#soledar

[folklorespring]

Football field in a salt mine. Soledar, Ukraine

[historicalfirearms]

Wagner Finds Only Antique Weapons In Ukraine's Underground Weapons Cache

At the beginning of May 2023, Russian media shared a flurry of videos from salt mines near Soledar. The videos showcased a captured weapons storage depot said to be inside part of the mine complex which was recently captured by Russian private military contractor unit Wagner. In this video we'll look at the videos to see what weapon systems were captured at the depot. The weapons largely appear to be damaged or obsolescent. 

Be sure to check out our accompanying article for this video here. 

[closelyrelatedkeys]

let me correct: Artemsil (Ukrainian: Артемсіль), not Artemsol or Artyomsol (Russian: Артёмсоль).

in may 2022 russian troops destroyed Artemsil plant with missiles.

Inside Ukrainian Moria: Huge Artyomsol Salt Mine Deep Under Ground by Ivan R.

[berndsx4]

[panimoonchild]

Caring about animals is an emotional outlet for Ukrainians

Ukrainian military provides shelter to any animal. A soldier of the 92nd Separate Mechanized Brigade rescued two baby boars in the forests of Kharkiv region. Their mother and three other cubs were killed by shelling. The rescued animals were named Tisha and Tosha. The boars turned out to be very affectionate. They even learned to obey commands.

- Tosha - in the trench!

- They are digging a trench, looking for miners.

A fighter with the call sign "Sladkiy" took in a Red Book peregrine fox. The animal received the call sign "Soledar". The soldier jokes that his pet also wears a pixel. The kid turned out to be very active and playful. In times of danger, Soledar hides in his rescuer's pouch. The rest of the time he explores the trenches.

A soldier with the call sign "Bob-Ukrop" brought a raccoon to his unit. The soldiers named their new comrade Slavko. Slavik loves tasty treats. He jokingly calls the four-legged friend a raccoon assault dog. The mischievous fellow keeps things in order in the dugouts. In his free time, Slavik washes his favorite toy.

Ukrainian military often feeds wild animals. They even rescue them from traps. Four-legged animals easily make contact with the military. After all, animals always feel good hands.

🎥: New Voice

Some hopeful and kind video meanwhile I'm sitting without electricity. Sweet and safe night everyone, except Russia and Russian supporters (China, Iran, and North Korea).

[perishrad]

This post is for the crowd that calls Gaza a genocide, but completely dismisses Ukraine; supports Palestine, but completely dismisses Ukraine. I hear “well the whole strip is razed, while Ukrainians drink coffee”.

Let’s talk. Ukraine is experiencing a genocide. Our whole country not being up in flames doesn’t make it any less of a genocide.

Ukraine is 15,000 times the size of Gaza. Russia leveled Mariupol, Severodonetsk, Bakhmut, Soledar, Mariinka, Avdiivka, and most recently (a few days ago) Vovchansk — to name just a few. Each of these cities were destroyed completely.

Ukraine is the largest country in Europe. 20% of our territory is occupied. That’s about the size of Denmark. So, now put in perspective HOW MUCH russia has completely wiped off the face of the earth. Hint: At least a medium European country worth of cities and towns.

De-occupied territories are mined for 50 years into the future (to put it modestly). Museums, books, culture — destroyed. Kids and adults are kidnapped and put into what russia calls “filtration [of loyalty to russia] camps” aka concentration camps.

Stop being a hypocrite. If you call events in Gaza a genocide, stop looking for excuses as to why not give the same name to what russia is doing to Ukraine.

And if you dare scream “UkRaInE sUpPoRtS IsRaEL” — Hamas supports and directly cooperates with russia. Two can play that game.

In October our president said he believes Israel has a right to defend itself from the Hamas attack. He never said we condone the bombing of Gaza. You can condemn Hamas, and you can condemn the Israeli government using that to wipe Gaza off the map at the same time. They are not mutually exclusive. Both are wrong.

[flagwars]

Flag Wars Bonus Round

[wordpress-blaze-233553194]

U.S. Consumer Sentiment Plunges to 2-Year Low: What It Means for Inflation, Jobs, and Your Wallet in 2025

As of March 28, 2025, the United States is experiencing a sharp decline in consumer sentiment, indicating increasing anxiety about economic stability and future expectations. The University of Michigan's most recent survey shows a dramatic fall in its Consumer Sentiment Index, falling to 57.0 in March from 64.7 in February, the lowest since November 2022. ​ Understanding the Consumer Sentiment Index The Consumer Sentiment Index, which is provided by the University of Michigan, is a principal gauge of confidence in the U.S. economy held by the American public. It tracks personal finance, overall economic situation, and buying attitudes. A decline in the index means that consumers are pessimistic regarding their financial situation and the overall economic situation, which can lead to decreased spending and slower economic growth. Reasons behind the Decline Some of the most significant reasons that the consumer confidence has dropped recently include: Inflation Anxiety: Persistent inflation eroded purchasing power, making the average consumer spend more on goods and services. During February, the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index grew by 0.3%, maintaining its 2.5% year-over-year gain. Core PCE, the measure of prices minus volatile food and energy costs, grew 0.4% in February and 2.8% from a year ago. ​ Trade Tariffs and Global Agitation: Placing new trade tariffs has added economic uncertainty. President Donald Trump's recent tariff declarations have increased worry about increased prices of foreign-made goods and potential retaliatory moves by trade partners. Such trade activism has ignited consumer  uncertainty about the general economic situation. Labor Market Anxiety: Rising fear around the labor market has also impacted consumer confidence. Two-thirds of consumers reported that they expected more unemployment over the next year, the most apprehensive since 2009. Fear around employment opportunities might lead to reduced consumption, hence even weaker economic growth. ​

Impact on Financial Markets Financial markets have experienced the fall in consumer confidence rebound through them: Stock Market Drops: The big indexes have dropped. The S&P 500 fell 2%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq Composite also took large drops. Investors are frightened by economic slowdown fears and a possibility of stagflation—a condition characterized by slowing growth and rising inflation. Bond Market Trends: The yield on the 10-year Treasury note declined to 4.26%, reflecting a shift into safer assets as investors seek shelter from market risk. ​ Financial Times Consumer Spending Trends Despite the decline in sentiment, consumer spending increased by a modest 0.4% in February. Adjusted for inflation, real spending growth was modest, which means that even though consumers are spending more in nominal terms, their real consumption has not been increasing significantly. Such mediocre growth in spending is worrying for the sustainability of economic growth. Inflation Expectations Inflation expectations have increased, with consumers predicting a 5% average rate of inflation in the next year and 4.1% in the next five years. Such higher expectations can affect the behavior of consumers, leading to reduced spending and increased demand for higher wages, which can, in turn, propel inflationary pressures. ​ MarketWatch Regional Perspectives In Florida, and in towns like St. Cloud, the ramifications of deteriorating consumer attitudes are being experienced. Local shops can observe slower traffic and sales as local consumers grow more cautious in their spending. The state's tourism industry, a staple of the Florida economy, could also be affected if consumers nationwide curtailed travel spending.​ Strategies for Consumers In light of these occurrences, consumers might utilize the following strategies: Financial Planning and Budgeting: Recalculation and recasting personal budgets to incorporate rising costs can help keep expenses under control. Emergency Fund: Establishing or restoring an emergency fund can provide a measure of financial protection if a job is lost or unexpected expenses occur. Investment in Human Capital: Investment in additional education or skills can improve employability and job security in an potentially more constrained labor market. The latest decline in consumer confidence emphasizes the troubles facing the U.S. economy, such as persistent inflation, trade tensions, and labor market challenges. As consumers progress through this complex setting, being very well-educated and exhibiting good financial practices will be crucial for minimizing the impacts of these economic headwinds.

Source: U.S. Consumer Sentiment Plunges to 2-Year Low: What It Means for Inflation, Jobs, and Your Wallet in 2025

[mariacallous]

 Кожна Зможе  - Kozhna Zmozhe ( Everybody Can) Toys and souvenirs made in the Ukrainian creative women's workshop .The workshop of creative women is located in Cherkasy and unites women who left occupied and front line territories, such as Kherson, Bakhmut and Soledar. There are also local residents among the participants. In two years of operation, the workshop has become a place where women find support, communication and the opportunity to engage in creativity. Feature is a Ukrainian Girl Cat made of felt with removable clothes, vinok, shoes.  Handmade in Ukraine 

[darkmaga-returns]

One of the biggest recent battlefield developments is just how quickly some of Ukraine’s largest urban strongholds are falling after being surrounded and cut off by Russian forces.

At one point long ago, every little settlement was won by bitter pitched fighting, advancing one house at a time—places like Rubezhnoe, Popasna, Soledar, Bakhmut, etc. But now, nearly half of the major strongholds are falling virtually without a fight. There are some exceptions: Toretsk and Chasov Yar for instance were slowly contested, though in their case it had more to do with geographic features and terrain not favorable for encirclement, which forced Russian troops to assault them head on.

When Selidove/Selidovo fell in October, it surprised many by how quickly it was abandoned. Kurakhove itself was mythologized by the AFU to be a critical, expansive battle that should have taken many months to conclude. And it did take long to slowly flank it—but the actual progression through the city itself, once it had begun, was relatively fast.

The same went for Ugledar: it took many months to slowly flank it on the sides, but then the fabled stronghold itself fell in literally four or five days in early October. Now the triumph has been repeated in an even greater stronghold, Velyka Novosilka. After spending weeks carefully enveloping it, Russian soldiers left the city relatively untouched as Ukrainian units simply fled without much of a fight.

Here the Russian 40th Marines and 5th Brigade plant their flags in the north of the town:

[workersolidarity]

It would seem the Ukrainian Offensive has tentatively begun.

Probing attacks have been launched across the frontlines over the last two days and nights. Ukrainian forces captured the village of Novodonetske before Russian Forces retook the town overnight. Heavy losses were incurred.

Other attacks were launched in the Vughledar area, the Donetsk agglomeration, near the Soledar area, and all along the point of contact.

These attacks were largely unsuccessful and led to heavy losses in both manpower and equipment for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

The following is a public statement from Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and the Russian Ministry of Defense:

[adrl-pt]

Today marks the anniversary of our weekly demonstrations. For a whole year, we have been gathering here every Saturday at 14:30 outside the Russian Embassy in Lisbon.

Reflecting on why we hold these rallies, we remember the bitter anniversary - 2 years ago, we were shocked by footage of the Russian army's atrocities in Bucha and Irpen. Today, we aim to make a significant impact. https://ru.euronews.com/my-europe/2024/04/03/eu-trip-to-bucha

We are highlighting the Orphans Feeding Foundation and its founder, Mariam Lambert. They recently celebrated their 2nd anniversary in their mission to help Ukraine. In these 2 years, they've succeeded in repatriating 36 children to Ukraine and evacuating 112 people from frontline areas, including Bakhmut and Soledar. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/orphans-feeding_ukraine-standwithukraine-activity-7173940041415581696-vd-p

We're supporting their Bring Kids Back UA program and encourage others to do the same. Donation link below. https://www.orphans-feeding-foundation.org/bring-kids-back-ua-program/

Our second focus today is the Venezuelans' international protest for fair elections. Putin's recent self-reappointment, masquerading as an election, mirrors dictator Nicolas Maduro's plans for July 28.

Maria Corina Machado has been unfairly barred from the Venezuelan presidential election by the government. https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mar%C3%ADa_Corina_Machado The Venezuelan authorities are obstructing the registration of the united opposition candidate, Professor Corina Yoris, supported by Maria and winner of the primaries. https://apnews.com/article/venezuela-election-machado-opposition-candidate-13cf51349679a63ed679967c218aa959 More than 5 million Venezuelans abroad are being denied registration for voting, citing lack of voting machines. https://www.batimes.com.ar/news/latin-america/venezuelas-huge-diaspora-struggles-to-register-to-vote-for-election.phtml

The motivations for the protest are:

Support for Maria Corina Machado, denouncing that her political rights continue to be violated. And at the same time, the arbitrariness of the Maduro's regime in not allowing a unitary candidacy represented by Professor Corina Yoris.

For the cessation of human rights violations, political persecutions and arbitrary arrests of the members of the Campaign Command of the Maria Corina Machado's political party.

Due to the requirement of electoral conditions to be able to vote abroad. Venezuelan embassies and consulates around the world are violating the right to elect more than 4 million Venezuelans who are able to vote.

Remember, the 2018 Venezuelan elections were not recognized by Europe, the U.S., and most Latin American countries. Additionally, there are about 300 political prisoners in Venezuela. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2018_Venezuelan_presidential_election

In Russia, the number of political prisoners has reached several thousand. https://meduza.io/feature/2023/11/23/skolko-lyudey-v-rossii-presleduyut-po-politicheskim-motivam-po-kakim-statyam-obychno-sudyat-politzaklyuchennyh-a-kakoy-region-samyy-opasnyy-s-tochki-zreniya-repressiy

Join us on Tuesday, April 9, for a screening of “The Dmitriev Case.” This film highlights the struggle of an elderly historian against the Russian government's erasure of history, leading to his imprisonment for 15 years. After the film, we'll discuss the preservation of historical memory and Russia's historical policy. https://www.tickettailor.com/events/libertylisbon/1217415

[argumate]

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the Wagner Group and the Russian military on May 21 for capturing Bakhmut. Putin directly attributed the capture of the city to Wagner mercenaries, while noting that Russian regular forces provided “necessary support and flank protection” for the Battle of Bakhmut. The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) similarly announced that Russia captured Bakhmut because of Wagner assaults in the city and aviation and artillery support from the Russian Southern Grouping of Forces. Putin and the MoD likely directly acknowledged Wagner’s responsibility for the capture of Bakhmut to avoid a repetition of the backlash that followed their immediate failure to do so when Wagner captured Soledar on January 12. Putin’s acknowledgement of Wagner’s role in Bakhmut is the first time that he himself has directly credited Wagner with a battlefield victory. Putin likely took this step because Prigozhin has thoroughly established Wagner’s responsibility for operations in Bakhmut within the Russian information space. Putin and the MoD likely sought to mitigate Prigozhin’s ability to claim sole responsibility for the capture of Bakhmut by emphasizing that regular Russian forces aided in the effort.

a weird situation isn't it, this whole paramilitary army thing that is still technically illegal in Russia but apparently vital to the war effort

[kamogryadeshi]

The Russians continue to destroy Donetsk region: a missile attack on Slovyansk, aerial bombs on Vugledar

"At dawn, the Russians fired missiles at Slovyansk - 1 building was destroyed, 9 more were damaged. On the Volnovakha direction, Vugledar was hit by an airstrike and 21 artillery shells. 2 houses were damaged in Bogoyavlenka. Prechystivka came under artillery fire 4 times, Novoukrayinka — twice," wrote the head of the Donetsk Regional Military Administration, Pavlo Kyrylenko.

On the Horlivka direction, two people died in the Chasovoyarsk community. In Toretsk, one person was injured, 4 houses and an infrastructure object were damaged. 13 houses were damaged in Nykyforivka, Soledar community. Poltavka of the Illinivska community was hit by a rocket, where the utility room was damaged. In addition, in the Lysychansk direction, a house in Zvanivka and two houses in Torske and Zarichne of the Lyman community were damaged.

[tanadrin]

Details: The human rights defenders posted the testimony of two former commanders of the Wagner private military company units, who were recruited to join Yevgeny Prigozhin's mercenaries from the Russian colonies.

They are Azamat Uldarov, a former convict of Correctional Labour Colony №13 of the Russian Office of the Federal Penitentiary Service from Saratov Oblast (pardoned by the decree of the President of the Russian Federation from 23 August 2022) and Alexei Savichev, a former convict of the Corrective labour colony №1 of the Russian Office of the Federal Penitentiary Service from Voronezh Oblast (pardoned by Putin's decree from 2 September 2022).

The criminals are currently in Russia.

During the week, they testified during video and audio interviews and informed Vladimir Osechkin, the Gulagu.net founder, about the details of the shooting of more than 20 Ukrainian children and teenagers, the blowing up of a pit with more than 50 wounded prisoners and the so-called "500" (those who decided to stop fighting and refused to carry out orders to kill Ukrainians), clearing residential buildings and killing everyone, including children.

In particular, one of the Wagnerites admits that he "shot a 5-year-old girl in the head" when they went to Soledar and Bakhmut: "She screams, she is a small child, you understand. I shot a 5-6-year-old girl in the head."

Uldarov said that he "cleared" the basement with 300-400 civilians; about 40 of them were children. According to him, it was a 9-story building. The occupier adds that "he had no choice" and that he had an order to dispose of everyone.

Quote from Uldarov: "I executed the order with this very hand, I killed the children. You understand, by order. The fact that we… We were given the order to wipe out and kill everyone… We went and killed everyone – women, men, pensioners and children, in particular, the small ones, 5 year-olds."

According to the terrorists, a command to mop up Bakhmut came from Prigozhin. He ordered not to spare anyone – neither old people nor children, just to kill them all. It was even worse in Soledar.

Uldarov also said that he "cleared" the basement of a 9-story building in Bakhmut with 300-400 civilians inside, including 40 children. The occupier adds that "he had no choice" and that he had an order to kill everyone.

The terrorist stated that it happened in March 2023.

Quote from Savichev: "Peaceful residents were going outside. And there was an order: everyone aged 15 and over – shoot all of them at once. 20–24 people were shot, 10 of them were 15-year-old and 17-year-old teenagers."

Asked how many unarmed civilians they killed in February 2023, Savychev replied that 15-year-old Ukrainians "are difficult to call civilians."

Both former commanders of the units of the Wagner private military company units also said that Prigozhin personally gave criminal orders to execute people, approving terrorist methods and brutality.

cannot begin to express how asinine it is to call people “warmongers” because they think it is right to support people resisting these kinds of atrocities with force of arms

[ultrajaphunter]

RuZZians Post Aftermath of A Ukrainian Kamikaze Drone attack On RuZZian Kamaz, ''all Survived''. Donetsk Region, possibly in Soledar Area.

[jloisse]

🔴 La bataille de Bakhmut en chiffres :

▪️La brigade 21 des Forces armées ukrainiennes a été vaincue

▪️10 brigades des Forces armées ukrainiennes ont complètement perdu leur capacité de combat

▪️57 000 militaires de l'AFU tués et plus de 85 000 blessés

▪️plus de 10 000 pièces d'équipement et d'armes des Forces armées ukrainiennes détruites

▪️plus de 50 avions et hélicoptères des Forces armées ukrainiennes ont été abattus dans le ciel au-dessus de Bakhmut

▪️plus de 6,5 mille mercenaires étrangers détruits

▪️plus de 35000 armes ont été capturées par PMC Wagner lors des batailles de Soledar et de Bakhmut.