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Oil Prices Are Spiking — Here's What It Means for Your Gas Tank and Grocery Bill

  Published July 17, 2026 Crude oil is trading near one-month highs this week, and if you've filled up your tank recently, you've probably already felt it. The culprit: an escalating conflict in the Middle East that's disrupting one of the world's most important oil shipping routes — and it's starting to show up at Canadian pumps and, eventually, on grocery store shelves. What's happening with oil prices West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the North American benchmark, has been trading around the $79–$80 per barrel range this week — up roughly 5% over the past month. Brent crude, the global benchmark that matters more for what Canadians pay at the pump, has been hovering near $85 per barrel, also near a one-month high. The spike traces back to renewed fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The U.S. reimposed a naval blockade on Iran and has intensified strikes, while Iran has responded with attacks on U.S. bases and threats to disrupt regional energy shipments further. ...

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EU Prepares for Potential Trade Retaliation Against US Tariffs

The European Union has announced its readiness to counteract U.S. tariffs with a robust plan, should the need arise. Speaking to the European Parliament, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized the EU's preference for a negotiated solution but affirmed its preparedness to protect its interests, citizens, and businesses if necessary.

The U.S. administration, under President Donald Trump, has recently imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, with additional duties on cars expected soon. Von der Leyen criticized these measures, highlighting their potential to fuel inflation and increase costs for American industries. She also underscored the importance of diversifying trade and removing internal barriers within the EU's single market to strengthen its economic resilience.

While the EU remains open to dialogue, von der Leyen assured lawmakers that all necessary instruments are on the table to respond decisively if required. The bloc's strategy reflects its commitment to safeguarding its economic stability and maintaining a balanced global trade environment.

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