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Oil Prices Are Spiking — Here's What It Means for Your Gas Tank and Grocery Bill

  Published July 17, 2026 Crude oil is trading near one-month highs this week, and if you've filled up your tank recently, you've probably already felt it. The culprit: an escalating conflict in the Middle East that's disrupting one of the world's most important oil shipping routes — and it's starting to show up at Canadian pumps and, eventually, on grocery store shelves. What's happening with oil prices West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the North American benchmark, has been trading around the $79–$80 per barrel range this week — up roughly 5% over the past month. Brent crude, the global benchmark that matters more for what Canadians pay at the pump, has been hovering near $85 per barrel, also near a one-month high. The spike traces back to renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and has intensified strikes, while Iran has responded with attacks on U.S. bases and threats to disrupt regional energy shipments further. ...

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Former Soccer Star Mikheil Kavelashvili Elected President of Georgia, Sparking Concerns Over EU Aspiration

 

In a significant political shift, former soccer player Mikheil Kavelashvili has been elected as the President of Georgia. This development has raised concerns about the country's future relationship with the European Union. Kavelashvili, 53, secured the presidency with the backing of the ruling Georgian Dream party, which holds a strong influence over the 300-seat electoral college that replaced direct presidential elections in 2017.

The election outcome is seen by many as a setback for Georgia's EU aspirations. The opposition has accused the Georgian Dream party of rigging the vote with Moscow's assistance, further straining the country's political landscape. Critics argue that the ruling party's policies are increasingly authoritarian and pro-Russian, which could hinder Georgia's efforts to integrate with the European Union.

Outgoing President Salome Zourabichvili, a pro-Western leader, has vowed to remain in office until a new election is held, citing the lack of legitimacy in the current parliamentary setup. The political turmoil has led to widespread protests and calls for new elections under conditions that ensure the will of the people is accurately represented.

Kavelashvili's presidency marks a pivotal moment for Georgia, as the nation navigates its path between European integration and maintaining relations with Russia. The coming months will be crucial in determining the direction of Georgia's political and international future.

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