The Krakow Post

Norwegian authorities have seized a Russian-crewed vessel, the Silver Dania, on suspicion of causing “serious damage” to a fibre cable in the Baltic Sea between Latvia and Sweden. The ship was brought into the port of Tromsø, Norway, for investigation on Friday, January 31, 2025.

The Seizure

Norwegian police located the Silver Dania on Thursday evening.

• The ship was escorted into the port of Tromsø on Friday morning.
• Although the ship is Norwegian-registered and Norwegian-owned, its crew consists entirely of Russian nationals.

The Investigation

Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the ship’s potential involvement in the cable damage.

• Police are searching the vessel, conducting interviews, and securing evidence.
• The Silver Dania was reportedly sailing between St. Petersburg and Murmansk in Russia when the incident occurred.

Owner’s Statement

The Silver Sea shipping group, owners of the Silver Dania, have denied any involvement in the damage to the fibre cable.

• Tormod Fossmark, CEO of Silver Group, stated that authorities had not found any concrete links connecting the ship to the damaged cable.
• Despite the investigation, the crew has been allowed to prepare the vessel to set sail again on Friday night.

Previous Incidents

The Silver Dania seizure is part of a broader pattern of similar incidents.

• Just last week, the Swedish Public Prosecutor’s Office boarded another ship suspected of damaging a communications cable between Sweden and Latvia.
• Such incidents have been increasing since late 2022, leading to growing concerns over potential sabotage.

Russia’s Response

Russia has denied any allegations of involvement in underwater cable sabotage.

• The Russian Embassy in London dismissed the accusations, instead claiming that NATO is using the issue as a pretext for increasing its naval and air force presence in the region.

As investigations continue, authorities in Norway and other Baltic nations remain on high alert, closely monitoring maritime activities that could threaten critical infrastructure.

The Australian Government’s new vehicle safety regulations, ADR 98/00, set to take effect from March 1, 2025, are already making waves in the automotive industry. The mandate, requiring all new vehicles to be equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB), is intended to improve road safety but has instead led to a mass exodus of models from the market. While some manufacturers have stepped up to meet the new standards, others have chosen to walk away entirely, leaving Australian buyers with fewer choices.

The Casualties: Popular Models Discontinued

Mitsubishi is the biggest loser under the new regulations. The beloved Pajero Sport off-roader and Eclipse Cross SUV will no longer be available, leaving Mitsubishi without a direct competitor to the Ford Everest or Isuzu MU-X. The long-running ASX is also affected, though Mitsubishi plans to introduce a replacement model soon.

Suzuki is another brand feeling the pinch. The budget-friendly Ignis is getting the axe, with the new Fronx expected to take its place—though at a higher price. Entry-level variants of the Vitara are also at risk, though Suzuki has yet to confirm their fate.

Luxury brands are not immune either. The Porsche 718 would have been non-compliant, but its production ended in September, making way for an electric successor with AEB. LDV’s budget-friendly lineup, including the V80 van, entry-level T60 ute, and all G10 van trims, also fails to meet the new safety standards.

The Survivors: Surprising Models That Made the Cut

Some models have managed to navigate the regulatory minefield. Toyota, for instance, found a way to keep its 40-year-old LandCruiser 70 Series alive by adding AEB with pedestrian, cyclist, and motorcycle detection. A clever reclassification trick—bumping its Gross Vehicle Mass (GVM) beyond 3500kg—allowed it to sidestep stricter side impact regulations.

The Toyota Fortuner, HiLux, and GR86 manual are also safe for now, with AEB systems ensuring their continued availability. Nissan has managed to keep the ageing Y62 Patrol compliant with its ‘Intelligent Emergency Braking’ system, introduced in 2019. Meanwhile, British off-roader Ineos Grenadier initially skirted the rules by opening orders before the mandate took effect, though future compliance remains unclear.

The Future of ADRs and What’s Next

With no local car manufacturing to protect, the government is reviewing ADR regulations to align with global standards. The next big change, ADR 98/01, is set for August 2026, mandating AEB systems that detect and intervene for pedestrians. Some manufacturers, including Nissan and Mitsubishi, support this shift, citing improved affordability and faster adoption of efficient vehicles.

While road safety is paramount, the rigid implementation of these rules is reducing consumer choice. Australians deserve both safety and variety—something the government must consider in future policy decisions.

We explore the impressive C-5 Galaxy, the largest and most powerful transport aircraft in the United States Air Force. Designed for strategic airlift missions, the C-5 boasts an immense cargo capacity, capable of transporting tanks, helicopters, and oversized military equipment across vast distances. With its distinctive nose and tail loading ramps, it allows for efficient loading and unloading, even in austere environments. First introduced in the late 1960s, the C-5 has undergone several upgrades to enhance its performance, reliability, and avionics. This engineering marvel continues to play a crucial role in global military and humanitarian operations.

Media Release

SMARTSHOOTER, a leader in fire control innovation, has introduced SMASH DOME, a lightweight, portable counter-UAS (C-UAS) solution for tactical area defence. Designed for both covert and overt operations, SMASH DOME integrates advanced detection, tracking, and kinetic interception to neutralise drone threats.

As drones become increasingly resilient to jamming, traditional C-UAS methods struggle to keep up. SMASH DOME counters this by combining active RF radar and passive optical sensors for continuous UAS detection, classification, and tracking at distances of up to 2 km.

At its core, SMASH DOME features SMASH Hopper, a lightweight, remote-controlled weapon station (LRCWS) armed with an assault rifle and a precision Fire Control System (FCS). This system ensures accurate kinetic engagement against rogue drones, regardless of their communication link or model. SMASH Hopper integrates seamlessly with Command-and-Control (C2) systems (e.g., ATAK), providing automatic target detection, tracking, and real-time ballistic solutions.

SMASH DOME is deployable on vehicles, borders, and strategic sites, offering flexible defence capabilities. Its person-in-the-loop design ensures precise targeting while minimising collateral damage—critical for urban and sensitive environments.

“Our world faces growing threats from rogue drones,” said Michal Mor, CEO of SMARTSHOOTER. “SMASH DOME provides a cost-effective, precise solution that integrates seamlessly with existing C2 systems, enhancing both standalone and layered defences.”

By optimising ammunition use and ensuring effective interception, SMASH DOME reinforces SMARTSHOOTER’s commitment to protecting forces and critical infrastructure from evolving aerial threats.

A message from the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum

The Australian National Veterans Arts Museum (ANVAM) has unveiled the official program for the second annual Festival Of Veterans Arts (FOVA25).

Following a successful debut in 2024, FOVA will offer an even wider selection of veteran and public events under this year’s theme, “TOGETHER”, highlighting creativity as a unifying force for veterans, families, and the community.

FOVA will run from 21 to 30 March 2025, in Melbourne’s Southbank and Arts Precinct.

In 2024, FOVA’s inaugural year welcomed 600 attendees and featured 109 veteran artists and contributors across 25 events. FOVA25 builds on that foundation, offering a broader, more inclusive program with a focus on fostering connection and sharing veterans’ creative journeys with the public.

Key public events taking place include:

• FOVA Family Colour Parade – Instead of watching parades from the sidelines, the FOVA Family Colour Parade invites the community in full colour to be the parade led by a marching band.
• Art exhibitions – Including March to Art,Victoria Barracks art exhibition, Home Front and Veterans Public Arts Trail.
• Variety performance and live music – Showcasing the talent and creativity of veterans through their own captivating stage performances and live music.
• Live music & Last Post Service – Honouring those who served, with music and reflection.

As well as events only for the veteran community:

• Summit – Insightful panels and discussion on the arts and the veteran community.
• Creative workshops – Opportunities to engage in visual arts, music, writing, and more, led by veteran artists and open exclusively to current and ex-ADF veterans and families.
• Open house at Waller House – A private opportunity to explore the iconic home of Napier and Christian Waller, Victorian artists who created cultural landmarks across Melbourne.

ANVAM invites veterans, families and the public to connect with and celebrate the powerful stories of Veteran Artists.

For event registration and the full program, visit www.fova.org.au.

Image:

FOVA25 team and workshop leaders participating in a celebratory glass workshop at Glass Works.

SBS News Watch

The rejection of the Voice referendum in 2023 was a clear indication that the majority of Australians have had enough of being lectured and shamed over historical grievances. The attempt to entrench a race-based advisory body in the Constitution was overwhelmingly dismissed, showing that Australians prefer unity over division and merit over victimhood.

Most Australians support keeping Australia Day on January 26, recognising it as a celebration of the nation’s achievements rather than an occasion for self-flagellation. We acknowledge that history, like life, is complex, and while there have been injustices, our country has also provided countless opportunities and a high standard of living. Australians can lead fulfilling lives by making sound choices, avoiding destructive influences, and taking responsibility for their actions. Perpetual blame on “colonialism” fosters resentment and unhappiness rather than progress.

This is why professional grievance activists are losing credibility. Their constant negativity does nothing to improve lives; instead, they seek to spread discontent. It is regrettable that so many young Australians graduate from universities burdened with debt, only to be indoctrinated with the notion that their ancestors were bigots. Such teaching cultivates a perpetual victim mentality, weakening individuals and limiting their potential. However, there is hope—those who reject this divisive ideology can still enjoy the freedoms and opportunities this country provides.

The so-called “Invasion Day” rallies exemplify the toxicity of this mindset. The demonstrations were filled with angry rhetoric and hateful slogans such as “Watch Out Whites” and “Death to Australia.” Such sentiments do nothing to advance reconciliation or improve the lives of Indigenous Australians. Instead, they are the expressions of bitter individuals more interested in tearing down than in building a better future.

Unfortunately, the government has failed to address this type of racial hate speech. While stringent laws exist to punish inflammatory language from certain groups, radical demonstrators seem to enjoy a free pass. A fair and just society does not tolerate hate speech from any side. If Australians are to live together harmoniously, then the government must ensure that divisive and violent rhetoric is condemned and addressed regardless of its source.

Yet, there is a silver lining. This Australia Day, a shift in sentiment was noticeable—one of gratitude and resilience rather than shame. Many Australians are rejecting the constant guilt-tripping and choosing instead to celebrate their heritage with pride. Those who have sought to weaponise history for their own agendas have overplayed their hand, and a growing number of Australians are pushing back.

Perhaps, in the near future, we will no longer be forced to rehash this divisive debate each year. The tide is turning towards common sense, unity, and an appreciation for our shared national story.

The Krakow Post

President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated his desire to end the war in Ukraine swiftly, but the feasibility of such an outcome remains uncertain. Initially pledging to resolve the conflict within 24 hours, Trump and his advisers have since revised this timeline to a more measured three-to-six-month period. Key to his approach is an early meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, alongside ongoing U.S. diplomatic engagement with Kyiv.

For Putin, a direct dialogue with Washington serves his strategic interests, reinforcing Russia’s status as a global power. Given past encounters, such as the 2018 Helsinki summit, Putin may believe he can leverage negotiations in his favour. He also perceives himself as holding the upper hand in a war of attrition where Russian forces have made incremental but costly advances, while relentless missile strikes have damaged Ukraine’s infrastructure.

Western nations, meanwhile, face internal political and economic challenges. Putin calculates that growing divisions and uncertainty over Trump’s commitment to NATO will lead the West to ease its support for Kyiv, thus creating an opening for a favourable settlement. However, any negotiation on Putin’s terms would likely require Ukrainian capitulation, which is not in the West’s interests.

Putin’s primary goal remains unchanged: bringing Ukraine under Russian influence, securing control over annexed territories, and preventing Ukraine from aligning with Western institutions. A mere ceasefire will not satisfy him; he will demand recognition of Russia’s territorial claims and enforce Ukrainian neutrality. This aligns with his broader objective of reshaping Europe’s security architecture to Russia’s advantage, a goal evident in Moscow’s demands before its 2022 invasion.

If Trump prioritizes a quick deal, he may push Ukraine to accept a ceasefire along current battle lines, potentially at the cost of territorial concessions. However, without ironclad Western security guarantees, such an agreement would only provide Russia with an opportunity to regroup and resume hostilities once Western focus shifts elsewhere.

A more effective strategy would be to strengthen Ukraine’s position before any negotiations. This would involve increasing military and economic aid to Kyiv while intensifying sanctions on Moscow, thereby pressuring Russia’s already strained economy. Putin seeks relief from Western sanctions to reduce his dependence on China, but granting such concessions prematurely would undermine Western leverage.

Early indications from the Trump administration suggest a willingness to escalate pressure on Moscow should Putin refuse to negotiate. However, achieving a sustainable peace requires more than short-term agreements. It demands a clear recognition of Russia’s broader strategic ambitions and a firm commitment from the U.S. and its allies to counter them effectively. The ultimate challenge for the new administration will be whether it is prepared to confront these realities head-on.

– Converted to English

Former Australian Army Chief Peter Leahy says the ADF is “not able to recruit” enough people to meet the government’s targets. The Australian Defence Force continues to struggle to find new recruits despite government incentives. The ADF has failed to meet its recruitment targets since 2012, with a projected shortfall of 5,000 personnel by July.

The war in Ukraine has been ongoing for over three years, bringing widespread destruction, humanitarian crises, and economic instability that have reverberated across the globe. The conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties, millions of displaced people, and severe disruptions to global food and energy markets, affecting nations far beyond Europe.

Since the beginning of the invasion, Australia has remained steadfast in its support for Ukraine, taking a strong stance against Russian aggression. The Australian government has imposed over 1,200 sanctions targeting Russian individuals, entities, and sectors critical to the Kremlin’s war effort, including financial institutions, defence industries, and energy exports.

In addition to economic measures, Australia has provided significant military aid, including armoured vehicles, ammunition, drones, and other essential equipment to bolster Ukraine’s defence capabilities. Humanitarian assistance has also been a key component of Australia’s response, with substantial funding allocated to support refugees, provide medical aid, and assist in rebuilding critical infrastructure.

Australia’s commitment to Ukraine reflects broader international efforts to uphold sovereignty, deter aggression, and maintain stability in the region. As the war continues, Australia remains a key ally, reinforcing diplomatic pressure, contributing to reconstruction efforts, and standing with the Ukrainian people in their fight for independence and security.