Red Sea Chokepoint: 4th Frontline Against The West

As the Russia prepares for next offensive Red Sea commercial vessels choke main trade route through the Sues Canal. Iran, China and Russia are opening new frontline of global war against the West.

Ukraine's Steeled Resolve Against Russian Assaults

Recent developments in Ukraine, as reported by local media, paint a picture of a nation bracing for another surge of Russian aggression. Ukrainian sources, including the Kyiv Post, indicate significant Russian losses at key frontline locations, signaling Ukraine's fierce resistance. The eastern fringes of Avdiivka in Donbas have become particularly notable for their intense combat since Russia's recent offensive there.

The Race to Fortify

Journalist Francis Farrell from the Kyiv Independent highlights Ukraine's recent push to bolster its defenses. Nearly 21 months into the conflict, the Ukrainian government has initiated concerted efforts to construct frontline fortifications, a move reflective of the impending winter campaign and the ongoing Russian offensive. This shift in strategy is underscored by a recent announcement from Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov about forming a new working group focused on building these critical defenses

The Challenge of Long-Range Weaponry

The conversation around Ukraine's defense strategy is also tied to its arsenal limitations. The lack of long-range ballistic missiles, which could severely disrupt Russian supply lines and infrastructure, is a notable gap. Such capabilities, if possessed by Ukraine, could significantly alter the course of the conflict. This viewpoint is echoed by BBC freelancer Euan MacDonald and further supported by General Ben Hodges, a former US Army Europe commander, who has long advocated for the West to be more prepared against Russia's military posture.

Maritime Tensions: The Red Sea Escalation

Parallel to the Ukrainian conflict, the Red Sea region is experiencing its own turmoil. A series of attacks on Western cargo vessels, reminiscent of the Suez Canal blockade, has raised alarms. These incidents, as reported by Reuters, have not only disrupted international commerce but also led to increased naval patrolling near Yemen.

The Houthi Factor

The Houthi-controlled territories along the Red Sea (marked green on the map), part of an ongoing conflict in Yemen, are central to this disruption. Sal Mercogliano, a maritime expert, emphasizes the significant impact of the Houthi actions on global trade, leading even US-flagged ships to avoid the area.

The situation is further complicated by the apparent nonchalance of Chinese cargo operations in the region, despite the rising tensions.

Global Implications and Responses

This state of affairs in the Red Sea, as highlighted by various experts, indicates a broader geopolitical strategy by Russia, Iran, and China. The use of proxy groups like the Houthis to destabilize key trade routes aligns with these nations' broader objectives to challenge Western influence and disrupt global trade dynamics.

In response to these escalating threats, U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin recently announced the formation of 'Operation Prosperity Guardian' to safeguard these vital maritime routes. This multinational effort underscores the strategic importance of the Red Sea as a linchpin in global commerce and security.

Conclusion: A Tripartite Benefit at the Expense of the West

Nuno Felix, secret services expert added this:

These unfolding events, both in Ukraine and the Red Sea, are increasingly shaping up to benefit Russia, Iran, and China. Their concerted efforts appear to be systematically undermining Western civilization and the established global political order of Pax Americana. By challenging control over critical trade routes and destabilizing regions integral to global stability, these nations are not just pursuing regional dominance but are actively reshaping the geopolitical landscape. This strategic maneuvering, if left unchecked, could significantly alter the balance of power, signaling a shift away from Western hegemony and towards a new era defined by the interests of Russia, Iran, and China. Those states benefits from all of this. Big time.