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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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Russia Escalates Energy Grid Attacks Amid Upcoming U.S.-Ukraine Talks

In a significant escalation, Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone attack on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, leaving at least ten people injured, including a child. The assault comes shortly after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that his team would engage in peace talks with U.S. officials next week.

The overnight bombardment targeted natural gas extraction facilities and other critical energy infrastructure, with Ukraine's air force reporting 67 missiles and 194 drones deployed by Russian forces. Ukrainian defenses managed to intercept 34 missiles and 100 drones, while others caused extensive damage. Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko condemned the attacks, accusing Russia of attempting to "weaponize winter" by depriving civilians of light and heat.

This marks the first major attack since the U.S. announced a pause in military aid to Ukraine, a move that has raised concerns about Kyiv's ability to defend itself. Zelensky, who plans to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before the talks, expressed hope for meaningful progress toward peace. However, the attacks underscore the challenges ahead as Ukraine seeks to rebuild its energy grid and maintain civilian morale amidst ongoing hostilities.

The upcoming talks in Saudi Arabia are expected to focus on a framework for peace and a potential ceasefire, but the path to resolution remains fraught with complexities.

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