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Ukraine Strikes Russian Energy Hubs with Missiles and Drones

A n artilleryman of the 44th Separate Artillery Brigade, named after Hetman Danylo Apostol, of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, carries a cartridge as he prepares to fire a M777 Howitzer towards Russian troops. On December 25, 2025 , Ukraine launched a coordinated assault on Russian energy infrastructure, deploying Storm Shadow cruise missiles alongside long-range drones . According to the Ukrainian General Staff, the strikes hit the Novoshakhtinsk oil refinery in Russia’s Rostov region, one of southern Russia’s largest suppliers of diesel and jet fuel for the military. Multiple explosions were reported, and the facility was forced offline. In addition to the refinery, Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) confirmed drone attacks on facilities in Temryuk and Orenburg . Fuel tanks in Temryuk caught fire, while a gas processing plant in Orenburg was shut down, further disrupting Russia’s energy output. Ukrainian officials stated that these operations are designed to undermine Russia’s milit...

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Maldives Bans Israelis from Entering Country Over War in Gaza

 

The Maldives government has taken a significant step by announcing a ban on Israeli citizens from entering the Indian Ocean archipelago. This decision comes amid rising public anger in the predominantly Muslim nation over the ongoing war in Gaza. Here are the key details:

  1. Ban Details:

    • The Cabinet of the Maldives decided to change laws to prevent Israeli passport holders from entering the country.
    • A subcommittee will be established to oversee the ban implementation.
    • President Mohamed Muizu will appoint a special envoy to assess Palestinian needs and launch a fundraising campaign.
  2. Israel’s Response:

    • Israel’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Oren Marmorstein, recommended that Israelis avoid any travel to the Maldives, including those with foreign passports.
    • Israelis currently in the Maldives are advised to consider leaving.
  3. Tourism Impact:

    • Nearly 11,000 Israelis visited the Maldives last year, accounting for 0.6% of total tourist arrivals.

The ban reflects the Maldives’ stance on the conflict in Gaza and underscores the nation’s solidarity with the Palestinian cause. As tensions persist, this move adds to the geopolitical dynamics in the region.


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