Sanctions
Cuba has been left without oil imports for the first time in a decade due to the cessation of supplies by Mexico and the tightening of the US blockade. This has caused a critical fuel shortage and a humanitarian crisis on the island.
A report by the Munich Security Conference warns of a possible new Russian war against the Baltic states within two years after a potential ceasefire in Ukraine. Russia could also start a "local" war against one neighbor within six months.
Air Canada is suspending flights to Cuba due to a jet fuel shortage announced by the Cuban government. This decision comes amid an energy crisis in Cuba.
The European Commission has unveiled its 20th package of sanctions against Russia, targeting energy, financial services, and trade. For the first time, the sanctions include third-country ports – Kulevi (Georgia) and Karimun (Indonesia) – for handling Russian oil exports.
The US military intercepted the tanker Aquila II, which violated quarantine for sanctioned vessels. The pursuit lasted from the Caribbean Sea to the Indian Ocean, where the vessel was inspected and boarded.
The CEO of JSC "Segezha Ukraine" from Prykarpattia is accused of illegally transferring state property and selling products at an understated price, which caused 46 million UAH in damages to the state. She is also charged with organizing the illegal transfer of her son to Romania for 18 thousand dollars.
UAF President Andriy Shevchenko announced that the FIFA Council is not considering the return of Russians to football competitions. This has been confirmed after communication with FIFA representatives at various levels.
Europe needs to reduce its dependence on American payment groups such as Visa and Mastercard, said Martina Weimert, head of the banking alliance EPI. This is due to concerns that their dominance could be weaponized in the event of a deterioration in transatlantic relations.
The GUR has released data on 21 Russian enterprises involved in the development and production of unmanned systems that Russia uses in the war against Ukraine. More than half of these companies are still not under sanctions.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Russia remains open to cooperation with the United States, but does not hope for a restoration of economic ties. He noted that the United States seeks economic dominance.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha advocated for a complete ban on entry to the EU for Russian citizens who participated in the aggression against Ukraine. He emphasized that this would ensure the national security of European states and serve as the price for making the wrong choice.
Taiwan rejected a US proposal to relocate 40% of its semiconductor manufacturing capacity, calling it impossible. Taiwan's Vice Premier stated that the island's semiconductor ecosystem would develop domestically.
Cuba is preparing for a shortage of aviation fuel, which will affect international flights, while Nicaragua has closed its borders to Cuban migrants. These events are taking place amid US pressure and an economic crisis on the island.
Global oil prices fell following news of diplomatic talks between the US and Iran in Oman. Brent crude dropped to $67, WTI to $63 per barrel, and India refused to import Russian crude oil.
Two military ships carrying humanitarian aid departed from Mexico to Cuba. Thus, the Mexican government continues a long history of solidarity between the countries.
Siniša Karan won the repeat elections for the president of Republika Srpska, despite accusations of fraud from the opposition. His election continues Milorad Dodik's course and strengthens separatist sentiments in the region.
Nicaragua canceled visa-free entry for Cubans on February 8, making illegal migration to the US more difficult. This decision was made under pressure from the Trump administration to curb migration flows.
The European Union and China have settled a trade dispute by agreeing on mechanisms for controlling electric car prices. Chinese car manufacturers will avoid tariffs if they adhere to a price threshold and invest in production in the EU.
Vietnam has begun diversifying its arms purchases, moving away from Russian defense technologies in favor of Western standards. The country is negotiating with France for Rafale fighter jets and modernizing its army with the help of Israel and South Korea.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that the country will not stop uranium enrichment, despite US pressure and the threat of war. Tehran considers the nuclear program a strategic choice and does not succumb to intimidation.
The Indian Coast Guard has seized three tankers in the Arabian Sea on suspicion of oil smuggling. Analysts and Iranian media link these vessels to Iran and US sanctions.
Indian refineries have suspended purchases of Russian oil for April delivery. The move is linked to New Delhi's desire to conclude a trade agreement with the United States.
The Russian State Duma supported amendments allowing the FSB to disconnect the internet and other communication services in response to "security threats. " This will strengthen state control over communications in Russia.
Charging an electric car from a regular outlet in an apartment can lead to network overheating and fire. An expert warns of technical risks and possible fines for exceeding the permitted power.
President Zelenskyy signed decrees on new sanctions against companies producing Russian missiles and drones, as well as against the Russian financial sector. These measures are aimed at stopping the supply of components for weapons and the functioning of the crypto market.
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže called Russian strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure an act of terror. Latvia will provide technical assistance to Ukraine and calls for stronger sanctions against Russia.
Greenland's Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt stated that Nuuk's key demands regarding sovereignty and investment in negotiations with the US have not yet been met.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed with French Armed Forces Minister Catherine Vautrin the strengthening of air defense and the supply of modern fighter jets. The meeting focused on bolstering the energy system and expanding the capabilities of the Ukrainian Air Force.
Hungarian Prime Minister Orbán called Ukraine an enemy of his state, arguing that it threatens to increase the cost of living for Hungarians if the supply of cheap resources from Russia stops.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that Russian attacks on the energy system are leading to a decrease in the capacity of Ukrainian nuclear power plants. He called on the world to stop Russia by imposing sanctions against Rosatom and strengthening Ukraine's air defense.