Everybody has their secrets and celebrities are no exception. For instance, did you know that Pierce Brosnan is a fire eater? And Angelina Jolie has a pilot's license? And apparently, Steve Carell is an exceptionally gifted ice hockey player who once considered turning pro? Brad Pitt too has his secret life, and apparently the A-lister loves to play Blackjack and even online slots which are growing in popularity with a variety of casino offers for virtual users. There's also a wealth of Polish celebrities with talents not everybody knows about. Some are secret pianists; others are fantastic at sport, and some are seriously competitive when it comes to casinos. Here we've listed a handful of Polish stars with more talent than they could possibly know what to do with. 

Eugeniusz Bodo

Regarded by many as the first-ever Polish celebrity, Eugeniusz Bodo mastered just about everything he put his hand to. While he is best known as one of Poland's most popular actors and film directors, Bodo was also an icon of Polish musical comedy as well as a highly successful entrepreneur during the 1930s. As if that wasn't enough, Bodo's writing also won numerous awards as did his production company. Bodo remains a true Polish icon whose movies are still loved to this day. 

Piotr Gruszka 

Born in Oświęcim, Piotr Gruszka is one of Poland's most famous volleyball players. Gruszka was part of the Polish national team that won a silver medal at the 2006 World Championship. He was also one of the most valuable players in the Polish team of 2009 who won a gold medal at the European Championships, going onto be named the team's most valuable player. But what some don't know about Gruszka is his dancing skills. In 2014, he took part in season 14 of the Polish version of Dancing with the Stars eventually being voted out as the eighth couple alongside pro-dancer, Nina Tyrka, taking home fifth place. 
 

Wiktor Malinowski 

Wiktor Malinowski has had quite the life of success for a man of just 27-years-old. Starting out as a professional handball player, Malinowski then turned his attention towards poker. Initially learning the game from 'lowest stakes possible games’ before becoming a regular at mid to high level stakes games under the fear-free alias Limitless. While he started out just playing for fun, Malinowski actually got so good at poker that nowadays he plays full time. In 2018, he won the World Championship of Online Poker $25K High Roller Turbo, winning $726,000 in the process and that was just the beginning. In 2021, he won the first-place prize of $3,690,000 at the Super High Roller Bowl Europe becoming No. 2 on Poland's all-time money list. Not too shabby eh. 

Lukas Podolski 

Despite playing for Germany at international level, Lukas Podolski is one of the greatest Polish footballers in history. Podolski, nicknamed Prinz Poldi, was a key element of the German squad in seven international tournaments, like the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, which he won with his national team. If that's not enough, Podolski owns the third place as a captain in German history and he's the third-highest goal scorer in the team's history with 49 goals to his name. While Podolski will go down in the history books as one of Poland's greatest sporting sons, many don't know about Podolski's side hustles. Prinz Poldi is also quite the successful businessman with a kebab shop and ice cream parlor in Cologne. Who would've thought? 
 

Joanna Krupa 

And finally, we have Joanna Krupa. The Polish-born American model who is not only known for her work as an A-list model, but also as the host and head judge of Polish Top Model and for her appearances on TV shows such as Dancing with the Stars and The Real Housewives of Miami. Krupa has been voted as one of the world's most beautiful women on numerous occasions but aside from modelling, one of her biggest passions on the side is animal rights. Krupa is extremely impassioned with the safety and protection of our furry friends. She has starred in numerous campaigns for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and also founded an animal rescue group, Angels For Animal Rescue, with her friend Gabi Gutierrez. 

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The US military command is decisively responding to the mounting tensions in the South Pacific region. The US military confirms that it is planned to conduct maneuvers at the RAAF military base in the northern part of Western Australia this year.

The threat to the interests of the United States and its allies in the Indo-Pacific region is increasing along with the progressive cooperation of the Solomon Islands, located less than 2,000 kilometers off the coast of Australia, with the People's Republic of China. The agreement concluded between these parties does not exclude military interference by the Chinese People's Liberation Army in the immediate vicinity of a key ally of the United States.

The position of Joe Biden's administration was expressed by US Deputy Secretary of State for East Asia and the Pacific, Daniel Kritenbrink, who said that the Beijing-Honiara deal had "potential implications for regional security" for the US and other allies. At the end of April, the White House also announced that it would take appropriate action to respond to China's actions. Also, Kurt Campbell, Indo-Pacific policy coordinator at the National Security Council, added that the United States recognized that the most pressing challenges for the country and the rest of the world lie in the Indo-Pacific region.

• Read more: Biden will participate in the QUAD Summit in Japan

The reaction was swift as early as May, the command of the United States Armed Forces announced military maneuvers at the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) base in Curtin, WA. Curtin is one of the three "empty bases" of the Royal Australian Air Force, which means it can be used for exercise and training operations. This reaction can also be seen by observing changes in the position of American aircraft carriers, which are increasingly located in the central Indo-Pacific region.[1]

Initial exercises at Curtin base with US and Australian troops are scheduled for July. According to the Australian ABC website, over 2,200 members of US military personnel stationed in the Northern Territory, Queensland and Western Australia will take part.[2] The Captain of the US Marine Corps based in Darwin, Joseph DiPietro, said it has been a while since there was joint training exercise at the base. The upcoming maneuvers are to last 20 days.

Additionally, the Australian Department of Defense recently revealed plans to spend $ 244 million to upgrade key infrastructure at RAAF Base Curtin. The renovation will include the modernization of communications, accommodation, aircraft hangars and security infrastructure. Defense Industry Minister Melissa Price points out that the consulting firm WSP Australia is involved as project manager and contract administrator in development. Australia's growing defense investments are driven by the threat from China looming closer to its shores and the example of the United States, which is increasingly recognizing the need to strengthen its potential and the potential of its allies in this geographical region.

The next steps are also visible in the framework of the AUKUS alliance pact. Australia is currently negotiating with the United States and the United Kingdom to select a supplier of nuclear powered submarines. The submarines are to be built in Australia, precisely under the AUKUS agreement with the United States and Great Britain. The head of the Royal Australian Navy's nuclear submarine task force, Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead, said talks are ongoing with the International Atomic Energy Agency to ensure the project meets any safety standards that are under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty or NPT.[3]

• Read more: The United States cautions Solomon Islands against cooperation with China

Vice Admiral Mead points out that in order to effectively use new technologies acquired as part of the alliance with Great Britain and the United States, at least half of the UK or US seafarers must be present at the initial stage of Australian military training. Mead visited training centers in the United Kingdom and the United States to check their systems. Many crew members are trained in reactor operation and are learning the basics of nuclear physics, even though they are not nuclear physicists.

The planned military exercises at the RAAF Curtin base and the intensifying cooperation within AUKUS prove how important it is for the United States to secure the South Pacific region against the growing Chinese threat. US President Joe Biden's upcoming trip to Seoul and the Tokyo QUAD summit aims to send a clear message that the US remains committed to tackling key challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.

Jan Hernik 

Editor in chief, Expert

Jan Hernik is a journalist and publicist who gained experience in Polish independent Internet media broadcasts. In his career, he participated in the creation of projects related to domestic policy and geopolitics. Hernik has an experience in working as a TV presenter and editor of a news portal. At the Warsaw Institute, he is the editor-in-chief and expert in the field of the United States.

Hernik is a graduate of the American Studies Center at the University of Warsaw. He specializes in the theory of religion, race and ethnicity for political choice in the U.S presidential elections. His research interests also include the colonial era of the United States, the right to bear arms and the American liberal thought.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/

photo: Twitter

The summit of the states associated in the QUAD alliance is to be held on May 24, 2022. QUAD is a partnership between Australia, the United States, Japan and India with the unofficial goal of repelling Chinese expansion in the Indo-Pacific. The planned meeting of the leaders of the allied countries is an important item in the foreign policy of the Joe Biden administration in the context of growing tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

In the first half of April, President Joe Biden indicated that he planned to take part in the upcoming QUAD summit. The partnership cooperation of the countries associated in this system is crucial for repelling China's increasing interference in the waters of the Pacific. The meeting of the leaders of the United States, Australia, Japan and India will be designed to deepen cooperation and show unity in the face of the current threats in this region of the world. Biden's presence at this meeting will mark his first visit to Asia and Japan as president of the United States.

At a time when a large part of the attention of world politicians, including American politicians, is now attracted by the war in Ukraine, the administration of the White House is proving that it is not losing sight of other places crucial for the further distribution of power in the world. Undoubtedly, such a region is the Indo-Pacific. Growing tensions in the South China Sea and Chinese claims against Taiwan stand at the forefront of the Biden administration's foreign policy. This is confirmed by the QUAD summit in Japan announced on May 24.

• Read more: The United States cautions Solomon Islands against cooperation with China

The summit in Japan is to be an expression of the country's high position in the strategy of American actions in the Indo-Pacific. It is Japan that is to be the pillar of security in its northern waters, while in the south Australia's growing allied position can be seen.

Japan's diplomatic rank is evidenced by the fact that Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's predecessor, Yoshihide Suga, was the first foreign leader to be invited to the White House for talks after Joe Biden's victory in the 2020 presidential election.

I spoke today with Prime Minister Modi of India. We committed to strengthening our defense, economic, and people-to-people relationship to together seek a peaceful and prosperous world. pic.twitter.com/o30ij9reIY

— President Biden (@POTUS) April 11, 2022

The growing role of Australia, which is part of a series of security pacts in the Indo-Pacific region, manifests itself in the regular strengthening of its military potential. Both the actions taken under the AUKUS alliance and Scott Morrison's proposals to increase the size of the Australian army show that the burden of responsibility for the security of this region will also rest on Canberra's shoulders. The attention of the American administration towards Australia is additionally attracted by the threat posed by the developing cooperation of the Solomon Islands with the People's Republic of China.

However, it may be problematic to appoint the Australian delegation to the QUAD summit. It will take place only three days after the federal elections in this country. Australians will cast their votes on May 21, 2022. If the election results turn out to be close, and the parliament is suspended, it means that the new representatives of Australian government may not be sworn in by the time of the summit. The White House Press Office declined to disclose whether the date would be changed in view of the announcement of the Australian elections.

On April 11, 2022, President Joe Biden spoke during a virtual conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The US president expressed his willingness to meet Indian politician during the May QUAD summit. The Tokyo meeting itself and the bilateral meetings with the Indian side prove that the United States intends to significantly improve relations in order to strengthen its position in the Indo-Pacific region.

India, which historically has close ties with Russia, stands out among QUAD members in that it does not unequivocally condemn Moscow for the war in Ukraine, and refrains from imposing sanctions. The Tokyo summit may therefore be an opportune moment for the Americans to force India to take a tough stance on the Russian Federation, and thus also on China allied with Vladimir Putin's regime.

Prior to the meeting of QUAD leaders, South Korean President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol made an unofficial appeal to the leaders of the alliance to grant him the observer status of the upcoming summit. In the face of mounting friction and territorial claims in the region, the new South Korean leader is seeking to strengthen ties with Tokyo and Washington. Certainly, the expansion of partnerships in the Pacific would be of use to the United States, which builds the stabilization of regional democracies on the basis of enhanced multilateral cooperation and alliances.

• Read more: Sanctions Against Russian Technology Companies

The meeting of the leaders of the countries of the region bordered by the Indian and Pacific oceans is another proof that this place is crucial for the further distribution of power in the world and will play an important role in the superpower race between the People's Republic of China and the United States, supported by numerous allies of the pacts and anti-Chinese coalitions.

Jan Hernik 

Editor in chief, Expert

Jan Hernik is a journalist and publicist who gained experience in Polish independent Internet media broadcasts. In his career, he participated in the creation of projects related to domestic policy and geopolitics. Hernik has an experience in working as a TV presenter and editor of a news portal. At the Warsaw Institute, he is the editor-in-chief and expert in the field of the United States.

Hernik is a graduate of the American Studies Center at the University of Warsaw. He specializes in the theory of religion, race and ethnicity for political choice in the U.S presidential elections. His research interests also include the colonial era of the United States, the right to bear arms and the American liberal thought.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/

Tensions are mounting in the Pacific after China began working with Australia's immediate neighborhood, the Solomon Islands. The agreement concluded by the Beijing administration with representatives of the island state provides for the possibility of Beijing sending forces to "help maintain social order". The US does not rule out military action if the Chinese decide to develop their permanent base on the territory of the Solomon Islands.

The White House in a statement released at the end of April indicates that the US will take appropriate steps in response to the activities of the People's Republic of China to establish permanent military bases in the Solomon Islands. Despite the declaration by representatives of the government of the island state in Oceania that their agreement with the Chinese did not imply their consent to military interference in the region, the United States and Australia firmly condemned any attempts to talk between Solomon Islands and China. It is worth pointing out that during the tenure of the current Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Manasseh Sogavare, the country broke off diplomatic relations with Taiwan, and in return established relations with China.

• Read more: Sanctions Against Russian Technology Companies

According to “The Guardian”, Ambassador Daniel Kritenbrink said the Beijing-Honiara deal had "potential regional security implications" for the US and other allies. Kritenbrink also did not rule out military action by the American side in the event of actions aimed at establishing military bases of the Chinese People's Liberation Army in the Solomon Islands area. The United States will initiate a high-level strategic dialogue with the United States in September to address common security issues and strengthen cooperation on public health, finance and other issues. Earlier, President Biden's administration announced plans to re-open the embassy in the Solomon Islands.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison spoke in a similar vein, adding that Australia has "the same red line" as the US when it comes to China's involvement in the Solomon Islands. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne called the pact "deeply disappointing". The position of the Australian government was also strengthened by the announcement by Defense Minister Peter Dutton, who stated that in the face of the latest reports from the Solomon Islands, "Australia should prepare for the war".

In the face of increasing pressure from the People's Republic of China, the United States, led by Joe Biden, is backing the QUAD summit, which is being called on May 24, 2022.

• Read more: Biden Proposes Additional Funding for the US Indo-Pacific Strategy

It seems that at a time when the whole world is watching the development of the military conflict in Ukraine, China is more and more boldly pushing the border into the Indo-Pacific. After unrest over territorial claims and the deployment of its troops in the South China Sea region, the Beijing administration appears to be trying to reach much further by starting cooperation with the Solomon Islands, located less than 2,000 kilometers off the coast of Australia. The choice of this location as a potential Chinese military base is not accidental, as Australia will play an important role in the American strategy of ensuring stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.

Following Beijing's attempt to potentially annex Taiwan, Xi Jinping's regime is challenging the Joe Biden administration with increasing pressure on another US ally in the region, Australia.

Jan Hernik 

Editor in chief, Expert

Jan Hernik is a journalist and publicist who gained experience in Polish independent Internet media broadcasts. In his career, he participated in the creation of projects related to domestic policy and geopolitics. Hernik has an experience in working as a TV presenter and editor of a news portal. At the Warsaw Institute, he is the editor-in-chief and expert in the field of the United States.

Hernik is a graduate of the American Studies Center at the University of Warsaw. He specializes in the theory of religion, race and ethnicity for political choice in the U.S presidential elections. His research interests also include the colonial era of the United States, the right to bear arms and the American liberal thought.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/

Since the start of the war between Russia and Ukraine, the European Union (EU) countries and the United States have been tightening export restrictions on Russia and Belarus. Their aim is to increase pressure on Moscow and Minsk as well as force the aggressors to stop escalating the conflict.

At the beginning of April, the US list of goods subject to export restrictions to Russia and Belarus was expanded to include artificial fertilizers, materials and chemicals used in the agricultural industry, as well as mechanical parts used in the construction of pipelines. Importantly, the restrictions were introduced in such a way that they would also include goods produced in third countries by the means of American tools. On the other hand, the EU has banned the export of jet fuel, computers, advanced semiconductors, high-end electronics, software, sensitive machinery, and transportation equipment from Poland to Russia. [1]

• Read more: US Cyber Forces as a Model for the Polish Ones

What is more, the US Department of the Treasury (USDT) imposed sanctions on individuals and entities operating in the technology sector, which plays an essential role in fueling the Russian Federation’s war machine. According to the USDT’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), all “sanctions are a part of the Administration’s comprehensive response to Russia’s to restrict their access to resources, sectors of their economy that are essential to supplying and financing the continued invasion of Ukraine.” [2] The sanctions hit not only companies in this sector but also the Russian technology market. In March, the Russian Association for Electronic Communications (RAEC) reported that more than 70,000 IT professionals had left the country. RAEC expects that another 100,000 people would do the same in April. This is the effect not only of the decisions of the US and EU governments, but also of Western companies, global tech giants. Apple, Cisco, and Google closed their branches in Russia just a few days after the aggression. Considering the size of the Russian market, by mid-year it may lose more than 15% of its employees in a sector that has a huge impact on the entire Russian economy. The IT industry makes up 5% of Russia’s GDP. The export of software produced by Russian programmers alone generated about $9 billion in profits. [3] This exodus of IT professionals, will certainly have an impact on Russia’s ability to rebuild its economy after the war is over.

US sanctions are not limited to general export bans. Some are aimed directly at companies that, according to the USDT, may support Russia’s military activities. [2] These include:

• NII-Vektor – a communications software and hardware company that developed technical analyses and reports in support of the production stage of Liana constellation satellites for the Russian Federation. Liana constellation enabled electronic intelligence – tracking ships, aircraft, and vehicles during the invasion of Ukraine.
• T-Platforms – a company active in high-performance computing. Responsible for implementing a supercomputing center for the Russian defense industry.
• Mikron – Russia’s largest microelectronics manufacturer and exporter, responsible for exporting over 50% of Russian electronics. The company is the largest chipmaker in Russia.

Sanctions were also imposed on Central Scientific Research Institute of Chemistry and Mechanics (TsNIIKhM) that was identified as responsible for the development and creation of the Triton malware, also known as TRISIS and HatMan. The software was specifically designed to attack and manipulate integrated circuits used in certain critical infrastructure facilities. In 2017, TsNIIKhM deployed the Triton malware through phishing that targeted a petrochemical plant in Saudi Arabia. [4]

• Read more: AUKUS Members Strengthen Cooperation in Developing Hypersonic Missiles

The consequences of the imposed sanctions will impact the IT sector in the US. In some cases, the financial losses associated with broken contracts will reach several percent of annual turnover. This also applies to European countries, which will likewise be financially affected as a result of the halted trade. However, the losses can be limited to some extent since the existing contracts between Russian and Western IT companies will have to be transferred to other countries. The Polish technology market, which is still very price competitive, should take advantage of this opportunity.

Author:

Wiktor Sędkowski – graduated in Teleinformatics at the Wrocław University of Science and Technology, specialized in cybersecurity field. He is an expert on cyber threats. CISSP, OSCP and MCTS certificates holder. Worked as an engineer and solution architect for leading IT companies.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/

[1] https://www.rp.pl/gospodarka/art36047711-piaty-pakiet-sankcji-ue-zmniejsza-import-z-rosji-o-10-proc

[2] https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy0692

[3] https://forsal.pl/swiat/rosja/artykuly/8389986,it-ucieka-z-rosji-ofiara-wojny-rosyjska-przyszlosc-technologiczna.html

[4] https://www.mandiant.com/resources/triton-attribution-russian-government-owned-lab-most-likely-built-tools

Cooperation between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States is growing stronger. Half a year after signing the AUKUS pact, its members have agreed to work on developing hypersonic weapons technology and electronic warfare capabilities.

US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison issued a joint statement reporting on alliance’s progress in defense technology development. According to it, the leaders said that they are “committed today to commence new trilateral cooperation on hypersonics and counter-hypersonics, and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as to expand information sharing and to deepen cooperation on defense innovation.”

The agreement of the three countries concerning the increased collaboration in the development of hypersonic weapons technology also follows the implementation of the trilateral plan to increase the number of nuclear-powered submarines of the Royal Australian Navy. In turn, the need for closer relations within AUKUS is a result of China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific.

• Read more: Biden Proposes Additional Funding for the US Indo-Pacific Strategy

In October, US Gen. Mark Milley confirmed that China had conducted a test of a supersonic weapons system as part of its efforts to advance space and military technology. In a Bloomberg Television interview, Milley described the Chinese test as “a very significant event of a test of a hypersonic weapon system.” He also stated that this is a “very concerning” phenomenon.

Parallel to the news of further actions taken by the AUKUS alliance members, the news about the successful American tests of hypersonic weapons reached the media. Specifically, this concerned the HAWC (Hypersonic Air-breathing Weapon Concept) missile, which was launched from a B-52 bomber off the US West Coast. Reportedly, the missile reached speeds over Mach 5. According to representatives of the White House, it flew above 20,000 meters (65,000 feet) and further than 480 km (300 miles). Both the announced AUKUS cooperation and tests in the United States demonstrate that the military of the Free World is actively responding to the Russian aggression against Ukraine and addressing potential similar threats towards other countries.

Australia is also attempting to develop its own advanced missile technologies under several defense initiatives announced by the federal government.

The primary difference between a traditional ballistic missile and a hypersonic missile is the effectiveness and resistance to being shot down. This is because traditional ballistic weapons are easily detected during the initial phase of the missile's flight. These types of missiles are also far easier to shoot down because they do not maneuver during combat operations. On the other hand, hypersonic missiles can maneuver and change their trajectory. This significantly reduces the risk of being detected and shot down during military operations.

• Read more: Pentagon Will Accelerate Production of Stinger Missiles for Ukraine

Both the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation have made great progress in testing advanced versions of hypersonic missiles. These weapons can carry nuclear payloads that the Eastern powers regularly threaten the Free World with. Most analysts say the United States currently lags behind Beijing and Moscow in terms of technology. For this reason, aiming to close this gap, the US government is likely to join also other alliances and increase spending.

Actions related to AUKUS cooperation and maintaining the United States' high profile in the Indo-Pacific were taken into account by President Joe Biden when planning the 2022 budget presented by the White House in late March. According to the plans of the Biden administration, the Pentagon's budget for 2023 is projected to reach $773 billion, of which $1.8 billion would fund the US Indo-Pacific strategy.

Jan Hernik 

Editor in chief, Expert

Jan Hernik is a journalist and publicist who gained experience in Polish independent Internet media broadcasts. In his career, he participated in the creation of projects related to domestic policy and geopolitics. Hernik has an experience in working as a TV presenter and editor of a news portal. At the Warsaw Institute, he is the editor-in-chief and expert in the field of the United States.

Hernik is a graduate of the American Studies Center at the University of Warsaw. He specializes in the theory of religion, race and ethnicity for political choice in the U.S presidential elections. His research interests also include the colonial era of the United States, the right to bear arms and the American liberal thought.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/

Article written in collaboration with NoDeposit.Guide

Betting in the UK is under new scrutiny yet again, as the country goes through another round of reforms in a seemingly endless cycle. While reforms we due to be enacted sooner, the impact of Covid-19 has made the process a lengthier one. The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), has pledged that its members will support the path to economic recovery that Covid has left in its wake, but warns against enforcing stricter regulations during this economic recovery process.

About the BGC

The Betting and Gaming Council (BGC) is a standards body that works together with betting shops, casinos, online gaming houses, and bingo.

There have been several discussions about the introduction of stricter regulations. The BCG is an entity which represents most of the online casinos operating in the UK. Its role is to monitor regulations whilst ensuring people’s online gambling habits are not excessive.

The BGC’s economic investment into the UK

BGC members comprise around 120,000 jobs in the UK, and contribute over €9m to the economy – as well as over €5m in tax back to the UK’s government. Under the UK’s Plan for Job initiate, members will create 5000 apprenticeships in the industry, plus create new graduate pathways and opportunities for those less advantaged.

This is alongside various technology initiatives, startup and innovation hubs, and investment of capital into various sports and teams in the UK.

As the BGC details, the economic benefit to the UK by members under current gambling laws is significant. In times where economic recovery is paramount, this presents a supportive body that can assist.

Review of UK gambling laws imminent

Government proposals to adjust current gambling laws have been on the agenda for same time, with a review started in December 2020 by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport. The proposals are now expected to appear in May.

Throughout the course of the review, there have been hold ups in production of a whitepaper surrounding the review, a new gambling minister come on board at the DCMS, as well as a feeling of growing discontent of the public surrounding the UK’s leader, Boris Johnson. With all this happening, alongside Covid, it means that the outcomes of the review may now be in a state of flux.

Since the time-period of the review is misaligned with the government’s economic recovery plan, this is where the BGC is concerned that there will be out of sync recommendations.

The other side of the coin

While the BGC urges caution into interpreting the results of the review, there are also lobbyists for the other side, as reform campaigners, such as the Fairer Gambling campaign, highlight some of the effects of gambling addiction that impact people every day. The Fair Gambling campaign is an interesting one, headed by Derek Webb – a man who was heavily involved in both casinos and poker, but now on a path to sports betting machines reform across the UK.

Webb’s opponents – the betting shops and those representing them – have accused him of still having vested interested in the field, and thus campaigning for ulterior motives rather than the impact on those using the machines themselves. Webb still does have stakes in casinos, so this makes sense on the face of things.

Watch this space to stay up to date with the latest in UK gambling reforms. With some of the tightest regulations in the world, reforms in the UK often have trickle down effects into other jurisdictions in the years to come. These can ultimately effect EU members such as Poland.

On March 28, 2022, US President Joe Biden released his budget proposal for fiscal year 2023. To avoid the government shutdown, the US Congress must negotiate and pass this spending plan by September 30, 2022. As a part of it, Joe Biden proposed $1.8 billion for the US Indo-Pacific strategy, including $400 million to counter the growing aspirations of the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

The expenses related to the implementation of Joe Biden’s Indo-Pacific strategy fall under the Pentagon’s budget, which is expected to reach $773 billion in fiscal year 2023. On the basis of the distribution of budget funds, proposed by the current White House administration, it could be concluded that the United States notice the changes in the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. The funds planned under the Biden administration’s official Indo-Pacific strategy will cover multiple activities. These include, above all:

1. Investing in democratic institutions, a free press, and a vibrant civil society,
2. Improving fiscal transparency in the Indo-Pacific region to expose corruption and drive reform,
3. Ensuring that the region’s seas and skies are governed and used according to international law,
4. Partnering to build resilience in the Pacific Islands,
5. Building bridges between the Indo-Pacific and the Euro-Atlantic,
6. Conducting integrated deterrence,
7. Expanding US Coast Guard presence and cooperation against other international threats,
8. Fostering innovation to operate in rapidly evolving threat environments, including space, cyberspace, and critical- and emerging-technology areas,
9. Continuing partnership within AUKUS,
10. Maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

It is worth pointing out that security in this region is largely contingent upon international treaties as well as multilateral military and diplomatic alliances. The message of the latest US strategy is very clear – China poses a serious threat to Indo-Pacific states and the world at large while the United States, its allies, and partners must counter it.

China’s territorial claims in the Indo-Pacific

The global maritime security is based on the principles embodied in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). In the face of the PRC’s increasing aggression in the South China Sea and territorial aspirations over islands in the region (including claims over the Paracel Islands), the progressive devastation of UNCLOS principles is evident.

The PRC expresses historical claims to a significant part of the South China Sea. Under current international law, most of these areas belong to the surrounding states, such as Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Vietnam, among others. Interestingly enough, most of Chinese goods are transported precisely through these waters. However, in 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague recognized the illegality of all Beijing’s territorial pursuits and claims. Nevertheless, the main objective of China’s demanding foreign policy in the region has become the annexation of democratic Taiwan.

• Read more: Is There a Third Way in American Politics?

What is more, the PRC influences the market economy of the region’s countries by subsidizing related institutions and companies as well as restricting trade with states that oppose the totalitarian policies of Xi Jinping’s regime. Australia has emerged as a target of China’s trade war. Beijing has imposed tariffs of up to 212% on Australian wine. Earlier, the PRC took measures to limit imports of various products from Australia, including coal, copper, and barley.

The need to increase cooperation of the anti-China coalition

One of the latest objectives of the US strategy to regain dominance in the region was the conclusion of a pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS) in September 2021. On the one hand, this strategic alliance marks the end of the primacy of the United States in the region due to the increasing interference of the PRC. On the other hand, it sets a new way of conducting international politics in this part of the world. For this reason, in the strategic rivalry with China, the West has decided to replace the outgoing leader, the United States, with the alliance of Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

As White House officials point out, the proposal to allocate additional resources for activities in the Indo-Pacific is intended serve as integrated deterrence. In order to strengthen the results of the planned actions, the budget prioritizes China as the biggest challenge for the US Department of Defense. Moreover, it is expected that Australia would play an increasingly vital role in the new US Indo-Pacific strategy.

Australia’s growing strategic position

The alliance, which is of strategic importance to Canberra, translates to a significant naval development. Under the AUKUS initiative, Australia will obtain conventionally armed nuclear-powered submarines. Also under the pact, the United States will share nuclear propulsion technology with Australia, as it did with the UK under the 1958 Mutual Defense Agreement. Scott Morrison’s government intends to arm the ships with conventional weapons. However, the details of the program, such as the choice between the American and British submarines, have not yet been established. Ultimately, the Royal Australian Navy will purchase eight nuclear submarines. The whole project will cost about $70 billion, but, according to many experts, the price could rise. A report of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, published last December, found that the nuclear-powered submarine program could cost more than $80 billion.

The first report on Indo-Pacific defense efforts is expected appear six months after the signing of the pact. However, Financial Review’s experts predict that the first news will mostly concern cooperation in research on quantum technology, artificial intelligence, information sharing, and cybersecurity.

• Read more: Pentagon Will Accelerate Production of Stinger Missiles for Ukraine

As part of the alliance’s mandate, the UK has pledged an additional £25 million to promote “peace and stability” in the Indo-Pacific. This is a sign of deepening strategic cooperation with Australia amid continued concerns about China’s power and influence in the region. According to experts, the funds will be used to strengthen cyber and maritime security. Such declarations come after assurances from British Prime Minister Boris Johnson following a meeting with his Australian counterpart Scott Morrison.

Prospects for further growth of the anti-China alliance

Actions within AUKUS may also take legislative form in the United States. According to President Joe Biden, leader of the pact, matters related to the Indo-Pacific cooperation should be considered by the US Congress. There already is a Friends of Australia Caucus on Capitol Hill. Its co-chair, Joe Courtney (D-CT), strongly approves of the US executive’s demands concerning the alliance with Australia and the United Kingdom.

The strengthening of relations between Australia and the United States is a direct result of China’s activity in the Indo-Pacific. The partnership between the two countries has been excellent for years, also within ANZUS (the Pacific Security Pact), but has now been taken to the next level. In 2021, changes in Australia’s strategic position were evident not only by the signing of the trilateral pact, but also during the G7 summit in Cornwall in June and the QUAD leaders’ meeting in September. The fact that the United States had to engage Canberra confirms that China has become focused on contesting the regional and international order as well as willing to use coercion and force for territorial expansion. From this point of view, increasing the defense spending as part of the US Indo-Pacific strategy appears to be an appropriate step towards maintaining peace in this part of the world.

Jan Hernik 

Editor in chief, Expert

Jan Hernik is a journalist and publicist who gained experience in Polish independent Internet media broadcasts. In his career, he participated in the creation of projects related to domestic policy and geopolitics. Hernik has an experience in working as a TV presenter and editor of a news portal. At the Warsaw Institute, he is the editor-in-chief and expert in the field of the United States.

Hernik is a graduate of the American Studies Center at the University of Warsaw. He specializes in the theory of religion, race and ethnicity for political choice in the U.S presidential elections. His research interests also include the colonial era of the United States, the right to bear arms and the American liberal thought.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/

After Joe Biden’s visit to Poland, American media reported that the Pentagon will accelerate the production of FIM-92 Stinger surface-to-air missiles and FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missile systems. This is the likely result of the talks between Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin, and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken, held a few days earlier in Poland. The US president also joined that meeting.

Politician’s messages, which followed the talks, suggested that the meeting concerned further military support for Ukraine, which is fighting against the regime of Vladimir Putin. Dmytro Kuleba, Head of Ukrainian diplomacy, claimed to have heard additional promises from US representatives concerning the future defense cooperation. Following the meeting, Ukrainian Defense Minister Oleksiy Reznikov added that he was cautiously optimistic after the two sides discussed the most important needs of the Ukrainian military. It seems that the requests of the delegation of the government that remains in Kyiv will be heard.

Numerous press reports indicate that Ukraine is now asking the United States to provide 500 Javelin anti-tank missiles and 500 Stinger anti-aircraft missiles per day. The information about the accelerated production of equipment for the Ukrainian army was provided by spokesperson Jessica Maxwell, on behalf of the Pentagon. According to her communique, the talks with Raytheon, the main manufacturer of Stinger missiles, concerning accelerated missile production are already underway. The increase of the number of employees as well as the purchase of additional production tools are likewise under consideration. Moreover, the US Department of Defense (DoD) wants to speed up the production of Javelin missiles, manufactured by Lockheed Martin. From 2022 onwards, Javelin anti-tank systems can be produced at a rate of more than 6,000 units per year, according to the DoD budget documents. For this reason, the Pentagon may ask the US Congress for additional financial support. The estimated budget of the DoD, which amounted to USD 773 billion, did not include additional expenses related to military aid to Ukraine. The US Congress approved a USD 13.5 billion emergency funding package at the beginning of March 2022.

• Read more: Is There a Third Way in American Politics?

After another round of negotiations between the Russian Federation and Ukraine, which took place in Istanbul, Russia announced steps towards de-escalation of the conflict. According to the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti, the military activity will be reduced around Kyiv and Chernihiv. Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby addressed this statement and showed no faith in the declarations of the Russian Federation. He claimed that the intention to temporarily reduce the number of Russian troops is in fact aimed at regrouping Russian forces, and is not an actual withdrawal from this region of Ukraine. What is more, Kirby said that the number of Russian forces being withdrawn from the vicinity of Ukraine’s capital is incomparable to the number of troops that has been put up for the attack and that Russia is continuing its airstrikes on Ukrainian cities.

On the basis of over a month of fighting in Ukraine, it can be concluded that the Russian military is currently going through a stagnant phase. After directly moving the front lines, the Russians are now focusing on rocket attacks on Ukrainian cities, mostly civilian facilities. Rocket attacks on Lviv occurred immediately before Joe Biden’s speech in the courtyard of the Royal Castle in Warsaw on Saturday, March 26.

Towards the end of March, the Russians held the same positions as a dozen days ago. Intense fighting continued in the suburbs of Kyiv, especially in the northwest and northeast of the city, despite the statements of Ukrainian and Russian authorities that Moscow was withdrawing some units from Ukraine’s capital and Chernihiv. However, rocket strikes remain the main method of attack of Russian troops. For this reason, the United States is stepping up its efforts to increase military aid, focusing particularly on anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapons. These are crucial since currently Ukraine lacks tools to successfully resist Russian airstrikes.

Increased supply of anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapons is one of several demands being pursued by the United States to provide the most effective aid to Ukraine. During his visit to Europe, President Biden declared that the US is willing to accept 100,000 Ukrainian refugees. On Thursday, during the NATO summit in Brussels, it was agreed that four additional NATO battlegroups will be established in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia.

• Read more: US Cyber Forces as a Model for the Polish Ones

A few days later, the Americans also announced an increase in humanitarian aid spending for Ukraine, which is expected to amount to another USD 1 trillion. Military training, conducted by the representatives of the US Armed Forces in Poland, is an additional form of assistance to Ukrainian soldiers. US troops are providing the Ukrainians with instructions on how to use the weapons that the West is sending them. Upon his return from a trip to Warsaw, President Joe Biden said that US troops stationed in Poland are helping to train Ukrainian soldiers. Troops from the elite 82nd Airborne Division were deployed in Poland to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The training is another way through which the US is supporting the Ukrainian army. At the same time, it attempts not to directly engage in combat against the Russian Federation on Ukrainian soil, since such an action could potentially spark a broader military conflict.

Jan Hernik 

Editor in chief, Expert

Jan Hernik is a journalist and publicist who gained experience in Polish independent Internet media broadcasts. In his career, he participated in the creation of projects related to domestic policy and geopolitics. Hernik has an experience in working as a TV presenter and editor of a news portal. At the Warsaw Institute, he is the editor-in-chief and expert in the field of the United States.

Hernik is a graduate of the American Studies Center at the University of Warsaw. He specializes in the theory of religion, race and ethnicity for political choice in the U.S presidential elections. His research interests also include the colonial era of the United States, the right to bear arms and the American liberal thought.

This article was written as part of the statutory activities of the Polish think tank Warsaw Institute. If you appreciate the content prepared by our partner, we appeal to you for financial support for this non-profit organisation.

More information:
www.warsawinstitute.org/support/