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Greek Tanker Struck by Missile in Black Sea, Crew Emerges Unharmed

  A Greek‑flagged tanker sailing near the Russian port of Novorossiysk was struck by a missile but remained operational, and all 24 crew members were confirmed safe.   A Greek‑owned and Greek‑flagged tanker sustained material damage after being hit by a missile while sailing approximately 14 nautical miles off the Russian port of Novorossiysk in the Black Sea. According to authorities, the vessel—operated by Maran Gas Maritime—was not carrying cargo at the time of the strike and continued to navigate safely following the incident.  All 24 crew members on board, including ten Greek nationals, thirteen Filipinos, and one Romanian, were reported to be in good health. The impact caused damage to the starboard side of the ship, but no assistance or towing was required. The tanker remained fully operational, and no environmental pollution was reported.  Greek officials have condemned the attack as dangerous and unacceptable, noting that the incident occurred amid height...
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Ukraine Probes $140M Energy Kickback Scandal Amid EU Aspirations

 

Ukraine's anti-corruption agency said it uncovered kickbacks in transactions involving nuclear power operator Energoatom.


Ukraine’s National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) has launched a sweeping investigation into an alleged $140-million kickback scheme tied to the country’s state-run nuclear power company, Energoatom. The probe comes at a critical moment as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its rule of law credentials in hopes of advancing its bid for European Union membership.

According to NABU, the scheme involved a high-level criminal network that allegedly siphoned funds through inflated contracts and backroom deals within the energy sector. Investigators claim that the network included a former adviser to the energy minister, Energoatom’s head of security, and several other insiders.

Ukraine’s Energy Minister, Svitlana Hrynchuk, emphasized her commitment to transparency, stating that those found responsible must be held accountable. The scandal underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in reforming its institutions while simultaneously enduring daily Russian bombardments that have crippled its energy infrastructure.

The timing of the investigation is significant. Eradicating corruption has long been a key requirement for Ukraine’s EU accession talks, and the exposure of such a large-scale scheme could either bolster Kyiv’s credibility—if prosecutions are successful—or deepen skepticism among European partners if accountability falters.

Despite the gravity of the allegations, NABU has stressed its independence from the government, aiming to reassure both domestic and international observers that the investigation will not be subject to political interference.

As Ukraine braces for another harsh winter, the scandal highlights the fragile state of its energy sector, already under strain from war and corruption. The outcome of this probe may prove pivotal not only for Ukraine’s energy security but also for its broader political future in Europe.

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