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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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Los Angeles Wildfires Rage On: Death Toll Rises to 24 as Santa Ana Winds Return




The devastating wildfires that have been ravaging Southern California for the past week have claimed at least 24 lives, with officials warning of a "particularly dangerous situation" as the Santa Ana winds return to the region.

Three large fires continue to burn in Los Angeles County: the Palisades Fire, which has burned 23,713 acres and is 13% contained the Eaton Fire, which has scorched more than 14,100 acres and is 27% contained; and the Hurst Fire, which has burned 799 acres and is 95% contained.

The National Weather Service has issued a rare warning, forecasting that parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties will be in a "particularly dangerous situation" starting Tuesday at 4 a.m. local time. "Do NOT do anything that could spark a fire," the NWS said in the advisory. "Peak winds for this next event will be weaker than those last week. Nevertheless, winds will be strong enough to potentially cause explosive fire growth."

Los Angeles Fire Chief Kristin Crowley urged people to stay away from neighborhoods that are still seeing flames. "There are still active fires that are burning within the Palisades area, making it extremely, extremely dangerous for the public," she said.

The Walt Disney Company has committed $15 million to immediate response teams helping out in the Los Angeles area, including the American Red Cross, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, and the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank.

As the fires continue to burn, the IRS has announced tax relief for individuals and businesses affected by the wildfires, extending the tax filing deadline to October 15.

The situation remains critical, and residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow all safety instructions from local authorities.



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