Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Envoys signal no breakthrough on bridging Russia and Ukraine’s military, political differences
U.S.-brokered talks in Geneva between Russian and Ukrainian envoys ended without a breakthrough, with both sides acknowledging the difficulty of negotiations. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Russia of prolonging discussions while continuing military actions. Despite some constructive military discussions, significant political differences remain, particularly regarding territorial issues in eastern Ukraine. A new round of talks is anticipated, with European leaders participating in the process.
B-52 Stratofortress vs Tu-95 Bear vs B-2 Spirit: Cold War Giants and Stealth Revolution
The B-52H Stratofortress, Tu-95MS Bear, and B-2 Spirit are actively utilized in military operations as of 2026, with the B-52H serving as a versatile platform for standoff strikes. The Tu-95MS has been employed in Russia's strategic air campaign against Ukraine, launching Kh-101 missiles from a distance. The B-2 Spirit remains the only aircraft capable of penetrating advanced air defenses, underscoring its critical role in nuclear deterrence.
Dmitri VolkovWed Feb 18 2026Loading...
F-22 Raptor vs F-35 Lightning II vs J-20 vs Su-57: The Fifth Generation Fighter Showdown
The F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning II, J-20 Mighty Dragon, and Su-57 Felon represent the forefront of fifth-generation fighter technology. The F-22 excels in stealth and air superiority, while the F-35 emphasizes networked capabilities. The J-20 boasts impressive range and production rates, and the Su-57, despite its agility, faces production challenges. Each aircraft's design reflects different strategic priorities and operational doctrines, shaping future air combat dynamics.
Marcus ChenWed Feb 18 2026Loading...
From 45 to 1,000: The Rarely Mentioned Data Gap Behind China's Nuclear Warhead Expansion
China is reportedly expanding its nuclear arsenal, with projections indicating a rise to 1000 warheads by 2030. A 2.75 magnitude earthquake detected near Lop Nur in 2020 has raised suspicions of a nuclear test, although evidence remains inconclusive. The US has expressed concerns over China's nuclear capabilities and testing practices, particularly regarding the use of decoupling technology to obscure test yields.
Li MinghuiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...Russia’s New MiG-35 Fighter Will Never Beat the U.S. Air Force’s Stealth F-22 or F-35
The Russian Air Force's MiG-35 fighter jet program has faced significant challenges, with under ten units produced and limited support from the military. Originally ordered in 2017, the aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2027 but struggles to compete in the export market against established Western fighters. The MiG-35's lack of stealth capabilities and ongoing development issues hinder its operational effectiveness in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Russia Goes to Geneva with an Exhausted Army — What Lies Behind the Kremlin's Negotiating Position
Russia is advancing with a depleted 127th Motorized Rifle Regiment in Zybyne, Kharkiv Oblast, as of February 2026. The Kremlin announced that Vladimir Medinsky will lead negotiations in Geneva starting February 17, aiming for terms that suggest the capitulation of Ukraine. Despite capturing territory, the Russian army operates at only 40% personnel strength, indicating systemic exhaustion. Concurrently, Ukraine has reported extensive damage to its energy infrastructure.
Dmitri VolkovTue Feb 17 2026Loading...Putin Could End the Ukraine War But Won’t. That Means a Coup In Russia Is Possible
Putin is contemplating declaring victory in the Ukraine war, holding territories in Crimea, Donbas, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. However, he faces significant political constraints that may prevent this, leading to increased elite resistance and the potential for a coup. As the war continues, the stability of his regime is increasingly in question.
Russian military aircraft maker reports heavy financial losses
TANTK Beriev reported a net loss exceeding 5 billion rubles in 2025, reflecting a significant decline in revenue and rising debt. The company, a key player in Russia's military aviation sector, has faced operational disruptions due to multiple Ukrainian drone and missile strikes, impacting its production capabilities. Its liabilities to creditors have increased, indicating financial strain.
Moscow institutionalizes its presence in the Sahel — strategic agreement with Ouagadougou and AES ministerial format
On February 12, 2026, Russia formalized its military presence in the Sahel by signing a strategic agreement with Burkina Faso, focusing on security and counter-terrorism. This agreement marks a transition from private military contractor involvement to state-level cooperation, with Russian forces now operating under a formal diplomatic framework. The presence of Russian military personnel is increasing in Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, as Moscow seeks to enhance its influence in the region amid a withdrawal of Western forces.
Marie DuboisSat Feb 14 2026Loading...Four individuals involved in the attack on the Russian general will be prosecuted.
Four individuals involved in the attack on Russian General Alekseev are to be prosecuted for terrorism charges, as announced by the Russian Federal Investigative Committee on February 13. The attack, which occurred on February 6, aimed to intimidate the public and destabilize the government. Alekseev was shot but has since undergone successful surgery and is in stable condition.
Where Will Russia Find People for War in 2026 — Budget Crisis and Shift to Coercion
By 2026, the Russian Army will transition to coercive recruitment methods due to budget constraints, requiring 25,000 to 40,000 new contract soldiers monthly. Regions such as Buryatia and Tatarstan will likely face increased recruitment pressures, while Moscow and Saint Petersburg remain relatively insulated. The reliance on financial incentives has diminished, leading to a potential second wave of mobilization as military losses continue to rise.
Dmitri VolkovFri Feb 13 2026Loading...
Why Trump’s Push for Greenland is Forcing U.S. Allies to Consider Their Own Nukes
U.S. allies are increasingly reconsidering their reliance on the American nuclear umbrella as President Trump's foreign policy shifts towards hostility, particularly with threats regarding Greenland. This instability may lead allies in Europe and Asia to pursue their own nuclear deterrents, breaking the longstanding defense-for-nonproliferation bargain. The situation reflects a significant change in international relations and military alliances.
Russia still sees US as its top adversary, Estonian intelligence report says
Russia continues to perceive the U.S. as its main global adversary, engaging in talks aimed at exploiting changes in U.S. administration to restore bilateral relations. This strategy may facilitate Russian espionage and influence operations while eroding U.S. international influence. The Estonian intelligence report emphasizes the deepening cooperation between China and Russia, framing the conflict in Ukraine as a civilizational struggle against the West led by Washington.
Nuclear Arms Control Hardens Against China, Russian Official Criticizes America's "Double Standards"
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov criticized the U.S. for attempting to involve China in new nuclear arms control negotiations while excluding the UK and France. He emphasized that Russia respects China's self-defense nuclear strategy. The New START treaty expired on October 5, 2023, leaving the U.S. and Russia without a bilateral arms control framework. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio stated that nuclear arms control is now a multilateral issue, implicating China as a key player.
Russian Foreign Minister Discusses Nuclear Arms Control Treaty: If the U.S. Continues to Abide by the Restrictions, Russia Will Also Comply
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that Russia will adhere to the New START treaty's restrictions on nuclear weapons if the United States continues to comply. This statement was made during a speech in Moscow on February 11, 2023. The New START treaty, signed in 2010, aims to limit the number of nuclear warheads and delivery systems between the two nations, with an extension valid until February 2026.
Putin: Russia Will Fully Ensure National Security and Promote the Construction of a Just and Multipolar World Order
Russian President Putin emphasized the critical role of diplomacy in ensuring national security during a speech on February 10. He stated that Russia will continue to utilize all diplomatic resources to create a favorable external environment for its development. Putin also highlighted the importance of strengthening relationships with CIS countries and promoting a multipolar world order based on international law.
Russian Foreign Minister: Russia is Willing to Resolve the Ukraine Issue Through Dialogue
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov stated that Russia is willing to seek dialogue to resolve the Ukraine issue during a speech in Moscow on February 10, 2023. He emphasized the importance of building a multipolar world and maintaining strategic partnerships with countries such as China and India.
Russian Foreign Minister: If European Countries Launch an Attack, Russia Will Use All Means for Military Response
Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov warned that if European countries prepare for war and attack Russia, the response will not be limited to special military actions but will involve a complete military response. He emphasized that Russia has no plans to attack Europe and criticized certain European leaders for escalating tensions.
The U.S. Aims to Build Momentum for Elections, Ukrainian President Reveals "Deadline," U.S. Requests Russia and Ukraine to Cease Fire in June?
Ukrainian President Zelensky announced that the U.S. has proposed negotiations for a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia before June 2023, coinciding with the U.S. midterm elections. Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's willingness to participate in talks in the U.S. amid concerns about potential U.S. pressure on Ukraine regarding territorial issues. The situation remains complex as both sides continue to negotiate amidst ongoing military actions.
Unmanned Systems Forces as the Sixth Branch of the Military: Organizational Revolution or Bureaucratic Trap
The Russian Armed Forces plan to establish a new branch, the Unmanned Systems Troops (ВБС), comprising 87,000 personnel by February 2026. This formation will include one brigade, four regiments, and numerous battalions and companies, focusing on drone operations. However, concerns arise regarding the bureaucratic structure and the ability to recruit qualified personnel amidst existing shortages in the defense industry.
Dmitri VolkovSat Feb 07 2026Loading...
