Opinion

EMPR tears apart reality: Russia isn’t bluffing — this war may last far longer than predicted. Discover the hard truth and global stakes in this eye‑opening opinion.

A polarizing legal and political figure, Andriy Portnov served as a top Yanukovych aide, faced sanctions and corruption probes, and remained at the center of Ukraine’s judicial controversies. ([empr.media](https://empr.media/opinion/analytics/who-was-andriy-portnov-one-of-the-greatest-enemies-of-ukraine/?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

Ukrainian 47th Brigade commander Oleksandr Shyrshyn publicly blasts top military leadership for “senseless orders” and unwarranted losses, resigns to expose systemic issues in command. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

For Vladimir Putin, the cost of war isn’t measured in money or soldiers’ lives — it’s measured in **territory seized**. As long as Russia expands control, he deems the war “successful.” Global stakes and consequences analyzed. | empr.media :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Putin highlighted Russia’s strategic RS‑24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile in a high‑profile showcase — a symbolic signal of nuclear deterrence and geopolitical brinkmanship aimed at Ukraine and the West. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Ukrainian battalion commander Oleksandr Shyrshyn publicly protested “senseless orders” and rising losses, filing resignation and calling for systemic change in frontline command tactics. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Ukraine paid ~$770 million in advance for weapons never delivered, some contracts even linked to FSB/Wagner schemes. Investigative reporting exposes corruption, procurement failure and weakening trust. | empr.media :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Military analysts at Defense Express say Russia’s summer offensive won’t radically change the war’s direction because Ukrainian defenses have pinned down enemy forces, forcing costly attacks with limited gain and trapping them on key fronts. | empr.media

Internal disputes and legal conflicts within Ukraine’s defense procurement system are blocking critical equipment and ammunition from reaching frontline units, raising alarm among military officials and risking combat effectiveness. | empr.media :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Opinion: Putin’s latest ultimatum isn’t a peace offer but a test for the world and Ukraine’s determination — global clarity and Ukrainian resolve are on trial.

A new European Shield defence alliance — anchored by the UK, Germany, France, Poland and Ukraine — could redefine collective security and deterrence for the 21st century.

Investigation: How American Lend-Lease aid — from trucks to tanks and food supplies — proved decisive for the USSR in WWII, revealing the massive U.S. contribution behind victory.