Ukraine became the world’s largest importer of major arms in the period 2020–24, with its imports increasing nearly 100 times over compared with 2015–19. European arms imports overall grew by 155 per cent between the same periods, as states responded to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and uncertainty over the future …

It didn’t have to be this way. I’m pleased to say that a little Substack bird has told me that we have just passed 9000 subscribers. Far more than I ever hoped for, let alone expected. Thanks to all of you, and especially those who subscribed recently. And especial thanks …

On March 10, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) signed an agreement with Syria’s interim government, integrating the SDF’s 100,000-strong, predominantly Kurdish force into the new Syrian military. This move is surprising, given the deep distrust Syria’s Kurds have toward the interim government led by Ahmed al Sharaa. Sharaa, formerly the …