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U.S. Seizure of Russian-Flagged Tanker Heightens Global Tensions

The ship, currently between Iceland and the British Isles, has been accused of breaking US sanctions and shipping Iranian oil. It has historically transported Venezuelan crude oil. The United States has seized a Russian‑flagged oil tanker linked to Venezuela after a prolonged pursuit across the Atlantic, marking one of the most assertive enforcement actions under Washington’s sanctions program. The vessel, previously known as Bella‑1 and later renamed Marinera , was intercepted after evading an earlier boarding attempt near Venezuelan waters. U.S. military aircraft and naval units tracked the ship for weeks as it traveled across the Atlantic, at times shadowed by Russian naval vessels. Officials say the tanker was part of a network used to transport sanctioned Venezuelan and Russian oil. Its capture underscores Washington’s efforts to disrupt what it describes as illicit energy shipments that help sustain both governments. The operation comes at a delicate geopolitical moment, wit...

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Cyprus to Construct Major Naval Base to Boost Geopolitical Influence in the Mediterranean

 

Cyprus’ defense minister, Vasilis Palmas, announced plans to build a significant naval base on the southern coast of the east Mediterranean island. The base aims to host large ships from European Union countries and other nations, facilitating various missions, including humanitarian aid deliveries to the tumultuous Middle East region. This move comes as Cyprus assumes an elevated geopolitical role, being the EU’s closest member to the Middle East.

The proposed naval base will be strategically positioned to support policies geared toward the region. Recent months have seen Cyprus serve as a staging ground for collecting and delivering humanitarian aid to war-ravaged Gaza. Additionally, the base will enhance cooperation with Greece, which is contributing technical expertise to the project. The construction will be guided by expert studies and will be located approximately 25 kilometers east of the coastal town of Limassol.

This expansion reflects Cyprus’ commitment to reshaping geopolitics in the Eastern Mediterranean, providing a vital hub for naval operations and reinforcing alliances with allied countries. As the project unfolds, it will undoubtedly impact regional dynamics and strengthen Cyprus’ position on the global stage.


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