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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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Wildfire Reaches Athens’ Outskirts, Prompting Evacuations

 

A fast-moving wildfire, driven by gale-force winds, has spread to the edge of Athens, Greece, torching trees, houses, and cars. The blaze has forced the evacuation of several hospitals and numerous towns and villages.

Key Points:

  • Firefighting Efforts: Over 670 firefighters, supported by volunteers, 183 fire engines, and 32 waterbombing planes and helicopters, are battling the fire.
  • Evacuations: At least 250 people have been evacuated, with some spending the night in shelters.
  • Weather Conditions: Strong winds and high temperatures are exacerbating the situation, with flames reaching heights of 25 meters (82 feet).
  • Government Response: Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has returned from a holiday to oversee the response, recalling the devastating 2018 fire in Mati.

The situation remains critical as authorities continue to combat the blaze and protect residents.

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