free eBooks十Chinese mistakes about Russia

usu. i must tell murricans china aint russia. p.s. 俄罗斯不是欧洲!

Contents: Special Ops, Russian Culture & War, Ukraine Will Win, Free eBooks, Word of the Day, Sun Tzu 孙子

Sometimes I have to explain to the Chinese MFA, MSS just exactly why Ukraine Will Win and to what extent me and mine are willing to go to ensure that in fact Ukraine Will Win by any means necessary.

free preview.

Synopsis: Irregular war can get outsize results

1. in terms of propaganda

2. in terms of gaining intelligence

3. in terms of crippling enemy resources/resource extraction

4. in eliminating high value targets

5. in destroying enemy infrastructure.

Special Operations Executive (SoE) did things like

1. recover enigma that Poles captured from Nazis.

2. recover V2 rockets that Poles captured from Nazis.

3. prevent Nazis from getting heavy water necessary for atomic research

4. destruction of port facilities

5. aiding resistants to destroy rails and bridges

6. destroy or capture Nazi radars. Even had Britain been forced to go it alone against Hitler ultimately he would have been defeated albeit by the death of a thousand cuts. Even if Ukraine were forced to go it alone against Putin Ukraine will win albeit by the death of a thousand cuts. Details follow:

Unconventional tactics and cunning strategies can yield disproportionate results, catching the enemy off guard and undermining their resolve. As I sit down to explain to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of State Security why Ukraine will ultimately emerge victorious, I am reminded of the countless examples from history that demonstrate the potency of irregular warfare.

Let’s start with propaganda. In irregular warfare, the dissemination of information can be a powerful tool, shaping public opinion and influencing the narrative. The British Special Operations Executive (SOE) during World War II was a masterclass in this regard. By spreading false information, sabotaging enemy communications, and promoting anti-Nazi propaganda, the SOE was able to create an atmosphere of uncertainty and mistrust among the enemy ranks. Similarly, in the context of the Ukraine-Russia conflict, irregular warfare can be used to expose Russian atrocities, highlight Ukrainian resilience, and create a sense of unease among Russian forces.

Intelligence gathering is another critical aspect of irregular warfare. The SOE's ability to recover sensitive information, such as the Enigma machine captured by the Poles, proved to be a game-changer in the war effort. Similarly, in Ukraine, irregular warfare can be used to gather vital intelligence on Russian troop movements, military installations, and strategic plans. This information can then be used to inform Ukrainian military strategy, allowing them to launch targeted attacks and exploit Russian vulnerabilities.

Crippling enemy resources and resource extraction is another key objective of irregular warfare. The SOE's efforts to prevent the Nazis from obtaining heavy water necessary for their atomic research program are a prime example of this. In Ukraine, irregular warfare can be used to disrupt Russian supply lines, sabotage key infrastructure, and target Russian energy exports. By doing so, Ukraine can limit Russia's ability to wage war, creating a strategic advantage on the battlefield.

Eliminating high-value targets is another critical aspect of irregular warfare. The SOE's efforts to target key Nazi officials and military leaders are a testament to the effectiveness of this strategy. In Ukraine, irregular warfare can be used to target Russian commanders, disrupt their chain of command, and create chaos among their ranks.

Destroying enemy infrastructure is also a key objective of irregular warfare. The SOE's efforts to destroy port facilities, aid resistance groups in destroying rails and bridges, and capture or destroy Nazi radars are all examples of this. In Ukraine, irregular warfare can be used to target Russian military installations, disrupt their logistics, and create a sense of unease among their forces.

Even if Ukraine were to find itself facing Russia alone, without the support of its allies, the principles of irregular warfare would still apply: "the death of a thousand cuts." Ukraine undertakes a strategy of relentless, targeted attacks, using irregular warfare to wear down Russian forces, disrupt their supply lines, and create chaos among their ranks.

Irregular warfare will ultimately lead Ukraine to victory.

Prediction: There will be a sequel!

GETTING RUSSIA RIGHT: DISPELLING CHINESE ILLUSIONS ABOUT RUSSIA

RUSSIAN ALCOHOLISM AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Russia's history is marred by a legacy of alcoholism and domestic violence, two issues that have had a profound impact on the country's culture and society. The roots of Russia's alcoholism can be traced back to the Tsarist era, when the government held a monopoly on the production and sale of vodka. The Tsar saw vodka as a way to keep the serfs in line, and it was often used as a tool of oppression as well as generating tax revenue. This, plus brutal governance and invasion after invasion is so many Russians are Russia is alcoholics.

The effects of the Tsar’s monopoly vodka were devastating. Alcoholism became widespread, and it was not uncommon for men to spend their entire paychecks on vodka, leaving their families to suffer. Domestic violence was also rampant, with women and children often bearing the brunt of their husbands' and fathers' drunken rages.

This legacy of alcoholism and domestic violence continues to plague Russia to this day. According to the World Health Organization, Russia has one of the highest rates of alcohol-related deaths in the world, and domestic violence remains a major problem.

But Russia's cultural values are not just different from those of China - they are also in direct conflict with them. Chinese culture places a strong emphasis on family, hard work, optimism, and wealth creation. These values are reflected in China's rapid economic growth and its emergence as a global great power.

In contrast, Russia's culture is marked by a sense of pessimism and fatalism, with many Russians believing that their country is doomed to repeat the mistakes of its past. This sense of hopelessness is reflected in Russia's high rates of alcoholism and domestic violence, as well as its lack of economic growth and development.

The contrast between Chinese and Russian culture could not be more stark. While China is a country that values hard work and self-reliance, Russia is a country that is often characterized by a sense of entitlement and a lack of personal responsibility.

So what does this mean for China's relationship with Russia? The answer is clear: China and Russia have next to nothing in common culturally, and China should not hesitate to oppose Russia's aggressive behavior on the world stage.

Russia is a historical rival of China, and its actions pose a threat to China's economy and stability. By opposing Russia, China can protect its own interests and promote a more peaceful and stable world.

Russia's legacy of alcoholism and domestic violence is a stark reminder of the country's troubled past and its lack of cultural values. China, on the other hand, is a country that is built on a foundation of hard work, optimism, and a strong sense of family and community. These values are the key to China's success, and they are the reason why China will continue to thrive in the years to come.

RUSSIA ISN'T REALLY EUROPEAN...

The notion that Russia is a European country is a common misconception that has been perpetuated for centuries. While it is true that the majority portion of Russia's population is ethnically European, Russia's cultural, historical, and geographical identity is more complex and multifaceted than that. This may explain China's misapprehension of Russian culture: Russia's multi-ethnic composition may explain China's attitudes toward Russia, which are frankly not well-founded.

Russia is home to over 190 subjugated ethnic groups. Most of these groups have their own distinct languages, cultures, and traditions. While the majority of Russians are indeed ethnically European, specifically Slavic, there are also significant populations of Turkic, Mongol, and other ethnic groups who are Russian citizens though they are not Russian nationals, the subject nations. Most of them speak Russian. Usually it is their second language.

Russia's ethnic diversity likely has made it easier for Chinese people to accept and understand Russia, as they can identify with the country's Asians and also aspire to be like Europeans and thus have two points whereby they can identify with and frankly idolize Russia, mistakenly. The Chinese misperceive Russia just as the West misperceive China. Many Chinese people mistakenly view Russia as a European country, and thus as developed, cultured, in short, desirable a goal to be aspired to and often emulated. If only. Chinese misperceive Russia as somehow a typical European country, which is far from the case. Their misperception is reinforced by the fact that many Russians are indeed white. In other words ethnically European: Europeans who were occupied for 200 years by Mongols and who went on to conquer and subjugate many other people most of whom are not white.

Chinese racial perceptions of Russians are rather inaccurate. Russia's history, culture, and geography are all deeply intertwined with Asia, unlike every other European country except perhaps Turkiye, which is only arguably European. Russia's identity is far more complex and nuanced than a simple label can capture. From the Mongol invasions of the 13th century to the Soviet Union's expansion into Central Asia, Russia's history has been shaped by its brutal interactions with Asian cultures and empires.

Russia's cultural identity is also deeply influenced by its Orthodox Christian heritage, which is distinct from the Catholic and Protestant traditions of Western Europe. This crucial difference is overlooked by most Chinese people just as you likely do not distinguish among Mahayana, Hinnayana, Theraveda or Pure Land Buddhism not to mention Taoism, Shinto, and Confucianism. Russia has a mixed cultural landscape that is both familiar and foreign to Western Europeans, without even mentioning the many Muslims. This too explains why Chinese people misperceive Russia as a European or even typically European country: they mostly look white, and worship the same dying god incarnate. Europeans aka whites may be making similar misapprehensions of Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Vietnamese people not to mention the variaties of Indo-Chinese peoples.

Chinese people's misperception of Russia as a European country has also led to a romanticization of Russia's image, particularly in China. Many Chinese people view Russia as a land of grandeur and majesty, with a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of national pride. While this perception is not entirely inaccurate, it glosses over many ugly complexities and challenges that Russia faces, including its history of corruption, violence, alcoholism, and social inequality.

In reality, Russia is a country with a tragic history, marked by exceptional brief achievements, forced by the government whipping the masses into action whether they like it or not and generally at the cost of much life: these "achievements" are mere punctuations between the much longer times of widespread suffering and pervasive poverty, not to mention violence. Russia's people have faced invasion after invasions, Mongols, Swedes, French, Germans, and this explains why the state whether led by Tsars or Komissars is terribly repressive and also why the non-military economy is stagnant. Often in war the Russians finally overcome. Always they die. Today, Russia continues to grapple with such challenges, including but not limited to corruption, poverty, domestic violence and grand rifts of social and economic inequality.

Despite these challenges, Russia remains a country of great beauty and cultural richness, with a unique identity that is both European and Asian, Christian and Muslim, and modern and traditional.

On the one hand, the fact Russia is multi-ethnic makes it easier for Chinese people to accept or understand them. On the other hand, Chinese people often mistakenly take Russians for European, which they really are not, even though most Russians are in fact white as opposed to Turkic or Mongol, which are minority races in Russia. These ethnic identities may make it easier for China to idealize, in other words misperceive, the ugly truth about corrupt, violent, alcoholic Russia.

Russia's violent history marks Russians as a nation that is simultaneously proud of its resilience and accomplishments, yet struggling with deep-seated insecurities, contradictions, and a propensity for self-destructive violence, which have led to a love-hate relationship with Russia's neighbors and minority groups, including Jews, and have ultimately contributed to Russia's brutal neo-mongol approach to politics, economy, and international relations.

RUSSIAN ETHNICITIES

Russia, often perceived as a European nation, is in fact a country with a rich and complex history of ethnic diversity, shaped by the influences of various cultures and the Mongol conquest. Among the dozens of nations subjugated by the Russians the following are most prominent: Cossacks, Tatars, Mongols, Jews, and Caucasians.

Cossacks: The Tsar's Enforcers.

The Cossacks were a group of skilled warriors and horsemen who played a significant role in Russian history, particularly during the 16th to 19th centuries. Originating from the steppes of Ukraine and southern Russia, the Cossacks were known for their bravery, martial skills, and nomadic lifestyle. They were often employed by the Russian government as border guards, scouts, and soldiers, and were instrumental in defending Russia against invading armies, including the Mongols, Ottomans, and Napoleon's forces. The Cossacks were also known for their distinctive culture, which blended elements of Russian, Ukrainian, and Turkic traditions. They were skilled horsemen and archers, and were feared by their enemies for their lightning-fast raids and ambushes. Despite their reputation as fierce warriors, the Cossacks were also known for their loyalty, honor, and sense of community, and played a significant role in shaping Russian identity and culture.

The Cossacks were organized into various hosts, or armies, which were typically led by a hetman, or leader. These hosts were often named after the region or river where they were based, such as the Don Cossacks or the Kuban Cossacks. Despite their rebellious nature, the Cossacks were also fiercely loyal to the Russian crown and played a significant role in defending Russia against its enemies.

The Cossacks were also known for their military prowess, which was based on their skill with horses, swords, and firearms. They were expert horsemen and were able to move quickly and strike at enemy forces with lightning speed. They were also skilled in the use of guerrilla warfare, which allowed them to harass and demoralize enemy forces. The Cossacks were also known for their bravery and their willingness to fight to the death, which earned them a reputation as fierce and formidable warriors.

Cossacks were also known for their brutal treatment of their enemies. They were often accused of atrocities, such as massacres and forced conversions, and were feared by many of their contemporaries. They were often called upon to defend the Russian people against external threats, and were willing to fight to the death to protect their homeland.

TATARS/TARTARS (匈奴)

The term "Tatar" is often used to describe a specific ethnicity, but its meaning is uncertain and has been subject to interpretation. In reality, the areas inhabited by what was referred to as Tartary/Tartaria in English and other Western European languages are home to ethnic Turks, who are not part of the same language group as the Mongols. The Tatars are a Turkic people who have lived in the Volga-Ural region and Siberia since centuries, and their culture has been shaped by their history of interaction with Mongols, Russians, and other ethnic groups.

MONGOLS (蒙家)

The Mongol conquest of Russia in the 13th century had a profound impact on the country's history and culture. The Mongols were a nomadic people from Central Asia who were known for their military prowess and administrative skills. They were able to conquer vast territories, including present-day Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and parts of Eastern Europe.

The Mongols were not always brutal in their conquests. In fact, their general practice was to spare cities and populations if, and only if, they surrendered and paid tribute. However, those who resisted were subject to brutal treatment, massacres and enslavement, in short extermination. The Mongols were able to hold Russia as a satrap for about 200 years, during which time they imposed their own system of governance and taxation. It is here that the Russians learned to be brutal and thuggish.

The Mongol conquest had a lasting impact on Russian culture, particularly in governance. Many Russian cities, including Moscow and Kazan, were founded by the Mongols, and their architecture reflects the influence of Mongol and Islamic styles. The Mongols also introduced the concept of the "yam" system, which was a network of post stations and messengers that facilitated communication and trade across the vast territories of the Mongol Empire.

Jews: Eternal Victims

The history of Jews in Russia is complex and troubled, marked by periods of tolerance and persecution. Jews have lived in Russia for centuries, and have made significant contributions to the country's culture, economy, and politics. However, they have also faced discrimination, violence, and persecution, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The Russian government has historically had a love-hate relationship with Jews, who were seen as both useful and feared. On the one hand, Jews were valued for their literacy, productivity, and commercial skills, which made them an important part of the Russian economy. On the other hand, they were also seen as outsiders, who were perceived as a threat to Russian culture and identity.

Russians ambivalence towards Jews has led to a cycle of tolerance and persecution, with periods of relative calm punctuated by outbreaks of violence and discrimination. The Russian government has often used Jews as a scapegoat for the country's problems, and has tolerated or even encouraged anti-Semitic violence and propaganda.

Georgians and Other Caucasians: A Region of Rivalry and Conflict

The Caucasus region, which includes present-day Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan, has a complex and diverse history of ethnic and cultural influences. The region has been home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Georgians, Armenians, and Azeris, who have all played a significant role in shaping Russian culture and history.

Stalin, who was of Georgian origin, is still revered in Russia for his role in defeating Hitler and leading the country to victory in World War II. However, his legacy is also marked by violence, repression, and ethnic cleansing, particularly in the Caucasus region.

Conclusion

Russia managed to subjugate dozens of minority nations by setting them against each other and through superior technology, coopting some, exterminating others, a policy reminiscent of their mongol forbears of tribute and cooptation or extermination.

Russia has never been willing to confront its past or admit its weaknesses. The country's motto, "Moscow does not believe in tears," reflects its stoic and proud nature, which has often

Despite its complex history, Russia has never been willing to confront its past or admit its weaknesses. The country's motto, "Moscow does not believe in tears," reflects its stoic and proud nature, which has often led to a reluctance to acknowledge its own vulnerabilities. This has resulted in a cycle of denial and aggression, where Russia has often sought to assert its dominance over others rather than confronting its own internal conflicts.

This approach has also led to a deep-seated sense of insecurity and paranoia, which has driven Russia's foreign policy and domestic politics for centuries. The country's history of expansionism and imperialism has been marked by a desire to assert its dominance over others, often at the expense of its own people.

THE RUSSIAN WAY OF WAR

Summary: "Napoleon has arrived. We must burn Moscow to the ground!"

And then come the cossacks to cut off the invaders supply.

"Hitler has arrived. We must burn all the grain!"

And then come the cossacks to cut off the invaders supply.

And then the Russian army reaches Paris. Or Berlin.

1. NEVER attack Russia!

2. LET RUSSIA ATTACK YOU.

Russia is consistently performs ineffectively in offensive wars, but in defense cannot be defeated albeit at the cost of many Russian dead. The Mongol horde, notoriously brutal, are the only example of a foreign invader that occupied Russia, and that was something like "we want you to help us keep those other russians down".

Russia's Enduring Military Legacy: A History of Defensive Prowess

Throughout history, Russia has consistently demonstrated an unwavering ability to defend its territory against invading forces. This unyielding resolve has been a hallmark of Russian military strategy, often catching adversaries off guard and ultimately leading to their downfall.

One of the most notable examples of Russia's defensive prowess is its successful repulsion of Napoleon's invasion in 1812. As the French army approached Moscow, Russian forces employed a scorched earth policy, burning the city to the ground and denying the enemy vital supplies. Meanwhile, Cossack units harassed and disrupted Napoleon's supply lines, further weakening his army's resolve. This clever tactic ultimately forced Napoleon's retreat, marking a significant turning point in the war.

Similarly, during World War II, Russia's defense against Hitler's invasion proved equally effective. As German forces advanced, Russian troops implemented a strategy of burning grain and destroying infrastructure, starving the enemy of vital resources. Cossack units once again played a crucial role, cutting off German supply lines and sowing chaos behind enemy lines. This relentless pressure ultimately led to the defeat of the German army, with Russian forces pushing deep into Eastern Europe and eventually capturing Berlin.

Russia's military history is replete with examples of its ability to absorb and counter invading forces. Despite being invaded by some of history's most formidable armies, Russia has consistently emerged victorious, often turning the tables on its attackers and pushing deep into enemy territory. The Russian army's ability to reach Paris in 1814 and Berlin in 1945 serves as a testament to its enduring strength and resilience.

Russia's defensive prowess is not without exception. The Mongol invasion of the 13th century, which was facilitated by Russian infighting and disunity, remains a rare instance of Russia being conquered. However, this anomaly only serves to highlight the general principle that Russia is a formidable opponent when invaded, and that its military history is marked by a long tradition of defensive victories.

From the burning of Moscow to the capture of Berlin, Russia's unwavering resolve and brutal tactics have consistently thwarted the plans of would-be invaders. As a military power, Russia remains a force to be reckoned with, and its enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of defensive strategy and determination.

WHY CHINA IDEALIZES RUSSIA: USSR NOSTALGIA EXEMPLIFIED IN FILM

China's idealization of Russia is a fascinating case study in the power of cultural exchange and the enduring legacy of Soviet propaganda. For decades, the Chinese people have harbored a deep affection for Russia, often viewing it as a symbol of strength, resilience, and cultural sophistication. But what lies behind this nostalgia for the USSR?

One possible explanation is that the Chinese people's interactions with Russians were largely limited to the country's diplomatic and military elite. These individuals, often handpicked for their charm, intelligence, and cultural refinement, presented a polished and dignified image of Russia to the Chinese. This selective exposure may have created a skewed perception of the Russian people as a whole, reinforcing the notion that Russians are inherently noble, intelligent, and cultured.

Another factor contributing to China's idealization of Russia may be the country's multiethnic composition. Unlike many Western nations, Russia is a vast and diverse country, comprising over 190 ethnic groups. This diversity may have helped to dispel the notion that Russia is a monolithically "white" nation, making it more relatable and appealing to the Chinese. In contrast to the perceived homogeneity of Western countries, Russia's multiculturalism may have been seen as a refreshing alternative, one that resonated with China's own complex ethnic landscape.

Furthermore, the Soviet Union's carefully crafted image as a champion of socialism and anti-imperialism may have played a significant role in shaping China's perceptions of Russia. Through a combination of propaganda, cultural exchange programs, and strategic diplomacy, the Soviets successfully cultivated an aura of moral superiority, presenting themselves as the defenders of the oppressed and the vanguard of progressive values. This image was reinforced through film, literature, and other forms of cultural production, which often depicted Russians as heroic, selfless, and committed to the cause of social justice.

Soviet cinema, in particular, played a crucial role in shaping China's perceptions of Russia. Films like "Lenin in October" (1937), "Man with a Movie Camera" (1929), and "Battleship Potemkin" (1925) were widely screened in China, showcasing the Soviet Union's technological prowess, cultural achievements, and revolutionary spirit. These films, often accompanied by carefully crafted propaganda campaigns, helped to create a sense of admiration and awe among Chinese audiences, who saw the Soviets as a beacon of hope and a model for their own socialist revolution.

The cumulative effect of these factors has been a profound and lasting impact on China's perceptions of Russia. To this day, many Chinese people view Russia as a symbol of strength, resilience, and cultural sophistication, often overlooking the complexities and nuances of Russian history and society. As we explore the world of Soviet cinema, it becomes clear that film played a significant role in shaping this nostalgia, presenting a carefully curated image of Russia that continues to captivate audiences around the world.

But it is a sham, a grandiose beautiful lie, papering over the reality of poverty, alcoholism, mourning, shortages, and queues so characteristic of the failed Soviet economic planning system.

Despite this, Soviet cinema was very good: if you suspend belief and enjoyed verisimilitude, especially while drunk. Then Soviet cinema is a treasure trove of cinematic excellence that continues to captivate audiences worldwide and so people seeing it today do not have the context of the fact it was distraction from the sad and hard reality of grinding poverty, fear, work without reward, and outright paranoia, depending on the era, not to mention purges.

YET,behind the Iron Curtain, filmmakers were tasked with a dual mission: to justify the Soviet Union's grand experiment and to entertain, motivate, and distract the masses. This unique blend of propaganda and artistry resulted in a distinct cinematic style that still fascinates today.

One of the most striking aspects of Soviet cinema is its ability to balance ideology with artistic expression. Filmmakers like Andrei Tarkovsky, Sergei Eisenstein, and Mikhail Kalatozov pushed the boundaries of storytelling, experimenting with innovative techniques and exploring complex themes.

Take, for example, Tarkovsky's 1972 sci-fi masterpiece, Solaris. On the surface, the film appears to be a faithful adaptation of Stanislaw Lem's novel, exploring the psychological effects of space travel on a lone cosmonaut. However, upon closer inspection, Solaris reveals itself to be a powerful allegory for the Soviet condition. The film's themes of isolation, disconnection, and the blurring of reality and fantasy eerily echo the experiences of Soviet citizens living under the watchful eye of the state.

Another notable example is the 1984 film Guests from the Future, directed by Pavel Arsenov. This children's adventure film tells the story of a group of young friends who befriend a time-traveling alien. On the surface, it's a lighthearted, entertaining tale, but scratch beneath the surface, and you'll find a commentary on the Soviet values of friendship, cooperation, and the importance of science and technology.

Dr. Aibolit, a 1938 animated film based on the children's book by Korney Chukovsky, appears to be a simple, entertaining tale about a doctor who helps animals in need. However, the film's themes of compassion, empathy, and the importance of helping others can be seen as an expression of Soviet values of collectivism and social responsibility and it was later remade as a delightful full color version circa 1970.

These films, and many others like them, demonstrate the unique blend of artistry and ideology that defined Soviet cinema. While the regime's propagandistic goals were always present, filmmakers found ways to subtly subvert and critique the system, often incorporating veiled messages and allegories into their work.

The Soviet film industry's emphasis on social realism also led to the creation of some remarkable documentaries. Films like Dziga Vertov's Man with a Movie Camera (1929) and Mikhail Kalatozov's Salt for Svanetia (1930) showcased the lives of ordinary Soviet citizens, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of the working class.

Soviet cinema's influence can still be felt today, with many contemporary filmmakers drawing inspiration from the works of Tarkovsky, Eisenstein, and others. The industry's unique blend of artistry and ideology continues to fascinate audiences worldwide, offering a glimpse into a bygone era and the complex, often contradictory, world of Soviet cinema.

In conclusion, Soviet cinema was excellent, and its legacy continues to captivate audiences today. By exploring the complex interplay between ideology and artistry, reality and fantasy, we can gain a deeper understanding of the Soviet Union's failed experiment and the ways in which cinema reflected, and shaped the Soviet regime's values.

RUSSIA IS LIKE THE USA ... IF THE USA WERE DRUNK AND CORRUPT

The United States and Russia, two nations that have often been viewed as polar opposites, share a surprising number of similarities. Both countries have a strong tradition of outdoor adventure and exploration, with a deep-seated love of nature and the wilderness. From the rugged individualism of the American frontier to the vast expanses of the Russian wilderness, both nations have a strong affinity for the great outdoors and are generally sincerely religious.

Both Russia and the USA are deeply religious, with a strong emphasis on faith and spirituality. In the United States, this is reflected in the country's founding documents, which enshrine the principles of freedom of religion and the separation of church and state. In Russia, the Orthodox Church has played a central role in the country's history and culture, with many Russians identifying as Orthodox Christians.

Patriotism is another area where the two countries converge. Both nations have a strong sense of national pride and a deep love of country, with many citizens willing to make sacrifices for the sake of their nation. This is reflected in the many patriotic holidays and traditions that are celebrated in both countries, from the Fourth of July in the United States to Victory Day in Russia.

Finally, both countries have a long history of militarism and a love of guns. From the American Revolution to the present day, the United States has been a nation of gun owners, with many citizens exercising their right to bear arms. In Russia, the military has played a central role in the country's history, with many Russians viewing military service as a rite of passage.

However, despite these similarities, the two countries diverge sharply when it comes to economics and governance. The United States has a long tradition of democracy, with a system of government that is based on the principles of representation, accountability, and the rule of law. The country has a strong entrepreneurial economy, with a vibrant private sector and a high level of economic freedom.

In contrast, Russia has historically been a more authoritarian society, with a strong emphasis on state control and a limited tradition of democracy. The country's economic system has been characterized by a high level of state ownership and control, with a limited role for the private sector. This has resulted in a lack of economic freedom and a high level of corruption, with many Russians viewing the government as corrupt and unaccountable.

One of the most striking differences between the two countries is the lack of human rights and freedoms in Russia. Throughout its history, Russia has been marked by a lack of respect for individual rights and freedoms, with many citizens facing persecution, imprisonment, and even death for speaking out against the government. In contrast, the United States has a long tradition of protecting individual rights and freedoms, with a strong emphasis on the rule of law and the protection of civil liberties.

The history of the two countries also reflects these differences. The United States was founded on the principles of democracy and individual freedom, with the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution enshrining these values. In contrast, Russia's history has been marked by a series of authoritarian regimes, from the Romanov dynasty to the Soviet Union, with a limited tradition of democracy and individual freedom.

The exception to this rule is the medieval republic of Novgorod, which existed from the 12th to the 15th centuries. Novgorod was a unique experiment in democracy and self-governance, with a system of government that was based on the principles of representation and accountability. However, this experiment was ultimately crushed by the rising power of the Russian state, and Novgorod was absorbed into the Russian Empire.

In conclusion, while the United States and Russia share many similarities, their differences are stark and profound. The United States has a long tradition of democracy, individual freedom, and economic freedom, while Russia has historically been marked by authoritarianism, state control, and a lack of respect for individual rights and freedoms. Crazy Ivan loves his guns too, but when it comes to the fundamentals of governance and economics, the two countries are worlds apart.

CONCLUSION

As we can see, Russia is a basket-case, in desperate need of therapy. But Russia will never go to therapy. That requires admitting things: Like being weak. Like being bullied. Like turning into a bully, to never be bullied again. "Moscow does not believe in tears." Since Russia will not reform out of it's dysfunctions it will collapse, both in population and in area. Russia's own choices doomed it. The world's largest country, a mafia state masquerading as the "Russian" Federation will disintegrate and the many nations Russia subjugated will gain independence, which will present strategic opportunities to China.

UKRAINE WILL WIN: WHY CHINA SHOULD OPPOSE RUSSIA'S IMPERIALIST WAR

As the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, it is becoming increasingly clear that Russia's actions are nothing short of an imperialist war of conquest. The use of deadly force against civilians, the destruction of infrastructure, and the blatant disregard for international law are all hallmarks of a brutal and unjustified aggression.

But despite the overwhelming evidence of Russia's wrongdoing, some in China continue to support Moscow's actions. This is a mistake. China's interests are not served by backing a power that is willing to use force to achieve its goals, and that is willing to disregard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other nations.

In fact, China's own history and values should lead it to oppose Russia's actions. China has long been a champion of national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and has consistently opposed the use of force to resolve international disputes. By supporting Russia's aggression, China is undermining its own principles and values.

Moreover, China's economic interests are also at stake. The conflict in Ukraine is already having a significant impact on global trade and investment, and China's own economy is not immune to these effects. By opposing Russia's actions, China can help to promote stability and security in the region, and protect its own economic interests.

So what can China do to oppose Russia's imperialist war? First and foremost, it must use its diplomatic influence to pressure Russia to cease its aggression and withdraw its troops from Ukraine. China must also work with other nations to impose economic sanctions on Russia, and to provide humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine.

But China's opposition to Russia's actions must go beyond just words. It must also take concrete actions to support the people of Ukraine and to promote stability and security in the region. This can include providing military aid to Ukraine, and working with other nations to establish a peacekeeping force in the region.

In conclusion, China's support for Russia's actions in Ukraine is a mistake. By opposing Russia's imperialist war, China can promote its own values and interests, and help to create a more stable and secure world.

Free eBooks this week!

CHINESE VOCABULARY COGNATES

Globalization with Chinese Characteristics

Watergate 2.0

Mafia State Art

Negotiable Instruments Law

WORD OF THE DAY: MINISTRY

Word of the day: "ministry"

- English: ministry

- French: ministère (m)

- Spanish: ministerio (m)

- German: Ministerium (n)

- Estonian: ministerium (n)

- Russian: министерство (n) (ministerstvo)

- Ukrainian: міністерство (n) (ministerstvo)

- Mandarin Chinese: 部 (bù); 部处 (bùchù)

Sample sentence: "The ministry is responsible for the country's foreign affairs."

- English: The ministry is responsible for the country's foreign affairs.

- French: Le ministère est responsable des affaires étrangères du pays.

- Spanish: El ministerio es responsable de los asuntos exteriores del país.

- German: Das Ministerium ist verantwortlich für die auswärtigen Angelegenheiten des Landes.

- Estonian: Ministerium hõlbustab riigi välispuhedele.

- Russian: Министерство отвечает за внешние связи страны.

- Ukrainian: Міністерство відповідає за зовнішні справи країни.

- Mandarin Chinese: 这个部负责国家的外交事务。

(zhè gè bù fù zé guó jiā de wài jiāo shì wù.)

- English: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

- French: Ministère des Affaires étrangères

- Spanish: Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores

- German: Ministerium für Auswärtige Angelegenheiten

- Estonian: Välisministriium

- Russian: Министерство иностранных дел (n) (Ministerstvo inostrannykh del)

- Ukrainian: Міністерство закордонних справ (n) (Ministerstvo zakordonnykh sprav)

- Mandarin Chinese: 外交部 (wàijiāobù); 外事部 (wàishìbù)

The phrase is typically used to refer to a government department responsible for a country's international relations and foreign policy.

Sample sentence: "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement regarding the recent diplomatic incident."

- English: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement regarding the recent diplomatic incident.

- French: Le Ministère des Affaires étrangères a publié une déclaration concernant l'incident diplomatique récent.

- Spanish: El Ministerio de Asuntos Exteriores emitió un comunicado sobre el reciente incidente diplomático.

- German: Das Ministerium für Auswärtige Angelegenheiten gab eine Erklärung zu dem jüngsten diplomatischen Zwischenfall ab.

- Estonian: Välisministriium väljastas avalduse hiljutise diplomaatilise juhtumi kohta.

- Russian: Министерство иностранных дел опубликовало заявление относительно недавнего дипломатического инцидента.

- Ukrainian: Міністерство закордонних справ оприлюднило заяву щодо недавнього дипломатичного інциденту.

- Mandarin Chinese: 外交部就最近发生的外交事件发表了一份声明。

(wàijiāobù jiù zuìjìn fāshēng de wàijiāo shìjiàn fābiǎo le yī fèn shēnmíng.)

Free full text online parallel translation.