Chega is more concerned with appealing to cops rather than military, they’re not so much about “defense” as they are about “security”. As you said historically the country is not equipped for war but the fascists loved their state police and they wouldn’t mind having it again

media is busy with the upcoming elections here (Portugal) but tbh I don’t think I’ve heard the “defense” narrative being pushed ever, maybe some talk once in a blue moon about bringing back obligatory conscription but other than that I think it’s too much of a small country and quite peripheral for that talk to gain traction

also there aren’t many pockets interested in - or capable of getting it, really - “defense” money, but the defense budget increased in 2023 I’m sure, some RRF money thrown in there as well

on the other hand I’ve never heard talk about dismantling the very strategic American base in Azores, we’re still part of NATO (founding member!) and whoever holds the belief that we shouldn’t be is ridiculed, even though we joined during our fascist era

I believe the common conception about “defense” here is: no more, no less

don’t particularly like them but I’ve got a peculiar taste when it comes to metal

they’re a curious band to bring out in a leftist forum, seeing as the OG lineup had some sort of falling out and the two remaining parties formed they’re own Batushka (so I’m not even sure which one is the one that you mention)

they also walk a fine contradiction of being, as you say, “satanic”-associated but using liturgical music/chants and imagery in their albums (it’s part of the gimmick anyway and probably the reason they got somewhat popular)

Lifting belts give you superpowers

it doesn’t. it just removes pressure from your lower back

I skyrocketed out of a plateau after getting one and I don’t have any other explanation of why

see above, you’re using a tool that removes/facilitates the force imposed on your lower back in a given lift and this has the disadvantage of not progressing the strenght on that part of the body at the same rhythm as your other muscles you’re engaging in the lift

honestly if you’re not competing there’s virtually no reason to use a lifting belt, egolifting is a thing and something that everyone lifting recreationally should not engage in