Scorpio 2026: Libra New Moon. Mars in Leo. Mercury in Scorpio. Scorpio Rising Putin. Trumpanyahu. Russell Brand Trial.

“The bird kingdom is specifically allied to the deva evolution. It is the bridging kingdom between the purely deva evolution and two other manifestations of life … Birds and serpents are closely connected with wisdom, and therefore with the psychic nature of God, of men, and of devas.”1

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Scorpio Keynotes

Ordinary wheel: “Let Maya flourish and deception rule.”
Reversed wheel: “Warrior am I and from the battle I emerge triumphant.”

(Full moon: Oct.26, 2026. GMT 04.12.)

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Libra New Moon 10-10-10
Mars in Leo (Sept.28, 2026 to May 14, 2027.)
Mercury in Scorpio: The Deep Sea Diver
__Mercury, Psychopomp of the Underworld
Silver Anniversary Book Sale
Scorpio Rising Libran: Vladimir Putin and the Long War
Trumpanyahu’s Chutzpah Factor: Mars-Jupiter Transits
Russell Brand’s Rape Trial: Cupidity and Cupido

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Libra New Moon 10-10-10 (2026=10.)
The Libra new moon occurred two weeks before the Scorpio-Taurus full moon, hence – the seed of Libra finds its fruition in Scorpio. Both signs are linked by the common theme of sex.

Libra is ruled exoterically by Venus and Scorpio by Mars – the so-called feminine and masculine forces that find their unification in committed relationship, sex and ultimately bringing other souls into incarnation.

10-10-10 10 is the number of perfection, where the masculine (1) and feminine (0) principles are brought together in harmony, balance and fusion.

Libra IS the balance – symbol of right relationship and justice – personally, nationally or globally. Libra is also said to be prominent in the planetary horoscope in this interim period between the zodiacal ages of Pisces and Aquarius.

The new moon horoscope has a potent T-square to Libra-ruler Venus – paired with Mercury in Scorpio, to Mars in Leo – opposite Pluto in Aquarius. This is a complex pattern of intense emotion-desire that can create clashes and power struggles in personal relations, with themes of jealousy and possessiveness.

Mars in Leo can be one of the most emotionally selfish positions in the zodiac.

Especially given that Mars is the co-ruler of the solar plexus and Leo rules the astral permanent atom – sum total of emotional experiences in all incarnations. Hence the tendency for emotional exaggeration or high drama!

Pluto opposite Mars can amplify those attributes, bringing them into greater subjective awareness. Pluto “governs the lesser burning ground, in order that the man may live in truth in the higher land of light.”

Currently Venus in Scorpio is travelling through Pluto’s underworld along with Mercury or Charon, guide of souls traveling across the River Styx. (See Oct. 2 post.)

This may well be a very turbulent period leading to and beyond the Scorpio-Taurus full moon festival Oct.26.

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Mars in Leo (Sept. 28, 2026 to May 14, 2027)
(Modified from the original article here.)
Given the prominence of Mars in Leo in several articles in this newsletter, it is worth further reflection.

Mars is the exoteric and esoteric ruler of Scorpio, hence its importance regarding its rulership of the solar plexus centre, the discipline of emotion and desire in all its forms.

Mars entered Leo on Sept. 28 and will spend an almost unprecedented eight months in this sign, until May 2027.

This is due to Mars going retrograde and direct a few times, ducking in and out of Leo and Virgo, two signs which constitute the Sphinx with the body of a lion and face of the virgin.

Mars in Leo brings a bold and confident approach to life, a dramatic flair and desire for recognition. When the planet of passion meets a passionate fire sign like Leo, there is certainly a recipe for fireworks – not necessarily as pretty lights in the sky! (As often repeated – in Esoteric Astrology Mars rules the solar plexus centre, seat of the astral body.)

The transit of the God of War through the previous emotionally sensitive sign of Cancer is always challenging, stirring up very deep feelings and attachments.

Cancer is the place of Mars’ “fall” and can be characterised by angry frustration, intense moodiness, passive-aggressive, domestic disputes, devotion to loved ones etc.

Mars is regarded as a “non-sacred” planet and therefore its transit in any sign highlights the unresolved dualities that everyone carries. In Leo, Mars tends to be forceful and aggressive, highly egotistical, competitive, energetic and creative; it gives leadership, courage and confidence.

As well, a strong sexual drive, jealousy, possessiveness, argumentation and a dominating ego. Mars in Leo can be the drama queen par excellence, placed firmly at the centre of its “puniverse”.

Many of these descriptions are indicative of Mars’ rulership of the solar plexus centre, the home of the “animal brain” and kama-manas – or “desire-mind”. Emotional attachments to ways of thinking may be revealed during this Mars transit through Leo.

Mars in Leo can bring confidence and courage, but for those who are aware and conscious, they might tread the fine line between self-encouragement or fall in thrall to the “beast of personality” – self-aggrandisement.

Vigilance is required to not be ambushed by reactive Mars (!) – and the cultivation of the Aquarian polarity, where lies a sense of greater needs beyond the lower self: The tendency for a me-first, sense of entitlement is accentuated with Mars in this position.

So beware of Mars-ruled activities like driving – and what unfolds in mundane places like the local supermarket – or Wholefoods parking lot!

The evolutionary journey demands that we shift from polarisation in the lower centres and function in the higher centres; from the blinded personality to the illumined soul – enabling individual soul purpose to function through an integrated personality.

Mars creates an acute awareness of what is unresolved within the three-fold personality, particularly in the biggest battleground for most – the astral body.

Mars transiting through Leo offers an opportunity because the transfer of energy involves the solar plexus (Mars) to the heart (Leo). From fear to love, the conditional to the unconditional, self-centredness to selflessness – Leo to Aquarius.

Leo also esoterically rules the “astral permanent atom” – that holds the record of emotional experiences from all incarnations, giving Leo the capacity to tap into that “ocean of emotion”. Perhaps this is why lord-of-oceans Neptune is the esoteric ruler of Leo, and along with Mars – co-ruler of the solar plexus centre.

Yet, for those more developed along the evolutionary path, Mars taps into the fiery mental strength of Leo, bringing a firm discipline to bear on the emotions, redirecting Mars’ drive to more intellectual pursuits.

The point of least resistance for most of humanity is orientation in the solar plexus – the status quo, the known, abode of the lower mind, impatience, reactivity, selfishness – not the clarity of higher thought or the patience of a loving heart.

One visualisation tool is to see the smoke of angst, rage and conflict within the solar plexus – rising up to meet the purifying fires of the heart’s chalice – activating courage and compassion in Leo the Lionheart:

Resist the temptation to react or to force situations and defend the little ego; give pause for reflection and use the devotional forces of warrior Mars on behalf of the Higher Self.

The Pointer Stars
During this period transiting Mars will pass over the two pointer stars – Dubhe (nearest the pole star, Polaris) and Merak:

“The Pointer nearest to the Pole Star is expressive of a lower aspect of the will, which—in speaking of humanity—we call self-will … this Pointer and the energy emanating from it guides humanity upon the involutionary path, and is constantly active in its influence upon the man who is still upon the Mutable Cross.”2

Hence, when Mars passes over Dubhe (15° Leo 29’) on Oct.23-27, it will be particularly stimulating of “self-will”, creating a greater awareness of that which lies unredeemed within any entity – an individual, group or nation. Note that this date embraces the Scorpio-Taurus full moon on Oct.26.

From Oct.31 to Nov.4 Mars passes over Merak (19 Leo 10) – the pointer furthest from the pole star. (Oct. 27 is the Israel election and Nov.3 US mid-term elections – see later article on Trumpanyahu.)

“The Pointer furthest from the Pole Star in the constellation of the Great Bear. This is, esoterically speaking, a great reservoir or focal point for divine energy, carrying out God’s purpose …

… Then the energy of the Pointer furthest from the Pole Star begins to make its presence felt and a sense of right direction or guidance is registered by the disciple upon the Path, and such guidance (when followed) leads man nearer to the Hierarchy.”3

Later in 2027, Mars returns to make a station very close to Merak (Mar.31 to April 4), before heading back toward Virgo – bringing potential for some redeeming qualities to counter Dubhe’s “self will”.

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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Mercury in Scorpio: The Deep Sea Diver
(Original article here.)

Given the prominence of Mercury and Venus in Scorpio currently, this modified article is well worth repeating.

Transiting Mercury just entered Scorpio on Oct.1, for the first time since Nov.2025 -. and will stay there for nine weeks until Dec. 6, 2026. This is a time for deep reflection and probing the depths of the unconscious, especially as Mercury has a liaison with stationary-retrograde Venus in Scorpio, Oct.4-8.

Both planets in this sign are highly intuitive, even though Venus in Esoteric Astrology is generally about the mind and rules the 5^th ray of science or knowledge. In that respect, Venus rules the left petal (manas) of the ajna centre, and Mercury rules the right (buddhi).

“Venus, the intelligent mind, has its power lessened in Scorpio because the intellect—having been developed and used—must now be subordinated to a higher power of the soul, the spiritual intuition.”4

So as Venus is astronomically passing through Pluto’s underworld on its regular disappearance from the night sky, it meets Mercury or Charon the ferryman guiding souls across the River Styx. (See Mercury, Psychopomp of the Underworld in next post.)

Mercury in Scorpio has,

1. An ability for probing the arcane, the esoteric, that which is hidden.
2. A knack for seeing through deception, ‘x-ray vision’.
3. A tough or shrewd negotiator.
4. An in-depth counsellor.
5. A very persuasive communicator or orator.
6. Super intuitive.
7. An exorcist, shaman.
8. A guide in the underworld realm of Pluto.

Mercury in Scorpio can be likened to the deep sea diver in the archaic diving helmet, who works alone upon the ocean floor, a long way from the surface.

The oxygen hose that reaches to the surface is the lifeline, the umbilical cord, the antahkarana or link in consciousness from the world below to the world above.

The diver is a rich metaphor for exploring the hidden-most depths of one’s being whether it is in the emotional body (Scorpio-water), the psyche (soul) or the shadow nature.

Hence this period is an opportunity for psychotherapy – confronting and healing what lurks in the hidden areas of the unconscious. Mercury in Scorpio can bring confrontational incidents into one’s life, such as,

1. Attracting others who bring an awareness of unconscious issues and drives.

2. Power struggles with others or within oneself – psychologically, psychically or even physically.

3. Boundary and control issues. Fear and paranoia. Deception.

4. The misuse of speech – Mercury in Scorpio can be devastatingly destructive in communication.

5. Exposing hidden motives in oneself and others.

These few points can arise for the following reasons:

1. Mercury is the ruler of the fourth ray of Harmony through Conflict (also the ray of Art and Beauty).

2. The fourth ray is the only ray passing through Scorpio, ruled by Mars the god of war and Pluto, Lord of the Underworld. The 4^th ray rules over Humanity in general.

3. In Esoteric Astrology, Mercury is the ‘hierarchical ruler’ of Scorpio, whose, …”true significance will not be understood until the consciousness of individual … is planetary in its scope and grasp …”5

Mercury, Psychopomp of the Underworld
The deep-sea diver inhabits the concealed world-under. The underworld is where Mercury as psychopomp (“guide of souls”), escorts the recently deceased into the afterlife.

The underworld or Hades, is ruled over by Pluto, lord of death-transformation and co-ruler of Scorpio, hence Mercury is very much in its element when transiting through this sign. Another expression of Mercury, is Charon the ferryman guiding souls across the River Styx to Hades.

Likewise Anubis, the dog or jackal-headed god of Egyptian tradition who ushers souls into the afterlife and attends the weighing scale during the “Weighing of the Heart”; there it is determined whether a soul is allowed to enter the realm of the dead.

Here is Libra the Scales, Saturn the lord of karma and its exaltation in this sign. There also is a good case for Mercury as one of the afore-mentioned, “four lords of karma”.

The dog head of Anubis hints at the dog star Sirius, from where emanates the “Sirian Law of Karma” – for this entire solar system!

The underworld can be interpreted as that which resides in our own psyche, unconscious – or “hell” that every individual creates for themself.

Concepts of hell, fear and “eternal damnation” have been reinforced by Christian “churchianity” as a way of controlling the masses – and is essentially part of the Great Illusion.

The experience of “Hell” in the afterlife is being confronted by the “fast rewind” of life events, where, without the obfuscating veil of the physical body, one is starkly all the highlights of an incarnation; particularly misdeeds or wrong choices made – brought about by ignorance or, wilfully disobeying universal spiritual law – a law that is the basis of everyone’s innate conscience.

Hence, preparation for the next incarnation is already underway as the discarnate soul avows and affirms to not make the same errors in the next life. This rewind process is repeated at a much later stage of the Bardo ((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bardo)), just before returning to the causal body of the soul – imminent to taking the next embodiment.

Mercury rules the lower and higher mind, plus the building of the antahkarana or bridge between them. Hence Mercury is associated with memories, and digs out all that has been long forgotten or suppressed; particularly when placed in Scorpio, where with Pluto’s aid, all those memories can be released, relinquished, “resurrected from the dead” – raised up into a fresh perspective.

Memory is an aspect of the “Dweller on the Threshold”, a factor that assumes great importance in Scorpio – over which Mercury is the “hierarchical” ruler:

“In Scorpio, two most occult factors emerge from the past and begin to engross the attention of the disciple. One is memory and the other is, as a consequence of the memory, the Dweller on the Threshold…

… From ancient recesses of the memory, from a deeply rooted past which is definitely recalled, and from the racial and individual subconscious (or founded and established thought reservoirs and desires, inherited and inherent), there emerges from individual past lives and experience that which is the sum total of all instinctual tendencies, of all inherited glamours and of all phases of wrong mental attitudes; to these (as they constitute a blended whole) we give the name of the Dweller on the Threshold.

… When the mind has reached a relatively high stage of development, the memory aspect is evoked in a new and conscious manner and then every latent pre-disposition, every racial and national instinct, every unconquered situation and every controlling fault rises to the surface of consciousness and then—the fight is on. The keynote of Scorpio is, however, Triumph.”6

Therefore, “hell” can certainly be a place of suffering, anguish and guilt for past transgressions of the Law. Hell is really the “densest maya” and “heaven” is equally illusory – both human-created realms of the lower and upper sub-planes of the astral plane.

Depending upon one’s spiritual evolution, an individual in the afterlife might choose to “languish in their anguish” (victims of their own crystallised ideas), or move on quickly through the various sub-planes of the astral and mental planes – to the abode of the causal body.

That place might be termed the “true heaven”, from where we incarnate and “descend back into hell” – into the materialism of Earth’s physical plane, for which our souls have “contracted” to redeem a part thereof!

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Scorpio Rising Libran: Vladimir Putin and the Long War
(This article follows on from last month’s Libra newsletter, Aries-Libra: War and Peace: Global Conflict.)

[Previous articles on Putin: Vladimir Putin and the Destiny of Russia (2014) Vladimir Putin: Scorpio Rising, Libran Sun (2015)  Vladimir Putin: A Disciple of Shamballa? (2022)]

Astrologers differ on Putin’s time of birth but the chart used here is one the author has found to be consistent over a long period of time.

Scorpio Ascendant A few basic points about Scorpio rising: Magnetic intensity that can intrigue or intimidate. Tend to be reserved until provoked, often commanding attention without needing to be overtly expressive.

Known for ability to cut straight to the truth, little tolerance for superficiality. Possess a deep emotional world, very perceptive.

Hypothetically then, there are some good arguments for Putin’s soul purpose as Scorpio rising – sign of the disciple, ruled by Mars and Pluto. The intensity of Scorpio rising is tempered by Putin’s sun in reasonable, restrained and engaging Libra – sign of the law and justice.

Putin’s moon is in Gemini the communicator – his five-hour press conferences are legendary. What other world leader conducts such long and wide-ranging conversations?

Gemini the juggler, makes 8^th harmonic aspects to Saturn and Uranus – bringing a practical capacity to organise the many tasks of office – over the world’s largest land mass, containing around 144 million people.

The third sign Gemini has similar characteristics to the Saturn-ruled third ray of Active-Intelligence – known for its skill in strategy. One wonders if he is a chess player – some say that on the chess board of world politics, Putin is regarded as a grand master.

Hence, it is timely to review Putin’s horoscope, given the current world situation – where there has been no reprieve from fanatical aggression by Europe toward Russia: NATO and EU leaders like the three M’s – Mertz of Germany, Macron of France, Meloni of Italy. (This article is typical of how narrative is shaped: EU to be ‘ready’ for war with Russia by 2030.)

Additionally, the current (unelected) PM of Britain – Andy Burnham, is now contemplating reversing Brexit and rejoining the European Union. Andy Burnham has taken aim at Russia in his debut on the world stage – using his speech at the United Nations general assembly to slam Putin’s war in Ukraine.

And then there is UK politician – Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, encouraging Brits to go to war with Russia. (“Prepare for War” – Britain’s Most Pro-War Advocate.”)

Collectively, these leaders constitute a snarling old toothless tiger – the last vestiges of British-European imperialism and entitlement, making ridiculous threats that could not possibly be followed through upon – financially or militarily. Or capable of enlisting their youth to be conscripted to such a dire fate.

Thankfully however, there is a rising discontent in Europe about the direction these leaders are heading, with relatively small but regular street marches in Germany, France and elsewhere – reportedly around 45,000 in a 100 cities.

Bear in mind, Russia did not start this war. If readers want to refresh their memories of how it started, check the author’s extensive 2022 analysis here: The Crisis of Ukraine and Russia – with subheadings such as,

High Hypocrisy and Historical Amnesia, Vladimir Putin: A Disciple of Shamballa?, The Problem of NATO and the USA, Maidan Uprising 2014, Ukraine Civil War,  Nord Stream Gas Pipelines, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Bioweapons Labs, Ukraine’s Transits and Progressions, “No Nuclear War Allowed”, Russia and Ukraine: Litany of Lies (April 2022).

The constant provocation of Russia, such as recent threats to the tiny Russian state of Kaliningrad – situated between Poland and Lithuania, has resulted in tougher responses:

“Putin has warned the West against escalating the war in Ukraine, saying Moscow is prepared to use “all weapons” in its arsenal — including nuclear — if its Baltic exclave of Kaliningrad comes under attack.” (Putin warns Russia is prepared to use ‘all weapons,’ including nuclear, to protect Kaliningrad)

Then there are Zelensky’s ludicrous threats to target Russian oil refineries – to which Russia responded, “Strikes on Kiev and other regions of Ukraine will be INTENSIFIED. It is Zelensky who bears full responsibility for it.”

Given Putin’s proverbial patience and restraint – managing Russia’s SMO (Special Military Operation) in Ukraine, one wonders how thin his patience is wearing? How many times must the Russian bear be poked before a wrathful response occurs?

The next two months see significant transits to Putin’s horoscope, featuring the activation of Scorpio rising-ruler Pluto – on his natal midheaven. This reflects Putin’s extraordinary, long-standing position in power for the past 25 years. Plutin might be a more apt description, and he is not a person to make idle threats.

Putin’s Pluto in Leo falls on Russia’s Leo ascendant (Dec. 25, 1991 horoscope) – and squares Russia’s Venus-Pluto in Scorpio – a remarkable point of tension that has allowed him to preside over the transition from the Soviet era to modern day.

Vladimir Putin’s Progressions and Transits

1. Libra new moon conjunct Saturn. (Oct.10, 2026) Putin has his Libra sun conjunct serious Saturn, exalted in this sign and known for its theme of the law – both cosmic and earthly:

“In this sign, Saturn is exalted for—at the point of balance—opportunity comes and a situation is staged which makes a choice and a determination inevitable. It is a choice which has to be made intelligently and upon the physical plane, in the waking brain consciousness.”7

There is no doubt that the new moon, just a few days after his 74^th birthday (Oct.7), will bring to bear some onerous decisions. The new moon horoscope has a potent T-square to Venus-Mercury in Scorpio from Mars in Leo opposite Pluto in Aquarius.

Putin’s solar return chart for 2026-27 also has Saturn in Aries opposite his Libra sun, keeping keen the tension of vital decision-making. (See later in text.)

2. Transiting Jupiter in Leo conjunct Pluto and the midheaven. In this rectified horoscope, the midheaven and Pluto share the same 23^rd degree, whose Sabian symbol is, “A bareback rider in a circus thrills excited crowds.” (Shades of the cossacks!)

Jupiter’s 12-year cycle unlocks the power of Putin’s Pluto in Leo, making three hits – from mid-Oct.26 to early Feb.2027 and mid-June 2027.

Jupiter, the planet of expansive consciousness, in Leo – the sign of sovereignty, of rulership – will also be activating the Leo ascendant of Russia’s chart. (Esoterically, Russia is a Leo personality.)

If ever there was an opportunity for Putin to put paid to his detractors, this nine-month Jupiter transit will test his mettle.

Leo is a gateway for the first ray of Will-Power to pass – a ray associated with statesmen and politicians – and is most likely in Putin’s ray structure – as soul or personality ray.

The first ray is ruled by Vulcan and Pluto – the latter planet embracing the power aspect of the Will-Power equation. Hence, Pluto conjunct Putin’s midheaven represents a career – or dharma, of presiding over the wise use and distribution of power.

Jupiter is ruler of the second ray of Love-Wisdom, and although it can be arrogant and over-bearing in Leo (depending on the consciousness of the individual), it can have an unique tempering effect on Pluto the Destroyer – blending to create the, “iron fist in the velvet glove”.

Transiting Jupiter in Leo is conjunct MC-Pluto for the first time in 12 years – and at Putin’s age, represents a high water mark of his “career” – a bold and dominating expression that commands recognition in world affairs.

Jupiter conjunct the midheaven is about victory, the achievement of long term goals, resulting in a more conspicuous profile, enhancing public image – a boost in influence and authority in geopolitics.

Bear in mind, part of Putin’s military restraint since the 2022 SMO began, is the fact that he believes that the eventual reunification of Ukraine with Russia is a spiritual goal and is, “only a matter of time”.

3. Progressed Moon and Mars in Aquarius opposite Pluto-Midheaven. The 27-year cycle of the progressed moon has been in Aquarius for the past 11 months – now conjunct progressed Venus in Aquarius, will spend another 19 months here.

This is most significant given that Russia is an Aquarian soul and that the last time the progressed moon was here, was in Sept. 1998 when it made an exact conjunction with progressed Mars at 0° Aquarius.

This was just over one year before Putin was appointed acting president in late Dec.1999 when progressed moon was in Aquarius conjunct the moon’s north node.  Transiting Mars was coming through Aquarius at the same time.

A few months later the progressed moon opposed Pluto and the midheaven, just as transiting Uranus in Aquarius was conjunct the north node and closely opposite Pluto-midheaven in Leo. Notably, transiting Saturn was in Taurus, opposite his Scorpio ascendant.

Fast forward to today, progressed Mars, which moves very slowly, has been in range of its opposition to natal Pluto since 2024 – and will meet the progressed moon in an almost exact opposition to Pluto-MC in mid-July 2027.

Hence, this is a major full circle event on a higher turn of the evolutionary spiral. Putin came to prominence in 1999 and will come into prominence again, aided this time by these significant transits.

4. Transiting Pluto square Scorpio ascendant. This transit has been occurring on and off throughout 2025-26. But before that, going back to 2022, solar-arc Pluto was passing across the Scorpio ascendant, along with the progressed midheaven.

Pluto has a 248-year cycle, bringing a once-in-a-lifetime transit when its squares the ascendant-descendant axis.

Pluto made its first almost exact square in (1) mid-May 2025, then (2) its first exact square mid-Feb.2026, (3) exact retrograde square in early Aug.2026, direct square Christmas 2026 (Russia’s birthday) – (4) finally returning for its last stationary square (very close but not exact), around Oct.20, 2027.

On Putin’s birthday Oct.7, Pluto was between stages 3 and 4 – stationary, about to go direct on Oct.16. In summary – with progressions and transits, Putin has been in Pluto’s domain since the 2022 SMO. One might say, “up to his arse in alligators” – a fitting term for the foetid swamp of Scorpio, where lurks the nine-headed hydra!

To say that Putin might have been going through hell would be an understatement! Pluto, lord of the underworld and ruler of his Scorpio ascendant, has certainly demanded Putin walk Pluto’s burning ground – keeping a tight leash on power domestically and internationally.

Hence, natal Pluto in Leo is being stimulated by Jupiter at the same time that transiting Pluto is making its final square to the ascendant-descendant. Putin has to maintain a very tricky balance of attack and defence (Aries-Libra) – not go over the top with a nuclear response – and yet not to be so restrained as to appear weak.

A most unenviable position because Putin holds the fate of the world in his hands, given erratic and unpredictable pronouncements by Western leaders. As of this writing Oct.22, Putin was entering into peace talks – but as before, Ukraine is not willing to make any concessions which may lead to another stalemate.

5. Transiting Uranus conjunct the Moon in Gemini. A long term transit of 84 years over the moon is another once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Uranus came very close to Putin’s moon in mid-2025, returning to embrace the moon proper in mid-June 2026, finally making an amazing four-month station from Dec.2026 to April 2027!

Putin’s Gemini moon is his gift of the gab – of multiple communications with many different leaders.

The moon rules the ninth house of foreign affairs and no doubt his skill in this area has helped him to be one of the major builders of BRICS, which many nations have now joined. (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa – Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, United Arab Emirates.)

This is complementary to the fact that Uranus is the ruler of Aquarius, the soul of Russia. Uranus also rules the seventh ray of Ceremonial Order or Organisation – the soul ray of Russia.

Hence, transiting Uranus will be not only activating Putin’s Gemini moon, but also his Uranus and Saturn by 8^th harmonic aspects. Traditional, conservative Saturn and radical, reforming Uranus.

Uranus is also the esoteric ruler of his Sun in Libra, complementing his Gemini capacity for networking many different relationships.

6. Transiting Saturn in Aries opposite the Sun in Libra. This transit also does not come around very often – 28-30 years! Saturn made its first exact hit in mid-June 2026, again in late Aug.2026 – until early March 2027.

This is a very challenging transit related to huge responsibilities, physical health and initiation – from Saturn the lord of karma. The karma of reward or retribution.

The sun represents the three-fold lower self or personality – mental, astral and physical. Saturn rules the throat centre, gateway to the mental body, having a considerable disciplining effect upon the mental body component of the personality.

Saturn opposite the Sun can bring heavy responsibilities and difficult decisions – where the Libran judicial mind must weigh carefully in the balance..

The Sun is the ruler of the Leo midheaven, hence Saturn is indirectly affecting outcomes previously discussed with the Jupiter transit to Pluto.

Saturn in this position challenges one’s personal identity (Aries) in the context of relationships (Libra). It encourages assertion of one’s individuality whilst re-evaluating partnerships and commmittments.

There can be a strong compulsion to stand up for oneself – in the face of undue criticism. Aries’ will to assert might clash with Libra’s natural inclination for harmony.

Conflict resolution is the key factor here: Conflict (Aries) resolution (Libra). Libra cannot procrastinate here – achieving harmony requires careful navigation of conflicts and staying engaged with warring parties.

But when the privelege of peace negotiations are offered by Russia and are constantly abused by disingenuous amateur actors, then the Aries polarity can kick in – like Lawrence of Arabia’s battle cry, “take no prisoners”. In other words slaughter them all, preferred by hardliners in Russia who are critical of Putin.

Here lies a riddle, wrapped in a dilemma, inside of a conundrum! Hamlet’s Libra dilemma:

“To be or not to be … whether tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune … or take arms against a sea of trouble. And by opposing end them?” (See Hamlet’s Dilemma and Libra.)

The health factor is another feature of this Saturn opposite the Sun transit. The Sun carries one’s essential vitality and Saturn can exert a strong restraining influence.

Shouldering the stress of extraordinary responsibilities can take its toll through burnout, especially via heart attack.8

Putin’s Solar Return
This is a very dynamic chart, showing the Sun in its Libra natal position – and Libra rising: A double-dose of diplomacy perhaps, and agonising decisions!

Mars in Leo dominates the midheaven, in tense opposition to Pluto in Aquarius, both T-square to an exact conjunction of Venus and Mercury in Scorpio – which fall close to Putin’s ascendant.

The Sabian symbol for that 9^th degree is “Dental work” – suggesting a smiling diplomacy, renovation and consolidation – or being “armed to the teeth”! Mars falls on USA’s north node in Leo, reflecting its oblique aggression toward Russia.

The T-square has a potential pattern of unbridled aggression, vitriolic power struggles, confrontations and conflicts, complexity in communications and intense emotion. How well might Putin’s Libra contain and direct these forces?

Mars in Leo is about boldness, assertiveness and a desire for recognition. Pluto in Aquarius – raw power, transformation and challenges to authority.

Venus in Scorpio – deep emotional connections, intimacy – sometimes jealousy or possessiveness. Mercury in Scorpio enhances communication around sensitive topics – often revealing hidden truths.

The Moon in Virgo is square to Uranus in Gemini, suggesting some very intricate and innovative ideas that could generate diplomatic solutions. It might also suggest sudden changes in strategy, either politically and/or on the battlefield.

Jupiter in Leo is prominent in the tenth house of career, harmoniously sextile to the Libra ascendant, encouraging wise and generous diplomacy.

Although in some leaders (ahem!), “Jupiter in Leo’s shadow expression can be a toxic narcissist, be a relentless attention seeker, demand to be in the spotlight, amplify ego and overconfidence – leading to behaviors that prioritise appearance over substance.”9

Weighing the solar return horoscope in the Libra scales, there are very powerful dynamics of aggression and peace that are playing off against one another, with perhaps Libra having an edge in Putin’s chart for conflict resolution.

Let us observe what unfolds in this next 12-month cycle, as the world faces some seemingly insurmountable challenges.

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A D V E R T I S E M E N T

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– Explains pre-history and the place of Earth– within and beyond the solar system.
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– Explains the Hindu Yugas and their application in dating rootraces and civilisations.
– Explores many civilisations and their links to one another.
– Through the 4320 cipher, reveals and confirms the true chronology of Earth’s history.
– Examines the geological key, timing of those eras and the emergence of humanity.
– Compares Hindu and Old Testament dating, revealing them as almost identical.
– Hindu Manu’s are Jewish Patriarchs – their ages are code for subrace durations.
– Reveals the mystery of the origin of the apes through humans mating with animals.
– Explores human individualisation, gaining “spark of mind”, mysteries of sex and birth.
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– Gives an esoteric historical interpretation of the Book of Enoch.
– Gives an occult history of the Jewish people – from the first solar system to Israel.

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Trumpanyahu’s Chutzpah Factor: Mars-Jupiter Transits
“Some commentators say that both Trump and Netanyahu will use any excuse to cancel their respective elections. I suspect a massive attack on Iran is imminent which will cause such reaction from the rest of the World that both of them will declare elections cancelled. I sincerely hope I am wrong.”10

As noted in several newsletters, Trump and Netanyahu share the same Mars position in the 27^th degree of Leo. The Sabian Symbol for this degree is “daybreak”, or the “Luminescence of dawn in the eastern sky”.

Will these two joined-at-the-hip leaders have their Road-to-Damascus moment – be “blinded by the light”, or continue the path of Mars aggression? Their respective Mars returns last almost six months – from mid-November 2026 to early May 2027.

Nov. 14-21: Transiting Mars makes a spectacular conjunction to Jupiter and south node in Leo – in the 26^th degree. (Sabian: “As light breaks through the clouds, a perfect rainbow forms.”)

Nov. 17-19: Transiting Mars-Jupiter stay together for three days in the 27^th degree. All this occurs while the Sun is passing through Scorpio, squaring Mars-Jupiter in Leo! With this combinaton, emotion and ego will be  pronounced, something has to give!

Exoterically, the point of least resistance for this combination is chutzpah – Jupiter and Mars in Leo, both guilty of self-aggrandisement in their own individual right, let alone their brief dalliance!

Trump, and in particular Netanyahu, are the embodiment of chutzpah – a word from Yiddish which means “impudence” or “gall”:

“Chutzpah refers to an audacity or insolence that oversteps social norms. Both can involve boldness, but courage is viewed as virtuous, whereas chutzpah often implies a lack of respect or propriety.” (See also BiBi Netanyahu: The King of Chutzpah.)

This description would apply to all the Israeli ministers and the cowardly bullies known as settlers – who constantly harass Palestinians. Israel has in fact, become a chutzpah state – poisoned by decades of arrogant attitudes that attempt to justify and rationalise its actions.

This is what Belgian psychologist Matthias Desmet calls a “mass formation” – or mass hypnosis/psychosis – it can happen in any group of people fixated upon some kind of ideology. (See Europe’s Mass-Psychosis Getting Worse.)

Nov. 24 to Dec. 8: Shortly after Nov.17-19, Mars and Jupiter will pass across Trump’s Leo ascendant. Mars first on Nov.24.

Nov. 30 to Dec. 8 Jupiter is within 1° of his Leo ascendant – stationary for 9 days. This will undoubtedly be a danger period regarding Jupiter in Leo’s aforementioned shadow expression.

The ascendant is esoterically the soul purpose and this is true to a certain extent for Trump – in that he is a Leonine leader. But populist political leaders are rarely truly wise statesmen.

Exoterically, the ascendant can simply be an aspect of personality expression, the “mask” which is presented to the world. It all depends upon the level of evolution of the soul in question.

Nevertheless, both types can be used by the observing higher powers to bring about certain effects. In Trump’s case, the decision with Israel to attack Iran has backfired spectacularly, revealing many things that would have hitherto remained hidden.

The primary exposure is how the USA has been controlled by Zionist Israel for many decades – siphoning-off billions in cash and military contracts – for forever wars.

To the point now, that a large segment of the US population is calling for an end to funding and support of this pariah state. (Senator Gillibrand: Withdraw Section 1217, United States-Israel FUTURES Act.  24 Senators Vote for Sanders Resolution to Stop Bombs Sale to Israel.)

Dec. 16, 2026 to Jan. 6, 2027: Jupiter heads retrograde back on Trumpanyahu’s Mars, in the 27^th degree of Leo – stationary for an astonishing 22 days!

The combination of Jupiter-Mars can be bombastic and emotionally explosive – a “clear and present danger”, not from external forces but from Trumpanyahu and any decisions made.

March 1-4, 2027: Mars returns to the 27^th degree of Leo. The final hit will be May 3-4, 2027.

During these retrograde and direct phases of Mars, it will spend almost three months in Virgo – the soul of the Jewish people. (Nov.26, 2026 to Feb.19, 2027 = 85 days.)

Jul. 4-11, 2027: Jupiter finally returns to conjoin Trumpanyahu’s Mars in Leo: July 4 for five days – joined by the Moon in Leo on July 6!

Very important dates that could also set the stage for some public stunt or “false flag” operation around the 4^th of July – something showy and over-the-top – Jupiter-Mars in Leo!

Jupiter then passes over Trump’s ascendant proper, Jul. 24, 2027. Let us pray that wisdom planet Jupiter prevails! Summary of dates:

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Russell Brand’s Rape Trial: Cupidity and Cupido
“Russell Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court on October 12, 2026, for the start of his rape and sexual assault trial, pleading not guilty to three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and one allegation of indecent assault … charges relate to incidents involving six women over a period from 1999 to 2009.” [17-26 years ago.)

[Other astrological analyses on Russell Brand: Russell Brand: Loquacious Gemini (2014)
Russell Brand: Libra Rising (2021) Russell Brand’s Trial by Media (2023)]

When Brand made his first court appearance on October 12, transiting Saturn (karma, the law, authority) was sitting right on his Mars-Moon in Aries.

This was the second of three hits by transiting Saturn. The first one was in May 2026, the third and final one will be in early Feb. 2027. Perhaps the trial may end around that time.

Brand has a high media profile with millions of followers on YouTube, constantly questioning the mainstream media narrative – in some well articulated videos.

Whether there is any truth in the allegations, the legacy media appears to be out to destroy Brand, bringing up events from a long time ago.

Shades of Julian Assange –  allegations of sexual impropriety, later proved to be a pack of lies – designed to bring down a whistleblower. (The line between Brand’s consensual and non-consensual sex with his accusers is explored in this article.)

Although in the past few years, Brand has moved from an universal spirituality outlook to a narrower but sincere born-again-Christian – with some fanaticism. Whether this was in anticipation of these pending charges since 2023 – as some kind of moral bulwark – is unknown.

In his proposed Libra rising chart, Brand is a typically loquacious Gemini sun with Moon-Mars in Aries opposite his Libra ascendant. Here is his potent sexuality and appeal, his challenges to bring about balance through Libra, right relations and marriage.

Brand freely admits that he was once a sex addict – among other things – like substance abuse. (Russell Brand Admits He Was ‘Sex Addict’ and ‘Imbecile’ But Denies Rape Allegations) The court prosecutors described him as a ‘ruthless’ and ‘calculated’ sexual predator.

It is fascinating to observe that Brand has Cupido in Libra, closely conjunct Uranus in the Scorpionic eighth house (in the Cap. rising chart).

In the Libra rising chart, Cupido and Uranus are prominently in the first house, closely square to Venus in Cancer, planet of relationships and exoteric ruler of Libra.

The asteroid Cupido rules crushes, romances and infatuation. Libra’s main themes are the Law, Sex and Money (and relationships). Uranus is the esoteric ruler of Libra and also rules the sacral-sexual chakra. So there is an added challenge to the aforesaid Moon-Mars in Aries opposite his Libra ascendant.

Natal Pluto in Libra sits right on his ascendant, giving him a decidedly Scorpionic look, another factor contributing to his sexual charisma.

In the proposed Capricorn rising chart (Astrodatabank – a suspect birth time), Venus is in Cancer on the descendant – a very Libran position.

Brand’s most telling transit currently is that of Pluto (infamy) opposing his progressed Sun in Leo (former celebrity), T-square to Venus in Scorpio – as she traverses Pluto’s underworld, bringing him face to face with old relationships and dalliances.

As transiting Venus retrograde in Scorpio continues its passage, it will pass over Uranus-Cupido twice more (the first hit being Sept.6): Oct.25-29, embracing the Oct. 26 Scorpio-Taurus full moon.

Then the final pass will be Nov.28 to Dec.2 – just before heading back into Scorpio and passing over the degree of the Oct.26 full moon on Dec.8, 2026. No doubt this period will be the most trying for Brand, in terms of all the scandalous accusations coming to light in the media.

During this period, transiting Mars and Jupiter will be making several hits to Brand’s progressed midheaven at 27° Leo – in exactly the same time-frame as Trumpanyahu! (Brand was a supporter of Trump at one point, even staying at Mar-a-Lago for a while.)

Hence, the Mars-Jupiter transits will place Brand even prominently in the spotlight, something that he relinquished and rejected as a former movie star. It may bring Brand greater infamy but maybe a stroke of Jupiter luck in his trial – and his current media career.

Due to time and space constraints, here are the broad brushstrokes occurring in Brand’s horoscope. Time (Saturn) will tell and the truth (Jupiter) will emerge – one way or another!

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Phillip Lindsay © 2026.
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“Humans are divided into different clans and tribes, and belong to countries and towns.
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The universe is my country and the human family is my tribe.” (Khalil Gibran)

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1. A Treatise on Cosmic Fire, Alice A. Bailey. p.896. [↩]
2. Esoteric Astrology, Alice A. Bailey. p.196. [↩]
3. Esoteric Astrology, Alice A. Bailey. p.196. [↩]
4. Esoteric Astrology, Alice A. Bailey. p.225. [↩]
5. Esoteric Astrology, Alice A. Bailey. p.359. [↩]
6. Esoteric Astrology, Alice A. Bailey. p.207. [↩]
7. Esoteric Astrology, Alice A. Bailey. p.249. [↩]
8. Statsitically demonstrated by the late Dr. Finn Anderson of Denmark. [↩]
9. https://www.denadecastro.com/blog/jupiter-in-leo [↩]
10. Forum comment. [↩]