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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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A Historic Moment: The Philippines Awaits a Possible Filipino Pope

As the papal conclave unfolds in Vatican City, the Philippines is watching with keen anticipation. With three Filipino cardinals—Luis Antonio Tagle, Jose Advincula, and Pablo Virgilio David—eligible to vote and be voted for, the possibility of a Filipino pope has never been more tangible.

Among the contenders, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has emerged as a strong candidate. Often referred to as the "Asian Francis," Tagle has won admiration for his progressive approach and humble demeanor. His potential election would mark a historic moment, making him the first Filipino and Asian pope.

The conclave, a centuries-old tradition, remains shrouded in secrecy. Cardinals cast their votes in the Sistine Chapel, with black smoke signaling an inconclusive vote and white smoke announcing the election of a new pontiff. As the world waits, Filipinos are hopeful that one of their own may soon lead the Catholic Church.


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