Rimmer

5555555555 no one is more of a godless heathen than me, It's slow but interesting, the acting is superb and the end plot a little surprising

I went there many years back maybe 1980, it will need a lot of work to bring it back up to working level as it was falling into the sea back then.

I just watched Conclave , with Ralph Fieness and John Lithgow, A very topical movie to watch at this time, It's on yts.mx

I had to follow the link to find our what this is about, the hard part is getting down there and getting back up again 😄

Watched 6 last night, top show and last episode episode very good indeed

Correct on all counts. Auschwitz also had approximately 50 subcamps attached to the main camp (Auschwitz Stammlager ), the exact number varying slightly depending on classification and historical source. The subcamps were part of the broader Auschwitz complex, which included: Auschwitz I (the main camp Stammlager) Auschwitz II-Birkenau (the extermination camp) Auschwitz III-Monowitz (a labor camp serving IG Farben) The dozens of sub camps, were forced labor camps supporting German industry, agriculture, or infrastructure. Subcamps were harsh and deadly in their own right, with terrible living and working conditions.

A significant portion of Ukraine's valuable mineral resources are located in territories currently occupied by Russian forces. Estimates suggest that up to 70% of Ukraine's mineral wealth, valued at approximately $15 trillion, is situated in regions such as Donetsk, Luhansk, and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Dnipropetrovsk, which are under Russian control or influence . These areas are rich in critical minerals, including lithium, titanium, uranium, graphite, and rare earth elements. Notably, the Shevchenkivske lithium deposit near Donetsk and the Kruta Balka site in Zaporizhzhia are among the most promising lithium reserves, but they are currently inaccessible due to the ongoing conflict .Al Jazeera+2Eurasian Times+2The Moscow Times+2Wall Street JournalDW+3France 24+3The Moscow Times+3 The recent U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement aims to establish a joint investment fund for Ukraine's reconstruction and to secure access to these critical mineral resources. However, the realization of this deal faces significant challenges, including the fact that many of these mineral-rich areas are under Russian occupation. The development and exploitation of these resources are contingent upon a lasting peace and the restoration of Ukrainian control over these territories .Reuters+2The Washington Post+2Wall Street Journal+2Reuters Ukraine possesses vast mineral wealth, much of it lies in regions currently occupied by Russia, posing substantial obstacles to their development and utilization in the near term.

Correct C-130 Hercules can use reverse thrust on its propellers to slow down or stop. The C-130's turboprop engines (Allison T56 or Rolls-Royce AE 2100 on newer variants) are equipped with variable-pitch propellers that can be moved into beta range or reverse pitch after touchdown. This allows the propellers to push air forward, creating a braking effect and significantly reducing landing roll distance. Reverse thrust is commonly used after landing, especially on short or unprepared runways. The technique helps the C-130 operate from improvised airstrips — a key feature of its tactical versatility. Pilots can select reverse pitch via the power levers once the aircraft is on the ground.

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We always take up any specials we see and buy a lot, a couple that come to mind are: Essenso Coffee B138 each buy three packs get B108 each Anchor butter B 135 specials frequently drop down to B129 seen it as low as B125 Etc....

Believe it or not I have kept a record of grocery spending for two people since 2001 It records monthly spending at Makro, Lotus, Big C, Go Wholesale, Tops and Foodland This snapshot of the last few years is self explanatory, it is just the end of year totals, the detail on my spreadsheet is broken down into months and various shops but no need to show that. 2017 B 149,353 2018 B 160,441 2019 B 147,338 2020 B 160,944 2021 B 158,303 2022 B 152.800 2023 B164,882 2024 B167,684

Ref the rising price of coffee, major coffee-producing countries like Brazil and Vietnam have experienced severe weather events, including prolonged droughts, unexpected frosts, and floods. These conditions have significantly reduced coffee harvests. For instance, Brazil's 2024 Arabica crop was severely impacted, leading to a substantial decrease in exports. Similarly, Vietnam faced flooding after a drought, resulting in a nearly 40% drop in December exports. These supply shortages have driven up global coffee prices. The Washington Post+7

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Russia has officially confirmed the deployment of North Korean soldiers in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, particularly in the Kursk region. This marks a significant development in the war, highlighting the deepening military ties between Moscow and Pyongyang.Wikipedia+2Reddit+2Wikipedia+2Reuters Confirmation and Deployment On April 26, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced that Russian forces had regained control of the Kursk region, previously captured by Ukraine in a surprise offensive. Putin declared the Ukrainian operation a failure and claimed this victory enables further advances. However, Ukrainian officials disputed these claims, stating the battle in Kursk continues and calling Russia’s statements propaganda. Despite setbacks following Ukraine’s earlier territorial gains, particularly in August, Moscow has reportedly regained key areas with the help of about 14,000 North Korean troops. General Valery Gerasimov praised the North Korean soldiers for their support. New York Post+3New York Post+3AP News+3 Combat Performance and Casualties North Korean troops, estimated at around 14,000, have been actively involved in combat operations in the Kursk region. Despite initial challenges due to inadequate equipment and lack of experience, these forces have adapted to the battlefield conditions. Reports indicate that by March 2025, approximately 5,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded. ABC News A notable incident highlighting their involvement is a bodycam video released by Ukraine's Special Operations Forces, showing eight Ukrainian rangers eliminating 25 North Korean troops in Russian trenches in Kursk. The Ukrainian rangers quickly secured advantageous firing positions and launched a successful assault, despite being outnumbered and under artillery fire. One ranger was injured by shrapnel during the encounter, but the team continued their attack, using thermal vision scopes and grenade launchers. After neutralizing the North Korean unit, the rangers discovered and confiscated documents, including Russian materials and notes in Korean. The incident occurred in March 2025 in the Kursk region, previously captured by Ukraine in a counter-invasion aimed at diverting Russian forces and strengthening Ukraine's position in peace talks. Moscow had deployed over 11,000 North Korean soldiers to reclaim the territory, though their effectiveness has been questioned due to issues like friendly fire and desertion. Financial Times+4New York Post+4AP News+4 Strategic Implications The deployment of North Korean troops underscores the strengthening alliance between Russia and North Korea. This collaboration extends beyond personnel, with North Korea supplying Russia with significant military aid, including ballistic missiles and artillery shells. Intelligence from Ukraine and South Korea, supported by satellite imagery and social media evidence, indicates North Korea has provided Russia with 148 KN-23 and KN-24 missiles, millions of artillery shells, and rocket systems. A joint Reuters investigation tracked 64 shipments over 20 months, involving 15,000 containers and an estimated 4 million artillery rounds. Experts suggest North Korean munitions now constitute up to 70% of Russia’s artillery supplies, making them strategically essential. Additionally, newer North Korean weapons are being tested on Ukrainian battlefields, potentially enhancing Pyongyang’s capabilities. Despite denials, North Korea also reportedly sent thousands of troops to Russia’s Kursk region, with continued deployments after initial heavy losses. This growing military alliance, formalized by a 2024 treaty between Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin, may lead to further exchanges of advanced weaponry and technology, strengthening both nations’ military power. Reuters+2The Guardian+2Wikipedia+2 For a comprehensive overview of North Korea's involvement in the Russian invasion of Ukraine, you can refer to the following sources:Wikipedia Reuters: Inside North Korea's vast operation to help Russia's war on Ukraine AP News: Russia says it has fully reclaimed the Kursk region. Ukraine says it is still fighting there. Kyiv Post: Kremlin Confirms North Korean Soldiers Fighting in Ukraine Wikipedia: North Korean involvement in the Russian invasion of Ukraine

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Why Crimea matters to Ukraine now, more than ever: Sovereignty and International Law: Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea violated international law and Ukraine's territorial integrity. Reclaiming Crimea has become symbolic of restoring Ukrainian sovereignty and reversing a precedent that could embolden further land grabs elsewhere. Strategic Military Importance: Crimea is a massive military asset. It houses Russia’s Black Sea Fleet and provides a key naval and air base network for projecting power in the Black Sea, the Middle East, and beyond. For Ukraine, regaining Crimea would neutralize this threat and increase its security. Economic and Energy Interests: Crimea’s waters are rich in natural gas reserves. Control over these offshore assets would bolster Ukraine's energy independence. The peninsula also once served as a key hub for tourism and agriculture. Displacement and Human Rights: Since the annexation, thousands of Ukrainians and Crimean Tatars have been displaced or faced repression under Russian rule. For many, restoring Ukrainian control means justice and the right of return. Moral and National Identity: For Ukraine, Crimea isn't just land — it’s part of the national psyche. Letting it go could fracture national unity and morale, especially after the sacrifices made during the war. In short, Crimea’s return isn’t just about borders — it’s about law, identity, safety, and future prosperity. Russia’s Perspective: Historical Claims: Russia often cites deep historical ties. Crimea was part of Russia until 1954, when it was transferred to Ukraine (then part of the USSR) by Khrushchev. Many Russians view that transfer as arbitrary and see Crimea as "historically Russian." Strategic and Military Value: Sevastopol is home to the Black Sea Fleet — a critical naval stronghold for Russia. Losing it to a pro-West Ukraine (especially after the 2014 Euromaidan revolution) was seen as a strategic red line. Population Sentiment: Russia claims the majority-Russian-speaking population in Crimea supported joining Russia — citing a controversial 2014 referendum (held under military occupation and not recognized by most of the world). Buffer Against NATO: Russia views NATO’s expansion as a threat. Controlling Crimea gives Moscow a military buffer and influence over the Black Sea. International Perspective: Widespread Non-Recognition: The UN General Assembly passed resolutions affirming Crimea as part of Ukraine. The annexation is seen as a violation of international law and the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, in which Russia guaranteed Ukraine's borders. Sanctions: Russia’s actions led to sanctions by the EU, U.S., and allies, targeting its economy, political figures, and military operations. These were expanded further after the 2022 full-scale invasion. Precedent Concern: Countries fear that letting the annexation stand normalizes land grabs through military force — dangerous for global stability (e.g., Taiwan, South China Sea, or elsewhere). Support for Ukraine: Many countries now link Crimea’s return to any future peace deal, seeing it as essential for a just and lasting resolution.