Ukraine descends into dictatorship.

 STRESS AND DESPERATION DESTROYING DEMOCRACY

LITTLE EVIDENCE OF SELF-GOVERNMENT

Everyday witnesses the unraveling of any hope of a democratic government in Kiev. First it was the outlawing of opposition political parties, then the elimination of an independent press. Now, the elimination of any elections and all decisions are being made in a dictatorial manner.  

The latest has been the attacks on the Russian Orthodox church, a mainstay of Ukraine for centuries, mostly because it has the word Russian. Now Kiev has instituted conscription checkpoints to stop vehicles in an attempt to find more recruits to send to the front. Then changing the date of the celebration of Christmas to be more in line with western nations. All these decisions are being made by Zelensky and his inner circle, it appears there is not a parliament, no elected representative  government.

We have seen the forced conscription of now 17 year olds and old men, the average age of the Ukraine army is now 43. Women are now also subject to conscription.

It was this trend of instituting authoritarian and biased social and political policy that resulted in the revolt of the Russian dominated population of eastern Ukraine in 2014. Discrimination, banning of the Russian language and remaking history to suit the western part of the country. This latest decline into an authoritarian government will not be in the best interest of their country. Up to now it has the support of the majority of its citizens in the western parts of the country, those who want to be part of the west. Most of the conscription has been on the population of the eastern part of the country, now it finally is moving to include those in the west.

Internal division is growing between the generals and political leaders, there has been poisonings and grenade attacks on members of the military leadership. Without unity and a belief in a better future, the Russian advance in the east may be the least of their worries.

 

Operation Prosperity Guardian: U.S. and ?

 RED SEA COALITION? OR JUST GOOD INTENTIONS

MORE DEMANDS FOR U.S. FINANCES

With much fanfare the U.S. has announced a coalition of 10 nations, maybe 20 but who are not ready to be named, who will join in the effort to keep the red sea open for navigation. It appears that this will be a U.S. operation with several coat holders and observers giving support.

The coalition is to made up of the United States, Uk, Canada, Netherlands, Norway, Bahrain, France, Italy, Spain, and Seychelles.

The U.S. to send up to 3 warships.

Uk, 1 destroyer.

Canada 3 staff officers.

Netherlands 2 staff officers.

Norway 10 staff officers.

Australia 11 personnel

Italy and France claim they each have a warship in the area, but will not be under the command of Operation Prosperity guardian.

This list is not comprehensive as there may be others and it also may be changing.

So in effect this is a U.S. operation, that is hoping to protect shipping that will originate in the Persian gulf and China and ship goods to Europe. Of course this is supposed to be to protect shipping to Israel.

While it may be possible to stop direct surface attacks and possibly shoot down incoming drones and rockets, it may be impossible to offer complete security. The kind of security that would entice international shipping companies to risk Billions in ships and cargo.

So far it appears that all ships, including the U.S. ships, are refraining from entering the narrow Bab-el-Mandeb strait. 

It is unlikely that access to this strait can be assured without attacking the Houties from the air, sea and possibly ground forces. It is unlikely that any such coalition will be found to accomplish this.

Time for all taxes to be adjusted for inflation.

 GOVERNMENT PROFITS FROM INFLATION

OVERSPENDING CREATES INFLATION, THEN INCREASES TAXES ON CITIZENS

Tax time is just around the corner and it will bring surprises for many. There is a need for many taxes to be adjusted for the constantly rising inflation. While there are some adjustments being made as to the tax brackets, even they are not realistic with the rising inflation. 

We must be aware that inflation is reflected in rising prices of both needed things like food and energy, but also in asset values. This is a direct result of deficit spending, where the government spends more money than it receives in taxes. In reality, the value of your money and savings is declining in purchasing power. It is not an accident, it is in effect a tax on everything you own.  While it is often reported that adjustments are made to things like social security etc, they never fully  compensate for inflation. The Federal Reserve wants inflation, chooses a target of 2%, which is intentionally devaluing your money and assets by 2% a year. It is in the governments best interest to have inflation. Secondly their calculation often remove items such a food and energy from the equation, those items that are necessities. So, in effect, their calculations are also intentinly shewed to give a false calculus to real inflation.

The biggest scam is perpetrated when it come to capital gains. For instance, say you buy a stock in 1990 for $20 a share, with of course earnings that were far more valuable in purchasing power than $20 today. So you then decide to sell that stock that is now $40 a share and you feel you have done well, In effect if you calculate for compounded inflation your $40 may actually have less buying power than it did in 1990. In fact your $20 dollars in 1990 adjusted for inflation should be $46.04 just to break even, so in effect adjusted for inflation you have a loss of $6.04. 

Then the government calculates that you have a capital gain of $20 and requires a 15% tax or $3.00 a share for a realized loss of $9.00 a share due to inflation and taxes that do not account for inflation.

In the future you can expect that inflation is going to be higher and your purchasing power declining due to governments intentionally creating inflation. 

The other fact that needs to be addressed is that while all capital gains are taxed, losses can only be taken up to $3000. a year. If you should have loss of $30,000 it will take you 10 years to deduct this loss from your gains. If you are elderly you may not live that long.     

Then there is interest in the bank it is always a losing proposition, it never accounts for inflation, is never more than inflation, is always less, then you are required to pay taxes on this losing proposition.  

We must all realize that our government is continually in process of confiscating our earned and saved wealth, and yet they still do not have enough money.

 

Ukraine now fully moves to defensive mode.

 RUSSIA MAKING STEADY INCREMENTAL ADVANCES

LOOKS LIKE LONG STRATEGY OF ATTRITION ON UKRAINE AND NATO

The fighting continues along the 600 mile conflict line, with steady pressure and small advances by Russia. Russia has several 100 thousand troops in reserve with enough equipment and supplies for a major concentrated offensive, but it seems that is not the current strategy and may not be the long term plan.

Ukraine is attempting to conscript another 500,000 troops, but it seems that it has expended its supply of motivated personnel. While they are forcibly recruiting new personnel they most likely will never be authentically motivated. They are running short of all types ammunition and most of the troops have been in active combat for over 9 months. Their new orders have been to dig in and attempt to resist any advances from Russia. This 600 mile conflict line has been fortified for near 10 years, it is unlikely they can increase it effectiveness very much. The fighting is intense every day and Ukraine is still putting up a formidable defense.

While the debate over strategy ended for Russia with the demise of  Yevgeny Prigozhin, who was the chief advocate of a intense concentrated overwhelming offensive to end the conflict as quickly as possible. He believed it would save lives and material in the long run. His defeat of Ukraine in Bakhmut was a devastating battle for both sides but was a decisive victory for Russia.

It seems the Russian strategists are content to keep a steady pressure on Ukraine to force them to engage and take losses of men and equipment. It is apparent they view this as a war with NATO and the U.S. and they see the growing economic and social problems in Europe and the U.S. being combined to take a toll on the Wests ability to maintain support for this war. While a major offensive could end this war more quickly, it could also further rally support from the West, including NATO involvement. 

So at present it appears the Russians must conclude a long drawn out expenditure of western resources and Ukraines inability to provide manpower will in the long run be a more permanent victory over both Ukraine and NATO.

Russian sanctions and Environmental rules destroying Europe.

 IS THIS COLLATERAL DAMAGE OR THE REAL GOAL?

RESULTS WILL BE LIFE THREATENING TO CITIZENS

It is interesting to watch as the EU policies of enacting laws and enacting sanctions on Russia amount to nothing more than symbolism over real results. For decades they have been enacting policies to end the production of fossil fuel production and end the use of nuclear energy without any meaningful strategy of replacing these energy sources. Many advocated the use of natural gas as the bridge fuel until a suitable replacement could be found. The source of that bridge fuel was Russia. Readily available and at very reasonable cost.

We also see them raising the tax on diesel fuel, particularly to their farmers, who have no alternative to diesel fuel in operating farm equipment. We see them attempt to actually eliminate farming entirely in some regions. Eliminate the raising of cattle for meat and milk. All in the pretext of saving the planet. There is actually no proof that any of these measures have had any real effect in the EU other than make them dependent on other countries to provide energy and soon food, all at inflated prices.

Then they decided that they would support the U.S. in its master plan of containing and encircling Russia by the continuous expansion of NATO. The very country that they have become dependent on because of their environmental policies. Then when Russia pushed back they thought it would be good to show Russia that they would damage them by refusing to buy their energy products. Energy that they cannot replace except by higher priced energy, that if continuing, will deindustrialize them and eventually leave them cold and hungry.

Now we see more attempts of symbolic sanctions that will have no effect on Russia, but will further damage their own economies. We see sanctions on gold from Russia, gold that is no different than gold from anywhere else, impossible to sanction. The gold will be sold, there are billions of other buyers. Now we see sanctions on diamonds from Russia, at the same time India opened a diamond exchange that will process diamonds, many will end up in the EU at inflated prices and without any profit for EU dealers. The same as the sanctioned Oil and Gas, it will end up in Europe but at higher prices. 

One has to wonder if these leaders are just that naive and hoping to have an image that is fashioned by symbolism without any real care for the wellbeing of their citizens. Their policies will soon make life very difficult if not life threatening. 

It seems many of the leaders of the western world are more concerned with their image in the social circles that they travel in than the future of their countries and citizens. It seems they have contracted the Marie Antoinette disease of "Let them eat cake" a symptom that is contracted by many leaders when they become isolated and out of touch with their citizens. History proves the prognosis is usually terminal.

War with Houthis in Yemen.

 U.S. NOW SUPPORTING THIRD CONFLICT

SAUDIS WERE CONDEMNED FOR THEIR ACTION AGAINST  HOUTHIS

Yesterday it was announced that the U.S. will lead a coalition to protect the seaways in the Red Sea. The coalition is mostly made up of European allies, Bahrain is the only middle east participant. Suez traffic mostly affects supplies to the European customers, particularly energy. A little hypocrisy is now evident, as the EU condemned Saudi Arabia for their conflict with these same people, who were launching rockets into Saudi Arabia. Those rockets had no effect on the EU, but now that vulnerable oil supplies are involved, it is a different story.

We can expect that this coalition will be mostly made up of U.S. warships. The reality is that if the Houthis back off, all will be well, but if they should be so fortunate, or unfortunate to damage or sink a U.S. warship it will then be war. Then we will not hear any protests or complaints and Yemen and the Houthis will be punished severely.

It seems that the U.S. is now being dragged into another conflict, with Ukraine on the verge of collapse and the Gaza war continuing it all requires materials and equipment from the United States. It can only put a further drain on U.S. resources that are already stretched thin and compounded by an escalating budget deficit.

It seems U.S. politicians still believe the United States has unlimited resources and enough military power to control the world. One must wonder where the next conflict will spring up that needs to be addressed. Eventually it will become necessary to focus on only those conflicts that are a threat to U.S. interests. Hopefully there will be the necessary resources and will remaining when that time comes.

The invasion of our southern border may be a greater threat to the stability of the country, than all these foreign conflicts combined.

Is Finland going to become the new Ukraine?

 FIRST NATO, NOW U.S. TROOPS AND BASES

IRRATIONAL DECISIONS FROM HELSINKI

While we see the dwindling expectations of Ukraine becoming a NATO member, we see Finland stepping up to take their place. After decades of reasonable relations and cross border trade, one must wonder what the advantage is for Finland to now decide to become a NATO member. Is this a reasonable and objective decision or just another emotional hope of becoming accepted by the crowd. 

With GDP of just over $300 billion it will now need to spend at least $6 billion in upgrading its military by buying U.S. manufactured weapons. At the same time it is in effect ending all commerce with Russia for the foreseeable future. Russia considers this move to be a hostile act and is in the process of strengthening its military presence on their 833 mile border. With a population of just over 5 million it would be near impossible to police their border without foreign troops. It is also very possible that Russia will set up a defense corridor with mines and electronic surveillance.

Russia is also perplexed by this decision, as Finland has no real value to Russia, Russia has enough timber, it does not need Finish lumber. While Russia does consider this a hostile act, they will unlikely consider any military action against Finland, but it can be expected that Russia will make things more difficult for Finland.

The real problem would arise if NATO would decide to use Finland as a staging ground and to open a northern front in an invasion of Russia. A real possibility due to the vehemence of the antipathy against Russia in Washington and London. Once foreign troops and bases are placed in Finland they will probably lose the ability to chart their own future. Any such development would be devastating to the people of Finland.

In the age of "you are either for us or our enemy" it seems Finland has hitched its wagon to NATO and placed it future in the hands of western decision makers. It is hard to see the positive results of this decision.

Green Agenda: Luxury for elite?

 WHILE WEST PLANS END OF FOSSIL FUELS

REST OF WORLD CONTRACTS FOR LONG TERM SUPPLY

While everyone talks about reducing carbon emissions and the fear of climate change catastrophe, only those with no concern for keeping warm or going hungry are engaged in ending the use of fossil fuels. The reality is that humans will always choose sustainability of life over the concerns of the environment. Only nations with excess wealth and a standard of living that is comfortable and at least appears guaranteed have the luxury of putting the planet before themselves or other humans other than themselves.

Germany is good example, one of leaders of the green agenda, who is now experiencing fuel shortages and very high prices, is now reopening their coal mines and you can also expect them to rethink their idea of phasing out nuclear power.

One of the interesting statement that came out of the recent COP28 meeting is the new idea of expanding the use of nuclear power. They have finally realized that electricity does not magically just come out of your wall outlet.

While the west is willing to sacrifice its high standard of living by prematurely ending the use of fossil fuels the rest of the world is making more rational decisions. China has now contracted with the gulf countries for fuel supplies with timetables of 15 to 27 years. Way past the time that the west hopes to be fossil-fuel free. There are similar contracts being agreed upon by Russia, India and likely over half the population of the world.

At the same time, China is now the biggest producer of electric vehicles ard can be expected to be the major supplier of vehicles and components for years to come. They have also developed nuclear power plants that no longer need to be cooled with water and can be placed in areas before impossible.

Russia has developed new smaller nuclear plants and even movable nuclear plants for their facilities in the arctic.

The point is, if the west dismantles its industrial base by emotional decisions to end fossil fuels without suitable replacements, they will no longer be in a position to afford the luxury of a green agenda. While those who engage in a long term plan based on the reality of the need to sustain your wealth and economic dynamism will achieve the goal, while the west is floundering in a third world economy and environment.

EU membership for Ukraine, real or just false hope?

 UKRAINE'S FUTURE WILL NOT BE DECIDED BY THE EU

PROMISES OF EU MEMBERSHIP, AS FAKE AS VICTORY OVER RUSSIA

As Ukraine is descending into the abyss, we see the European Union voting to begin negotiations on EU membership. There are rules and criteria for becoming a EU member, financial stability is one, something that Ukraine will not achieve for years or even decades. Is this just another cynical attempt to keep Ukraine fighting, even until an entire generation of Ukrainian men are destroyed?

European membership, even when aid from the Eu is drying up? While they tend to blame Viktor Orban for vetoing further aid to Ukraine and labeling him a Putin ally, the fact is, that the EU, NATO and the US. is no longer able to furnish a high level of aid to Ukraine. Aid that may keep Ukraine fighting, but will not give them victory over a mobilized determined Russia. While Orban is the target, he is not the only member who is ready to end this debacle in Ukraine. If you listen to Orban he is a realist and wants save Ukraine from further destruction.

While EU leaders are willing to blame Orban and the Biden administration is hoping to blame the Republicans, the reality is this whole disaster was destined to be a failure from the beginning. Ukraine has no industrial base to produce sufficient weapons of war, Its air force was made non-functional in a matter of weeks, its much heralded spring offensive was a suicide mission without sufficient air support. The strategy of the delusional engineers in Washington was based on the hope that the Russian army would crumble and run. It did not happen and now that Russian army has grown in size and capability that will not be defeated.

It is true that the political future of Joe Biden, many EU leaders and even NATO is dependent on a Ukrainian victory of some kind, a victory that cannot be achieve. If they really had the best interests of Ukraine in mind they would have ended this long ago, but hubris and emotion keep them bucket bailing the sinking ship. 

If they continue, not only Ukraine will be destroyed but their own economies and political future.  It is an amazing view of delusional human emotional refusal to admit failure, even to save themselves.

Biden impeachment inquiry for crimes that Trump was impeached for inquiring about.

 ANOTHER NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF MEDIA AND GOVERNMENT CREDIBILITY

YES, THERE IS LOTS OF EVIDENCE OF MONEY FROM FOREIGN ACTORS

Yesterday the Republican house members voted unanimously to begin an impeachment inquiry into the financial dealings of the Biden family. Of course we hear that Joe Biden was not directly involved, but without the Joe Biden's influence there was no reason for foreign governments to pay members of the Biden family over $30 million. 

Of course, we are told there is no evidence, in fact there is lots of evidence and the fact the the house Republicans were united enough to begin the inquiry should indicate that they will be united enough to vote to impeach. Just the video of Joe Biden bragging on National television how he demanded the firing of the Ukrainian prosecutor, who investigating the oligarch that was paying Hunter Biden $1 million a year. Joe Biden threatened, with the assistance of Barack Obama, to withhold $1 billion in assistance if they did not fire the prosecutor. The prosecutor was fired the same day. This alone is grounds for impeachment and Donald Trump was impeached for just asking Zelensky to check this out.

The House oversight has evidence so far and much more that they will now have the authority to subpoena.

So far, they have proof of payments to Biden and their associates of $3 million from Romania, $8 million from China, $6.5 million from Kazakhstan and $3.5 million from Russia. 

The Clinton's were sophisticated and smart enough to channel payoffs from foreign governments into the Clinton foundation were they could pay their daughter $400,000 a year + other benefits including travel etc. They hired relatives of media personalities to keep them all in a positive spin. They funneled money into many democrat non-profits that were used for political purposes. While questionable they were able to avoid being prosecuted.

Joe Biden, not too sophisticated, just used his son as a bag man, involved him in corruption and will probably attempt to have his poor son take the wrap for his corruption. What an example to show your son. He must be very proud.

The next thing that should be investigated is the kickbacks to Democrat political  organizations from countries who receive foreign aid from the United States. There are indications that Ukraine may be a giant money laundering scheme of the Democrat party. The crypto company that received money from the Ukrainian government that then contributed millions to the democrat party is just one example. One must wonder, has the Democrat party been financing their large political expenditures with such schemes.

It will be interesting to see what lengths the media and the Democrats will go to protect Joe Biden from accountability for his corruption.

 

Ukraine: More money and weapons will not change result.

 BIDEN HOPING TO PROLONG WAR TO AFTER ELECTION

NO OBJECTIVE ANALYST BELIEVES UKRAINE CAN WIN

While Zelensky is in Washington soliciting more money for Ukraine, the reality is that this conflict will end and terms will be dictated by Russia. This is not an NFL game that can be decided by a seconds to go "Hail Mary Pass". In fact this war was decided when Russia withdrew from its early plan and decided to conduct a defensive war of attrition. 

After 2 years, Russia is advancing on all parts of the long conflict line. It has 500,000 men in reserve and is producing weapons and munitions at an astonishing rate. Ukraine on the other hand no longer has any experienced and trained fighters alive and is resorting to abducting any able men it can find off of sidewalks, buses or anywhere they may be found. While it is true, that Ukraine is fighting bravely and has inflicted losses on Russia, its fate is sealed.

Ukraine has no capacity to produce weapons and ammunition and is solely dependent on supplies from the U.S. and NATO.

The attrition has been devastating to Ukraine and to its European supporters, who are now entering another winter with shortages of fuel and electricity. Money making manufacturing is losing its competitive edge and as time goes on they will no longer be able to supply assistance to Ukraine. The United States deficit in November was $314 billion for just one month and Biden want to spend over $100 billion on support of foreign wars that are already decided, except for the continuing death and destruction.

We can also expect that the U.S. military will be expecting an increase in spending to replace and upgrade the vast amount of weapons and materials destroyed in Ukraine. Many of these weapons have now become obsolete due to the evolving nature of warfare. Multi-million dollar armored vehicles can now be eliminated first by expensive shoulder fired weapons, and now by cheap drones that can disable these weapons and then be destroyed by artillery fire.

Air launched cruise missiles that are fired from 200 miles away by aircraft have been countered with air launched air to air missiles that can take down those aircraft from 300 miles aways within minutes of going airborne.

The harsh reality is that prolonging this war will only leave Ukraine more devastated, a smaller country and in a far worse negotiating position as every day of this conflict continues.

If anyone really cared about the Ukrainian people, they would be looking to ending this death and destruction, while there is still a hope of a future for Ukraine.

Ukraine's airforce no longer exists and it cnnot be rebuilt for years, 

Does "Gross Domestic Product" translate to self sufficiency.

 IS MUCH OF WESTERN WEALTH IRRELEVANT?

DO OUR CALCULATIONS REALLY INDICATE STRENGTH

It is interesting that we often hear that the United States has the biggest Gross Domestic Product in the world. In the real flow of dollars this measure may be accurate, but is it really a gauge of sustainability, endurance and the real ability to produce wealth. 

Today the GDP of the United States is estimated at $26.5 Trillion. Manufacturing accounts for 11% or $2.92 Trillion dollars this includes products, mining and agriculture.. The largest segment is Professional and business services at 13%. Real estate rental and leasing at 12%. Government wages etc. 12%, Wholesale and retail trade at 12%, Arts, information and entertainment 10%, Health and social services 9%. Finance and Insurance 8%, Construction 4%. Miscellaneous 10%

Total debt public and private in the U.S. is now $93.5 trillion. $34 Trillion of federal government debt.

China has an estimated GDP  of $25.46 Trillion. Its manufacturing and agriculture accounts for 40.9% or $10.41 Trillion.

Its Government debt is estimated at $9.5 Trillion.

Russia GDP is estimated at $5.5 trillion, Manufacturing  and agriculture is 36.69 % or $2.02 Trillion. Government debt is an eye opening estimate of only $343 Billion.

This is my point, When you strip out all the money that is generated by non-wealth producing activities, we see that the real wealth of these nations is not as far apart as many would like to believe. 

I suspect a similar comparison to western European nations would show similar results. It explains why Russia is able to manufacture military supplies that actually seems to outperform the U.S. and the European production. Much of the financial activity is focused on things that do not support life or create wealth.

Then compare the debt, and if objective, subtract the debt from the GDP and it is startling. 

Real economics has always believed that wealth is created by resources and labor producing things that have more value than the value of the resources and labor. Real wealth creation. 

China is without a doubt far and above everyone in real wealth creation. The United States and Russia are more comparable.  Then consider that China has over 1 billion population, The U.S. 340 million and Russia an estimated 140 million. If we would then compare these figures with population it would be an indication of productivity per person in actual wealth creation.

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Who will abuse power and damage Democracy?

 THE ABUSERS NOW FOCUS FALSE NARRATIVE ON TRUMP

PROJECTING THEIR POLICIES TO TRUMP

So it seems the Democrats, neocons and marxists have now settled on their narrative for the 2024 election. It is that if Trump is elected, it will be the end of elections, the end of democracy and the era of vengeance and retaliation on his political enemies. Very interesting, that it is exactly the traits that can be attributed to the present administration.

Let's start with abuse of power, The biggest and most serious abuse of power in the history of this country was the false Russia collusion hoax, started by the Hillary Clinton campaign and the democrat party. It was then perpetuated by the FBI, CIA and the Justice department, even after they all knew it was a fake story in January 2017. As for vengeance and retaliation, until the perpetrators and those who knowingly conspired in this attempt to overthrow the president are brought to justice, we have no legitimate country, government or hope of self government.

Then there is this idea of damaging or destroying  democracy.  How about the 2016 democrat primary where the outcome was rigged by an overwhelming number of appointed superdelegates that all voted for Hillary Clinton even when Bernie Sanders won primary after primary. It was a rigged primary.

2020 saw Bernie Sanders win the first primaries overwhelmingly, the when Biden won in South Carolina, the contest was essentially declared over. 

2024 no recognition of any primary challengers, no debates, changing the order of primaries and then cancel the primary election, no democracy for democrat voters. 

Back to abuse of Power, we see civil indictments by the N.Y. attorney general who ran for office promising to get Trump. a charge without anyone being defrauded or losing money, without any complaints except for the attorney general herself. An open and obvious abuse of power that needs to be held accountable by real laws against abuse of power. A serious cause of distrust and alienation of the electorate with this out of control government.

Then there is the other abuse of the judicial system in multiple attempts to disqualify the leading candidate of the Republican opposition party to the present administration. Another travesty and serious abuse of power.

Then the failure of this administration to obey the law and enforce the immigration laws of this country in their desire to diminish the votes of americans in favor of those who they hope to coerce into believing they are beholding to the current administration and democrat party. A self serving act that is destroying the social fabric and the safety net of the country and resulting in millions of homeless and unemployable people around the country. Chaos for the sake of chaos, to be used to gain political power.

Then the failure of democrat leaders in all the cities they rule, by allowing theft, looting and lawlessness, creating  more chaos and in effect destroying the cities of America. I suspect, if allowed to continue, will allow this chaos to spread all across the country.

By their reckless spending and foreign wars have created unpayable debt and destruction of the buying power of the dollar, it may very well be another scheme to create more cahous to gain more power.

Compare the foreign policy of the Obama/Biden administrations, they have mostly the same people in positions of power. War and attempts to overthrow the governments of Syria, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Israel, Georgia  and of course the granddaddy Ukraine and now threatening war with China. A disaster of foreign policy, that if salvageable will take years to remedy.

Compare that to the 4 years under Trump, no new wars, no attempts at regime change, positive initiatives for peace in the middle east and asia. Constructive and respectful engagement with China. Then witness the hysteria and abuse by the intelligence community for Trump even voicing a  desire to improve relations with the Russian federation.

I could go on, and on, but if Americans really believe in democracy and self rule, peace at home and abroad and prosperity for the future. be very careful about who continues to rule this country.

Without a widespread cleansing of the entrenched, who are dictating our foreign and domestic policy without regard to the well being of this country, we may indeed not see another election. If you believe this country is becoming the dream that we should all believe, then believe this fake and false narrative and then suffer the consequences. 

Austin threatens congress, Ukraine money or U.S. troops to Ukraine.

 IT TAKES WISDOM TO KNOW "WHEN TO FOLD EM"

HOPING TO CONTINUE WAR UNTIL AFTER ELECTION?

It appears desperation is increasing as the Ukraine conflict is looking increasingly dim. Only U.S. media, Nikki Haley and White House spinners are expecting a Ukraine victory. Most all objective analysis concedes this conflict is over as to its conclusion. Now, is the best opportunity for Ukraine to preserve its country and save what's left of its young men and now women. Of course, the domestic political consequences outway any empathy for the 500,000 Ukrainian dead and an equal number of severely injured.

It seems the hope is to extend this conflict at least until after the election. Or maybe even escalate the conflict by pushing a NATO intervention, as it is assumed that a wartime president is always re-elected.

This NATO expansion triggered conflict has been the greatest failure of U.S. policy in history, so far. There is always the possibility of refusing to admit failure and send the country and the world into a much worse situation.

So far this enterprise has resulted in the death and dismemberment of over 1 million Ukrainians. The results of sanctions has sent Western Europe on a path to be de-industrialized or worse. It has set in motion a move to a seperate and possibly larger economic system that could deny the West, not only its economic advantage, but its future hopes of prosperity. 

All this, and no remorse, no plan B, no effort to salvage what remains of Western economic advantage and economic prosperity, just the threat of more money, more debt, more death and destruction, even of young Americans and Western Europeans.

It is time for reasonable people to just say enough. Congress to say enough. Leaders in western Europe to say enough, while there is some hope of a semblance of peace and prosperity for the future.

Imagine: A new currency backed by, and redeemable for gold and silver.

 TIME FOR GOOD MONEY TO DRIVE OUT BAD

AT PRESENT ALL KNOWN MONEY IS BAD

When a new currency, not if, appears on the world stage, it will in a short time drive all the present debased and devalued currency out of favor. It is simple to answer, if you had a choice of a using a means of exchange that was backed by gold and silver and of course could be exchanged for the actual metal would you put your savings, and investments based on this new currency or that of the mirad currencies without any intrinsic value? 

At present, we see the end stage of the transition from real money, gold and silver, into worthless paper or ledger entries. This process has been going on for near 100 years and now we see the results, massive debts by all governments that have embraced fiat currency without any sound backing, something that would be impossible with real money. Inflated prices that always go up, continually diminishing savings and investment values. A continuous jockeying by governments in debasing their currencies to enjoy trade advantages rather than deal in honest competition and the honest creation of real wealth. 

I could go on in a long history of money and the debasement of money by governments but I would rather focus on how such a return to real money can and will likely happen. 

It appears that the world is moving into a period of currency and debt crisis that is likely to be historic due to the reality that the corruption and irresponsibility of governments has reached a point where they can no longer paper over or manage these excesses. It also appears that rather than face this reality, they plan to replace present currency with a Central bank digital currency, that will allow them to continue to perpetuate this ponzi scheme of fake money. This will also give governments complete control over every transaction and over all economic transactions.

It also appears that a new currency is in the works, some of the major countries have been amassing large reserves of gold and silver. It appears that a combination plans to issue a currency backed by metal, initially maybe for international trade, but I suspect it will be sought after by anyone who has assets and understands the value of real money. Such a currency would in short order drive out bad money.

I suspect we may see such a currency in this coming year, particularly for the trade in energy, oil, gas, uranium and other commodities. This new money will become available to any country, business or individual that has such resources to sell and then will give them them the ability to purchase goods and services in this new currency, or exchange it for gold or silver.

Initially this new currency will only be available from those nations willing to deposit their gold and silver in exchange for this currency. It will require very close monitoring and independent accounting, which is possible. I expect the coming choice will be, do you want to put your faith into a digital currency or real money?

When this currency becomes a reality, it will permanently change the present economic power and future for many economies.  

Ukraine: Internal struggle begins, Biden to blame Republicans.

 IS ZELENSKY ON WAY OUT?

DOES WASHINGTON NOW SUPPORT POROSHENKO?

We hear that the infighting inside Ukraine is escalating. Zelensky and his generals led by Valerii Zaluzhnyi are at odds on the direction of the war. It seems Zaluzhnyi wants to preserve their remaining troops and focus on defense and Zelensky still insists on new offensives against Russia. It appears they are both in seperate parts of the country. 

Last weekend Petro Poroshenko, former president of Ukraine and supported by the U.S.,  attempted to travel to Poland and was refused by Ukraine of leaving the country. It was reported he was hoping to talk to western allies and the United States.

Vitali Klitschko the mayor of Kiev has revealed that he has not heard from Zelensky in 2 years and fears the country is becoming an authoritarian dictatorship under Zelensky.

It appears that Zelinsky's days are numbered and the country has vital decisions to make if they are to preserve their country.

In the United States there is growing dispute over more aid to Ukraine. After over $100 billion in aid some in the Republican party insist that there be accountability for any new funds. The Biden administration has repeatedly refused to insist on an accounting of the money that has gone to Ukraine. We can now see the spin developing by the Biden white house that the inevitable loss by Ukraine will be the fault of the Republicans.

Does Israel need to go into the real-estate business?

 LOTS OF TALK, BUT STILL NO VIABLE SOLUTIONS

TWO STATE SOLUTION IS DEAD

It may be time for a new era of transparency in this ongoing Israel Palestine conflict. It is becoming clear that Israel does not expect to support any 2 state solution. It does appear that a two state solution with common borders would change nothing, except names of political parties. The leaders would soon be no different than Hamas. It does not appear that his population is in a position to embrace self government, that does call for the elimination of Israel.

A common satisfactory resolution may only be reached by Israel dealing directly with every individual  property owner in the West bank and Gaza. The idea is that Israel proceed to offer to buy up all and every piece of real-estate in this area. Not at below market or discounted prices but at prices that could not be realized in the present market. Prices that could be too good to refuse.

While many claim that the Palestinians are not going to leave this area under any circumstances, I expect that an offer to receive more than their properties are worth and give them ability to relocate to most anywhere they want, would be a very enticing offer. There are many countries who are eager to welcome new immigrants who are self supporting and have sizable assets. 

I expect that while some would resist this open and transparent strategy, many would view it a an opportunity to start a new life with new opportunities and a real future. In effect, a deal that would be in the best interests of everyone. 

There are many wealthy countries in the region who could be partners in such a real estate venture and also all those wealthy supporters of Israel around the world. There could even be the possibility of a profit in the future when these properties could be resold, but even if the enterprise would end in a lose, it would be a real profit to end this 70 year dispute, that at present, has no solution.

I have yet to see any offers of a viable solution and maybe this would not be workable, but any proposals are better than none. Maybe a poll of residents in this area would capture how workable such a solution would be viewed.

West floats delusional peace plans: Russia prepares for war.

 NO END IN SIGHT IN UKRAINE

ONLY SERIOUS PEACE PLANS CAN SAVE UKRAINE

We see daily leaked information about several proposed peace talks or plans, none of them are serious plans. The west keeps talking about a cease fire and a frozen conflict, Russia understands that this is just an attempt to rearm and prolong the war. Another talks about giving up Crimea in exchange for Ukraine's NATO membership, an absurd proposal. Russia already has incorporated Crimea and 23 % of Ukraine into the Russian federation. Where is the incentive for Russia to end this.

The fact is that the west has lost this war. The Eu and NATO are being diminished by the support of the war and their sanctions on Russia. It is apparent that Russia is able to out produce military hardware faster than the combined production of the west. 

This war has complicated conditions in the middle east and other parts of the world. If history is ever honestly written it will be the worst policy decision ever made by the United States and NATO.

The question is, will the west insist that Ukrainians keep dying and western Europe sacrifice its economic future on this failed policy, or will it bite the bullet and engage in serious proposals that will allow Ukraine to exist as a viable nation in the future?

While the spin in the western media is that Russia cannot move west and the conflict is at a standstill, the truth is that Russia still believes that an all out war with NATO is possible. Russia understand the intent of the architects of this conflict in Washington and is preparing for any eventually.

Russia has just announced another expansion of Russia's armed force by 170,000. This amounts to an armed force of 2.2 million and combat forces of 1.3 million. This coupled with Russia's production of existing and new weapons will make them a formidable opponent to any NATO involvement in this conflict. 

It seems Russia has reason to believe this expansion is probable or at least possible and it would rather fight this conflict in eastern Ukraine to take advantage of the 700 mile logistics required by for a NATO army. Any such fight would be a disaster for the world.

At present the options seem to be a continuation of this attrition until the Ukrainian army collapses or western Europe implodes economically or social unrest becomes overwhelming. If either happens Ukraine will have nothing left to negotiate, it will be total capitulation and unconditional surrender. Russia will install a new government and disband the Ukrainian military. Russia will incorporate everything west of the Dnieper river into Russia including Odessa and Ukraine will be perpetual dependent on foreign aid for existence.

While the time for good negotiated results is short for Ukraine, a proposal that would acknowledge the incorporation of Crimea and the 4 oblasts into Russia, a neutral Ukraine without military association with NATO, freedom of Ukraine to trade equally with Russia and the EU and a constitution that protects minority groups in Ukraine would be a starting point. Such a proposal could get the attention of Russia.

At present the west and the government of Ukraine most likely finds such a proposal abhorrent, but it may just get more abhorrent as this conflict continues. It will either be a smaller Ukraine until it is non functional or a full out NATO conflict or a serious proposal. Only the brilliant leaders involved can make that decision.

Is the era of debt ending?

 DEBTORS BEWARE, THE WORLD IS CHANGING

THE CENTRAL BANKS CAN NO LONGER STOP DEBT LIQUIDATION

As a youth I spent much time with people who had lived through the great depression. They had a fear of debt and also a distrust of banks. I suspect they went to their graves without ever overcoming those beliefs.

Most all economic recessions and depressions are caused by excessive debt. Debt was once something to be avoided, but in this modern era it has been embraced as something everyone does. Everyone from the Federal government, State government, school districts, corporations and individuals all happily live in a debt based existence. Much of this has been made possible by the policies of the federal reserve which has not allowed a true debt liquidation, since the 1980's. Every crisis has been met with the issuance of easy money and more debt. It now appears that his practice is going to come to an end.

The last real balanced budget by the U.S. was in 1969, no coincidence that in 1971 the U.S. stopped exchanging U.S. dollars for gold. no coincidence that the last silver based coins were issued in 1970, 90% silver coins ended in 1964 and 40% silver halves in 1970. The linkage to metals was a restraint on government deficit spending.

It was at the same time that the U.S. government convinced Saudi Arabia to price  world oil sales in dollars. It gave the U.S. government the ability to engage in massive deficit spending by exporting fiat created dollars to the rest of the world. Shortly after the world entered the era of globalization and the U.S. proceeded to run huge trade deficits with producing countries around the world. Another opportunity to spread U.S. created inflated dollars around the world. In reality, the U.S.'s biggest export was inflated dollars and debt.

At the same time debt became the method of asset purchases, from cars with 3 year loans to cars with 7 year loans. From mortgages mostly going to 30 year loans and in Japan at one time 100 year loans. The age of debt was soundly in place.

Today in 2023 it appears that much of that is going to be reversed. The dollar is systematically being rejected in oil transactions, making the dollar less needed in world trade. The biggest holders of U.S. debt are in the process of liquidating their holdings and buying gold or other assets. The latest treasury auction found no buyers except the government and some large banks. The debt is exploding, deficits are exploding and a possible flight from the dollar is growing. Think of it as all those dollars floating around the world will be coming home, raising inflation and removing most options of the federal reserve to stop the debt liquidations.

Higher interest rates to service the debt leads to higher rates for all lending, this will gut the real estate market and many banks who hold treasuries with 1 % yields will have huge losses as the value of these bonds crater. The go to of lower rates and easy credit will only hasten the flight from the dollar and may become an impossibility. Debt liquidation, which has always been inevitable, is now beginning. It will be painful for everyone, worldwide. It will be especially painful for those nations and individuals who have large debts. 

Higher interest rates and tight money will create the liquidation of many businesses with large debts, this will lead to unemployment and the vicious cycle of debt liquidation, foreclosures, repossessions and a general state of economic decline. It is inevitable. The question is how will it be managed by the current crowd of economic illiterates running the government today. It can quickly go from a painful experience to a disaster if they believe they can avoid the consequences of their irresponsibility by war or other draconian methods.