Skip to main content

Featured

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...

article

Hudson's Bay: A Canadian Legacy Faces Major Downsizing


Hudson’s Bay Company, a cornerstone of Canadian retail history, is set to undergo a significant transformation. Following a court decision, the company will retain only six stores across Ontario and Quebec, including flagship locations in downtown Toronto and Montreal. Meanwhile, liquidation sales for the remaining 74 stores will commence on March 24, 2025, with closures expected by June.

This decision comes after years of financial struggles and shifting consumer habits that have challenged traditional brick-and-mortar retailers. The retained stores represent a glimmer of hope for the 354-year-old institution, but the closures mark the end of an era for many communities across Canada.

As the liquidation process begins, shoppers will have a final opportunity to visit these iconic stores and purchase merchandise at discounted prices. The company’s future remains uncertain, but its impact on Canadian history and retail culture is undeniable.

Comments