Ukraine


The return of Smersh

Not just a name from Bond stories, Smersh (“Death to spies”) was a real organisation. As much an instrument of terror to control the civilian population as an intelligence unit, it was responsible for thousands of deaths on its own side.

Now the name has resurfaced in the Ukraine war, though it’s unclear whether there’s a new version of the organisation operating or if it’s just being used for propaganda purposes.

https://theconversation.com/smersh-why-putin-has-reinstated-stalins-notorious-and-much-feared-anti-spy-unit-220627


What makes a traitor?

The term used in the book discussed is collaborator, but I’m sure there are many who’ll argue either term is appropriate.

The commentators and politicians who’ve been giving support to Russia over Ukraine are a twist on the traditional collaborator, with so many at a safe distance from the reality of the conflict. They have to be driven by money or ego, given that self preservation isn’t an issue.

https://theconversation.com/what-leads-people-to-collaborate-with-the-enemy-ian-burumas-latest-history-considers-three-troubling-examples-207809


Ukrainian Maritime Drone Build part 1

When I saw the Mikro Mir model of the Ukrainian Maritime Drone, I knew I had to have one to build in a seaborne diorama. I’ve not built any other boats, but this company’s kits could tempt me to try a few.

I also bought their model of the Turtle submersible, so I got one of the first naval innovations of the modern era, and one of the latest.

Find out more about Mikro Mir and its range at http://mikro-mir.com/en/

A video of the full build of the hull is also available.