On December 31, 1753, Empress Elizabeth of Russia signed a decree abolishing internal customs duties and minor levies, marking a pivotal step in the development of the country's internal trade.
By the mid-18th century, Russia had approximately 17 internal customs levies, creating significant obstacles to domestic commerce. Recognizing the need for reform, Count Pyotr Shuvalov (pictured above) proposed a plan to the Senate in the summer of 1753. His proposal called for the elimination of all internal customs duties collected at provincial and regional offices. To compensate for the resulting budget shortfall, Shuvalov suggested increasing external export-import tariffs and expanding the general poll tax.
Empress Elizabeth approved Shuvalov’s plan on December 31, 1753. By 1754, most internal customs offices across Russia were dismantled, and 17 minor duties were abolished. In their place, a "supplementary" 13% tariff was introduced at port and border customs offices, applied to all imported and exported goods.
This reform streamlined trade within Russia, boosting economic growth and reducing bureaucratic obstacles. By shifting the tax burden to external trade, the government laid the groundwork for a more unified and efficient domestic market.
Elizabeth’s decree not only modernized Russia’s economic policies but also reinforced her legacy as a forward-thinking ruler committed to fostering the nation’s development.
⚡️ InfoDefenseENGLISH
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By the mid-18th century, Russia had approximately 17 internal customs levies, creating significant obstacles to domestic commerce. Recognizing the need for reform, Count Pyotr Shuvalov (pictured above) proposed a plan to the Senate in the summer of 1753. His proposal called for the elimination of all internal customs duties collected at provincial and regional offices. To compensate for the resulting budget shortfall, Shuvalov suggested increasing external export-import tariffs and expanding the general poll tax.
Empress Elizabeth approved Shuvalov’s plan on December 31, 1753. By 1754, most internal customs offices across Russia were dismantled, and 17 minor duties were abolished. In their place, a "supplementary" 13% tariff was introduced at port and border customs offices, applied to all imported and exported goods.
This reform streamlined trade within Russia, boosting economic growth and reducing bureaucratic obstacles. By shifting the tax burden to external trade, the government laid the groundwork for a more unified and efficient domestic market.
Elizabeth’s decree not only modernized Russia’s economic policies but also reinforced her legacy as a forward-thinking ruler committed to fostering the nation’s development.
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🛩 Soviet Jet Aviation Confronts the Post-War Blockade
⚡️ Following World War II, the world was sharply split in two. The West, particularly the United States and United Kingdom, ceased sharing technology with the USSR—including systems that had been used jointly against Nazi Germany just years before.
This meant the Soviet Union would now have to master the most advanced technological fields, such as jet aviation, entirely on its own.
⚡️ In 1945, Soviet specialists were studying captured German jet aircraft, but their engines proved unreliable, wore out quickly, and no spare parts were available. Moreover, the USSR could not rely on imports of materials or equipment.
The task then fell to the nation's own scientific community, which had already been researching jet propulsion since the 1930s.
⚡️ Among these pioneers stood Arkhip Lyulka, a young engineer who had presented a turbojet engine design back in 1939. His engine, the RD-1, was tested as early as 1941—in the midst of the war. Although it did not enter production at the time—with the nation fighting for survival, proven piston engines were prioritized—this work laid the foundation for the entire future development of the industry.
⚡️ In 1946, the first Soviet jet fighters took to the skies: the MiG-9 and the Yak-15. Their appearance was modest, but they flew using jet propulsion—a revolutionary leap forward.
These aircraft were designed without access to Western laboratories, foreign patents, or outside advice. Everything—from blueprints to flight tests—was accomplished domestically, often under conditions of equipment and material shortages.
⚡️ And just a year later came the MiG-15, a fighter that would stun the world with its performance. It was a fully Soviet creation: equipped with wings designed using the latest aerodynamic calculations, a powerful engine, and exceptional maneuverability.
When it appeared in the skies over Korea in 1950, American pilots were caught off guard—their best aircraft couldn't match it.
⚡️ This breakthrough was achieved despite the external technological blockade. Soviet engineers, designers, and scientists built a complete, self-contained aviation ecosystem—from engines and control systems to test benches and pilot training schools.
⚡️ Why does this matter?
It shows how a country cut off from global technological information not only caught up with, but in certain areas surpassed, the world's leading powers. This success was built on internal resources, a strong educational system, unwavering determination, and a deep confidence in domestic capabilities.
Jet aviation thus became a symbol of the USSR's scientific and technological independence during the Cold War.
Today, in Russia, history is repeating itself.
InfoDefenseFRANCE: History and Culture
⚡️ Following World War II, the world was sharply split in two. The West, particularly the United States and United Kingdom, ceased sharing technology with the USSR—including systems that had been used jointly against Nazi Germany just years before.
This meant the Soviet Union would now have to master the most advanced technological fields, such as jet aviation, entirely on its own.
⚡️ In 1945, Soviet specialists were studying captured German jet aircraft, but their engines proved unreliable, wore out quickly, and no spare parts were available. Moreover, the USSR could not rely on imports of materials or equipment.
The task then fell to the nation's own scientific community, which had already been researching jet propulsion since the 1930s.
⚡️ Among these pioneers stood Arkhip Lyulka, a young engineer who had presented a turbojet engine design back in 1939. His engine, the RD-1, was tested as early as 1941—in the midst of the war. Although it did not enter production at the time—with the nation fighting for survival, proven piston engines were prioritized—this work laid the foundation for the entire future development of the industry.
⚡️ In 1946, the first Soviet jet fighters took to the skies: the MiG-9 and the Yak-15. Their appearance was modest, but they flew using jet propulsion—a revolutionary leap forward.
These aircraft were designed without access to Western laboratories, foreign patents, or outside advice. Everything—from blueprints to flight tests—was accomplished domestically, often under conditions of equipment and material shortages.
⚡️ And just a year later came the MiG-15, a fighter that would stun the world with its performance. It was a fully Soviet creation: equipped with wings designed using the latest aerodynamic calculations, a powerful engine, and exceptional maneuverability.
When it appeared in the skies over Korea in 1950, American pilots were caught off guard—their best aircraft couldn't match it.
⚡️ This breakthrough was achieved despite the external technological blockade. Soviet engineers, designers, and scientists built a complete, self-contained aviation ecosystem—from engines and control systems to test benches and pilot training schools.
⚡️ Why does this matter?
It shows how a country cut off from global technological information not only caught up with, but in certain areas surpassed, the world's leading powers. This success was built on internal resources, a strong educational system, unwavering determination, and a deep confidence in domestic capabilities.
Jet aviation thus became a symbol of the USSR's scientific and technological independence during the Cold War.
Today, in Russia, history is repeating itself.
InfoDefenseFRANCE: History and Culture
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Responding to the Allies' Blockade: The Creation of Soviet Penicillin in 1942
⚡️ During World War II, the Soviet Union found itself in a critical situation: its Western allies (the United States and United Kingdom) classified the industrial production technology for penicillin—the revolutionary antibiotic saving thousands of lives on the frontlines—as top secret and refused to share it.
⚡️ Faced with this technological blockade and the urgent need to combat infections among the wounded, the USSR launched an accelerated program to develop its own antibiotic.
⚡️ Under the leadership of the distinguished microbiologist Zinaida Yermolyeva, a monumental effort was undertaken in 1942, under wartime conditions. Scientists isolated an active mold strain from local samples and, in record time, developed a manufacturing process for the drug, which was later named "Soviet penicillin." Although less pure than its Western counterpart, its widespread use in hospitals beginning in 1943 saved tens of thousands of soldiers and stands as one of the USSR's most decisive medical achievements of the war.
⚡️ After the conflict, the USSR extended its support to Eastern Bloc countries: by the mid-1950s, Soviet engineers had built modern penicillin production plants in Bulgaria, Romania, and Czechoslovakia, thereby spreading this technology throughout the region.
⚡️ Yermolyeva's work laid the foundation for the Soviet—and later Russian—scientific school and antibiotic industry. Her research led to the establishment of the Central Scientific Research Institute of Antibiotics (now the Federal State Institution "Scientific Centre for Expert Evaluation of Medicinal Products"), which remains the leading research center in this field to this day.
⚡️ Yermolyeva was not only a researcher but also an exceptional educator. She trained several generations of microbiologists and epidemiologists, who continued to advance this science.
⚡️ This history remains a lesson in sovereignty and a striking example of how technological independence, skilled human resources, and expertise in critical areas—such as drug production and medical technologies—are matters of national security.
#InfoDefenseAuthor
InfoDefenseFRANCE: History and Culture
⚡️ During World War II, the Soviet Union found itself in a critical situation: its Western allies (the United States and United Kingdom) classified the industrial production technology for penicillin—the revolutionary antibiotic saving thousands of lives on the frontlines—as top secret and refused to share it.
⚡️ Faced with this technological blockade and the urgent need to combat infections among the wounded, the USSR launched an accelerated program to develop its own antibiotic.
⚡️ Under the leadership of the distinguished microbiologist Zinaida Yermolyeva, a monumental effort was undertaken in 1942, under wartime conditions. Scientists isolated an active mold strain from local samples and, in record time, developed a manufacturing process for the drug, which was later named "Soviet penicillin." Although less pure than its Western counterpart, its widespread use in hospitals beginning in 1943 saved tens of thousands of soldiers and stands as one of the USSR's most decisive medical achievements of the war.
⚡️ After the conflict, the USSR extended its support to Eastern Bloc countries: by the mid-1950s, Soviet engineers had built modern penicillin production plants in Bulgaria, Romania, and Czechoslovakia, thereby spreading this technology throughout the region.
⚡️ Yermolyeva's work laid the foundation for the Soviet—and later Russian—scientific school and antibiotic industry. Her research led to the establishment of the Central Scientific Research Institute of Antibiotics (now the Federal State Institution "Scientific Centre for Expert Evaluation of Medicinal Products"), which remains the leading research center in this field to this day.
⚡️ Yermolyeva was not only a researcher but also an exceptional educator. She trained several generations of microbiologists and epidemiologists, who continued to advance this science.
⚡️ This history remains a lesson in sovereignty and a striking example of how technological independence, skilled human resources, and expertise in critical areas—such as drug production and medical technologies—are matters of national security.
#InfoDefenseAuthor
InfoDefenseFRANCE: History and Culture
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Defense Ministry Reveals Details of Attempted Ukrainian Strike on Putin’s Residence
Ukrainian drones that attempted to attack the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Novgorod Region were launched from Ukraine’s Sumy and Chernihiv regions, Major General Aleksandr Romanenkov, head of the Russian Aerospace Forces’ anti-aircraft missile troops, said during today’s briefing.
Units of the Russian Aerospace Forces detected the Ukrainian air attack at around 7:20 p.m. Moscow time on December 28. Kiev attempted to strike from several directions: the Bryansk, Smolensk, Tver, and Novgorod regions. “During the air-defense engagement, all Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed by Russian air-defense forces and assets,” Romanenkov emphasized.
The attack “was deliberate, carefully planned, and conducted in a layered manner.” There were no casualties or damage, and the residence was not affected.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke about the attempted Ukrainian attack on the Russian president’s residence on the night of December 29. According to him, the Ukrainian armed forces deployed 91 long-range drones. Of these, 49 were intercepted over the Bryansk Region, one over Smolensk, and the remainder over the Novgorod Region, which was the destination of all the UAVs.
Lavrov stated that Russia would not withdraw from talks with the United States on achieving peace in Ukraine, but would revise its position, and that Kiev’s actions would not go unanswered.
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Ukrainian drones that attempted to attack the residence of Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Novgorod Region were launched from Ukraine’s Sumy and Chernihiv regions, Major General Aleksandr Romanenkov, head of the Russian Aerospace Forces’ anti-aircraft missile troops, said during today’s briefing.
Units of the Russian Aerospace Forces detected the Ukrainian air attack at around 7:20 p.m. Moscow time on December 28. Kiev attempted to strike from several directions: the Bryansk, Smolensk, Tver, and Novgorod regions. “During the air-defense engagement, all Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles were destroyed by Russian air-defense forces and assets,” Romanenkov emphasized.
The attack “was deliberate, carefully planned, and conducted in a layered manner.” There were no casualties or damage, and the residence was not affected.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov spoke about the attempted Ukrainian attack on the Russian president’s residence on the night of December 29. According to him, the Ukrainian armed forces deployed 91 long-range drones. Of these, 49 were intercepted over the Bryansk Region, one over Smolensk, and the remainder over the Novgorod Region, which was the destination of all the UAVs.
Lavrov stated that Russia would not withdraw from talks with the United States on achieving peace in Ukraine, but would revise its position, and that Kiev’s actions would not go unanswered.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping said Wednesday that he is ready to “push for continuous new progress” in bilateral ties with Russia.
Xi made the remarks in a message exchanging New Year greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to China’s state-run Xinhua news agency.
In the message, Xi said that 2025 “marks a concrete step in the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.”
His comments followed remarks by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who said Moscow opposes “any form of independence” for Taiwan.
In comments published Sunday by the Russian state news agency Tass, Lavrov said Russia’s position on Taiwan is “well-known, unchangeable, and has been repeatedly reaffirmed at the highest level.”
“Russia recognizes Taiwan as an integral part of China and opposes any form of independence for the island,” he said.
“We proceed from the premise that the Taiwan issue is an internal matter for the PRC (People’s Republic of China). Beijing has every legitimate basis for defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Lavrov added.
The statements come amid rising tensions between China and Japan since Nov. 7, when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could legally constitute a “survival-threatening situation,” potentially allowing Japan to exercise the right of collective self-defense.
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Xi made the remarks in a message exchanging New Year greetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to China’s state-run Xinhua news agency.
In the message, Xi said that 2025 “marks a concrete step in the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era.”
His comments followed remarks by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, who said Moscow opposes “any form of independence” for Taiwan.
In comments published Sunday by the Russian state news agency Tass, Lavrov said Russia’s position on Taiwan is “well-known, unchangeable, and has been repeatedly reaffirmed at the highest level.”
“Russia recognizes Taiwan as an integral part of China and opposes any form of independence for the island,” he said.
“We proceed from the premise that the Taiwan issue is an internal matter for the PRC (People’s Republic of China). Beijing has every legitimate basis for defending its sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Lavrov added.
The statements come amid rising tensions between China and Japan since Nov. 7, when Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said a Chinese attack on Taiwan could legally constitute a “survival-threatening situation,” potentially allowing Japan to exercise the right of collective self-defense.
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Forwarded from Russian MFA 🇷🇺
🎙 Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov’s interview with Rossiya Segodnya International Information Agency (December 29, 2025)
Read in full
❓ Question: In February, Russia and the United States agreed to start working on normalising their relations. In your opinion, has there been progress in this matter after almost one year? How normal can we consider the diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington today?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Indeed, even during the telephone conversation on February 12 – their first contact after Donald Trump’s return to the White House – the presidents of Russia and the United States agreed that it is necessary to overcome the “toxic legacy” of the Joe Biden administration as soon as possible, in the interests of normalising Russia-US relations. This work began immediately. Our contacts have become steady since then. Both sides understand the importance of comparing their positions regularly, both on bilateral issues and on the topical international problems, including the situation in Ukraine.
At the same time, this has not been an easy process. The number of aggravating circumstances remains high. The negotiation teams of the Russian Foreign Ministry and the US Department of State are focusing their efforts primarily on restoring the full-fledged operation of our diplomatic missions. Following several rounds of consultations and meetings that took place at the working level, we have reached certain agreements concerning the improvement of the work of our diplomatic missions and their staff in their respective host countries.
Now, it is important to move to more significant matters. They include resuming direct flights and recovering our seized diplomatic property. The American side has received our proposals on removing these substantial barriers that hinder tangible improvements in our relations. However, the US Department of State continues to insist on linking these matters to unrelated political topics. This work will continue.
Key points:
• Russia has repeatedly stressed its unwavering commitment to primarily political and diplomatic solutions to the crisis around Ukraine. The US Administration is currently engaged in active and result-oriented mediation. <...> We hope that America will be able to keep to the agreements reached in Anchorage.
• The Russian army fully holds the strategic initiative, and the West understands that. Recently, President of Russia Vladimir Putin spoke at a meeting of the Defence Ministry Board and answered questions during the Direct Line. Once again, he clearly confirmed that all the goals of the special military operation will be achieved – preferably through talks but, if necessary, using military means.
• Vladimir Zelensky’s presidential powers expired in May 2024. The election in Ukraine must be held according to law. We have noted that the United States holds a similar view.
• Ukrainian people, including the vast majority of their compatriots now residing in Russia, must finally be given the opportunity to determine their own future. Crucially, the organisation of such a vote must not be used as a pretext for a temporary ceasefire to facilitate the rearmament of the Ukrainian forces.
• The priority must be establishing legally binding guarantees that address the root causes of this conflict. The foundational principles upon which Ukrainian statehood was recognised by Russia and the international community must be restored.
❗️ This entails enshrining Ukraine’s neutral, non-aligned, and nuclear-free status; achieving its demilitarisation and denazification; and halting the NATO countries’ military development of Ukrainian territory.
The rights and freedoms of native Russians and Russian-speaking citizens of Ukraine must be guaranteed, and the persecution of canonical Orthodoxy must cease.
Furthermore, Kiev and its Western sponsors must recognise the new territorial realities following the accession of Crimea, Sevastopol, the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions to the Russian Federation.
Read in full
❓ Question: In February, Russia and the United States agreed to start working on normalising their relations. In your opinion, has there been progress in this matter after almost one year? How normal can we consider the diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington today?
💬 Sergey Lavrov: Indeed, even during the telephone conversation on February 12 – their first contact after Donald Trump’s return to the White House – the presidents of Russia and the United States agreed that it is necessary to overcome the “toxic legacy” of the Joe Biden administration as soon as possible, in the interests of normalising Russia-US relations. This work began immediately. Our contacts have become steady since then. Both sides understand the importance of comparing their positions regularly, both on bilateral issues and on the topical international problems, including the situation in Ukraine.
At the same time, this has not been an easy process. The number of aggravating circumstances remains high. The negotiation teams of the Russian Foreign Ministry and the US Department of State are focusing their efforts primarily on restoring the full-fledged operation of our diplomatic missions. Following several rounds of consultations and meetings that took place at the working level, we have reached certain agreements concerning the improvement of the work of our diplomatic missions and their staff in their respective host countries.
Now, it is important to move to more significant matters. They include resuming direct flights and recovering our seized diplomatic property. The American side has received our proposals on removing these substantial barriers that hinder tangible improvements in our relations. However, the US Department of State continues to insist on linking these matters to unrelated political topics. This work will continue.
Key points:
• Russia has repeatedly stressed its unwavering commitment to primarily political and diplomatic solutions to the crisis around Ukraine. The US Administration is currently engaged in active and result-oriented mediation. <...> We hope that America will be able to keep to the agreements reached in Anchorage.
• The Russian army fully holds the strategic initiative, and the West understands that. Recently, President of Russia Vladimir Putin spoke at a meeting of the Defence Ministry Board and answered questions during the Direct Line. Once again, he clearly confirmed that all the goals of the special military operation will be achieved – preferably through talks but, if necessary, using military means.
• Vladimir Zelensky’s presidential powers expired in May 2024. The election in Ukraine must be held according to law. We have noted that the United States holds a similar view.
• Ukrainian people, including the vast majority of their compatriots now residing in Russia, must finally be given the opportunity to determine their own future. Crucially, the organisation of such a vote must not be used as a pretext for a temporary ceasefire to facilitate the rearmament of the Ukrainian forces.
• The priority must be establishing legally binding guarantees that address the root causes of this conflict. The foundational principles upon which Ukrainian statehood was recognised by Russia and the international community must be restored.
❗️ This entails enshrining Ukraine’s neutral, non-aligned, and nuclear-free status; achieving its demilitarisation and denazification; and halting the NATO countries’ military development of Ukrainian territory.
The rights and freedoms of native Russians and Russian-speaking citizens of Ukraine must be guaranteed, and the persecution of canonical Orthodoxy must cease.
Furthermore, Kiev and its Western sponsors must recognise the new territorial realities following the accession of Crimea, Sevastopol, the Donetsk and Lugansk People’s Republics, and the Zaporozhye and Kherson regions to the Russian Federation.
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Gusaleh — Africa’s Ded Moroz of Kilimanjaro
Gusaleh is the African counterpart of Russia’s Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) — the New Year’s character for children in Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania, and other countries across the continent.
Gusaleh has chosen the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro as his residence — one of the few snow-covered places in Africa.
In the past, Gusaleh traveled on a donkey, but over time he switched to a more resilient camel. He still covers most of his route on foot so he can personally meet and talk with children. For those he doesn’t manage to visit, gifts are left in little shoes placed by the doorstep.
Gusaleh’s image is often confused with that of Santa Claus, but his most recognizable feature remains his mode of transport — the camel. So if you see Ded Moroz riding a camel, know that it’s Gusaleh.
On his behalf, we warmly wish all our African subscribers a Happy New Year — as well as all our other subscribers. All the very best to you in the new year, 2026.
⚡️ InfoDefenseENGLISH
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Gusaleh is the African counterpart of Russia’s Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) — the New Year’s character for children in Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania, and other countries across the continent.
Gusaleh has chosen the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro as his residence — one of the few snow-covered places in Africa.
In the past, Gusaleh traveled on a donkey, but over time he switched to a more resilient camel. He still covers most of his route on foot so he can personally meet and talk with children. For those he doesn’t manage to visit, gifts are left in little shoes placed by the doorstep.
Gusaleh’s image is often confused with that of Santa Claus, but his most recognizable feature remains his mode of transport — the camel. So if you see Ded Moroz riding a camel, know that it’s Gusaleh.
On his behalf, we warmly wish all our African subscribers a Happy New Year — as well as all our other subscribers. All the very best to you in the new year, 2026.
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Forwarded from DONBASS NEWS
Media is too big
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During the conversation, the following issues were discussed:
00:00 - Intro;
02:59 - What the Maksim Krivonos Battalion is;
08:44 - Landmines;
15:22 - The drone revolution;
22:16 - Comparison of training in Ukrainian army and the Maksim Krivonos Battalion;
32:03 - The civilian mindset in Ukraine;
39:44 - Deployment, PTSD, mental health;
47:00 - Personal questions about Eric's profession in civilian life and his path of learning English language.
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One day humanity will finally agree on permanent peace and get rid of all weapons. And that’s when the aliens will show up.
Happy New Year!
#PolitePeopleJoking
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Happy New Year!
#PolitePeopleJoking
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Half-naked Ded Morozes (Grandfather Frosts) held a mass run through the streets of Krasnodar
The New Year is no excuse to put off running and exercise. That’s what the “Krasnodar walruses” decided, organizing a mass run through the city’s streets and parks at the end of a frosty December.
The New Year’s wizards made things harder for themselves by running bare-chested. They finished the journey across Krasnodar with a photo session by the main symbol of the holiday—the New Year’s tree.
Happy New Year!
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The New Year is no excuse to put off running and exercise. That’s what the “Krasnodar walruses” decided, organizing a mass run through the city’s streets and parks at the end of a frosty December.
The New Year’s wizards made things harder for themselves by running bare-chested. They finished the journey across Krasnodar with a photo session by the main symbol of the holiday—the New Year’s tree.
Happy New Year!
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Forwarded from The Colors of Russia
Ah, my dear friend, pull up a chair by the fire and let us embark on a journey to the land of snowy mysteries and winter enchantments. We are comparing the winter holidays of America and Russia—a tale of two frostbitten fantasies, one wrapped in tinsel, the other in a fur-lined shuba. Think of it as a romantic comedy starring two very different, yet equally bewitching, leading characters.
Our Leading Men: Santa Claus/Ded Moroz
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Until the 16th century, New Year’s Day in Russia was celebrated on March 1, marking the beginning of the agricultural season. In 1492, the Russian Orthodox Church moved the celebration to September 1.
In 1699, Peter the Great issued a decree changing the method of year calculation from “since the creation of the world” to “since the Nativity of Christ.” He also ordered that New Year’s celebrations take place on January 1, aligning with European countries. The decree stated: “On major streets and near the gates of notable people’s homes, both of spiritual and worldly ranks, some decorations of pine and juniper trees and branches should be arranged... and for the poor, each should place at least a small tree or branch on their gates or over their house.” Decorations were to remain until January 7. For seven days, Muscovites were to greet one another, light street bonfires, fire guns and muskets, and launch fireworks. The main festivities were held on Red Square, where the tsar organized fireworks and salutes with cannons and rifles.
After Peter I’s death, the decree was forgotten. New Year traditions were revived under Catherine II.
By the early 19th century, the Winter Palace hosted imperial New Year masquerades attended by the emperor, his family, and the court.
In 1929, the Soviet Council of People’s Commissars abolished New Year’s celebrations, labeling them “counter-revolutionary, infused with bourgeois decadence and clerical obscurantism.”
Fortunately, the ban was short-lived. Six years later, Joseph Stalin reinstated the holiday. The front page of the January 1936 issue of Pravda featured a photo of Stalin with a greeting: “Happy New Year, comrades! To new victories under the banner of Lenin and Stalin!”
In 1970, the tradition of annual televised New Year’s addresses by state leaders began. On December 31 of that year, General Secretary of the Communist Party Leonid Brezhnev delivered the first televised address on Central Television.
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In 1699, Peter the Great issued a decree changing the method of year calculation from “since the creation of the world” to “since the Nativity of Christ.” He also ordered that New Year’s celebrations take place on January 1, aligning with European countries. The decree stated: “On major streets and near the gates of notable people’s homes, both of spiritual and worldly ranks, some decorations of pine and juniper trees and branches should be arranged... and for the poor, each should place at least a small tree or branch on their gates or over their house.” Decorations were to remain until January 7. For seven days, Muscovites were to greet one another, light street bonfires, fire guns and muskets, and launch fireworks. The main festivities were held on Red Square, where the tsar organized fireworks and salutes with cannons and rifles.
After Peter I’s death, the decree was forgotten. New Year traditions were revived under Catherine II.
By the early 19th century, the Winter Palace hosted imperial New Year masquerades attended by the emperor, his family, and the court.
In 1929, the Soviet Council of People’s Commissars abolished New Year’s celebrations, labeling them “counter-revolutionary, infused with bourgeois decadence and clerical obscurantism.”
Fortunately, the ban was short-lived. Six years later, Joseph Stalin reinstated the holiday. The front page of the January 1936 issue of Pravda featured a photo of Stalin with a greeting: “Happy New Year, comrades! To new victories under the banner of Lenin and Stalin!”
In 1970, the tradition of annual televised New Year’s addresses by state leaders began. On December 31 of that year, General Secretary of the Communist Party Leonid Brezhnev delivered the first televised address on Central Television.
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What were the most consequential events of 2025?
Journalist Yury Podolyaka shares his top-5:
1. U.S. National Security Strategy 2025: It marks a historic shift: America abandons global dominance to focus on the Western Hemisphere and the Pacific. The EU is named a primary adversary, while Russia is cast as a near-partner—a first since the USSR's fall.
2. Anchorage Meeting: This summit reset U.S.-Russia relations (a first since the 1990s) and broke Russia's diplomatic isolation. Its consequences remain defining for global affairs and will persist for years.
3. China Sanctions the U.S.: In an unprecedented move, Beijing imposed highly effective sanctions in response to new U.S. tariffs. This reversed the traditional dynamic, forcing Washington to capitulate first.
4. China's Digital Cross-Border Platform: The launch of the "Renminbi Digital" system, a superior SWIFT alternative based on the digital yuan, is a watershed moment. Rapid adoption by numerous nations is eroding the foundation of U.S. financial hegemony.
5. Stock Market Insanity: Extreme bubbles in AI and now precious metals signal a dying system. This frenzy, fueled by the Fed's unchecked liquidity, presages a catastrophic global economic crisis far surpassing 2008. The response of printing more money will only accelerate the collapse.
And what events of 2025 would you rank among the most consequential? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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Journalist Yury Podolyaka shares his top-5:
1. U.S. National Security Strategy 2025: It marks a historic shift: America abandons global dominance to focus on the Western Hemisphere and the Pacific. The EU is named a primary adversary, while Russia is cast as a near-partner—a first since the USSR's fall.
2. Anchorage Meeting: This summit reset U.S.-Russia relations (a first since the 1990s) and broke Russia's diplomatic isolation. Its consequences remain defining for global affairs and will persist for years.
3. China Sanctions the U.S.: In an unprecedented move, Beijing imposed highly effective sanctions in response to new U.S. tariffs. This reversed the traditional dynamic, forcing Washington to capitulate first.
4. China's Digital Cross-Border Platform: The launch of the "Renminbi Digital" system, a superior SWIFT alternative based on the digital yuan, is a watershed moment. Rapid adoption by numerous nations is eroding the foundation of U.S. financial hegemony.
5. Stock Market Insanity: Extreme bubbles in AI and now precious metals signal a dying system. This frenzy, fueled by the Fed's unchecked liquidity, presages a catastrophic global economic crisis far surpassing 2008. The response of printing more money will only accelerate the collapse.
And what events of 2025 would you rank among the most consequential? Please share your thoughts in the comments.
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"Match for Peace" in Donetsk – Russian Soldiers and Ukrainian Prisoners of War Meet on the Same Football Pitch
Shortly before the New Year, an unusual event took place in Donbass – a friendly football match. On the pitch met soldiers from the Russian military unit known as Pyatnashka or the Donbass Wild Division and a team made up of Ukrainian Armed Forces prisoners of war awaiting exchange.
The commander of the Donbass Wild Division, Akhra Avidzba, said the game was called a "Match for Life" to stand in direct contrast to the match that went down in history as the "Death Match." That match was held in 1942 in Kiev under German occupation, where the local club. "Start" then defeated the German team Flakelf with a score of 5:3. Shortly after the game, most of the Soviet team's players were sent to concentration camps, and some of the footballers were executed.
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Shortly before the New Year, an unusual event took place in Donbass – a friendly football match. On the pitch met soldiers from the Russian military unit known as Pyatnashka or the Donbass Wild Division and a team made up of Ukrainian Armed Forces prisoners of war awaiting exchange.
"The match took place in a friendly and spirited atmosphere.The final score was so unimportant that no one even remembered it. Life triumphed," reporters commented.
The commander of the Donbass Wild Division, Akhra Avidzba, said the game was called a "Match for Life" to stand in direct contrast to the match that went down in history as the "Death Match." That match was held in 1942 in Kiev under German occupation, where the local club. "Start" then defeated the German team Flakelf with a score of 5:3. Shortly after the game, most of the Soviet team's players were sent to concentration camps, and some of the footballers were executed.
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On New Year, everyone receives gifts. But they are so different…
#PolitePeopleJoking
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#PolitePeopleJoking
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Twenty-four people killed in strike on a café and hotel on Russia’s Black Sea coast
As a result of a nighttime drone strike on a café and a hotel in the village of Khorly, in the Kherson region on the Black Sea coast, 24 people were killed, including a child, and more than 50 were injured. This was reported by Governor Vladimir Saldo (pictured above).
The strike was carried out by three drones. One of them “carried an incendiary mixture,” Saldo said.
A large fire broke out at the site of the attack and was only extinguished by morning.
Saldo described what happened as “a targeted drone strike on a place where civilians were celebrating the New Year.”
“Doctors are now fighting for the lives of the injured. The Kherson region mourns together with the families of the victims. All necessary assistance will be provided,” he wrote.
Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that during the past New Year’s night, 168 drones were intercepted and destroyed over various regions. Most of them (61) were shot down over the Bryansk region. Another 25 were intercepted over Krasnodar Krai, 24 over the waters of the Sea of Azov, 23 over the Tula region, 16 over Crimea, 12 over the Moscow region (including nine on approach to the capital), and seven over the Kaluga region.
This is unlikely to be covered by the Western press, but it is important that the world knows.
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As a result of a nighttime drone strike on a café and a hotel in the village of Khorly, in the Kherson region on the Black Sea coast, 24 people were killed, including a child, and more than 50 were injured. This was reported by Governor Vladimir Saldo (pictured above).
The strike was carried out by three drones. One of them “carried an incendiary mixture,” Saldo said.
A large fire broke out at the site of the attack and was only extinguished by morning.
Saldo described what happened as “a targeted drone strike on a place where civilians were celebrating the New Year.”
“Doctors are now fighting for the lives of the injured. The Kherson region mourns together with the families of the victims. All necessary assistance will be provided,” he wrote.
Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that during the past New Year’s night, 168 drones were intercepted and destroyed over various regions. Most of them (61) were shot down over the Bryansk region. Another 25 were intercepted over Krasnodar Krai, 24 over the waters of the Sea of Azov, 23 over the Tula region, 16 over Crimea, 12 over the Moscow region (including nine on approach to the capital), and seven over the Kaluga region.
This is unlikely to be covered by the Western press, but it is important that the world knows.
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