Ukraine’s Dr. Strangelove
Denys Shtilerman, a controversial Ukrainian weapons designer with deep ties to Russia, is playing a pivotal role in Ukraine's defense by producing long-range drones. He aims to help Europe develop an independent missile-defense shield, expressing skepticism toward American reliability.
Why it matters
It highlights the complex, morally ambiguous nature of wartime alliances and the push for European strategic autonomy in defense technology.
A rocket designer with a dubious past sets out to build a missile shield with Europe—and without America.
The article presents a nuanced profile of a controversial figure, balancing his past corruption and Russian ties with his current strategic importance to Ukraine.
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