Stan R. Mitchell's Blog, page 19
March 17, 2023
March 16, 2023
Episode 3-16-23
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every week, I primarily do three things with my podcast:
Work to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots and foreign policy news you absolutely should know. (Why I focus on foreign policy...)
Attempt to unite our country and remind us of how lucky we are to live in America. Our division and animosity toward each other is dangerous, and I want to do my small part to remind us that more unites us than divides us, and that most Americans are good and not screaming, crazy extremists like you see on the news all the time. (My thoughts on the division in this country...)
Finally, I always share plenty of motivation and wisdom at the end of the episode, because I want to do my small part to help encourage you and lift you up. Life is certainly hard, and I think it’s fair to say all of us need all the motivation and encouragement that we can possibly get.
In this episode, we’ll be discussing several topics, that I think will really interest you, and that I almost guarantee you haven’t seen in the news! T
The work I do each week is primarily a podcast. You can listen to it from the player above, or from whatever podcast you listen to it from.
And if you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time.
Subscribing also gets you The View from the Front Extended. This is a daily edition that comes out each weekday and is a way to provide value and thank my paying subscribers.
Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon or at Venmo (@authorstanrmitchell).
But you don’t have to do any of these things. I’ve already had incredible support and feel called to do this. As long as I’m making enough to cover the time I invest each week, I’m not going anywhere. Why paid subscriptions help, and what they’d help me do more of...
Enough of the sales pitch, I hope you enjoy today’s edition. Again, you should listen to it from the player above.
Source notes:
Russia and Ukraine news:A few updates regarding the American drone downing by Russia.
First, it wasn’t just pilots acting on their own, as we correctly predicted and stated in yesterday’s Extended edition.
From the story:
Three U.S. officials familiar with the intelligence said the highest levels of the Kremlin approved the aggressive actions of Russian military fighter jets against a U.S. military drone over the Black Sea on Tuesday.
Secondly, Russia tried lying saying they hadn’t done anything wrong and were not to blame for the drone crashing.
So, the American military released drone footage showing otherwise, proving yet again that the Russian government lies says things that are not true.
The Associated Press @APBREAKING: The U.S. military released video footage that it says shows the encounter between a Russian fighter jet and an American drone in international airspace over the Black Sea two days ago. 
apne.wsUS releases video of Russian jet dumping fuel on its droneKYIV, Ukraine (AP) — The Pentagon has released footage of what it says is a Russian aircraft conducting an unsafe intercept of a U.S. Air Force surveillance drone in international airspace over the Black Sea.10:22 AM ∙ Mar 16, 202375Likes37Retweets
Greg Myre @gregmyre1The video shows the Russian jet spraying fuel on the drone, in an apparent attempt to fog its camera or sensors. The U.S. says the Russian jets did this several times before one of the jets clipped the drone's propeller. 
Mike Eckel @Mike_EckelThe U.S. military has just released video of the encounter between the Russian Su-27 fighter jets and the @usairforce MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea. https://t.co/CBjS9NTJ8Y10:24 AM ∙ Mar 16, 2023@usairforce MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea. ","username":"Mike_Eckel","name":"Mike Eckel","date":"Thu Mar 16 09:42:57 +0000 2023","photos":[{"img_url":"https://substackcdn.com/image/upload/...
Mike Eckel @Mike_EckelThe U.S. military has just released video of the encounter between the Russian Su-27 fighter jets and the @usairforce MQ-9 Reaper drone over the Black Sea. 9:42 AM ∙ Mar 16, 2023362Likes206RetweetsIn some of the video clips, if you pause them in the right spot, you’ll see the damaged propeller on the drone.
@Mike_Eckel @usairforce ","username":"AceVenturaBla","name":"AceVentura","date":"Thu Mar 16 10:16:12 +0000 2023","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FrVXnh...
AceVentura @AceVenturaBla@Mike_Eckel @usairforce 
10:16 AM ∙ Mar 16, 202313Likes1RetweetFinally, there was this.
Russia to try to salvage wrecked US drone; Gen. Milley says 'not a lot to recover'
From the story:
Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said at a Pentagon briefing that the drone sank into water that's 4,000-5,000 feet deep, making its recovery very difficult.
"It probably broke up. There's probably not a lot to recover, frankly,'' Milley said. "As far as the loss of anything of sensitive intelligence, etc., as normal we would take and we did take mitigating measures, so we're quite confident that whatever was of value is no longer of value.''
Military analysts on social media said the United States would have remotely removed classified software from the MQ-9 Reaper drone before it crashed into the Black Sea to prevent Russia from obtaining classified information. CNN later reported this.
In other Russia/Ukraine news, this is worrying if you care about the fate of Ukraine…
Ron DeSantis says Ukraine war not US priority, aligns closer to Trump
From the story:
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis had largely avoided staking out a specific policy position on the war in Ukraine until Monday.
…
He also referred to Russia's unprovoked invasion as a "territorial dispute."
Republican Accountability @AccountableGOPMarco Rubio criticizes DeSantis for calling Russia’s invasion of Ukraine a “territorial dispute”:“It’s not a territorial dispute...any more than it would be a territorial dispute if the U.S. decided that it wanted to invade Canada or take over the Bahamas…This is an invasion.” 5:10 PM ∙ Mar 14, 2023641Likes138RetweetsMoving along…
Russian advance stalls in Ukraine’s Bakhmut, think tank says
From the story:
China news:
Russia’s advance seems to have stalled in Moscow’s campaign to capture the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, a leading think tank said in an assessment of the longest ground battle of the war.
The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War said there were no confirmed advances by Russian forces in Bakhmut. Russian forces and units from the Kremlin-controlled paramilitary Wagner Group continued to launch ground attacks in the city, but there was no evidence that they were able to make any progress, the ISW said.
The founder of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said Sunday on the Telegram messaging app that the situation in Bakhmut was “difficult, very difficult, with the enemy fighting for each meter.”
China shows some increasing might in the Middle East and proves it’s a continually growing and expanding power.
Truce between Iran and Saudi Arabia, brokered by China, raises some concern for U.S.
From the story:
After years of hostility, Iran and Saudi Arabia have agreed to reestablish relations. This tentative peace was brokered by China after it was announced that officials from the three countries had met in Beijing for several days prior to negotiating the deal. This announcement from the three countries marks a new beginning of diplomatic relations between the two Middle Eastern powers and the reopening of embassies in Tehran and Riyadh within the next two months. China's involvement in the deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia comes as a surprise and concern to some as U.S. relations with Saudi Arabia and China have been strained in recent years.
The AP noted that this is a new position for China: Iran-Saudi Arabia deal casts China in unfamiliar global role
In other news, China is also STILL considering sending lethal aid to Russia for use in Ukraine.
The Washington Post warned against this rash move in an editorial on Sunday: Opinion — For China, arming Russia would be folly
From the editorial:
For Beijing to depart from its policy of pro-Russian neutrality would accelerate its spiraling hostility toward the United States and reposition China not only as a U.S. rival but also as a threatening adversary in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II. Whatever else Beijing thinks it might achieve by replenishing Moscow’s depleted arsenals, it is clear that new weapons and munitions would enable Russia to spill more blood, pulverize more infrastructure, raze more cities and lay waste to more lives in Ukraine, the victim of Russia’s unwarranted aggression.
…
It would also play havoc with China’s commercial relationships across the world, likely triggering a cascading series of punitive responses by Western countries that would compound Beijing’s already daunting economic problems. The Biden administration and its European allies have warned of such a response.
Moving along, in other China news, the deal regarding nuclear submarines between the U.S., U.K., and Australia got a lot of coverage this week.
The long-term deal will allow Austrailia to finally have conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines.
What’s the point of this?
To deter and possibly oppose China, of course. Nuclear submarines can stay at sea for extremly long periods of time and are very diffeicult to detect or counter. So, conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines could go far toward wrecking China’s growing naval ambitions and desire to retake Taiwan.
You can read about the deal here.
Iran news:I discussed the widespread school poisonings happening in Iran in last week’s podcast. (I actually discussed it quite extensively, if you missed it. Timestamp: 42:45.)
The short of it is that this affected thousands of school girls across dozens of provinces. Who could be behind this? And what does this say about the strength of Iran’s government at the moment?
Previous article, to help you get caught up on it:
The Associated Press @APIranian teachers held protests in several cities over suspected poisonings targeting hundreds of schoolgirls. Security forces broke up several of the demonstrations using water cannons and tear gas, activists said. 
apnews.comTeachers protest over suspected Iran schoolgirl poisoningsDUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranian teachers protested Tuesday over suspected poisonings targeting schoolgirls, as a prominent lawmaker and an activist group put the number of those reporting symptoms into the thousands across hundreds of schools.1:20 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023195Likes95RetweetsWell, since that happened, Iran has arrested more than 100 people. It’s still not clear who this is behind this. There are two main possibilities.
From the story:
While Iranian politicians have suggested the girls could have been targeted by hardline Islamist groups, activists believe that the poisonings may be linked to the nationwide protests that erupted last September over the death of Mahsa Ami. Many schoolgirls have been active in the protests, removing their mandatory headscarves in classrooms, tearing up pictures of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and calling for his death.
Medics, parents and teachers have accused the Iranian government of attempting to silence the victims.
That’s it for this edition.
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Also, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
And with that, I’m out.
Subscribed
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational self-help book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan. You can find all of these books on Amazon.
P.P.S. Want to know more about me? Click here: About me. You can also learn more about my journey here: Writers are crazy, and I’m crazier than most.
March 15, 2023
March 14, 2023
March 13, 2023
Extended edition: Episode 3-13-23
PLEASE NOTE: Today’s edition will be free and sent to all subscribers. But if you want to receive this in the future, you’d need to convert to a paid subscription.
I’m sending this to everyone because I just wanted to provide a sample of what I have in mind. And I believe, having put the time into today’s edition, that I can send something like this out on most weekday mornings.
If you have any questions, you can email me at: authorstanrmitchell@yahoo.com.
Love and peace,
Stan
Hello, my friends!
Here’s today’s brief round-up of news, thoughts, etc. (Please make sure you drop a comment or question if you have any! Remember, only paid subscribers will be able to see or comment on these posts, so this could — maybe — really turn into something cool. I will try to reply to all comments and answer any questions you drop, if you’d like me to elaborate on anything. Hopefully, this will become a place to comment and talk instead of OTHER angry, hate-filled places like Twitter. If we are lucky, it will become a place like my old blog from back in 2012-13, where a small community often commented, bantered, and got to converse regularly. It wasn’t a large community, but aren’t we all looking for a little more community?)
Welcome to the View from the Front extended edition. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every episode, I primarily share a combination of news currently happening, as well as my thoughts.
I truly do appreciate all my supporters and listeners, and this is just a small way I want to repay those who have signed up as paid subscribers. (And it also is another step forward toward the long-term dream and vision I currently have.)
If you’d like to upgrade and go from free to paid, here’s the link:
But no pressure. I’ve already got a nice contingent of awesome, paying supporters, and this is mostly for them.
Love and peace,
Stan R. Mitchell
Russia and Ukraine news:Russian advance stalls in Ukraine’s Bakhmut, think tank says
From the story:
Russia’s advance seems to have stalled in Moscow’s campaign to capture the eastern Ukrainian city of Bakhmut, a leading think tank said in an assessment of the longest ground battle of the war.
The Washington-based Institute for the Study of War said there were no confirmed advances by Russian forces in Bakhmut. Russian forces and units from the Kremlin-controlled paramilitary Wagner Group continued to launch ground attacks in the city, but there was no evidence that they were able to make any progress, the ISW said.
The founder of the Wagner Group, Yevgeny Prigozhin, said Sunday on the Telegram messaging app that the situation in Bakhmut was “difficult, very difficult, with the enemy fighting for each meter.”
Russia’s economy holds up, but growing challenges test Putin.
From the story:
China news:
Western sanctions have hit Russian banks, wealthy individuals and technology imports. But after a year of far-reaching restrictions aimed at degrading Moscow’s war chest, economic life for ordinary Russians doesn’t look all that different than it did before the invasion of Ukraine.
There’s no mass unemployment, no plunging currency, no lines in front of failing banks. The assortment at the supermarket is little changed, with international brands still available or local substitutes taking their place.
China shows some increasing might in the Middle East and proves it’s a continually growing and expanding power.
Truce between Iran and Saudi Arabia, brokered by China, raises some concern for U.S.
From the story:
After years of hostility, Iran and Saudi Arabia have agreed to reestablish relations. This tentative peace was brokered by China after it was announced that officials from the three countries had met in Beijing for several days prior to negotiating the deal. This announcement from the three countries marks a new beginning of diplomatic relations between the two Middle Eastern powers and the reopening of embassies in Tehran and Riyadh within the next two months. China's involvement in the deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia comes as a surprise and concern to some as U.S. relations with Saudi Arabia and China have been strained in recent years.
The AP noted that this is a new position for China: Iran-Saudi Arabia deal casts China in unfamiliar global role
In other news, China is also STILL considering sending lethal aid to Russia for use in Ukraine.
The Washington Post warned against this rash move in an editorial on Sunday: Opinion — For China, arming Russia would be folly
From the editorial:
Motivation and Wisdom:
For Beijing to depart from its policy of pro-Russian neutrality would accelerate its spiraling hostility toward the United States and reposition China not only as a U.S. rival but also as a threatening adversary in the biggest conflict in Europe since World War II. Whatever else Beijing thinks it might achieve by replenishing Moscow’s depleted arsenals, it is clear that new weapons and munitions would enable Russia to spill more blood, pulverize more infrastructure, raze more cities and lay waste to more lives in Ukraine, the victim of Russia’s unwarranted aggression.
…
It would also play havoc with China’s commercial relationships across the world, likely triggering a cascading series of punitive responses by Western countries that would compound Beijing’s already daunting economic problems. The Biden administration and its European allies have warned of such a response.
Inspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Be willing to go all out, in pursuit of your dream. Ultimately it will pay off. You are more powerful than you think you are. Go for it."1:07 AM ∙ Mar 13, 2023380Likes103Retweets
Daily Dose of Psychology @PsychologyDose_Psychology says, we have so many needs in our life but at the end of the day all we need is to be needed.7:59 PM ∙ Mar 12, 202350Likes4Retweets
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_Relax. 
10:30 PM ∙ Mar 9, 20231,735Likes376RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidDon't worry 
1:53 AM ∙ Mar 10, 20237,068Likes1,659Retweets#success #advice","username":"ysuccess_quotes","name":"Success Quotes","date":"Thu Mar 09 22:01:01 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":1,"like_count":4,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Success Quotes @ysuccess_quotesGreat achievement requires personal force, determined spirit and self-confidence.–Lailah Gifty Akita #success #advice10:01 PM ∙ Mar 9, 20234Likes1RetweetAs a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...
WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 
1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational self-help book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan. You can find all of these books on Amazon.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
March 12, 2023
The View from the Front Extended announcement
Hey guys,
I wanted to announce something that I think is pretty exciting.
Beginning this week, I’m launching The View from the Front Extended.
So, what’s The View from the Front Extended?
The View from the Front Extended is something I’ll be doing for paid subscribers.
It’s going to be my way of thanking (and adding value) to those who are able to support my work so I can devote more time to it.
It’s going to be a semi-daily and informal publication, a combination of news currently happening, as well as my thoughts. But perhaps most importantly, it will allow for conversations and community among those who really love getting into the weeds on foreign policy and military matters.
I’m calling it semi-daily, because I’m not sure how often I’ll put it out. Hopefully, quite often, but I do have a full-time day job and an awesome family, which includes a 14-year-old who plays travel baseball (AND rec ball, for more reps, lol), so I’ll just do the best I can, keeping it fun and not making it a task or burden.
I also truly hope — and think it’s possible — that this might be a watering hole/gathering place for a small community of folks. A site that will allow for conversations and community among commenters (without trolls or bomb throwers).
With luck, we’ll grow a place where we can all talk, debate, and ask questions. (Only paid subscribers will be able to see or comment on these posts, so this could — maybe — really turn into something cool. A place to comment and talk OTHER than angry, hate-filled places like Twitter. A place like my old blog was from back in 2012-13, where a small community often commented, bantered, and got to converse regularly without outiders interupting and ruining everything.)
I truly do appreciate all my supporters and listeners, and this is just a small way I want to repay those who have signed up as paid subscribers. (And it also is another step forward toward the long-term dream and vision I currently have.)
If you’d like to upgrade and go from free to paid, here’s the link:
But no pressure. I’ve already got a nice contingent of awesome, paying supporters, and this is mostly for them.
Love and peace,
Stan R. Mitchell
March 9, 2023
Episode 3-9-23
Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every week, I primarily do three things:
Work to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots and foreign policy news you absolutely should know. (Why I focus on foreign policy...)
Attempt to unite our country and remind us of how lucky we are to live in America. Our division and animosity toward each other is dangerous, and I want to do my small part to remind us that more unites us than divides us, and that most Americans are good and not screaming, crazy extremists like you see on the news all the time. (My thoughts on the division in this country...)
Finally, I always share plenty of motivation and wisdom at the end of the episode, because I want to do my small part to help encourage you and lift you up. Life is certainly hard, and I think it’s fair to say all of us need all the motivation and encouragement that we can possibly get.
The View from the Front by Stan R. Mitchell is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
In this episode, we’ll be discussing several topics, that I think will really interest you, and that I almost guarantee you haven’t seen in the news! This includes:
Timestamp: 2:42. Did you know Russia is now claiming Ukraine launched the war? And that Russia did NOT invade Ukraine? Yes, this was said by Russia’s foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, and he was completely covered with laughs of mockery in a public forum. I briefly remind folks of the true history, and of how hard the West, NATO, and the United States worked to prevent the invasion by Russia before it began.
Timestamp: 8:03. The battle of Bakhmut. So much has happened here since last week. Initially, Ukrainian forces appeared to be withdrawing, blowing up bridges and pulling back to better positions. But then several days later, Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Ukraine would reinforce around Bakhmut and hold the city. It’s my opinion this was strictly for reasons of perception, and it was also for these reasons that Zelenskyy stated he was going public with internal discussions from him and his senior advisors.
Timestamp: 14:14. Has the Russian Winter offensive and plans to tire out and wear down Ukraine failed? Yes, it appears it has. And it’s not just me saying it. Take a listen to what one foreign policy expert is saying, as well as one of Russia’s leading analysts.
Timestamp: 22:32. It’s time for a quick update on Ukraine getting jets or tanks from the West.
Timestamp: 27:02. Is the U.S. seriously considering retiring the F-22, one of the world’s premier fighter jets? Yes. Yes, it is.
Timestamp: 27:02. China is preparing for the upcoming conflict with the West as it continues to prepare to invade Taiwan. Take a look at what China’s leading strategists, researchers, and military minds are concerned about. And in that same line of thinking, some naval minds realized the United States is overlooking one important resupply issue that could prove to be America’s Achilles heel if it’s not corrected.
Timestamp: 42:45. Iran is currently dealing with some serious school poisonings that is affecting thousands of school girls across dozens of provinces. Who could be behind this? And what does this say about the strength of Iran’s government at the moment?
Timestamp: 42:45. In tech news, we’ll look at three different topics this week: the rules for autonomous weapons to engage a target with lethal force, the concept behind a massive, flying seaplane that the Pentagon wants, and a design flaw that makes all the difference between American and Russian tanks.
Timestamp: 54:05. Finally, we’ll cover plenty of motivation and wisdom.
Timestamp: 1:01:46. And if you want to learn more about me, my hope for the country (and for those listening), and about the 11 books I’ve written, jump to here on the podcast.
The work I do each week is primarily a podcast. You can listen to it from the player above, or from whatever podcast you listen to it from.
And if you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time.
Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon or at Venmo (@authorstanrmitchell).
But you don’t have to do any of these things. I’ve already had incredible support and feel called to do this. As long as I’m making enough to cover the time I invest each week, I’m not going anywhere. Why paid subscriptions help, and what they’d help me do more of...
Enough of the sales pitch, I hope you enjoy today’s edition. Again, you should listen to it from the player above.
What follows are some of the news reports/source notes that I quote from in the podcast, as well as the motivation and wisdom links I read.
Selected source notes for the podcast.
Russia and Ukraine news:Timestamp: 2:42. Did you know Russia is now claiming Ukraine launched the war? And that Russia did NOT invade Ukraine? Yes, this was said by Russia’s foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, and he was completely covered with laughs of mockery in a public forum. I briefly remind folks of the true history, and of how hard the West, NATO, and the United States worked to prevent the invasion by Russia before it began.
Frida Ghitis @FridaGhitisSound up. Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov claims the war was launched against Russia and the audience explodes with laughter. 2:13 PM ∙ Mar 3, 20234,944Likes1,511RetweetsTimestamp: 8:03. The battle of Bakhmut. So much has happened here since last week. Initially, Ukrainian forces appeared to be withdrawing, blowing up bridges and pulling back to better positions. But then several days later, Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced Ukraine would reinforce around Bakhmut and hold the city. It’s my opinion this was strictly for reasons of perception, and it was also for these reasons that Zelenskyy stated he was going public with internal discussions from him and his senior advisors.
Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellUkrainian pullout begins in Bakhmut. Russia may get its costly, irrelevant victory after all. It took them what? Six months? And thousands of dead?Not exactly what I’d call modern maneuver warfare, but Putin is going to Putin. He’s not that smart. 
apnews.comCivilians flee embattled town as Ukrainian pullout loomsKHROMOVE, Ukraine (AP) — Pressure from Russian forces mounted Saturday on Ukrainians hunkered down in Bakhmut, as residents attempted to flee with help from troops who Western analysts say may be preparing to withdraw from the key eastern stronghold .1:31 PM ∙ Mar 4, 202317Likes2RetweetsBut then, after the media jumped on the story, Ukraine altered course.
Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellThe Washington Post had a great story about the fighting in the eastern part of Ukraine, in the Donbas region, where the city of Bakhmut has seen the heaviest fighting in the past few months. It turns out, Ukraine doesn't plan to withdraw. 1/5
washingtonpost.comRussia advances in Bakhmut by sending waves of mercenaries to certain deathUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and his top commanders insisted they would continue defending the eastern city despite heavy losses and warnings from analysts.2:01 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellFrom the story: With the Russians still pressing hard from three sides to encircle Bakhmut, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with his top defense and security officials and proclaimed that Ukraine had no intention of surrendering the city, which is nearly destroyed. 2/52:01 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellDespite reports of complaints from Ukrainian soldiers that they are fighting under desperate and untenable conditions, and military experts insisting that Bakhmut is of little long-term strategic value to Russia, Zelensky’s office issued a statement that said: 3/52:01 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellValery Zaluzhny, the Ukrainian military commander in chief, and Oleksandr Syrsky, the commander of ground forces, who is directing operations in the east, had each endorsed reinforcing and continuing the city’s defense. 4/52:01 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023#GloryToUkraine #UkraineRussiaWar #UkraineWillWin #Ukraine #Russia 5/5","username":"StanRMitchell","name":"Stan R. Mitchell","date":"Tue Mar 07 14:01:14 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":0,"like_count":0,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">Stan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellUkraine made this statement public because: "“In order to avoid various insinuations that affect public sentiment, the opinion was made public. We continue to defend our land.”#GloryToUkraine #UkraineRussiaWar #UkraineWillWin #Ukraine #Russia 5/52:01 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023And Ukraine is displaying some skilled tactics and strategic chops.
#Bakhmut city - No attacks by Russian troops were observed on the (north) east side. This makes sense as the AFU has now entrenched itself behind the natural barrier of the river. To the west, the AFU counterattacked at Khromove and pushed Russians back at least 1 km. ","username":"NOELreports","name":"NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦","date":"Tue Mar 07 23:02:32 +0000 2023","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FqpsZ_...
NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 @NOELreports#Bakhmut city - No attacks by Russian troops were observed on the (north) east side. This makes sense as the AFU has now entrenched itself behind the natural barrier of the river. To the west, the AFU counterattacked at Khromove and pushed Russians back at least 1 km. 
11:02 PM ∙ Mar 7, 20231,717Likes189Retweets#Ukraine successfully counterattacks in the north.\n\nNext time every OSINT account on the Twitter tells you Ukrainian leadership is messing up, remember this action. I can't tell you if success will continue, but this IS exactly what the Ukrainians said they'd do. Keep the faith. ","username":"docinkc","name":"Doc","date":"Wed Mar 08 01:21:42 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{"full_text":"#Bakhmut city - No attacks by Russian troops were observed on the (north) east side. This makes sense as the AFU has now entrenched itself behind the natural barrier of the river. To the west, the AFU counterattacked at Khromove and pushed Russians back at least 1 km. https://t.co/EpPYPSg7ga","u... 🇪🇺 🇺🇦"},"retweet_count":0,"like_count":6,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Doc @docinkc#Ukraine successfully counterattacks in the north.Next time every OSINT account on the Twitter tells you Ukrainian leadership is messing up, remember this action. I can't tell you if success will continue, but this IS exactly what the Ukrainians said they'd do. Keep the faith. 
NOËL 🇪🇺 🇺🇦 @NOELreports#Bakhmut city - No attacks by Russian troops were observed on the (north) east side. This makes sense as the AFU has now entrenched itself behind the natural barrier of the river. To the west, the AFU counterattacked at Khromove and pushed Russians back at least 1 km. https://t.co/EpPYPSg7ga1:21 AM ∙ Mar 8, 2023Doc @docinkcWhy. Well. Yesterday the Russians broke through in the northwestern area. Ukraine blew a bridge some 2km deep into their lines.Ukraine reacted well, sending in reserves, stabilizing the line, counterattacking, and reversing Russian gains.They are nowhere near defeated.1:29 AM ∙ Mar 8, 2023Doc @docinkcIf one studies the maps, they can see that several bridges and a dam were blown. Ukraine retracted their lines and many now sit in a prepared defense behind a river. If that line fails for some reason, another will be readied not far behind. A well prepared defense in depth.1:34 AM ∙ Mar 8, 2023Besides the limited — or lack of — success in Bakhmut, overall the Russian winter offensive has been a complete failure.
Timestamp: 14:14. Has the Russian Winter offensive and plans to tire out and wear down Ukraine failed? Yes, it appears it has. And it’s not just me saying it. Take a listen to what one foreign policy expert is saying, as well as one of Russia’s leading analysts.
@Newsweek ","username":"SpencerGuard","name":"John Spencer","date":"Wed Mar 08 03:30:38 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":39,"like_count":230,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.newsweek.com/putins-winte... winter bet fails","description":"The Russian leader hoped he could use a cold winter in Ukraine to his advantage, but his plan did not completely pay off.","domain":"newsweek.com"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
John Spencer @SpencerGuard"No matter all the technology in the world, terrain and weather still dominate, and the mud has now returned—like it did in February 2022—to be the bane of Russians," John Spencer...chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Madison Policy Forum @Newsweek 
newsweek.comPutin’s winter bet failsThe Russian leader hoped he could use a cold winter in Ukraine to his advantage, but his plan did not completely pay off.3:30 AM ∙ Mar 8, 2023230Likes39RetweetsAnd Russians are starting to grow nervous. It’s taken a year, but they’re finally growing concerned.
Francis Scarr @francis_scarrI haven’t seen anything like this on Russian state TV since Ukraine’s counter-offensives last yearKaren Shakhnazarov says Russia needs to recognise the fact that it might lose and that anyone who thinks the West is about to fall apart is deluding themselves 7:40 PM ∙ Mar 2, 202314,633Likes3,379RetweetsTimestamp: 22:32. It’s time for a quick update on Ukraine getting jets or tanks from the West.
Last week, we discussed Slovakia possibly sending jets to Ukraine. But there’s been no new reporting on this since last week.
But help on the ground is well on its way.
#Leopard 2 tanks to #Ukraine, Polish Defense Minister Mariusz #Blaszczak said, Sky News reported.","username":"KyivPost","name":"KyivPost","date":"Tue Mar 07 13:30:43 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":12,"like_count":115,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
KyivPost @KyivPost⚡️This week, Poland will send 10 #Leopard 2 tanks to #Ukraine, Polish Defense Minister Mariusz #Blaszczak said, Sky News reported.1:30 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023115Likes12RetweetsAnd long-term, the talk of F-16s coming to Ukraine again advanced this week.
Two Ukrainian pilots are in the U.S. for training assessment on attack aircraft, including F-16s
Jason Jay Smart @officejjsmartRussia 🇷🇺 is losing its largest partner!Kazakhstan 🇰🇿 has announced a new strategic cooperation agreement with the United States 🇺🇸!A key member of the pro-🇷🇺 military bloc is moving away from Moscow 🇷🇺, which has become, globally, a toxic pariah.- The Moscow Times 
3:05 AM ∙ Mar 2, 202329,100Likes4,630Retweets#Kyiv is combining #US. smart technology with its own ability to develop a growing arsenal of smart bombs and surgical strike #rockets that present the Kremlin with yet another new headache.\n\n","username":"KyivPost","name":"KyivPost","date":"Tue Mar 07 15:35:51 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":21,"like_count":118,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.kyivpost.com/post/13955&q... Gliding Bombs and Precision-Guided Missiles Allow Ukraine to Reach Out and Hit Harder","description":"Kyiv is combining U.S. smart technology with its own ability to develop a growing arsenal of smart bombs and surgical strike rockets that present the Kremlin with yet another new headache.","domain":"kyivpost.com"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">KyivPost @KyivPost#Kyiv is combining #US. smart technology with its own ability to develop a growing arsenal of smart bombs and surgical strike #rockets that present the Kremlin with yet another new headache.
kyivpost.comNew Gliding Bombs and Precision-Guided Missiles Allow Ukraine to Reach Out and Hit HarderKyiv is combining U.S. smart technology with its own ability to develop a growing arsenal of smart bombs and surgical strike rockets that present the Kremlin with yet another new headache.3:35 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023118Likes21RetweetsU.S. News:Timestamp: 27:02. Is the U.S. seriously considering retiring the F-22, one of the world’s premier fighter jets? Yes. Yes, it is.
Task & Purpose @TaskandPurposeThe king is dead: Why would America want to retire the F-22? 
trib.alThe king is dead: Why would America want to retire the F-22?Long live the king.12:08 AM ∙ Feb 26, 202323Likes6RetweetsTask & Purpose @TaskandPurposeIn 2020, Airmen flew about 30 Navy SEALs in CV-22 Ospreys and MC-130J aircraft 11 hours nonstop to rescue American hostage Philip Walton from captivity in Nigeria. Five just received the Distinguished Flying Cross for the mission 
trib.alAirmen awarded for daring 2020 long-distance hostage rescue mission in Nigeria“Being recognized personally is amazing, but most importantly getting that American citizen back is what I feel great about.”1:00 AM ∙ Jan 19, 202355Likes12RetweetsTask & Purpose @TaskandPurposeThere is an unspoken caste system among veterans. 
bit.ly‘You either went to war or you didn’t’ — How deployments divide the vet communityThere is an unspoken caste system among veterans.3:01 AM ∙ Oct 28, 202258Likes13RetweetsChina news:Timestamp: 27:02. China is preparing for the upcoming conflict with the West as it continues to prepare to invade Taiwan. Take a look at what China’s leading strategists, researchers, and military minds are concerned about. And in that same line of thinking, some naval minds realized the United States is overlooking one important resupply issue that could prove to be America’s Achilles heel if it’s not corrected.
WeLoveNATO @WeLoveNATOFascinating 
reuters.comStudying Ukraine war, China’s military minds fret over US missiles, StarlinkChina needs the capability to shoot down low-earth-orbit Starlink satellites and defend tanks and helicopters against shoulder-fired Javelin missiles, according to Chinese military researchers studying Russia’s struggles in Ukraine in planning for possible conflict with U.S.-led forces in Asia.4:26 AM ∙ Mar 8, 202354Likes13Retweets
Trent Telenko @TrentTelenkoThis is a good question the US Navy needs to answer with a lot of convoy escorts. 
Sal Mercogliano (WGOW Shipping) 🚢⚓🐪🚒🏴☠️ @mercoglianos13/Fast forward to today. How does the limited number of unarmed oilers of @MSCSealift, with @USNavy lacking sufficient escort vessels, plan to sustain an initial four task groups in a potentially contested western Pacific; with a diminished US merchant marine? https://t.co/pUBKNTyOgX6:32 PM ∙ Mar 7, 202360Likes1RetweetIran news:Timestamp: 42:45. Iran is currently dealing with some serious school poisonings that is affecting thousands of school girls across dozens of provinces. Who could be behind this? And what does this say about the strength of Iran’s government at the moment?
The Associated Press @APIranian teachers held protests in several cities over suspected poisonings targeting hundreds of schoolgirls. Security forces broke up several of the demonstrations using water cannons and tear gas, activists said. apnews.comTeachers protest over suspected Iran schoolgirl poisoningsDUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iranian teachers protested Tuesday over suspected poisonings targeting schoolgirls, as a prominent lawmaker and an activist group put the number of those reporting symptoms into the thousands across hundreds of schools.1:20 PM ∙ Mar 7, 2023195Likes95RetweetsTech news:Timestamp: 42:45. In tech news, we’ll look at three different topics this week: the rules for autonomous weapons to engage a target with lethal force, the concept behind a massive, flying seaplane that the Pentagon wants, and a design flaw that makes all the difference between American and Russian tanks.
buff.ly/3R6RkqI @DefTechPat","username":"DefenseOne","name":"Defense One","date":"Sat Jan 28 04:03:00 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":5,"like_count":5,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://buff.ly/3R6RkqI","i... May a Robot Kill? New DOD Policy Tries to Clarify","description":"An updated policy tweaks wording in a bid to dispel confusion.","domain":"buff.ly"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Defense One @DefenseOneDid you think the Pentagon had a hard rule against using lethal autonomous weapons? It doesn’t. But it does have hoops to jump through before such a weapon might be deployed—and, as of Wednesday, a revised policy intended to clear up confusion. buff.ly/3R6RkqI @DefTechPat
buff.lyWhen May a Robot Kill? New DOD Policy Tries to ClarifyAn updated policy tweaks wording in a bid to dispel confusion.4:03 AM ∙ Jan 28, 20235Likes5RetweetsTask & Purpose @TaskandPurposeThe Pentagon has selected two designs for a possible seaplane that would have the cargo capacity of a C-17 
trib.alThe Pentagon wants to develop a giant seaplane with the cargo capacity of a C-17The Pentagon has selected two designs for a possible seaplane that would have the cargo capacity of a C-17.1:00 AM ∙ Feb 4, 202311Likes4Retweets
bttr @bttr01438851One big difference between modern tanks and Soviet ones is the addition of blowout panels and blast doors in order to improve the post penetration survivability. The idea is simple: if the ammunition detonates, the blast is vented upwards rather than into the crew compartment. 
1:01 PM ∙ Feb 8, 2023896Likes177RetweetsMotivation and Wisdom:Timestamp: 54:05. Finally, we’ll cover plenty of motivation and wisdom.
You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Inspirational Quotes @SeffSaidBe patient 
2:24 AM ∙ Mar 7, 20232,765Likes626Retweets
Motivational Quotes @motivation_qotDon't be lazy. Do the work. You won't grow from easy.4:27 AM ∙ Mar 7, 202358Likes25Retweets
Life Quotes @RTLifeQuotesWriting is hard. Tweeting is easy.3:01 PM ∙ Mar 5, 202330Likes11RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Words can be deceptive. Actions, never are.10:30 PM ∙ Feb 24, 2023353Likes77RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidKindness doesn't cost a thing. 
12:17 PM ∙ Mar 2, 20231,420Likes321RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Don't give up. Pain is temporary. Regret is forever."10:30 AM ∙ Mar 3, 20231,145Likes339RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesA leader leads more by how he lives than by what he says.7:01 PM ∙ Feb 24, 202329Likes7RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidNever give up. 
11:12 AM ∙ Mar 3, 20234,248Likes989Retweets
Fearless Motivation @fearlessmotivatThe only way to be a failure is to STOP TRYING.7:00 AM ∙ Feb 15, 202343Likes12RetweetsDaily Dose of Psychology @PsychologyDose_Do it for the people who want to see you fail.2:36 PM ∙ Feb 25, 202365Likes14Retweets
Motivational Quotes @motivational
11:14 PM ∙ Mar 1, 20231,410Likes290RetweetsFearless Motivation @fearlessmotivat
12:01 PM ∙ Mar 3, 2023135Likes45RetweetsFearless Motivation @fearlessmotivat
11:00 PM ∙ Mar 3, 2023197Likes43RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
Timestamp: 1:01:46. And if you want to learn more about me, my hope for the country (and for those listening), and about the 11 books I’ve written, jump to here on the podcast.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational self-help book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan. You can find all of these books on Amazon.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
March 2, 2023
Episode 3-2-23
In this episode, we’ll be discussing several topics, that I think will really interest you, and that I almost guarantee you haven’t seen in the news! This includes:Timestamp: 2:07. Could Ukraine get fighter jets from somewhere other than the United States? Timestamp: 6:15. Has Russia suffered more combat deaths in a year of war with Ukraine than it’s suffered in all the years since World War II? Yes, it actually has. Here’s an approximate historical look at casualties in previous wars. Timestamp: 11:11. In war, cities are important — even the ones with no military value. So says two analysts who have studied the Ukrainian War intently. And the fighting the past year certainly validates their views. I discuss. Timestamp: 18:07. Update on China. Is it arming Russia with lethal munitions yet? Timestamp: 20:21. Forget Hunter Biden or Jan. 6. China is now in Congress’s crosshairs. Timestamp: 24:50. Speaking of strong warnings for China, check out this one from the Deputy Secretary of Defense. But while all these threats are being tossed out, why are U.S. businesses announcing all these expansions in China? What is going on here? Timestamp: 29:10. In tech news, it certainly seems robot dogs are here for good. Timestamp: 35:37. Finally, we’ll cover plenty of motivation and wisdom. Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every week, I primarily do three things:
Work to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots. (Why I focus on foreign policy...)
Attempt to unite our country and remind us of how lucky we are to live in America. (My thoughts on the division in this country...)
And I always make sure at the end of the episode to share plenty of motivation and wisdom, because I want to do my small part to help encourage you and lift you up. Life is certainly hard, and I think it’s fair to say all of us need all the motivation and encouragement that we can possibly get.
The work I do each week is primarily a podcast. You can listen to it from the player above, or from whatever podcast you listen to it from.
And if you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time.
Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon or at Venmo (@authorstanrmitchell).
Why paid subscriptions help...
Enough of the sales pitch, I hope you enjoy today’s edition. Again, you should listen to it from the player above.
What follows are some of the news reports/source notes that I quote from in the podcast, as well as the motivation and wisdom links I read.
Selected source notes for the podcast.
Russia/Ukraine news:@AP “we will never use the MiGs anymore.\" ","username":"AP_Europe","name":"AP Europe","date":"Wed Mar 01 11:01:47 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":33,"like_count":75,"expanded_url":{"url":"http://apne.ws/VVUUCUu","im... basks under NATO umbrella, sends Ukraine old arms","description":"LEST, Slovakia (AP) — Former Soviet satellite Slovakia has been a NATO member since 2004, but the reality of belonging to the world’s biggest military alliance really kicked in after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine a year ago.","domain":"apne.ws"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
AP Europe @AP_Europe“If we give them to Ukraine, they can help save their lives.” Slovakia is mulling whether to give its old Soviet-era fighter jets to Ukraine, with the country's defense minister telling @AP “we will never use the MiGs anymore." 
apne.wsSlovakia basks under NATO umbrella, sends Ukraine old armsLEST, Slovakia (AP) — Former Soviet satellite Slovakia has been a NATO member since 2004, but the reality of belonging to the world’s biggest military alliance really kicked in after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine a year ago.11:01 AM ∙ Mar 1, 202375Likes33RetweetsFrom the story:
@CSIS analysis. ","username":"peterbakernyt","name":"Peter Baker","date":"Tue Feb 28 00:45:16 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":197,"like_count":526,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.csis.org/analysis/ukraini... Innovation in a War of Attrition","description":"Russia suffered more combat deaths in Ukraine in the first year of the war than in all of its wars combined since World War II. The average rate of Russian soldiers killed per month in Ukraine is 35 times greater than the number of Soviet soldiers killed in Afghanistan.","domain":"csis.org"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Amid renewed appeals to Western countries for fighter jets, Slovakia is considering giving Ukraine 10 of its 11 Soviet-made MiG-29 planes — with the 11th reserved for a Slovakian museum, according to Defense Minister Nad.
It grounded its MiGs in the summer due to a lack of spare parts and maintenance experts after Russian technicians returned home. But Ukraine’s air force, which flies MiG 29s, would be happy to have them.
“We will never use the MiGs anymore,” Nad said. “They have no real value for us. If we give them to Ukraine, they can help save their lives.”
Peter Baker @peterbakernytRussia suffered more combat deaths in Ukraine in the first year of the war than in all of its wars since World War II combined, according to a new @CSIS analysis. 
csis.orgUkrainian Innovation in a War of AttritionRussia suffered more combat deaths in Ukraine in the first year of the war than in all of its wars combined since World War II. The average rate of Russian soldiers killed per month in Ukraine is 35 times greater than the number of Soviet soldiers killed in Afghanistan.12:45 AM ∙ Feb 28, 2023526Likes197Retweetscsis.org/analysis/ukrai… ","username":"SethGJones","name":"Seth G. Jones","date":"Tue Feb 28 03:16:13 +0000 2023","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FqBdBh...
Seth G. Jones @SethGJonesMore Russian soldiers have died in Ukraine than in all Russian wars COMBINED since World War II, including Chechnya & Afghanistan. The avg rate of Russian soldiers killed per month is at least 25x more than Chechnya & 35x than Afghanistan. See our report: csis.org/analysis/ukrai… 
3:16 AM ∙ Feb 28, 20232,040Likes829RetweetsThe information above is from CSIS. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) is a bipartisan, nonprofit policy research organization dedicated to advancing practical ideas to address the world’s greatest challenges.
TWELVE MONTHS OF WAR IN UKRAINE HAVE REVEALED FOUR FUNDAMENTAL LESSONS ON URBAN WARFAREIn war, cities are important—even the ones with no military value.
China news:
Yet not all cities are strategically or operationally significant; many, in fact, do not even offer much tactical value from a strictly military perspective. Cities such as Severodonetsk, which Russia seized in June, and Bakhmut, where the fighting continues today, represent little military value on their own. Controlling them does not offer either side a marked military advantage. Yet the fighting for both was—and in the case of Bakhmut, remains—extremely intense.
Why are the militaries of each nation fighting so hard for seemingly insignificant terrain? It is because they are symbolically important, and their control consequently has political value. Ukraine does not want a city of seventy thousand (Bakhmut) or one hundred thousand (Severodonetsk) to fall into Russian hands. Likewise, Russia wants to seize these cities to demonstrate progress in a war that has not gone well. Seizing thousands of rural square miles in the Zaporizhzhia region simply does not have the same political effect. Because war is inherently political, these seemingly insignificant pieces of terrain become tactically and operationally important and yet another reason why fighting in urban areas cannot be avoided.
Last week, I covered that China might start arming Russia with lethal weapons. Here’s the latest on that.
The Washington Post @washingtonpostTop administration officials said Sunday there is no evidence that China has sent lethal military support to Russia, a step Beijing is said to be considering. 
wapo.stAfter warnings, no evidence China is supplying arms to Russia, U.S. officials say“China has not moved forward” with supplying lethal weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine, a top official said, though U.S. intelligence suggests the nation is weighing such a move.8:33 PM ∙ Feb 26, 2023936Likes214RetweetsBut now Congress is getting more involved with the threat from China.
Bipartisan lawmakers warn of China threat at select committee's first hearing
Bipartisan lawmakers warned of the threat posed by the Chinese Communist Party on Tuesday during the first hearing of the House select committee on China, a rare demonstration of unity across the aisle in a Congress increasingly divided along partisan lines.
The panel’s chairman, Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher of Wisconsin, described the stakes in sweeping and dire terms at the outset of the hearing, saying, “This is an existential struggle over what life will look like in the 21st century – and the most fundamental freedoms are at stake.”
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi of Illinois, the panel’s top Democrat, argued that working across the aisle is critical for the US to counter the threat. “We must practice bipartisanship,” he said. “We must recognize that the CCP wants us to be fractious, partisan and prejudiced,” a reference to the Chinese Communist Party.
The Washington Post is impressed. Here’s part of an editorial that praises the Committee’s work so far:
#Russia couldn't succeed over a land border. #China should be taking note of how challenging that kind of amphibious assault would be. They don't have nearly as much practice as #Russia in fighting modern wars. ","username":"DepSecDef","name":"Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks","date":"Sat Feb 25 13:28:00 +0000 2023","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FojUAA...It is all too rare these days to see House members working across the aisle with a shared — and serious — sense of purpose. So we should applaud even tentative signs that it’s still possible.
Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks @DepSecDefAn amphibious landing is the hardest military operation to undertake. #Russia couldn't succeed over a land border. #China should be taking note of how challenging that kind of amphibious assault would be. They don't have nearly as much practice as #Russia in fighting modern wars. 
1:28 PM ∙ Feb 25, 2023811Likes178Retweets
Chris Chivvis @CChivvisThe bifurcation of geopolitical and economic reality. 3000 new Starbucks planned by 2025. 
wsj.comFrom McDonald’s to Ralph Lauren, U.S. Companies Are Planning China ExpansionsLarge American companies are increasing their bets on China’s consumers in anticipation of a postpandemic rebound in the world’s second-biggest economy.11:44 AM ∙ Feb 27, 2023Tech news:Task & Purpose @TaskandPurposeQuad-leg unmanned ground vehicle, commonly called robot dogs, are gaining more and more acceptance in the military 
trib.alRobot dogs are taking over the US militaryWho let the dogs out?12:18 AM ∙ Mar 2, 202310Likes4RetweetsMotivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Words of Wisdom @billionair_keyNo matter what happens in life, keep a good heart. A heart of trust & patience. Don't let the darkness of some people harden your heart.6:44 AM ∙ Mar 1, 2023236Likes72RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotYour comfort zone is your enemy.4:00 AM ∙ Mar 1, 202346Likes24RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidStay strong... 
2:44 AM ∙ Mar 1, 2023777Likes189Retweets
Daily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"Direct yourself toward the small things you are good at."4:47 PM ∙ Feb 27, 2023138Likes21RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_
4:55 AM ∙ Mar 1, 2023652Likes140RetweetsWords of Wisdom @billionair_keyNo more expectations. Just go with the flow and whatever happens, happens.7:54 PM ∙ Feb 28, 2023200Likes53RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotNo matter how difficult it gets, keep going.4:00 AM ∙ Feb 25, 202359Likes29RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Be grateful for what you have, work hard for what you don't have."10:41 PM ∙ Feb 28, 2023658Likes162RetweetsWords of Wisdom @billionair_keyWhat worries you masters you.7:45 PM ∙ Feb 27, 2023243Likes52RetweetsDaily Dose of Philosophy @PhilosophyDose_"Success isn't something given, it's something earned. So go out there, work hard, and make your dreams come true."5:11 PM ∙ Feb 14, 2023188Likes38RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Anyone can say they care. But watch their actions, not their words."10:30 PM ∙ Feb 27, 2023707Likes214RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidNever stop trying. Never stop believing. Never give up. Your day will come. 
7:44 AM ∙ Feb 27, 20232,668Likes604RetweetsWords of Wisdom @billionair_keyWeak people revenge, strong people forgive, and intelligent people ignore.7:54 PM ∙ Feb 23, 2023542Likes173RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotYou don’t need more time. You need more discipline.4:00 PM ∙ Feb 23, 202348Likes19RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidMake your peace of mind your highest priority. 
12:28 PM ∙ Feb 28, 20232,003Likes396RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesYou are either a blessing or a burden; an asset or a liability; a problem solver or a problem. Your choice!11:01 AM ∙ Mar 1, 202329Likes5RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Your strongest muscle and worst enemy is your mind. Train it well."10:30 AM ∙ Mar 1, 2023224Likes59RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaidNever forget... 
11:33 AM ∙ Mar 1, 2023527Likes98RetweetsFearless Motivation @fearlessmotivat
11:00 PM ∙ Feb 25, 2023176Likes36RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesThere is virtually no anxiety that can’t be cured by an hour or two of good reading.11:01 PM ∙ Feb 25, 202342Likes13RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
February 24, 2023
Episode 2-23-23
In this episode, we’ll be discussing several topics, that I think will really interest you, and that I almost guarantee you haven’t seen in the news! This includes:Timestamp: 2:21. U.S. troops wounded in raid against ISIS in Syria.Timestamp: 6:20. How much did it cost to shoot down those three balloon objects last week?Timestamp: 12:00. We’ve got you covered on several Ukraine news items that you may not have heard about.Timestamp: 30:38. Did the United States greenlight an attack by Israel on Iran’s nuclear facilities? It sure seems like they did.Timestamp: 41:18. Four quick bits of China news that you probably didn’t hear about. Timestamp: 46:55. In tech news, we discuss this topic: Is there such a thing as a fast-moving robotic dog with a deadly assault weapon on its back? Why, yes. There is such a thing.Timestamp: 49:14. Finally, we’ll cover plenty of motivation and wisdom. Timestamp: 1:03.43. And if you want to learn more about me, my hope for the country (and for those listening), and about the 11 books I’ve written, jump to here on the podcast.Hey guys,
Welcome to the View from the Front podcast. If you just happened to stumble by, let me say a quick word about what we’re doing here.
For those who don’t know, my name is Stan R. Mitchell, and I’m a prior Marine and journalist.
Every week, I primarily do three things:
Work to highlight what our military troops are doing around the world, while also trying to better educate Americans about looming hotspots. (Why I focus on foreign policy...)
Attempt to unite our country and remind us of how lucky we are to live in America. (My thoughts on the division in this country...)
And I always make sure at the end of the episode to share plenty of motivation and wisdom, because I want to do my small part to help encourage you and lift you up. Life is certainly hard, and I think it’s fair to say all of us need all the motivation and encouragement that we can possibly get.
Again, you should listen to it from the player above, or from whatever podcast you listen to it from.
And if you love what I’m doing here, please sign up for email notifications. It’s FREE. Unless you choose to subscribe and support what I’m doing. It’s $5 per month should you choose that option, and you can cancel at any time.
Also, people are always asking me on social media how to best support my dreams, including getting out future books sooner. Believe me, the best way to support me is by signing up for a paid subscription here. Or, you can sign up at Patreon or at Venmo (@authorstanrmitchell).
Why paid subscriptions help...
Enough of the sales pitch, I hope you enjoy today’s edition. Again, you should listen to it from the player above.
And what follows are some of the news reports/source notes that I quote from in the podcast, as well as the motivation and wisdom links I read.
Selected source notes for the podcast.
U.S. Military news
Jennifer Griffin @JenGriffinFNCCENTCOM: Last night, during US led helicopter raid in NE Syria, explosion resulted in 4 US servicemembers & 1 working dog wounded. The targeted ISIS senior leader, Hamza al-Homsi, was killed. U.S. troops and working dog are receiving treatment in a U.S. medical facility in Iraq.4:57 PM ∙ Feb 17, 2023467Likes121RetweetsI may be in the minority, but I keep seeing these stories pop up, and I’m sorry, but I don’t care. No one in a defense situation asks what the cost of a munition is. They were ordered to down the object. They downed it. I think there are far more important stories out there.
RealClearDefense @RCDefensePentagon Declines to Answer If It Shot Down $12 Balloon With $400,000 Missile 
theepochtimes.comPentagon Declines to Answer If It Shot Down $12 Balloon With $400,000 MissileThe Pentagon is stonewalling inquiries as to whether one of the unidentified objects it shot down off the Alaskan coast was a $12 dollar hobby balloon.4:23 AM ∙ Feb 19, 202324Likes8RetweetsUkraine and Russia news:@JakeSullivan46 tells reporters on conference call.","username":"JenniferJJacobs","name":"Jennifer Jacobs","date":"Mon Feb 20 13:09:12 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":32,"like_count":173,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Jennifer Jacobs @JenniferJJacobs"This was a historic visit, unprecedented in modern times, to have the president of the United States visit the capital of a country at war where the United States military does not control the critical infrastructure,” @JakeSullivan46 tells reporters on conference call.1:09 PM ∙ Feb 20, 2023173Likes32RetweetsStatement from President Joe Biden on travel to Kyiv, Ukraine
As the world prepares to mark the one-year anniversary of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine, I am in Kyiv today to meet with President Zelenskyy and reaffirm our unwavering and unflagging commitment to Ukraine’s democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.
When Putin launched his invasion nearly one year ago, he thought Ukraine was weak and the West was divided. He thought he could outlast us. But he was dead wrong.
Today, in Kyiv, I am meeting with President Zelenskyy and his team for an extended discussion on our support for Ukraine. I will announce another delivery of critical equipment, including artillery ammunition, anti-armor systems, and air surveillance radars to help protect the Ukrainian people from aerial bombardments.
Aaron Rupar @atruparMitch McConnell on Fox News: "I'm gonna try to help explain to the American people that defeating the Russians in Ukraine is the single most important event going on in the world right now ... there should be a bipartisan support for this." 3:36 PM ∙ Feb 16, 202335,933Likes6,338RetweetsPart of a Washington Post opinion piece:
If the fighting somehow ended today, would anyone have a doubt about who won and who lost? Whatever tactical territorial gains Putin might hold when this phase of intense war stops, no one will have any doubt about the fact that Putin’s war was a grave strategic blunder. He succeeded in achieving precisely the opposite of what he intended. Ukrainians’ sense of identity and confidence that they can build a viable modern nation has never been stronger. NATO has never been more unified and its European members far more willing to invest in their own military capabilities than in a generation or more. By re-creating a vivid Russian threat, Putin has condemned his country to a new Cold War against a united transatlantic adversary whose combined economy is more than 20 times its size.
The Associated Press @AP1st class of Ukraine fighters finishes advanced US training 
apnews.com1st class of Ukraine fighters finishes advanced US trainingABOARD A US MILITARY AIRCRAFT (AP) — The first class of 635 Ukrainian fighters has finished a five-week advanced U.S. training course in Germany on sophisticated combat skills and armored vehicles that will be critical in the coming spring offensive against the Russians, the Pentagon said Friday.11:45 PM ∙ Feb 17, 2023319Likes71Retweets#Ukraine: At least 31 vehicles lost - the aftermath of the Russian attack on Vuhledar, #Donetsk Oblast. \n13 Russian tanks (mostly T-72B3), 12 BMP-1/BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles, 2 MT-LB, an IMR combat engineering vehicle and others were destroyed or damaged and abandoned.\n⏬ ","username":"UAWeapons","name":"🇺🇦 Ukraine Weapons Tracker","date":"Thu Feb 09 11:46:45 +0000 2023","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/Foha4i...
🇺🇦 Ukraine Weapons Tracker @UAWeapons#Ukraine: At least 31 vehicles lost - the aftermath of the Russian attack on Vuhledar, #Donetsk Oblast. 13 Russian tanks (mostly T-72B3), 12 BMP-1/BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicles, 2 MT-LB, an IMR combat engineering vehicle and others were destroyed or damaged and abandoned.⏬ 
11:46 AM ∙ Feb 9, 20239,368Likes1,101Retweets#Vuhledar area shows a defeated Russian mechanized formation of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade that lost 13 main battle tanks and 12 BMP infantry fighting vehicles in a single engagement - about half a Russian tank battalion.","username":"TheStudyofWar","name":"ISW","date":"Fri Feb 10 02:07:47 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":36,"like_count":254,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
ISW @TheStudyofWar8/ Recently posted footage from the #Vuhledar area shows a defeated Russian mechanized formation of the 155th Naval Infantry Brigade that lost 13 main battle tanks and 12 BMP infantry fighting vehicles in a single engagement - about half a Russian tank battalion.2:07 AM ∙ Feb 10, 2023254Likes36RetweetsIsrael and Iran are increasingly in the news@USAmbIsrael timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry…","username":"DAlperovitch","name":"Dmitri Alperovitch","date":"Mon Feb 20 03:48:53 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":44,"like_count":167,"expanded_url":{"url":"https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblo... envoy Nides: Israel ‘can do whatever they need’ on Iran, ‘and we’ve got their back’","description":"* * *","domain":"timesofisrael.com"},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Dmitri Alperovitch @DAlperovitchThings getting 🔥“As President Biden has said, we will not stand by and watch Iran get a nuclear weapon, #1.#2, he said, all options are on the table. #3, Israel can and should do whatever they need to deal with and we’ve got their back” @USAmbIsrael timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry…
timesofisrael.comUS envoy Nides: Israel ‘can do whatever they need’ on Iran, ‘and we’ve got their back’* * *3:48 AM ∙ Feb 20, 2023167Likes44RetweetsSecretary of State response to questions about the above comments:
SECRETARY BLINKEN: John, the second part of your question first with regard to notifying Russia of the President’s travels. Yes, we did in order, of course, to deconflict and to avoid any potential for accidents or danger. Beyond that I can’t comment.
With regard to Ambassador Nides, I haven’t seen the full comments that my friend Tom made. I’m sure they were notable, as they usually are. From what I’ve heard, because I just got a brief description before, he reiterated what we have consistently said. We’re committed to Israel’s security. We are committed together to the proposition that Iran never acquire a nuclear weapon. That’s not exactly news. The President’s been very clear that every option is on the table to do that. And we’re also working to deepen our cooperation and coordination with Israel, as well as with other countries to deal with the multiplicity of challenges that Iran poses, including advances in its nuclear program.
At the same time, we’ve also been clear that the Iran nuclear deal, the so-called JCPOA, is not now on the table. We spent many months to seeing if we could revive it and return to mutual compliance. There was a proposal put forward by the European Union some months ago that was endorsed by everyone – China, Russia, as well as the United States – and Iran would not go forward with that.
In the meantime, of course, we’ve seen the provision by Iran of drones to Russia to enable its aggression in Ukraine. We’ve seen the renewed repression throughout the streets of Iran against its own citizens simply for trying to speak their minds. And we see Iran also engaging, for example, in plots to assassinate those who oppose the regime in third countries, including in the United States.
We continue to believe that, with regard to the nuclear program, the most effective, sustainable way to deal with the challenges it poses is through diplomacy. But in the – in this moment, those efforts are on the back burner because Iran is simply not engaged in a meaningful way. But the door is always open to diplomacy going forward, but a lot depends on what Iran says and does, and whether or not it engages.
QUESTION: Does Israel have a green light to attack Iran?
SECRETARY BLINKEN: Countries will make sovereign decisions for their own security. And of course, that’s no different when it comes to Israel or any country. We can’t make those decisions for them.
Nazanin Boniadi @NazaninBoniadiCNN special report uncovers dozens of 'black sites' used for torturing protesters in Iran.
cnn.comVideo: CNN special report uncovers dozens of ‘black sites’ used for torturing protesters | CNNA CNN investigation has uncovered a network of black sites used by Iranian authorities to perpetrate the worst torture and abuses at an industrial scale. Cross-referencing witness testimony and satellite imagery, the CNN International investigations team has exposed at least two dozen sites, where d…4:31 AM ∙ Feb 22, 20235,564Likes2,115RetweetsChina news:
Natasha Bertrand @NatashaBertrandNews: The US has recently begun seeing “disturbing” signs that Beijing wants to “creep up to the line” of providing lethal military aid to Russia without getting caught. US officials have been concerned enough that they have been sharing this intelligence w/allies at Munich.7:44 PM ∙ Feb 18, 20234,603Likes1,277RetweetsNatasha Bertrand @NatashaBertrandCNN reported last month that the US raised concerns w/China about evidence suggesting Chinese companies have sold non-lethal equipment to Russia for use in Ukraine, like helmets. But there are signs now that Beijing is weighing lethal aid, like weaponry, officials say.7:44 PM ∙ Feb 18, 20231,113Likes289Retweets
Derek J. Grossman @DerekJGrossmanChina won’t commit to peace. 
Josh Rogin @joshrogin.@ischinger asks Wang Yi to reassure the audience a military escalation over Taiwan is not imminent. Wang declined:“Let me assure the audience that Taiwan is part of Chinese territory. It has never been a country and it will never be a country in the future.” #MSC20235:11 PM ∙ Feb 18, 202343Likes3Retweets@stavridisj China has lots of new equipment but they haven't fought a war since Korea. An entire generation of officers with zero combat experience. Zero logistics experience. Zero combined arms experience. Zero air combat experience. \nIf China went to war it would mirror Russia in Ukraine","username":"carman_upshaw","name":"Carman Upshaw","date":"Sat Jan 28 17:01:36 +0000 2023","photos":[],"quoted_tweet":{},"retweet_count":2,"like_count":21,"expanded_url":{},"video_url":null,"belowTheFold":true}">
Carman Upshaw @carman_upshaw@stavridisj China has lots of new equipment but they haven't fought a war since Korea. An entire generation of officers with zero combat experience. Zero logistics experience. Zero combined arms experience. Zero air combat experience. If China went to war it would mirror Russia in Ukraine5:01 PM ∙ Jan 28, 202321Likes2RetweetsStan R. Mitchell @StanRMitchellThis seems a wise and even-handed approach to the laser incident. You all agree? Or should it have been a stronger, sterner response? 
Derek J. Grossman @DerekJGrossmanMarcos Jr: “This country will not lose an inch of its territory. We will continue to uphold our territorial integrity and sovereignty in accordance with our constitution and with international law.”https://t.co/yRTcCWcjJj5:49 PM ∙ Feb 18, 2023President Marcos says Philippines 'will not lose an inch' of territory
Tech news:
Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Saturday that the country "will not lose an inch" of territory, his remarks coming on the heels of continuing maritime tensions with Beijing in the South China Sea.
The Southeast Asian nation this week protested what it called as Beijing's "aggressive activities" that have stoked a long-running territorial dispute over the South China Sea.
"The country has seen heightened geopolitical tensions that do not conform to our ideals of peace and threaten the security and stability of the country, of the region and of the world," Marcos said in a speech at a military alumni homecoming event.
H0W_THlNGS_W0RK @HowThingsWork_It's crazy times when a robotic dog integrated with a machine gun doesn't really surprise us much.. 5:51 PM ∙ Feb 15, 202311,705Likes2,072Retweets(Hat tip to the above story goes to Travis Hord.)
Motivation and Wisdom:You know, just one small positive thought in the morning can change your whole day. And we all know that opportunities don't happen, you create them.
So, I want to make sure I do my best to feed you mentally. As you’ve probably heard, people often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing, that's why we recommend it daily.” That was said by the great Zig Ziglar, and I’ve found it to be true for sure.
Without further delay, let’s just begin.
Inspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Rise up, start fresh see the bright opportunity in each day."3:49 AM ∙ Feb 20, 2023479Likes127RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"The moment you're ready to quit is usually the moment right before the miracle happens. Don't give up."10:30 PM ∙ Feb 19, 2023829Likes192RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Winners never quit. And quitters never win." - Vince Lombardi12:03 PM ∙ Feb 19, 202323Likes2RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_Speak less. You will see more.5:00 PM ∙ Feb 18, 2023557Likes117RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Stay true to yourself. An original is worth more than a copy."10:34 AM ∙ Feb 17, 2023493Likes129RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotStart today and don't wait for tomorrow.4:53 AM ∙ Feb 17, 202342Likes21RetweetsFearless Motivation @fearlessmotivatIt will always seem impossible, until you prove them it can be done.5:00 AM ∙ Feb 17, 202342Likes11RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_
5:00 AM ∙ Feb 16, 20233,304Likes701RetweetsFearless Motivation @fearlessmotivatThe more you DO, the more you CAN DO.5:00 AM ∙ Feb 16, 202347Likes8RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivation_qotIf it is important to you, you will find a way. If not, you'll find an excuse.10:02 AM ∙ Feb 15, 202356Likes18RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Focus on improving yourself, not proving yourself."10:30 AM ∙ Feb 15, 20231,953Likes533Retweets
Inspirational Quotes @TheQuoteBoook_Just be yourself, there is no one better.2:35 AM ∙ Feb 15, 2023123Likes43RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Don't waste your life trying to impress other people. Do what you love, love what you do."6:59 AM ∙ Feb 10, 20231,375Likes311RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesMemories stay, life moves on.7:01 AM ∙ Feb 10, 202386Likes22RetweetsWords of Wisdom @billionair_keyAlways be yourself, express yourself, have faith in yourself, do not go out and look for a successful personality and duplicate it.6:43 AM ∙ Feb 16, 2023711Likes191Retweets
Mary Sue Devlin ☮️🇺🇸 @MarySueDevlin4Not moving is lethal… 
12:10 PM ∙ Feb 9, 202320Likes2RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_SMILE, It will make you look better. PRAY, it will keep you strong. LOVE, it will make you enjoy life.10:30 AM ∙ Feb 16, 2023826Likes212RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"Sometimes you just need to relax and trust that things will work out. Let go a little and let life happen."2:21 AM ∙ Feb 9, 20231,371Likes389RetweetsMotivational Quotes @motivationalRefusing to give up on each other 
3:24 AM ∙ Feb 16, 20232,117Likes412RetweetsInspirational Quotes @SeffSaid"When someone truly cares about you, they make an effort, not an excuse."6:03 AM ∙ Feb 16, 20232,136Likes546RetweetsSuccess Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be obsessed with improving yourself."10:30 PM ∙ Feb 6, 20231,568Likes443RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesAccept change and do not worry. Eventually you will manage, learn, live.3:01 AM ∙ Feb 16, 202389Likes20RetweetsFearless Motivation @fearlessmotivat
7:00 AM ∙ Feb 10, 2023235Likes61Retweets
Ｗ 𝗜 𝗦 𝗘 𝗖 𝗢 𝗡 𝗡 𝗘 𝗖 𝗧 𝗢 𝗥 ™ 💬 @wiseconnectorbe the reason 
2:20 AM ∙ Feb 20, 20237,250Likes1,567RetweetsLife Quotes @RTLifeQuotesA strong mind can find happiness in the midst of trouble. It's a choice.7:01 AM ∙ Feb 15, 202371Likes25Retweets
N. M. Curry @realNickCurry“Enthusiasm is common. Endurance is rare.” -Angela Duckworth8:56 AM ∙ Feb 15, 202316Likes6RetweetsAnd, I always like to end with this one:
Success Minded @_SuccessMinded_"Be the reason someone smiles. Be the reason someone feels loved and believes in the goodness of people."2:15 AM ∙ Aug 21, 20221,398Likes354RetweetsAnd with that, thanks for joining us this week on The View from the Front.
If you can, consider at some point becoming a paid subscriber.
The View from the Front is a reader-supported publication. The best way to support this work and make it sustainable is with a paid subscription. But at the same time, free ones are appreciated, too!
As a reminder, please be kind and try your best to love your fellow Americans.
So many men and women have sacrificed, fought, and died to keep this country together the past 240-plus years. Please work daily to unite our country again. The vast majority of Americans are decent, loving, great people.
Please don’t name-call the other side. They are mothers and fathers and folks not much different than you.🇺🇸🇺🇸
#WW2 ","username":"WWIIpix","name":"WWII Pictures","date":"Wed Nov 03 13:28:00 +0000 2021","photos":[{"img_url":"https://pbs.substack.com/media/FDRbxV...WWII Pictures @WWIIpixTwo US soldiers armed with an M1917 Browning machine gun and M3 Grease Gun in Normandy, summer 1944. #WW2 1:28 PM ∙ Nov 3, 2021659Likes57RetweetsAlso, please try to be a better person each and every day. Try to be kinder on social media and how you interact with others with whom you disagree.
Also, if you have a dream kicking around in the back of your mind? Go after it. If you have that friend or family member that you know you should reach out to? Reach out to them.
Finally, and this especially goes to all my awesome military folks listening out there, if you need help, reach out to someone. Please. Call that friend or family member. Do it for us all. We’ve already lost too many of the greatest folks that this country has produced to suicide. So I’m asking you to be brave once more, and show some vulnerability. Take a deep breath, breathe, and call a friend or family member or someone who can help.
I appreciate each and every one of you. Every tweet, every share, every email, etc. I can’t even tell you how much those mean to me, and I love each and every one of you.
Please join me again in our next episode, and please stay safe until then.
Thanks again, everyone! You guys are the best. As always, don’t forget to check out my books. You can find all 11 of them on Amazon.
And with that, I’m out.
Semper Fidelis,
Stan R. Mitchell
P.S. Don’t forget to check out my books. I’ve written a CIA/Marine sniper series, a detective series, a private investigator series, an action-packed Western, a motivational/biography book about President Obama, and two realistic war novels: one about World War II and one about Afghanistan.
P.P.S. And here’s a short bio about me and what I’m trying to do with the newsletter.
