The Three Things with Preston Smith

Yes, it's the Three Things Christmas Edition (episode 20), courtesy of The Corners (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (cddi.pl), not to mention your host, Polish-licensed detective and risk intel investigator Preston Smith. This week we have a special 1.5-hour show, covering the Serbian elections; the UBO registry; money for Ukraine and the Hunter Biden factor; the War in Ukraine Update and an interview (full of cop tales) with US-Polish entrepreneur John Gabrovic. Each segment lasts from 15-20 minutes. Time stamps below: 3:13 The semi First Thing:The Serbian elections--we make a prediction (which did come true) and tell you why it matters. 18:08 The REAL First Thing: The UBO registry--can the EU be more schizophrenic when it comes to transparency? 28:44 The Second Thing: The War in Ukraine Update, including why the Hunter Biden investigation impacts weapons and possibly the outcome of the war. And yes, there will be plenty of maps. 1:03:14 An interview with US-Polish entrepreneur John Gabrovic. This guy has seen it all, and he discusses the outlook for the business/entertainment sector, as well as violence, dealing with the police--and even being mistakenly detained as a witness in a mafia case by the Polish secret services. Interesting links (and Merry Christmas): https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/analysis-hunter-bidens-hard-drive-shows-firm-took-11-million-2013-2018-rcna29462 https://www.politico.com/newsletters/playbook/2023/12/05/ukraine-makes-a-final-plea-00130067 https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2023/12/13/congress/house-gop-formal-impeachment-inquiry-biden-00131498 Attributions: Aleksandar Vucic by Medija Centar Beograd, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 via Wikimedia Commons EU parliament by Steven Lek, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Serbia protest by Voice of America, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kosovo СРБИН.инфо, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kurti AgronBeqiriPh, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Banjska Vanjagenije, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 via Wikimedia Commons City of London © User:Colin and Kim Hansen / Wikimedia Commons Hunter Biden Prime Minister's Office (GODL-India), GODL-India https://data.gov.in/sites/default/files/Gazette_Notification_OGDL.pdf, via Wikimedia Commons Joe Biden The White House from Washington, DC, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Donald Trump DOD photo by U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jette Carr, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Donald Tusk Mateusz Włodarczyk - www.wlodarczykfoto.pl, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Pesident Of Ukraine from Україна, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons Warsaw Kgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Drewiec Beti68, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

The Three Things is back after a break (flu season is like that) for the 19th segment of the show, courtesy of The Corners (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (cddi.pl), not to mention your host, Polish-licensed detective and risk intel investigator Preston Smith. This week's edition features more letters; more PROSTITUTION (and the ensuing risks and consequences); an interview with Rybas Hotels' Anastasia Hubanova on life in Odessa and how Ukrainians are adapting (and how Ukrainian companies are even expanding, despite the war, and finally, the Ukrainian War Update. Each segment lasts from 15-20 minutes. Time stamps below: 17:43 Prostitution--is the oldest trade in the world becoming even more dangerous? Diseases and risks here: 30:34 An interview with Ribas Hotels Anastasiia Hubanova on life and work in Ukraine, the adaptability of Ukrainians and Ribas Hotels' expansion despite the war. 49:13 The War in Ukraine Update--plenty to absorb here, as the slow down in US aid could mean disaster. Photo attributions: Prostitute by unknown sourceUnknown source, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Prostitute by Thijs Paanakker, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Waiters by Joachim Beuckelaer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Evacuation of Avdiivka National Police of Ukraine, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Reagan photo in the Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Blinken and refugees by U.S. Department of State from United States, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Eggs by Kgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Prostitute Eugène Atget, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Photo by Koninklijke Bibliotheek, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Gulag photo by Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Zaluzhny by Mil.gov.ua, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=115527675 Zelenskyy, President Of Ukraine by Україна, PDM-owner, via Wikimedia Commons. Maps courtesy of Deepstate UA. All headlines used only for educational purposes.

That's right, the Three Things is back with the 18th segment of the show, courtesy of The Corners (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (cddi.pl), not to mention your hose, Polish-licensed detective and risk intel investigator Preston Smith. This week's edition features the long-expected "letters segment," as well as a focus on those baddest of the bad, the vory v zakone. This is followed by the war in Ukraine update--with a glance at the maps and latest developments. The Three Things focuses on organized crime, politics, spy intrigue and more in Central and Eastern Europe. Each segment lasts from 15-20 minutes (or more), and time stamps are featured below: 3:12 The First Thing--i.e. the letters. Yes, some of you have written in (to various accounts), and Yours Truly addresses a subset of the most interesting (and least offensive) letters to... Yours Truly. 30:11 The Second Thing a.k.a. the vory v zakone primer--this is a short history of the infamous thieves-in-law organization, with a bit of backstory and a recent bust thrown in for good measure. 50:44 The War in Ukraine Update--the Ukrainians are on the defensive in Kupiansk and Avdiivka (and not only), but they are still pushing down in Krynki. The stalemate may be on... or not. Cool links: The Financial Times article on drug smugglers commandeering logistics chains: https://www.ft.com/content/ec3081d6-b5eb-4886-9e01-7e58b0ef1911 Statista and tanks supplied to Ukraine: https://www.statista.com/statistics/1364974/ukraine-military-aid-tanks/ Photo attributions: Photo of Ded Hasan/Khasan by Photo of Usoyan by unknown - Original publication: unknownImmediate source: http://www.ambebi.ge/sazogadoeba/69734-tseronisis-quchaze-mdebare-aslan-usoianis-sakhlshi-dilidan-panashvidi-mimdinareobda.html, Fair use, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=48688229 Scam drawing byJoseph Morewodd Staniforth, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Thief by George Fitzmaurice Productions / First National Pictures, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Photo by SakartvelosGaumarjos, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kremlin photo by A.Savin, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Ukrainian refugees Kamil Czaiński, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Gulag by Antonu, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0 via Wikimedia Commons Gulag map by Trinitrix, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Gulag photo by missyleone from Everett, WA, USA, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Artillery photo by Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. All maps by DeepState UA.

Greetings and salutations! Once again it's this week's The Three Things with your (licensed) detective in Central Europe, Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (www.cddi.pl). Here we discuss politics, true crime, war news, spy news and more (from a Central European perspective). Each segment runs from 15 to 20 minutes, but this week we're covering prostitution, recent Polish busts and the demise of Odloty.pl; the arrest (and previous escapes) of Albanian Kompania Bello drug baron Dritan R., as well as developments pertaining to the war in Ukraine. Also, check out The Corners magazine at www.thecorners.pl, and if you need detective services, please see www.cddi.pl. Time stamps below: 3:03 Prostitution in Central Europe, including busts in Poland, the shutting down of Odloty and Roksa, why it took so long and what is happening now. It's sordid, said and you know you want it. 25:47 The escapes and arrest of Dritan R., the boss of Kompania Bello, in Turkey. Maybe the cocaine keeps coming, but we can't say the authorities are not working to stop it. 38:12 The war in Ukraine update. Plenty of news from Krynki/Kherson, Avdiivka and Kupiansk. And another Russian general dead as well. Attributions: All headlines used purely for educational purposes only. Maps courtesy of Deepstate UA. Brothel bust photo courtesy of the Polish CBSP. Unknown sourceUnknown source, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Prostitution painting by Joachim Beuckelaer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Prostitution See page for author, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Prostitution painting by French School, 18th century, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons cocaine Petty Officer 3rd Class Cory Booth, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Avdiivka building destroyed photo by National Police of Ukraine, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Robert Fico photo by Igec133, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 via Wikimedia Commons. Viktor Orban by Foad AshtariDerivative work: Rlevente, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Kherson photo by Dsns.gov.ua, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Greetings and salutations! Once again it's this week's The Three Things with your (licensed) detective in Central Europe, Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (www.cddi.pl). Here we discuss politics, true crime, war news, spy news and more (from a Central European perspective). Each segment runs from 15 to 20 minutes, but this week Yours Truly runs through scams and more scams--as well as developments pertaining to the war in Ukraine. Time stamps below: 3:00 Letters and the strangest story I've encountered (in the Czech Republic anyway). 9:30 Boiler room scams. We've had several clients come to us as victims, and while at first it may seem somewhat ridiculous that seasoned pros in real estate or investment can get conned for millions, it's not that simple. But here is an easy first step to at least get an indication as to whether a broker is on the up and up. 25:09 Expat scams. This stems out of recent letters where expats have asked which are the most popular scams that target them specifically (in Central Europe). In fact, there are plenty more, but these are three that immediately came to mind, as they occur so often. 41:40 The Ukrainian war update. Some media are describing the Ukrainian counteroffensive as a failure. Certainly, the US funds for Ukraine appear to be drying up. And possibly the current Russian strike--which is turning into a bloodbath--at Avdiivka may define the entire year. Check out the following articles: Group American content: https://www.occrp.org/en/daily/18121-brazilian-and-serbian-drug-lords-arrested-in-brazil Vessels sunk by Ukraine since 2022: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_ship_losses_during_the_Russo-Ukrainian_War Boiler room scams: https://www.occrp.org/en/daily/18200-police-across-europe-target-more-boiler-room-scams Photo attributions: Confidence trick by Joseph Morewodd Staniforth, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Viktor Orban photo by Európa Pont, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Fire boy drawing BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Boiler room photo by Tristan Surtel, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Stripper photo by J Chang from USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Stripper painting by ArtLover113, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Polish zloty by Gonzuchna, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons IT photo by Lucentintenebris, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Video of sea drone strikes released by the Ukrainian military. F-16 photo by Staff Sgt. Cherie A. Thurlby, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

Dear Hearts, yes, we are back after a one-week hiatus (Yours Truly had the flu), and there is much to discuss, including the new edition of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl); the Balkan tightrope; the truth about surveillance and the courts; the Sky ECC bust; the realities of extradition in the EU (and what is Cyprus thinking?) and the Ukrainian war update. Each segment lasts approximately 15-20 minutes. Time stamps below: 6:36 The Sky ECC bust and what it has meant for the mafia--and the realities of surveillance and the risk of admissibility. 24:19 Extradition--the realities and absurdities of who gets extradited and who does not (Cyprus-Romanian content). 39:12 The Ukrainian war update--not much good news in that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy states there is no stalemate after his top general confirms that yes, there is a stalemate and the US worries over the stalemate and reportedly presses for negotiations with Russia--who likely does not want negotiations and does not see a stalemate... at all. Photo attributions below: Extradition photo--which is actually quite unrelated--by the No 5 Army Film & Photographic Unit, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Protest in Serbia by Voice of America, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Sky logo Logo of Sky Global, a telecommunications network and service provider, at the time of its closure. SKY GLOBAL Inc. Public domain Sky Global logo.svg [[File:Sky Global logo.svg|Sky_Global_logo]] Undetermined 360 × 44 image/svg+xml Serbia photo of Aleksandar Vucic by voice of America Voice of America, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Vucic Leon E. Panetta, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Cocaine photo by United States Coast Guard, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Pegasus surveillance art by Gibrán Aquino, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Bug photo by 名乗る程の者ではない, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Cast of The Wire by Tim Pierce, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Viktor Bout extradition photos by Drug Enforcement Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Spanish flag by RelShot 263, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Øyvind Holmstad, CC BY-SA 4.0 ttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Vladimiar Putin by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Volodymyr Zelenskyy President Of Ukraine from Україна, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Reagan photo by Michael Evans, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Darko S. photo from Facebook, public domain. All map photos by Deep State UA.

Greetings and salutations! This week's The Three Things with your (licensed) detective in Central Europe, Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (www.cddi.pl). Here we discuss politics, true crime, war news, spy news and more (from a Central European perspective). Each segment runs from 15 to 20 minutes, and this week Yours Truly will discuss the consequences on Serbia (thus far) in the wake of the paramilitary raid in Banjska in North Kosovo; the Polish opposition win during the Oct. 15 parliamentary elections (and what to expect going forward) and the current situation in Ukraine, highlighting the Russian offensive in Avdiivka. 1:15 Kosovo and Serbia headbutting, and a sharp-worded European Parliament resolution on de-escalation (but a resolution that is more sharply-worded toward Serbia). 13:13--the Polish elections and what is likely to come. 27:37 The war in Ukraine update. Progress in Zaporizhzhia, Russian pressure in Avdiivka. Plenty to talk about here. Intro copyright Hoodoohat/Marek Tymkoff and Preston Smith Photo attributions: Vucic photo by U.S. Department of State from United States, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Polish elections photo by Silar, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Map of Serbia by TUBS, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Banjksa photo by Konstantin Novakovic, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Josep Borrell by Ministry of the Presidency. Government of Spain (Attribution or Attribution), via Wikimedia Commons Albin Kurti photo by AgronBeqiriPh, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 via Wikimedia Commons Christopher Hill United States Department of State, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Aleksandar Vulin photo by Ministry of Defence of Serbia, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Donald Tusk European People's Party, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Jaroslaw Kaczynski photo by Silar, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons ATACM missle by Army employee, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Putin photo by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Maps courtesy of Deepstate UA.

Greetings and salutations! This week's The Three Things with your (licensed) detective in Central Europe, Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (www.cddi.pl) is actually a special edition and the ONE THING, which is an interview with Vice-Speaker of the Coordinating Council of the Belarussian Government in Exile Elena Zhivoglod. This was a remarkable interview, during which Zhivoglod described the 2020 elections, the efforts of her NGO prior and during the election and the realization that she was herself suddenly exiled from her country--and that her friends and relatives were under threat. She also explains recent efforts to offer hope to those within Belarus, as those without through a program to provide travel documents in place of Belarussian passports. This is an impressive, brave and determined woman and is worth a watch. 00:00 Intro and letters 8:49 Interview with the vice-speaker Please note--no Ukrainian war update this week, as primarily we are waiting for the Russian counteroffensive at Avdiivka to play out (as well as the Polish elections). Attributions Polish elections photo by Silar, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kosovo protest Voice of America, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Belarus protests Homoatrox, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Flag of Ukraine Government of Ukraine, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Bombed out building in Donetsk by National Police of Ukraine, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Tanks in Kosovo Photo: PO[Phot] Lewis.S.J/MOD, OGL v1.0OGL v1.0, via Wikimedia Commons Albright photo by Chatham House, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Tsichanoskaya photo by European Parliament from EU, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Second photo by European Parliament, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 via Wikimedia Commons Lukashenkso photo by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Ukraine photo by Amaury Laporte, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Maps courtesy of Deepstate UA.

Putin, Russians.. The Corners ep. 1

"Oh, how should we send them stingers?"

CJF founder Henryk Podsiadly on the flood of Ukrainians to Poland...

Greetings and salutations! This week's Three Things with your (licensed) detective in Central Europe, Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) and CDDI (www.cddi.pl) focuses on the raid in Kosovo by 30 armed "assailants" and how the Balkans are indeed (as I predicted) teetering toward war. It also highlights more revelations in the Polish visa scandal, the coming elections--and this week in addition to the Ukrainian war update, we'll run through concerns for the Ukrainian side going into the winter. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. 4:51 Thing one: a raid near Zvecan in Kosovo by 30 well-armed ethnic Serbs turned into a day-long gun battle--and the seizure of heavy weapons by Kosovo police. Kosovo has accused the Serbian government of sponsoring the raid and Serb troops are moving toward the border in a move the White House calls "unprecedented." Troubling stuff. 18:02 Thing two: the Polish visa scandal does appear to have cranked forward on scale. But it still may not be what it seems. Meanwhile, the elections are looming--but is the Law-and-Justice (PiS) Party weakening or not? Find out. 30:53 Thing three: The Ukrainian war update. In response to letters, which bizarrely seemed to imply that I have only been communicating good news about the war, Yours Truly will also run through nine concerns (or more). Chief among them? The West cutting off funds. Also a quick run through the maps. Link to interactive AFP map of the war in Ukraine here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsUPczETOqM Please note that only a screen shot was used for educational purposes and that this screen shot was used to direct viewers to said map on the AFP site for said educational purposes. Link to NYT article here: https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/09/28/world/europe/russia-ukraine-war-map-front-line.html Photo credits: Aleksandar Vucic by Vojska Srbije, CC BY 3.0 RS https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/rs/deed.en, via Wikimedia Commons Wolodymry Zelenskyy by President.gov.ua, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Putin by http://www.kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Jaroslaw Kaczynski by AargambitAutor: Reporter Dziennika Internetowego http://lublin.com.pl (wydawca:AAR Gambit), CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Madelien Albright by Brinacor, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Joe Biden by The White House from Washington, DC, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kevin McCarthy by United States Congress, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons ommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Abrams tank photo by Joseph A. Lambach, U.S. Marine Corps, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons F-16 photo by Staff Sgt. Cherie A. Thurlby, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Voice of America, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Polish protest by Dwxn, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Albin Kurti photo by Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Milan Radocic photo by Petrit Rrahmani, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons John kirby DOD photo by Erin A. Kirk-Cuomo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Marsz Tomasz Molina, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Biden IowaPolitics.com, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Sevastopol by Halifers - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=137963342 Zelenskyy President.gov.ua, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Trump and McCarthy by Kevin McCarthy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kevin McCarthy by mccarthyvUnited States Congress, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Yevheniy Shynkar (Voice of America), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons The Sky SKY GLOBAL logo by Inc., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Putin by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Russian Admiral by Admiralis-generalis-Aladeen, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Edi Rama by U.S. Department of State from United States, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Tsekov by Mil.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Solkolov Mil.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Welcome to our inaugural show, The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. The Three Things is, however, exactly what it sounds like--in that we'll indicate three subjects to consider or be on the lookout for in the coming week. So expect analysis, predictions, eye-openers--and variety. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes, and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's topics include: 02:14 1) The war in Ukraine: have we reached a WWI-Somme type of standoff that paradoxically means a new level of escalation is coming our way--and can Ukraine use cluster munitions to break through layers of mines? 19:33 2) Belarus and the Suwalki Gap: are Wagner mercenaries really set to invade... and is there a precedent? And why is Evgeniy Prigozhin still active? 37:01 3) The Balkans--i.e. Kosovo and Serbia and just how much trouble is brewing? Also, be sure to check out www.thecorners.pl, where the quarterly magazine is available, and where updates appear daily on the site and also on the paid-for Patreon site, accessible from the main site, that offers just a bit more. Although much, much more is coming soon. Photo credits: Cluster munition National Police of Ukraine, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kakhovka resevoir by Enno Lenze, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Mine photo by Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0 via Wikimedia Commons Igor Girkin by Dom kobb, CC BY-SA 4.0 =https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Putin photo by government of the Russian Federation, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Lukashenko photo by Информационное агентство БелТА, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Vucic photo by Leon E. Panetta, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Suwalki gap photo by User:NordNordWest, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Russian war map photo by UK MoD MoD UK Defence Intelligence, OGL 3 http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3, via Wikimedia Commons Putin-Lukashensko photo by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Zelenskyy photo from Україна, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons Ferdinand photo byFerdinand Schmutzer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kosovo protest photo by Voice of America, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kurti photo by Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons] Serbian military byTech. Sgt. William Greer, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Welcome back to The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes, and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's topics include: 00:00 A brief introduction to the photos of Patrick Patterson, a Texas photojournalist who spent a year in Ukraine and has a point-of-view worth reading (and check out that story on www.thecorners.pl) 6:16 Cocaine and the Albanian Mob (Kompania Bella), cocaine trafficking in Europe and how the various gangs in organized crime actually treat their own people/nationalities. 25:56 A quick update on the war in Ukraine. It's tough going, and we'll pull no punches. But still Slava Ukraini! 43:40 Detective work, child custody fights and how even with children possession is 99 percent of the law. And what does this mean when it comes to Belarus, the Belarussian Red Cross and Ukrainian children illegally transported there? Also, be sure to check out www.thecorners.pl, where the quarterly magazine is available, and where updates appear daily on the site and also on the paid-for Patreon site, accessible from the main site, that offers just a bit more. Although much, much more is coming soon.

Welcome back to The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes, and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's topics include: 6:05 The FIRST THING: the War in Ukraine Update. This week we’ll talk about the worrying Russian offensive in Kupiansk and Svatove, the Ukrainian counters near Bakhmut and north (probably) of Staromaiske and the Ukrainians success in breach the first line of defense in the south… somewhere. Again, the next two weeks are crucial. 19:41 The SECOND THING: from the update we will jump right into former US military Col. Ray Wojcik. If you would like to hear what the US and EU should be doing—and also get a sober (and perhaps refreshingly optimistic take on the Ukrainian outlook), this is your man. 46:42 The THIRD THING: The Polish Christian Joy Foundation has sent millions in food and supplies to Ukraine, and here is the man behind it all, the foundation’s ceo, Henryk Podsiadly. In this interview Yours Truly goes back to the beginnings and Podsiadly explains just how the foundations ramped up grass roots efforts and what lies in store. Also, be sure to check out www.thecorners.pl, where the quarterly magazine is available, and where updates appear daily on the site and also on the paid-for Patreon site, accessible from the main site, that offers just a bit more. Although much, much more is coming soon. And if you would like to support Ukrainian families in need, the Christian Joy Foundation is a great way to help, and account and foundation information is listed below: Chrześcijańska Fundacja Radość ul. Przyleśna 3, 04-807 Warszawa biuro.fundacja.radosc@gmail.com http://www.fundacja-radosc.pl/ KRS: 0000245205 NIP: 952-198-19-33 Rach. Bank.: PL 77 1050 1025 1000 0023 0001 5076 SWIFT: INGBPLPW USD account: PL 44 1050 1025 1000 0090 8190 1911 EUR account: PL11105010251000009081936552 GBP account number: PL 92105010251000009072321715 PayPal: biuro@fundacja-radosc.pl

Welcome back to The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes, and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's topics include: 17:52 The first thing: Alexei Navalny--the imprisoned opposition leader received an additional 19 years on Aug. 4, yet still he stands defiant. In this segment we take a hard look at his past controversies and current plight as a political prisoner. 42:35 The second thing: an interview with Michael Houlehan, president of Aspenaid.org, an NGO doing big things in Ukraine. Houlehan spent the past seven weeks in Ukraine, and his take when it comes to Ukrainian morale and the counteroffensive is noticeably more optimistic than that of many US news teams. 1:07:27 The third thing: the Ukrainian war update. The Russian offensive toward Kupiansk continues, but Ukraine has made progress in the south. Also, be sure to check out www.thecorners.pl, where the quarterly magazine is available, and where updates appear daily on the site and also on the paid-for Patreon site, accessible from the main site, that offers just a bit more. Although much, much more is coming soon. And if you would like to support Ukrainian families in need, the Christian Joy Foundation is a great way to help, and account and foundation information is listed below: Chrześcijańska Fundacja Radość ul. Przyleśna 3, 04-807 Warszawa biuro.fundacja.radosc@gmail.com http://www.fundacja-radosc.pl/ KRS: 0000245205 NIP: 952-198-19-33 Rach. Bank.: PL 77 1050 1025 1000 0023 0001 5076 SWIFT: INGBPLPW USD account: PL 44 1050 1025 1000 0090 8190 1911 EUR account: PL11105010251000009081936552 GBP account number: PL 92105010251000009072321715 PayPal: biuro@fundacja-radosc.pl Photo credits: Navalny by Mitya Aleshkovskiy, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Evgeny Feldman, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Bulgaria woman photo by Tencho B, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Polish woman in traditional dress by Poland Lestat (Jan Mehlich), CC BY-SA 2.5 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5, via Wikimedia Commons US farm woman by National Archives at College Park, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Polish Prime Minister Morawiecki Gov.pl, CC BY 3.0 PL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/pl/deed.en, via Wikimedia Commons Refugees by Ggia, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Black Sea map created by User:NormanEinstein, CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons Band x George Rose, Los Angeles Times, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Navalny byBogomolov.PL, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Big Tex by TheNewAnimaniacsFan2001, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Navalny Evgeny Feldman, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Putin by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Navalny by Evgeny Feldman, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Совет министров Республики Крым, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons War in Ukraine maps by Deepstate.ua.

Welcome back to The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's three things (with markers) include: 7:52 The murder of Alexei Petrov. This is some kind of a story--murdered in broad daylight in mid-August, Petrov's death may be linked to other murders, billions gone (Ruja Ignatova and Oncecoin content) and some are commenting that the mafia wars have begun once again. Or maybe they never stopped. 31:49 The truth of using surveillance in risk intelligence or during private detective work. How does it work? What do you want? What should you expect? And what is legal? Find out here. 42:50 The Ukrainian war update. A great deal of news this week, including negative comments in the West, the Russian offensive in Kupiansk, Ukrainian progress in the south--and theories that the Russians have something bigger in store. Thanks, and remember to please like, subscribe and check out the website at www.thecorners.pl. Also, consider donating to Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/TheCornerswithPrestonSmith Photo credits: Photo by Kgbo, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons The river Neva by Alexey Bogolyubov, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Mafia suit photo by Jan Ainali, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Greta Thunberg photo by Dylan Richards from Athabasca, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Bulgarian detectives photo by WaffledWaffle, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Boyko Boyrsov photo by EU2017EE Estonian Presidency, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Dead body photo by Sofia Police Department, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Vladimir Petkov photo by CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kamenov Interpol Red Notice courtesy of Interpol. Ignatova notice by the US FBI, public domain. Ivan Geshev protest poster by Spiritia, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Camera photo by Auckland Museum Collections from Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Photo by Peter Heckert, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Prighozhin photo by OR-7 Pia Dunkel, German Army, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Gen. Surovikin photo by Government of the Russian Federation, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Gen. Surovikin photo by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

That's right--once again welcome back to The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's three things (with markers) include: 5:40 Thing one: the death of Wagner mercenary group founder Yevgeniy Prigozhin. What happened, when and what does it mean. Stick around and find out. 26:20 Thing two: Ukrainian War Update. Let's not get too excited, but in the south the Ukrainians appear to be on the cusp of real breakthroughs. Yet the push in Kupiansk still looms. 42:26 Thing three: an interview with Julian Szumowski, the founder of Biznes Boxing Polska. I have to say that I really enjoyed this interview, which covered white collar boxing in Poland, MMA, Freak Fights AND the Usyk-Dubois fight and the now infamous low blow that maybe was not a low blow. Thanks, and remember to please like, subscribe and check out the website at www.thecorners.pl. Also, consider donating to Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/TheCornerswithPrestonSmith Also, the next food/supply drive to help those in need in Ukraine will be held Sept. 1, 2023 at the Makro in Zabki in Warsaw's suburbs. If you would like to support the foundation, please consider donating using the information below: Chrześcijańska Fundacja Radość ul. Przyleśna 3, 04-807 Warszawa biuro.fundacja.radosc@gmail.com http://www.fundacja-radosc.pl/ KRS: 0000245205 NIP: 952-198-19-33 Rach. Bank.: PL 77 1050 1025 1000 0023 0001 5076 SWIFT: INGBPLPW USD account: PL 44 1050 1025 1000 0090 8190 1911 EUR account: PL11105010251000009081936552 GBP account number: PL 92105010251000009072321715 PayPal: biuro@fundacja-radosc.pl Photo attributions below: Evgeniy Prigozhin photo by Abu Al-Qassem, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Oleksandr Usyk photo by Andriy Makukha (Amakuha), CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Second Evgeniy Prigozhin photo by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Aleksandr Lukashenko photo by Government of the Russian Federation, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Russian prisoner photo by Vitaly V. Kuzmin, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Russian gulag photo by Mil.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Serge Serebro, Vitebsk Popular News, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Public domain This work is in the public domain in Russia according to article 1281 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, articles 5 and 6 of Law No. 231-FZ of the Russian Federation of December 18, 2006 (the Implementation Act for Book IV of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation). Prisoner photo by Steve Jurvetson from Los Altos, USA, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Russian ruble ЦБ РФ, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Dmytro Utkin photo by https://www.fontanka.ru/2017/08/18/103/, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Pudzianowski photo by Artur Andrzej, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Screen shots of the ESPN Oleksandr Usyk fight vs. Daniel Dubois used for educational purposes only.

Welcome back to The Three Things with Preston Smith, which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's segments include: 10:15 An interview with editor/journalist (and veteran when it comes to Polish politics) David McQuaid, in which we discuss the coming elections scheduled for Oct. 15 and what possibly lies in store. A great deal is at stake this time around, with internal and external pundits calling the outcome critical for Poland's future. Yet it goes wider than that. 41:11 The War in Ukraine Update. Plenty of news--but is the excitement surrounding a potential breakthrough in Zaporizhzhia warranted. Let's find out. 58:13 An interview with Poland-based New Yorker (and writer) Jonathan Roy on what it was like to build up a business prior to COVID only to see it wiped out. And was he... patient zero? Humor and insight galore this time around. Also, the Christian Joy Foundation food drive went ahead as scheduled on Sept. 1, but the need is still great. If you would like to contribute, please find the relevant information below: Sept. 1, 2023 at the Makro in Zabki in Warsaw's suburbs. If you would like to support the foundation, please consider donating using the information below: Chrześcijańska Fundacja Radość ul. Przyleśna 3, 04-807 Warszawa biuro.fundacja.radosc@gmail.com http://www.fundacja-radosc.pl/ KRS: 0000245205 NIP: 952-198-19-33 Rach. Bank.: PL 77 1050 1025 1000 0023 0001 5076 SWIFT: INGBPLPW USD account: PL 44 1050 1025 1000 0090 8190 1911 EUR account: PL11105010251000009081936552 GBP account number: PL 92105010251000009072321715 PayPal: biuro@fundacja-radosc.pl Photo attributions below: Castke Dennis Jarvis from Halifax, Canada, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Bulgarian dancers by Peter Kitanov, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Jaroslaw Kaczynski photo by President Of Ukraine from Україна, PDM-owner, via Wikimedia Commons. Tanks heading to Donetsk photo by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2. via Wikimedia Commons Ro Khanna in a mas photo by Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons. Donald Tusk photo by Platforma Obywatelska RP, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Jaroslaw Kaczynski photo by Silar, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Konfederacja grouping photo by Tomasz Molina, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Photo by Silar, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0 via Wikimedia Commons Janusz Palikot photo by Palikot Peterson, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Robert Biedron photo by User:Zboralski, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Photo by Mikke Adrian Grycuk, CC BY-SA 3.0 PL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/pl/deed.en via Wikimedia Commons. Ukrainian immigrants protesting photo by Franek Vetulani, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Donald Trump photo by Michael Vadon, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Boxing glovesen:User:Andman8, CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons Photo by Phillip Pessar, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Maps by Deep State UA.

Yes, it's a slightly chaotic The Three Things with Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl)--which this week is kind of only two things--which covers politics, current affairs, crime, spy/intrigue and all things in between in Central Europe. And why chaotic? Because Yours Truly is off traveling for the weekend so this is a rush edition, recorded Friday Sept. 8--although there is still plenty to run through. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's segments include: 00:56 The first thing: Ukrainian war politics--Did US Secretary of State Antony Blinken give a deadline with USD 1 bln in aid? And if not, what is the significance of November? And what about depleted uranium ammunition. Likewise, will Poland extradite the close to 80,000 Ukrainian men of fighting age reportedly in the country? And how would that work. 17:31 The second thing: The Ukrainian Battlefield Report. That's right, maps and more maps and a sober, hopefully objective glance at the current status of battlefield hot spots and what is likely to come. Attributions: Oleksei Reznikov by Крістіна 24, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken by U.S. Embassy Nigeria, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Zelenskyy photo by President Of Ukraine from Україна, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons Umerov photo by Tatarstan.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons. Maps credit: Deepstate UA.

This week's Three Things with Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) focuses on Western realities for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy; the grain flap between Poland and Ukraine and what it means going forward and the Ukrainian battlefield report. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. The First Thing: The Ukrainian Battlefield Report. Ukraine continues to make progress, despite the slow arrival of weapons and what is undeniably hard fighting. Yet it has also made use of drones and UK supplied missles, and this week it is likely that several high-ranking Russian officers were killed and wounded during a strike on Sevastopol. Maps galore. The Second Thing: Volodomyr Zelenskyy appeared before both the UN and also met (or attempted to meet) key Republican players in US Congress. He was likely surprised by the lukewarm reaction compared to a year ago--but the US President did promise long-range missiles (although not many). The Third Thing: Polish-Ukrainian relations soured sharply over grain and comments from the Ukrainian president. Did both sides go a shade too far? And what does this mean when it comes to Poland's reputation in the EU? And in the meantime... where are those German Leopards? Find out more here. Here are the totals: https://www.bundesregierung.de/breg-en/news/military-support-ukraine-2054992 Photo attributions: Biden IowaPolitics.com, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Sevastopol by Halifers - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=137963342 Zelenskyy President.gov.ua, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Trump and McCarthy by Kevin McCarthy, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kevin McCarthy by mccarthyvUnited States Congress, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Yevheniy Shynkar (Voice of America), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons The Sky SKY GLOBAL logo by Inc., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Putin by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Russian Admiral by Admiralis-generalis-Aladeen, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Edi Rama by U.S. Department of State from United States, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Morawiecki by the Chancellery of the Prime Minister of Poland, CC BY 3.0 PL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/pl/deed.en, via Wikimedia Commons Jaroslaw Kaczynski by Adrian Grycuk, CC BY-SA 3.0 PL https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/pl/deed.en, via Wikimedia Commons Tsekov by Mil.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Solkolov Mil.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This week's Three Things with Preston Smith, courtesy of The Corners Magazine (www.thecorners.pl) focuses on the tinderbox we call the Balkans, the Polish visa scandal and what it means for upcoming elections and the always present Ukrainian War Update. Each section of the Three Things runs approximately 15-20 minutes (or more), and we have provided markers to help you get where you need to go. This week's segments include: 3:23 The Balkan tinderbox--Kosovo and Serbian headbutting was once again brought to the fore with failed negotiations in Brussels. But this time it was clearly Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti who did not want to move forward. What does this mean in the midst of instability in Bosnia (which has an all but dysfunctional political system), mafia issues highlighted by an attempt to tunnel into the evidence storage area of the High Court in Podgorica, Montenegro and constant bickering across the region. Here's a clue: yes, the risk is high for dramatic escalation. 20:04 The Polish visa scandal threatens to wallop the reigning Law-and-Justice (PiS) government ahead of the elections, with the opposition alleging that foreigners paid illegally for not hundreds but hundreds of thousands of visas. Is this likely? And what are the likely repercussions ahead of the coming elections? Let's try to be objective here. 39:21 The Ukrainian War Update--the Ukrainians have used drones with devastating efficiency, but time is running out if they are going to make a successful run to Tokmak and change the course of the war prior to the rainy season. Is the good news to be believed--we hope so, but a conservative, cautious take may be in order. Photo attributions: Attributions Razman Kadyrov by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Viktor Orban photo by the European People's Party, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Vucic by Medija Centar Beograd, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Albin Kurti by Arianit, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsArianit, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Milorad Dodik by Kremlin.ru, CC BY 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Edi Rama by CEEC-China 2018, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Volodymyr Zelenskyy by President Of Ukraine from Україна, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons Josep Borell bty European University Institute from Italy, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Sarajevo war photo by LT. STACEY WYZKOWSKI, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kosovo war photoby Nick Macdonald (nickmacdonald.net), CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/, via Wikimedia Commons Richard Holbrooke photo by Kenneth C. Zirkel, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Bill Clinton, Holbrooke and Milosevic National Archives and Records Administration, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Christian Schmidt photo by EU2017EE Estonian Presidency, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Maps courtesy of Deepstate UA. Mateusz Morawiecki photo by Włodarczyk - www.wlodarczykfoto.pl, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons