60d @ 60d @lemmy.ca Posts 4Comments 74Joined 6 days ago
"Why isn't Zelenskyy kissing my ring and thanking me directly for all of Biden's support?" Krasnov asked, pumpkin-hued skin glistening with the excited sweat of sensing prey in Zelenskyy.
Krasnov leaned back in his ornate chair, the golden embroidery of his suit catching the light as he surveyed the room. The lavish decor of his office, filled with opulent artifacts and portraits of past leaders, seemed to close in around him, amplifying his frustration. He had orchestrated a delicate dance of diplomacy, pouring resources into Ukraine, and yet here he was, feeling unappreciated.
“Perhaps he’s too busy fighting a war,” his advisor, Mikhail, suggested cautiously, his voice barely above a whisper. “Or maybe he believes he can stand on his own two feet now.”
Krasnov’s eyes narrowed. “Stand on his own two feet? He wouldn’t be where he is without our backing. I want him to understand that. I want him to know who holds the strings.”
Mikhail shifted uncomfortably. “But, sir, he is a leader in his own right. He has rallied his people against an overwhelming force. Perhaps he sees you as an ally, not a puppet master.”
“An ally?” Krasnov scoffed, his voice rising. “I am not in the business of making friends. I am in the business of power. And power demands respect.”
He stood abruptly, pacing the room, his mind racing. The thought of Zelenskyy, with his charisma and determination, overshadowing him was intolerable. He needed to remind the Ukrainian president of the delicate balance of their relationship.
“Arrange a meeting,” Krasnov commanded, his tone brooking no argument. “I want him here, in this office, where he can see the strength of my support. I want him to understand that gratitude is not just a courtesy; it is a necessity.”
Mikhail nodded, though a hint of concern flickered in his eyes. “And if he refuses?”
Krasnov paused, a sinister smile creeping across his face. “Then we will remind him of the consequences of forgetting who his true benefactor is.”
Days later, the meeting was set. Zelenskyy arrived, his demeanor calm but guarded. The tension in the room was palpable as Krasnov welcomed him with a grand gesture, his voice dripping with feigned warmth.
“President Zelenskyy, it is an honor to finally meet you in person,” he said, extending his hand, a glint of challenge in his eyes.
Zelenskyy took the hand, his grip firm. “Thank you for your support, Mr. Krasnov. It has been crucial for our fight.”
Krasnov leaned in, his voice low and conspiratorial. “But support is a two-way street, my friend. You didn't even wear a suit. I hope you understand the importance of acknowledging those who stand beside you.”
Zelenskyy met his gaze, unflinching. “I do, and I appreciate everything you’ve done. But my people come first. I cannot afford to be seen as beholden to anyone.”
Krasnov’s smile faltered, replaced by a steely resolve. “You may think you are strong, but remember, strength can be a double-edged sword. I can help you, but I can also make things… difficult.”
Zelenskyy straightened, the fire of determination igniting in his eyes. “I will not be intimidated, Krasnov. My country’s sovereignty is not for sale, and neither is my integrity.”
The air crackled with tension as the two leaders faced off, each unwilling to back down. In that moment, Krasnov realized that Zelenskyy was not just a pawn in his game; he was a formidable opponent, one who would not easily bend to his will.
As the meeting continued, the dynamics shifted. Krasnov found himself not just negotiating power, but also respect. The realization dawned on him that true strength lay not in domination, but in partnership. Perhaps, in this unexpected rivalry, he could find a way to forge a new alliance—one built on mutual respect rather than fear.
And as they discussed the future of their nations, a new understanding began to take root in Krasnov. One that included the need to see his enemies scattered before him, and to hear the lamentations of their Liberals.
It's amazing what you learn when you actually read the instructions, lol!
I think they only GAF when they see the rising price of gas and food. So there's hope. Krasnov knows this, and for someone that "doesn't look at the markets" he sure as fuck backpedalled on tariffs pretty fast.
And sadly, there is a large portion of people in Canada that could not vote for a woman
Very sad. I agree. If I thought all we needed was to piss off Krasnov/Putin, I would have ranked her at the top. But we do have to consider keeping Lil pp out of the PM Chair also.
I would have ranked Freeland higher too, except Krasnov already hates her, so I don't think she could turn this situationship around.
I ranked em the same, but put Freeland in 4. I didn't know you could leave people off the ballot and still have your vote counted!
Preach. The issue with just presenting PR as an end-all is that there's a lot of subsets that might be better. They got their fingers in too many pies. Just pick one so you can present a clearer message.
Hopefully this is done in one round so we can get down to the business of actually doing something.
Phew, there's still time! Tomorrow's Sunday though and I usually go shopping. Maybe next week?
Average Murcans have no idea about any of this. Can confirm. Even the majority of educated Murcans only pay attention during an election and DGAF the rest of the year.
I don't know if they'll force a general election right away, but it would be wise for Carney to seek a mandate.
Who did y'all vote for? I voted Carney because he's the only one I trust to stand up to Krasnov.
I wonder which IoT devices are affected, beyond DIY, that people actually use in North America.
Not with that attitude!
J/K we were set to have a couple plants ready to go this year, but who knows now?
Love to see it also, but hate that they use the words 'perceived attack'.
Passive voice bullshit.
I know right? Stealing 600 million from Albertans is a new low, even for them. Then to fire the CEO when she starts investigating!
Weston Family, paupers that they are 😅, only own 20% of the UK Wittingtons.
But I see my mistake in assuming that both Wittingtons had stake in ABF.
I'm deleting my earlier comment about them being owned by jerks because it's clear they're owned by good Christians like Emu-Krasnov.