become the new normal. Ransomware, Petya, and Notpetya malware have decimated some companies security guarantees to their consumers, or customers. NTC Vulkan has been the biggest culprit in harboring these capabilities and recruiting employees/freelance contractors to carry out their bidding of cyber-attacks on certain targets. 80% of attacks have been directed towards Ukraine, and those residing within the borders of Ukraine, other countries attacked include U.S., U.K., Germany, Poland, Italy, and France. Hard to predict a landscape such as the internet, considering new computer-hackers find backdoors to software every day, it’s extremely hard to say where this will end up.

This war has gotten so complicated even Blackhat/Whitehat computer hackers blur lines all the time. Though I do not watch “vice news” often, but they were tracking a Russian computer hacker, found his address and wasn’t shy about letting them into his “hacking-layer.” During the interview process, this Russian hacker decided to hack vice’s website directly in front of their eyes. Quite the dramatic episode, considering the quote unquote hacker decides to boldly request a gmail.com email-address.

I must also admit my knowledge of computers is rudimentary at best, this world of cyber warfare still fascinates me considerably. The owner of Evil Corp a Russian based hacking firm of sorts has created significant damages to banks throughout the U.S and on many other countries or continents. He’s been on the F.B. I’s most wanted list, for obvious reasons.  Even if I did have these computer skills I’d use them for good not evil. Learn to better protect my family and friends, rather than to steal or cheat people out of their hard earned money. One could go on about this subject for pages upon pages, if you do the least bit of research it’ll be the first you’ll find.  My point being we’re living in a very different world from the 1990’s – the turn of the last century, has birthed a new era of information and data collection.

Group IB – Directors of operations Ilya Sachkov warned us and his audience, cyber terrorism is on the rise. These are the most dangerous of groups, because they have no financial gain interests, only ideological desires. All it would take is for one nuclear weapon to get hacked, or compromised, and nuclear annihilation could become imminent. Instead we’re creating an atmosphere where we don’t protect those trying to fight this most incredible security threat. I tend to give this company some credibility considering they work for governments, and major corporations. Again, it my opinion the United States lacks in such departments, where places like China, and Russia only promotes this certain behaviors from its people. I can only pray we have enough “white-hat hackers” on the side of the U.S. and it’s intelligence services. Protecting such sensitive equipment like nuclear weapons seems to absolutely need peoples of cyber-security and of competent levels.  

This war seems to be spiraling out of anyone’s control. Should we be preparing the public for a much larger conflict, because this is shaping up to be a pretext for a new world war. The only difference this time is, all major powers involved in the conflict have nuclear weapons capabilities. Hopefully we can keep it conventional, the thought no longer resonates keeping this “peace-full” is any longer possible. I’m sure any freelancing agencies are actively seeking out those with computer technology proficiencies to help seek out and destroy malware practices via the Russian side. From my observations they’ve become heavily efficient at utilizing towards a particular enemy. Including the United States and its allies; computers, potentially quantum computing is the future of mankind, therefore I’m beginning to think getting a better understanding of computer software engineering, is a good idea. 

Not only to help defend my nation against cyber-attacks but also help my family keep their money earnings and savings intact. Educations the key to this issue no matter how you spin the conflict, once we better educate ourselves on the better qualities of living in peace, war will become obsolete.

                Chapter 8 – Resolution to Conflict

Hardest of all is describing how to stop something after it’s already started. War’s like opening pandora’s box and expecting to find treasures and riches, in reality you only multiply your problems. Preaching education to a nation of intellects can be extremely challenging, how did we get here so quickly, or was it coming all long just waiting to rear its ugly head. Unfortunately I’d love to pretend I understand how to stop this war, but I really can’t say with any-type of certainty. Potential for this lasting for a decade or more is high, and unless East and West can learn to start listening to each other once more, this conflict is here to stay for the long-term similar to north and south Korea.

I’ve seen plenty of Russians that have lived in the west for many years now, turn to living in Canada or the U.S instead of traveling home to Russia with loved ones. They’re afraid of getting summons to a military registration office. Considering their names aren’t Alexander Mikhailovich Ovechkin, or Evgeni Vladimirovich Malkin. I know recently Alexander Ovechkin’s father passed away, and he traveled back to Russia in order to pay his last respects (February 15^th, 2022).

Unfortunately I wish more people would speak out about this conflict, I’m not saying athletes do it, but they could use they’re influence to educate people about Russian perspective. They’ve lived there a good portion of their lives, we should be picking their brains about culture, and Russian thinking. What can we do to help solve this problem, that’s currently happening in Ukraine. If they don’t have the answer maybe, they know someone who does. Why aren’t we trying all channels of approach regardless of whether we deem them appropriate or not. The idea of diplomacy only through politicians is very outdated and should be reformed.

It's the age-old question of, why humans can never get along? Solving this one question could potentially solve world hunger, bring prosperity to different nations, stop pollution, and help solve climate change. But we chose to fight, cause food crisis, over energy dependence and still blame war for it occurring. We seem destitute to the trenches, we’ve chosen war over peace, violence over negotiations every time. Violence, conflict, war, is big business.

Causing Russia’s collapse won’t solve anything either, just like the collapse of the Soviet Union, unpredictable consequences will occur. I’m not saying Ukraine taking back Crimea will cause this to happen, but most commentators and observers seem to think this could happen if the Putin regime would fail to hold on to the peninsula.  Could there be a compromise between the two countries, maybe renegotiate after a 10-year lease. Not sure Ukraine would sign such a lease or agreement with Russia currently.

Solidarity – could be a great tool in order to put a halt to this war. Fortunately for Ukraine the “West” did unify under the cause of supporting Ukraine, and to help defend its borders and statehood. If you were to speak with anyone off the streets in the United States they’d probably tell you they thought the war had already come to an end. Considering the amount of enthusiasm shown via western media, once the Kharkiv counter-offensive, and Kherson counter-offensives were a surprise to the Russian Ministry of Defense. The only Russian commentator open about knowing the counter-offensive was coming; was the notoriously dangerous leader of Wagner Group PMC; Mr. Yevgeniy Prigozhin.  

Other Private Military Companies currently operating in Ukraine on Behalf of Russia, are Patriot PMC – associated closely with Gen. Sergei Shoigu Minister of Defense, and GRU have close affiliations to the group, and seemingly operated in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and small portions of Donetsk Oblast.

A training/advisor corps of former NATO military service members formally called Mozart Group, was recently dissolved into Da’ Vinci Group within the last few months operating in support of Ukrainian troops only. Clearly there’s zero solidarity with Russia from the western world.

They did seemingly have a defector who goes by the call-sign of “Alabama” really created some damage to the Foreign Legions legitimacy after he defected to Russia via Türkiye. His story is truly “unimaginable,” if you like false information, and according to most commentators completely made-up.

I attempted to stay towards being behind the scenes rather than making them, knowing if I showed enough Ukrainian people I could be trusted, I would eventually get to where I wanted to go, so to speak. This made perfect sense to me, I just didn’t imagine it would be so nerve-racking, and frustrating at times. At no fault of anyone else, War can be frustrating and a war of this magnitude was the most insane thing anyone could ever do with their lives. I traveled from the safety of the United States by myself to Eastern Europe, better more Eastern, Southern, and Northern Ukraine. Only having contacts with very few people and the independent research I conducted myself, with the help of my significant other. I was able to travel there safely and always have a safe place or location to fall back on in case things went completely sideways.

It cannot be stated enough that the level of brutality this conflict has taken on, the amount of suffering it has caused in one single year, still seems to escape my words of just how damaging it will be for future generations. Recovering from a war of this nature will take decades, maybe centuries to heal from. Ukraine and Russia are neighbors, and share a long border with one another; we must seek peaceful relations between them, otherwise we’ll witness another North and South Korea scenario. And the hybrid cold-war mentality will continue, and nothing will get resolved in regards to crisis or conflict. 

Education and Truth will set us free of these shackles, until we expose the lies and deceit, we’ll never shed the shackles of truth and education. Never ending cycle of war, crisis, conflict, natural disasters etc. This great divide between societies will only emerge stronger, and millions of people will suffer due to these ignorant decisions made by leaders of countries and corporations. This is not an attack on anyone, only an attempted notion to open people’s minds to facts that currently exist, and should be considered dearly. I’ve learned to love humanity but I really find it hard to love war, seeing the mass graves of both Ukrainians and Russians will humanize anyone. This is why the leaders committing genocide never visit the location(s) of where its occurring. It could potentially change their minds and bring humanity back into their hearts. Incredible world we live in, apprehensive, contradicting, and neglectful world. Where one person, has the tight control over millions of lives, and refuses to loosen his grip, will ultimately fall from
“grace” due to paranoia. We can only pray, something like this happens soon. But who’s to say a much more dangerous leader won’t take his place.

Resolution relies on the greater powers coming together including those currently fighting conflicts, and talking about realistic compromises. Inevitable as it may seem, neither side will agree currently to speak to one another. This seems to be the biggest challenge so far to deal with, even Hungry and Serbia who’ve been staunchly Russia’s greatest allies in Europe are seemingly back tracking on previous statements. I think North Korea, Iran, and Russia are the big three sanctioned countries in present day. With that being said, how can we allow these frozen conflicts to exist, rather than solving them real time; “society” tends to make it a war between Democracy vs Communism/Autocracy. Resolution will always rely on these great powers sitting down on or off record, and hashing the important things out. Stop blaming ideological differences for our shortcomings and start looking towards relations we do have in common. Surely these ideas have been passed around a time or two (in leadership).  I fail to see a reason why we should not at least try, in order to seek peace, rather than allowing a massive war on European soil to take place.

                                           Outro

Please once again, these are just some events I witnessed and shared myself, and the opinions, perspectives shared are strictly a representation of myself; no one else, country, or corporation(s). This is simply my appeal to others to please help wake-up the public and truly consider what a threat this War in Europe is to our “national security (in my opinion).” More people, including myself, should get more involved in our local communities, we can only strengthen ourselves by becoming closer. We may not all get along, but at the end of the day we’re all on the same team, when it comes to an enemy attacking our nation. By becoming more united we only project strength to the broader global communities.

I’m terrified of the future we currently are faced with, generations to come will ultimately pay the awful price of a pro-longed war. Spending trillions upon trillions to quell the inabilities of politicians to stop war/conflict/crisis from happening in the first place.  European leaders are clearly showing concern for the conflict spilling over into other nations, reporters are evening hearing whispers of E.U peacekeeping troops being deployed all over the nation of Ukraine. Question still being would Ukraine even agree to those terms in the first place? Would President Zelenskyy be looked at by Russia as relinquishing the reigns to their country to the “collective west”? Is yet to be seen, but that worries me considerably, because it would signal to Russia they are in fact at War with Europe and the West, considering Russia’s in the firm belief that the United States controls the European Union.

The inaccuracies that probably exist on both sides would astonish the greatest of observers. Unfortunately attempting to un-foil such discrepancies could take even the most advanced intellects decades to expose. I’m only trying to suggest there has to be an easier answer to this problem, someone’s refusing to admit, or suggest. Whether that be the United States, Russia, Ukraine, or Germany. In the future we’ll see withheld information come forward from both sides, believing I ran into a few journalists on my last visit to Ukraine, they had major media/press credentials and were afforded more time to remain with in the country.

Who wins in conflict? Is the argument I’m trying to uncover, and I’m of the opinion with out truth, no one can win or lose, only suffer greatly for their mistakes. Including those currently observing will ultimately be dragged into this war one way or another.  Avoiding this fight in the near term will be simply nothing short of a miracle, is Donald Trump the answer, I’m not quite sure. He may think he’s the answer but, negotiations, or off ramps he could “potentially” create, do not seem realistic.  Even Russian “commentators/propogandists” believe Trump coming to office won’t make much of a difference between either themselves or the Ukrainians, strategic goals.

Education is the best-case scenario, the truth will set us free, nothing else. Again this has nothing to do with either side, really the right response to the conflict, and how to prevent it from spreading further throughout Europe. This should be on everyone’s minds to avoid. Like President Joe Biden said, “we’ll defend every inch of NATO territory!” In Warsaw, Poland March 2022.  We must seek answers as well as support for Ukraine, we can do both, we’re perfectly capable of it. 

Ilya Sachkov Founder and General Director – Group IB.  On December 7^th, 2016 an interview was conducted by Bloomberg Originals via “Hello World’s” host Ashlee Vance. Travelling to Moscow Russia and received a rare glimpse into the heart of Russia’s hacker underground. Sharing the latest techniques of investigating new cybercrime(s). I found this interview interesting because these types of interviews really don’t exist much anymore, Russia has severely limited what the Kremlin call “western backed Journalists”.  To work within the country presently, unfortunately I think it does us a great disservice to not continue this kind of research. I’ve heavily sleuthed through thousands of pages of data to see if Group IB was in fact working for the FSB – they claimed to use them as customers for very specific jobs or contracts. Some of their clients include Citi Bank, and Microsoft. From what I can gather Group IB helped these bank(s), corporation(s), keep their cyber-security intact. Group IB headquarters have been relocated to Singapore. Ilya Sachkov was arrest by Russian Authorities, on charges of treason. September 29^th, 2021, is the date of the report’s release, details about Sachkov’s arrest still remains unclear, and Group IB insisted in a statement the case would be looked at very carefully, but Ilya Sachkov is innocent.

Russian hackers, and cybercrime is a rabbit-hole to dive into, I encourage anyone on their free time to do so. Clearly a war happening on cyber-space between the U.S. and Russia, more broadly NATO/E. U communities respectfully are also being heavily targeted, to include Ukraine, and Moldova.

Russia’s collapse could be considered a serious geopolitical disaster waiting to happen. I believe modern day history witnessed the first phase of this collapse after World War I, when the time of the Russian Empire and Tsar came to an end. Losing Finland permanently and the Baltic states temporarily. During the Soviet era, we witness them losing almost everything when World War II came knocking on their door. After World War II enfolded the Soviet Union managed to occupy much of eastern and central Europe; primarily due to the spoils of World War II. Though the U.S.S.R was fairly stable once Germany unified and the Berlin wall collapse, in 1989. It only took four short years before the remaining Soviet Republics decided it was time to break away from Soviet/Russian rule (phase 2).

China has tried repeatedly to position themselves as a mediator to the Russia – Ukraine War. Though China’s leader seems to refuse to visit Ukraine, citing dangers due to the ongoing war within the territory as reason to not visit the country. Speculation still persists about China supplying “lethal aid” to Russia in the coming months; through my research I can find no evidence of this occurring thus far. North Korea clearly has been given their own green-light from China to supply Russia with ammunition, and weapons. China’s still reluctant to put themselves into the melting pot of international sanctions. Without consumerism globally China’s economic hegemony it shares with the U.S. and its allies could potentially collapse.  Russia openly states “we’re quite jealous of Chinas’ technology, if I’m being honest.” – Vladimir Putin speaking to Xi Jinping, during their latest meeting in Moscow, Russia.  China clearly knows the leverage it now wields over Russia, which for Russian leadership should be their biggest concern, considering the treaty for Manchuria Province still existing.

The only way Russia knows how to deal with its common border problems is having a good offense creates a good defense. Witnessing the goliath we call the Russian Federation’s collapse could only be define as a catastrophe. China would likely take back greater Manchuria, and regions throughout Russia would seek independence from Moscow. Russia should consider the Ukraine war an existential threat, because losing could cause something of the likes of which human kind has never experienced. Thousands of strategic and tactical nuclear weapons would have to be secured via competent powers, would it even be possible to track each one? Does America and its allies have these capabilities? Such an undertaking would require corporation between perceived enemies, otherwise we risk even greater catastrophe. Losing track of one nuclear weapon, could lead to nuclear holocaust. I’m rooting against Russian collapse, but it would appear to any competent observer this event occurring could quite easily happen soon.   

Take being cursed with knowledge yet because you’ve been diem insane, no one will listen or take your warnings seriously. If you’re curiously looking for a flaw in our society, whelp I just gave you one written above. We’re so quick to discredit people, to never give them another voice or their unsilenced opinion(s) be heard again; seems extremely harsh. Gun violence steadily on the rise in my country, someone’s actively seeking a strong argument to disarm the American public. Unfortunately, in my humble opinion, this action would cause civil war. So, believe me when I say the United States absolutely has its own domestic problems occurring and reoccurring every day. These writing(s) are not an attack on any nation, including my own, to make such claims of being better than anyone else or anything, I’m simply seeking the truth. I strongly believe if someone can find it, we can solve this problem. This problem seems to be hidden behind so many layers of lies and deceit, it’s extremely hard to know or understand what fact is and what is fiction, in today’s information space. Not saying we shouldn’t try but be cautious before placing blame on anyone or anything.  

[some name's locations have been changed or redacted completely due to my security concerns]