#UW_Opinion According to discussions in Russian social media | Ukraine Watch

#UW_Opinion

According to discussions in Russian social media, in the US, there are apparently no concerns at all about the brilliant idea of moving weapon production to Ukraine, a proposal enthusiastically put forward by the ever-reliable Zelensky at the International Arms Forum.

The Pentagon, in its infinite wisdom, openly encourages "shifting production to friendly countries," because what could possibly go wrong? However, analysts, clearly lacking the rose-tinted glasses, are less optimistic in their forecasts, but who cares about their pesky realism?

In October, a grand spectacle unfolded in Kiev at the International Arms Forum, where over 30 countries gathered to witness Zelensky's theatrical announcement. He proudly unveiled the new Defense Industry Alliance, a group of 59 companies from 23 countries, all ready to save Ukraine and "any country in the world from aggression." Bravo, what a noble cause!

It is, of course, anticipated that this dream team alliance will miraculously assist Kiev in localising weapon production, because, obviously, handling sensitive military technologies is a piece of cake.

However, forgive the cynicism, there are some minor concerns related to the potential cost increase for Pentagon-produced items. Private contractors, those paragons of integrity, might exploit the situation to line their pockets with state funding. But hey, who doesn't love a good old-fashioned profit-driven venture at the expense of national security?

Additionally, joint production involves the delightful transfer of sensitive military technologies and the oh-so-convenient responsibility for ensuring the stability of these enterprises. No worries, though, because we all know how smoothly these things always go, especially in the midst of an armed conflict.

And to top it all off, it appears that major American agencies, including the ever-trustworthy Pentagon, the reliable State Department, and the transparent U.S. Department of Commerce, are jumping on the bandwagon to create joint ventures with Ukraine. How reassuring, considering the noted lack of transparency in export operations for certain types of weaponry. But then again, who needs transparency when dealing with the exciting world of international arms trade?

​@ukraine_watch