RH 3.5.26 | Russia | Drone Strikes, LNG Sinkings, Missile Gaps & Nuclear Moves

👉 Subscribe to The Restricted Handling Podcast  https://www.restrictedhandling.com/  In today's episode of The Restricted Handling Podcast, we dive into the latest developments in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and global security landscape. From daring Ukrainian drone strikes in Russia's Black Sea bases to dramatic LNG tanker sinkings in the Mediterranean we've got it all. If you thought yesterday's updates were intense wait until you hear what's happening now.  Ukraine's drone program is hitting hard and hitting deep. Ukrainian forces recently targeted the Russian naval base in Novorossiysk, damaging the Admiral Grigorovich-class frigate Admiral Essen along with corvettes and minesweepers. Three Russian sailors were killed and 14 wounded. Over 200 drones were reportedly involved in the strike, showing just how much Ukraine has scaled its UAV operations. These attacks aren't just about tactical damage they send a strategic message that the Black Sea is no longer uncontested Russian territory.  And in an update from yesterday's coverage Russia is pointing fingers at Ukraine for the sinking of the LNG tanker Arctic Metagaz in the Mediterranean. Russia claims Ukrainian naval drones launched from Libya struck the vessel carrying 61,000 tons of liquefied natural gas. All 30 crew members survived but the incident highlights the vulnerability of Russia's shadow fleet and the growing operational reach of Ukraine's naval drones. We break down what this means for European energy markets, Russian revenue, and the broader strategic picture.  On the geopolitical stage Russia continues its reflexive control messaging aimed at NATO allies. Moscow is publicly criticizing French and UK nuclear policy while trying to influence Coalition of the Willing decisions. Poland is responding by exploring its own nuclear program marking a major shift in European security thinking. These moves show how Eastern Europe is recalibrating its nuclear posture in response to Russian pressure and the ongoing Ukraine conflict.  Meanwhile Ukraine is grappling with missile shortages for its F-16 fleet during peak Russian drone campaigns. For several weeks in late 2025 pilots had to rely on rotary cannons and legacy Sidewinder missiles from the 1970s. Supplies have been restored but the ongoing US-Iran tensions could make future resupply tricky. We break down how Ukraine is balancing air defense, drone operations, and deep strikes against Russian infrastructure despite these challenges.  Finally we cover Russia's internal pressures. Moscow City is cutting staff and trimming budgets German intelligence says Russia's 2025 federal deficit is over 2.36 trillion rubles higher than officially reported. Combined with ongoing drone attacks on energy and rail infrastructure and elite FSB operations in Donbas and Crimea the Kremlin is facing serious logistical, financial, and operational challenges.  This episode is packed with updates on drones, missile shortages, nuclear policy, energy warfare, and covert operations. It's the latest in a constantly evolving conflict that affects not just Ukraine and Russia but Europe, the Mediterranean, and global energy markets. Tune in for sharp insights, a little levity, and all the facts you need to stay informed.  👉 Subscribe to The Restricted Handling Podcast  https://www.restrictedhandling.com/    Get the daily intelligence brief Ryan and Glenn read covering Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, the Middle East, geopolitics, sanctions, military and intel operations. Save a few hours of your time getting ahead of the news cycle at restrictedhandling.com.