Alex Christoforou does the best Geo-Politics, everyday. But it’s usually about an hour long.
June 5 Geopolitical Briefing Summary
- 1. Putin Moves Closer to Labeling Ukraine a Terrorist State
Putin accused Ukraine of terrorist acts on Russian railways and suggested its government is transitioning into a terrorist organization. Official designation would elevate the conflict from a ‘Special Military Operation’ (SMO) to an ‘Anti-Terrorist Operation’ (ATO).
- 2. Putin Questions Negotiations
Putin said Ukraine’s leadership lacks competence and political culture. He rhetorically questioned how Russia can negotiate with a regime that engages in terrorism.
- 3. Zelensky Rejects Russian Memorandum
Zelensky called Russia’s proposal an ultimatum, not a genuine offer. He dismissed ongoing talks as meaningless and appeared concerned about retaliation.
- 4. Trump–Putin Phone Call Revealed
Trump confirmed a 75-minute call with Putin discussing Ukraine’s attacks. Trump said Putin would respond ‘strongly’ but acknowledged no immediate path to peace.
- 5. Trump Discusses Iran with Putin
Trump sought Putin’s help for a fast resolution on Iran’s nuclear decision. He emphasized urgency for a foreign policy win.
- 6. Tucker Carlson Warns Against War with Iran
Carlson claimed there’s no evidence Iran is near nuclear weapon capability and warned that regime change efforts would backfire.
- 7. U.S. State Department Warns of Russian Strike
Americans in Ukraine were warned of a potentially large imminent Russian strike, signaling an escalation.
- 8. Germany Claims Ukraine Will Field Long-Range Missiles
Germany announced funding production of long-range missiles in Ukraine, expected within weeks. This claim was met with skepticism.
- 9. UK Dramatically Increases Drone Aid to Ukraine
The UK pledged to increase drone shipments to Ukraine from 10,000 to 100,000 in 2025, despite economic challenges at home.
- 10. Slovenia Elects First Female President
Natasha Pirc Musar, who represented Melania Trump, became Slovenia’s first female president and advocates for EU-Russia dialogue.
- 11. New South Korean President Calls War ‘Provoked’
President Lee Jae-myung controversially stated that Ukraine provoked Russia, despite his pro-West alignment.
- 12. Trump Issues New Travel Ban
Trump banned citizens from 12 nations from entering the U.S., reviving a strategy from his first term.
- 13. Trump Orders Probe Into Biden’s Presidency
An investigation was ordered into whether Biden’s aides governed in his place using mechanical signature pens.