Winter in Northern Hemisphere

    Yes, there's snow on the ground in Tahoma: it's winter and we ski and sled and snowshoe across the frozen shore. In other climes, it rains and snows and temperatures dip below freezing routinely. Alexei Navalny is in a prison north of the Arctic Circle and it's cold up there. He does get some heat but isn't able to venture outside for a look see anywhere. Arctic winters are legendary, especially in Russya, the largest country in the world.

      Lately, winter has brought a different kind of rain in Ukraine, the independent nation under attack by the forces of Putin, over 340,000 of which have died there. Yes, almost as many deaths as the USA lost in WW II. But in 2 years, almost 3, instead of the 4 years of USA action in WW II. But, with Putin, it's not that numbers count but the 'ends' of Kremlin policy. In this case to divert attention from the failing state and its bizarre leadership by a gaggle of thick-headed bureaucrats and former police operatives. (Friends of Putin);  Missiles fired by Russya have rained down on Ukraine, especially cities in the DonBas region and the Kharkiv city that  is occupied by Ukrainians after retaking the city from Russyan forces last year. Drones were also used to bombard the city indiscriminately. Many civilians died as a result. Ah, Russya, your crimes will never be forgotten and long remembered.

      The Wagner Group is gone, so Vladimir hasn't targeted any other individuals for his failings yet. One in particular is of interest: American journalist Evan Gershkovich. A certified-by-Russya journalist, he was arrested while working in Russya for the Wall Street Journal as a news reporter. He has been confined now for over 8 months. No charges have been filed but he was arrested for alleged 'spying' for the USA. This is modern Russya: a failed state run by a dictator for life who is up for re-election in March. Ha. Elections in Russya? Don't be silly, Ivan.

      So, when will Putin begin negotiations for Evan's release? TBD. Maybe the puppet Peskov will make an announcement when he's sober, whenever that will be, nobody knows.  Must be interesting for the security forces watching Evan: he knows Russyan and speaks fluently; and he knows Russyan culture and history: a winning combo.

Happy New Year