Prospects and Implications of the Upcoming Trump-Putin Meeting in Alaska – By Harold Gunatillake Territorial Swaps and the Quest for Peace in Ukraine: Introduction Recent developments in international diplomacy have rekindled discussions concerning the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Notably, U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed that a potential peace accord might necessitate territorial concessions, with Ukraine possibly relinquishing some land to Russia. This claim, in conjunction with the announcement of an upcoming meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, scheduled for August 15, 2025, in Alaska, has garnered considerable international attention and conjecture. The Russian-occupied territories of Ukraine are regions in the south and east of Ukraine that Russia controls due to the Russo-Ukrainian War and the ongoing invasion. In Ukrainian law, they are described as the “temporarily occupied territories”. As of 2024, Russia occupies nearly 20% of Ukraine, and an estimated 3 to 3.5 million Ukrainians ...
Dr harold Gunatillake
The Complexities of a Hypothetical Israeli Military Capture of Gaza – By Dr Harold Gunatillake Israel is prepared to authorise a new military strategy aimed at occupying the entire Gaza Strip. Persistent Challenges, Underground Realities, and the Consequences of Escalation Historically, the name “Israel” predates “Palestine” by over a thousand years. Subsequently, the land became predominantly inhabited by an Arab population for over a millennium. Accordingly, both Jewish and Arab peoples possess legitimate claims to the territory. Should the Israeli leadership under Benjamin Netanyahu succeed in a rapid military capture of Gaza within a few days, the challenging conditions on the ground would probably persist, characterised by profound and unresolved issues. Although territorial and superficial control might be achieved, the resilient capabilities of Hamas, especially their extensively entrenched underground networks, would continue to pose significant and formidable obstacles. This scenario highlights the potential for an extended conflict, self-destructive tendencies, and ...
Aug 8, 2025
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Tagged Gaza, Hypothetical IsraeliMilitary
The Risks of Premature Recognition of Palestinian Statehood – By Dr Harold Gunatillake Evaluating the Implications for Regional Stability and Peace Hamas has declared that it seeks to establish a sovereign state to facilitate disarmament. Hamas has reaffirmed that it will not agree to disarm unless a sovereign Palestinian state is established. This statement was made in response to one of Israel’s principal demands in discussions concerning a ceasefire in Gaza. The Palestinian armed group indicated that it was reacting to comments attributed to US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, who stated that Hamas had “expressed its willingness” to surrender its weapons. Israel regards the disarmament of Hamas as a fundamental condition for any agreement aimed at ending the conflict. However, indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas to facilitate a ceasefire and secure the release of hostages have recently stalled. As of March 2025, the State of ...
Analysis of Statements Attributed to Russia’s Foreign Minister and the Geopolitical Context – By Dr Harold Gunatillake Examining Claims Regarding Ukraine’s Territorial Status and Assertions Concerning Global Conflict. Introduction In recent years, the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has attracted significant international attention and concern. Statements attributed to Russian officials, particularly regarding Ukraine’s territorial integrity and the broader implications for international stability, have incited intense debates and widespread speculation. This document seeks to analyze such claims, provide historical and political context, and evaluate the current state of global affairs concerning the concept of a “World War Three.” Context of Ukraine’s Territorial Separation Image Source : BBC Ukraine was part of the Russian Empire and subsequently the Soviet Union for a significant duration. However, it declared independence in 1991 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The United Nations and the majority of the international community have affirmed Ukraine’s sovereignty and ...
Aug 4, 2025
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Tagged Russia, Ukraine, Ukraine's territorial, Ukraine’s Territorial Status
Siva’s Friendly Challenge Cup 2025 Presented to Jaffna Hindu College – By Dr Harold Gunatillake A Sporting Legacy and a Homecoming Journey In 2025, the prestigious Siva’s Friendly Challenge Cup was proudly presented to Jaffna Hindu College, marking another chapter in the school’s storied sporting tradition. This award, symbolic of camaraderie and excellence in athletics, carries the spirit and vision of its benefactor, Siva—himself an illustrious alumnus of the institution. The Legacy of Siva Siva, an old boy of Jaffna Hindu College, distinguished himself in the world of sports during his formative years at the college. His dedication, discipline, and love for athletic pursuits set a benchmark for future generations. After his time at Jaffna Hindu College, Siva’s journey took him across continents, eventually settling in the vibrant city of Sydney. Despite the distance, his heart remained closely tied to his alma mater and the communities that shaped his early ...
Aug 2, 2025
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Tagged Jaffna Hindu College, Siva’s Friendly Challenge Cup 2025
Life in Gaza Today: A Human Perspective – By Dr Harold Gunatillake Image Source : www.aol.com Daily Realities and Resilience Amid Adversity The Current Landscape Life in Gaza has changed a lot because of the ongoing conflict and humanitarian struggles. What used to be a lively scene of families, community, busy markets, and daily routines now feels uncertain and complex. The sounds of everyday life—children heading to school, families shopping, neighbours saying hello— are now part of the past for many. Living Under the Shadow of Conflict For Palestinian families, fear has become an unwelcome companion. The presence of drones and continued military activity overhead has compelled communities to coexist with perpetual anxiety, as the threat of violence remains imminent. Numerous families have experienced heartbreaking losses, and the absence of loved ones is profoundly felt throughout the community. The Loss of Markets and Scarcity of Food Image Source : shutterstock The destruction ...
Jul 29, 2025
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Tagged Daily life in Gaza, Dr. Harold Gunatillake articles, Gaza conflict update, Gaza food shortage, Gaza humanitarian crisis, Life in Gaza 2025
Why Are Thailand and Cambodia Fighting Now? – By Dr Harold Gunatillake “From disputed ruins to modern warfare — the clash between Thailand and Cambodia isn’t just about territory… It’s about history, pride, and survival.” Thailand-Cambodia clashes kill at least 15 As 130,000 flee the border area. Escalation of military exchanges could lead to ‘state of war’, Thailand’s acting PM Phumtham Wechayachai says. Why Are Thailand and Cambodia Fighting Now? Cambodia’s chief official in Oddar Meanchey province, Gen. Khov Ly said clashes resumed early in the morning near the ancient Ta Muen Thom temple. The official also said that at least four civilians were wounded and that more than 4,000 people have been displaced from their villages along the border to evacuation centres. An ancient Temple. A deadly border. And two nations on the brink. Why are Thailand and Cambodia fighting again? The most recent violence erupted near Prasat ...
Siva’s Memorable Encounter with Chef Pablis – By Dr. Harold Gunatillake Wisdom, Passion, and Herbal Cuisine at 88 There are moments in life when a chance meeting becomes a story you want to tell again and again. Such was the case when Siva Kumaran, Operations Director at Blue Elephant, Waldorf Hotel, Sydney, retired and now works as a freelance caterer for functions in Sydney, met the legendary chef Pablis at the Mt Lavaniya hotel—a culinary figure whose reputation had preceded him, and whose presence proved even more inspiring in person. The Meeting Siva’s encounter with Pablis took place in the vibrant ambience of the Mount Lavinia hotel, where the fragrance of fresh herbs drifted through the air and the gentle clatter from the kitchen provided a rhythmic backdrop. Despite his 88 years, Chef Pablis moved with an energy and grace that belied his age. His eyes sparkled with the curiosity ...
Will Vladimir Putin cease hostilities against Ukraine if President Zelensky were to retire? – By Dr Harold Gunatillake Exploring the Impact of Leadership Change on the Russia-Ukraine Conflict The conflict between Russia and Ukraine, initiated in earnest with the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and significantly escalated through Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, is based on a complex interplay of historical, political, and strategic factors. As the conflict persists, many analysts and observers ponder whether a change in Ukraine’s leadership—specifically the retirement or resignation of President Volodymyr Zelensky—might result in a cessation of hostilities by Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Roots of the Conflict The ongoing conflict originates from Russia’s persistent apprehensions regarding NATO’s eastward enlargement, Ukraine’s increasing affiliations with Western nations, and Moscow’s aspiration to sustain influence over its neighbouring state. President Zelensky, who was elected in 2019, has consistently championed Ukrainian sovereignty, democratic principles, and enhanced ...
Jul 23, 2025
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Tagged Putin war strategy, Russia Ukraine war 2025, Ukraine leadership change, Vladimir Putin Ukraine conflict, Zelensky retirement impact
To Inspire Travelers and highlight Sri Lanka’s Beauty – Dr Harold Gunatillake Whispers of the Highlands On the misty peaks of Sri Lanka In the hush of dawn, the mountains rise, Veiled in silver mist beneath amber skies. Tea leaves glisten with morning dew, As sunbeams pierce the clouds and break through. The hills hum softly, ancient and wise, Guardians of secrets, where silence lies. Cascading streams in rhythmic grace, Trace the contours of time’s embrace. Here, the soul finds gentle release – In the highland’s breath, there lives peace. Golden Shores, Eternal Light On the beaches that kiss the Indian Ocean The ocean sings to the golden sand, A lullaby shaped by nature’s hand. Palms sway gently in salted breeze, Dancing to rhythms older than the seas. Sunset spills like molten gold, On shores where stories are quietly told. Fishermen cast their nets with care, As twilight paints the ...
Jul 20, 2025
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Articles, Dr harold Gunatillake
Tagged beaches in sri lanka, mountains rise, Sigiriya rock, Sri Lanka's Beauty
