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Rising Tensions Leave Ships Stranded in Key Oil Passage

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz ⁠was closed for a fourth day on Tuesday, choking off a key artery accounting for about 20% of global oil and gas supply. Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, Vassilis Kikilias, has raised urgent concerns over an increasingly alarming situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where dozens of vessels remain stranded amid escalating conflict involving Iran. He emphasized the need to safeguard global shipping and protect seafarers as the strategic waterway—responsible for roughly 20% of global oil and gas flows—remains closed for a fourth consecutive day.  The closure has disrupted international trade routes and heightened anxiety across the maritime sector. Greek authorities have urged shipowners to exercise maximum caution and avoid high‑risk zones in the wider Persian Gulf region as tensions continue to rise. The prolonged shutdown underscores the vulnerability of global supply chains to geopolitical instability and highlights th...

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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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