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Wall Street Slips as Investors Eye Jobs Data and Venezuela Oil Deal

U.S. stocks edged lower on Wednesday as investors paused to assess fresh labor‑market signals and the political implications of a new U.S.–Venezuela oil agreement. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all dipped slightly in early trading, easing back from recent highs. The pullback comes as traders await upcoming jobs data that could influence expectations for the Federal Reserve’s next moves. Signs of a cooling labor market have raised questions about how quickly policymakers may adjust interest rates in the months ahead. Market attention also turned to President Trump’s newly announced oil deal with Venezuela, which includes a plan for the U.S. to receive tens of millions of barrels of crude under a tightly controlled arrangement. The agreement has added a fresh geopolitical layer to energy markets, contributing to a modest decline in oil prices as traders evaluate how the additional supply might affect global dynamics. Despite the softer tone, equities remain near record levels, sup...

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A Step Toward Peace: Russia and Ukraine Agree to Maritime Truce and Energy Attack Ban

In a significant development, Russia and Ukraine have reached separate agreements to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea and to halt attacks on each other's energy facilities. These agreements, mediated by the United States, mark a potential turning point in the three-year-long conflict between the two nations.

The accords, finalized during talks in Saudi Arabia, aim to reduce hostilities and pave the way for broader peace negotiations. Both nations have expressed skepticism about the other's commitment to the agreements, emphasizing the need for U.S. enforcement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated that any violations by Russia would prompt requests for sanctions and additional military support.

While the agreements represent progress, challenges remain. Maritime battles have been a smaller part of the conflict since 2023, but energy infrastructure has been a frequent target for both sides. The success of these agreements will depend on mutual adherence and effective enforcement.

This development offers a glimmer of hope for a resolution to the ongoing war, but the road to lasting peace remains uncertain.

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