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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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Ford Calls for Early Election Amidst Political Turmoil


Ontario Premier Doug Ford is set to request the dissolution of the provincial parliament today, triggering an early election scheduled for February 27. Ford's office announced that he will visit Lt.-Gov. Edith Dumont this afternoon to end the legislature's 43rd parliament. Ford has stated that he needs a new mandate from the electorate to address issues related to U.S. President Donald Trump.

Opposition leaders, including NDP Leader Marit Stiles, Liberal Leader Bonnie Crombie, and Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner, have criticized the decision, calling it a waste of time and money. Despite the controversy, Ford plans to continue his duties as premier, including a visit to Washington, D.C., in February with other premiers, while also campaigning as the leader of the Progressive Conservatives.

The early election call comes amidst a backdrop of political and economic challenges, with Ford seeking to solidify his position and address pressing issues facing the province.

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