Quote:
Originally Posted by SLUDGE FACTORY
Ponce ? Another discriminatory word…
Printable View
Quote:
Originally Posted by SLUDGE FACTORY
Ponce ? Another discriminatory word…
Poor wifeQuote:
Originally Posted by TWGL1
"I'm very disappointed. I hear that they're upset about not having a seat. Well, they've had a seat for three years and a long time before that."
The conflict is very complicated and compromise and getting on with things is fair enoughQuote:
Originally Posted by North Cardiff Blue
But trump and the Americans are behaving like idiots on the world stage
Europe are pathetic and weak however
Trumps done it now….just outed Zelenskyy as a dictator! Jeepers
Trump needs to be sectioned.Quote:
Originally Posted by goats
Because he won't hold an election?Quote:
Originally Posted by goats
that's been a talking point that the Kremlin are trying to push for a while.Quote:
Originally Posted by Wales-Bales
Presumably they're hoping they have an election and perhaps they can influence the outcome as they have tried many other times in other European elections.
I don't see how Ukraine can post hold an election at the moment though - More than 20% of their population are living under Russian occupation
Yeah…most countries at war struggle to hold elections, like Churchill said here….Quote:
Originally Posted by Wales-Bales
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DictatorQuote:
Originally Posted by Rjk
If that Wiki page shows anything, it is that Zelenskyy definitely does not fit the profile or definition of a dictator.Quote:
Originally Posted by Wales-Bales
Trump on the other hand (and his mates Putin and Netanyahu)..... tick most of the boxes for concentration of power.
The offsets that are usually put forward to counter that analysis are an independent and effective judiciary and press (including citizen journalists free to work). I suppose that still gets Trump off that hook, if not Putin and Netanyahu.
Arguments for the Dictator Label:Quote:
Originally Posted by jon1959
Suspension of Elections: Critics argue that Zelenskyy has acted in a dictatorial manner by suspending national elections due to the ongoing conflict. The Ukrainian constitution does not explicitly allow for the suspension of presidential elections during martial law, but Zelenskyy has maintained that holding elections under current conditions is impractical.
Media and Political Freedom: There have been allegations of Zelenskyy's government limiting media freedom and political opposition, particularly through actions like banning opposition parties linked to Russia or accused of pro-Russian sentiments, and controlling media narratives for national unity during the war.
Centralization of Power: The consolidation of power under Zelenskyy's leadership has been noted, with some viewing this as a necessary response to the existential threat posed by the invasion, while others see it as an overreach into authoritarianism.
Arguments Against the Dictator Label:
Elected Leadership: Zelenskyy was elected in 2019 with a significant majority, indicating strong democratic support at the time. His rise to power was through democratic means, not through a coup or other non-democratic methods.
War Context: The measures taken, including the suspension of elections and control over media, are justified by his administration as necessary for national security and to maintain stability during wartime. Many democratic nations have taken similar steps during crises but are not labeled dictatorships.
International Support: Zelenskyy's leadership has garnered substantial international support, not just for military aid but also for his efforts in maintaining Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty. This support often frames him as a defender of democracy rather than a dictator.
Public Opinion: While there have been fluctuations in his approval ratings, recent polls cited in web news suggest he still enjoys significant support from the Ukrainian populace, particularly in the context of the war, which is not typical of dictators who usually suppress public dissent more visibly.
Conclusion:
Labeling Zelenskyy as a "dictator" involves a nuanced understanding of the term, especially considering the wartime context. While some actions might seem authoritarian, they are also interpreted by others as pragmatic responses to extraordinary circumstances. The distinction between a wartime leader making difficult decisions for national survival and a dictator often lies in the intent, transparency, and eventual return to democratic norms once the crisis subsides.
Given the complexity, it's more accurate to say that Zelenskyy's governance has shown dictatorial tendencies under the pressure of war, but whether this makes him a full-fledged dictator is a matter of perspective, interpretation of Ukrainian law, and the ongoing effects of the conflict.
Is Trump a dictator?
No, Donald Trump is not a dictator. He served as the President of the United States from 2017 to 2021, within the framework of the U.S. Constitution which limits presidential power through checks and balances, including Congress and the Judiciary. Dictators typically hold absolute power without such checks, which was not the case during Trump's presidency. However, opinions on his leadership style, policies, and actions vary widely, with some critics arguing he exhibited authoritarian tendencies, while supporters see his actions as within the bounds of executive authority.
Attachment 6449
Latest OMD on TS
I disagree with this, apparently Zelensky was good at playing the piano with his cock
now do Putin?Quote:
Originally Posted by Wales-Bales
I'll do Starmer, he's a dictatorQuote:
Originally Posted by Rjk
The characterization of Vladimir Putin as a dictator is a subject of considerable debate and depends largely on one's definition of "dictator" as well as the political context one considers. Here are some key points to consider:Quote:
Originally Posted by Rjk
Centralization of Power: Putin has significantly centralized power around himself, particularly through roles like President and Prime Minister, and through control over key governmental and security institutions. He has also influenced or controlled the legislative process in Russia to a large extent.
Control Over Media and Elections: Critics argue that under Putin, there's been a significant erosion of media freedom, with many outlets either directly or indirectly controlled by the state or pro-government business interests. Similarly, there are allegations of election manipulation, though Putin's support in elections is also attributed to genuine public approval due to various factors like nationalism, stability, and international standing.
Political Opposition: Opposition leaders and critics often face legal challenges, harassment, or worse, like imprisonment or assassination. This has led to accusations that Putin stifles political opposition, a hallmark of dictatorial regimes.
Legal and Constitutional Changes: Changes to the Russian constitution, especially those allowing Putin to potentially remain in power until 2036, are seen by some as moves towards authoritarianism.
International Perspective: Various international bodies and human rights organizations have criticized Putin's governance for what they see as authoritarian tendencies, but these criticisms are sometimes countered by arguments about cultural differences in political systems or the need for strong leadership in Russia's context.
Support Base: Putin retains significant support within Russia for his policies, particularly those related to national security, stability, and international prestige. This complicates the narrative of him simply being a dictator since a portion of the populace supports his governance style.
Comparative Analysis: While Putin's rule shows authoritarian traits, comparing him directly to historical dictators might miss nuances like the complexity of modern governance, economic policies, or international relations where Russia plays a significant role.
In conclusion, labelling Putin as a "dictator" is controversial and depends on one's criteria for dictatorship. Some see him as an autocrat or strongman leader, others view him within the spectrum of modern authoritarianism, while his supporters might argue he's a necessary leader for Russia's stability and international positioning. Each perspective has its arguments, and the term "dictator" will be applied or rejected based on these varied interpretations.
No because he's a ****ing absolute nutcaseQuote:
Originally Posted by Wales-Bales
Looks like you don’t have the intellect or emotional intelligence to reply , yet again.Quote:
Originally Posted by SLUDGE FACTORY
I know you want to be a yank and you fancy Donald because he's big and tough and a real manQuote:
Originally Posted by TWGL1
But he's a complete cttt
I am sorry if you don't like your hero being called nasty names but that's exactly what he is
And farage , your other poster boy for your bedroom wall , is the same
I don’t care for American politics, and certainly wouldn’t vote for Farage especially from a work perspectiveQuote:
Originally Posted by SLUDGE FACTORY
But , it’s hilarious seeing you act such a child in every situation.
in what way?Quote:
Originally Posted by Heathblue
Quote:
Originally Posted by TWGL1
'Stirs the pot then cries when called out'
What are you even talking about?
You don't believe the international space station exists... so you're a complete joke. You know that right?
Get your facts right …. I said it may do , it may not , and some of the footage looks Computer GeneratedQuote:
Originally Posted by Doucas
If it does , great , if it doesn’t, great
You’re a fool and an annoying worm you know that right?
Be quiet!
I love how Trump doesn’t mention what Putin has done ever, where to begin I guess, what with any opponents being killed or falling out of 10th floor windows or just poisoned somehow….no elections, media controlled….
Cancelled electionsQuote:
Originally Posted by Rjk
The Labour Party's 2024 manifesto outlined plans for local government reorganization, including the establishment of unitary authorities and directly elected mayors. However, it did not explicitly mention the postponement of local elections as part of this restructuring. The decision to delay elections in nine council areas was announced post-election by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, aiming to facilitate the planned reorganization