These airborne command-and-surveillance platforms are vital for early warning, target tracking, and coordinating air and ground operations.

Russia’s operational A-50 fleet was already small—estimated at only seven combat-ready units.

With two reportedly lost, likely A-50U modernized variants, this represents a major percentage of Russia’s effective airborne radar coverage. Each aircraft is valued between $350–500 million.

Restarting A-50 production is unlikely in the near term. Sanctions have restricted access to advanced electronics essential for modernization or new builds. Even basic repairs may now be delayed.

I’m sorry, but I just can’t stand it anymore.

This massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination.

Shame on those who voted for it: you know you did wrong. You know it.

During the meeting with Steve Witkoff, the U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, we discussed the track of negotiations between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Istanbul. Russia’s position remains unconstructive.

I emphasized that Russia is stalling and manipulating the negotiation process in an attempt to avoid American sanctions, and has no genuine intention of ceasing hostilities. Only strong sanctions can compel Russia to engage in serious negotiations.

I also briefed him on the real situation on the battlefield and invited him to visit Ukraine to witness the situation firsthand.

We need a ceasefire — we have fully supported the U.S. proposal on this since March. We are also ready for a leaders’ meeting, which Russia continues to avoid.