On December 17th, Ukraine’s General Staff confirmed a drone attack targeting the Slavyansk oil refinery in Slavyansk-on-Kuban, Russia, a facility involved in supplying Russian forces. The attack resulted in explosions and a fire, with damage assessment ongoing. Following the strike, two high-voltage power lines were damaged, leading to widespread blackouts and injuries from falling debris, while Russia reported shooting down numerous Ukrainian drones in the area. This attack is part of a series of Ukrainian strikes against Russian military and energy infrastructure, aimed at reducing Moscow’s war capabilities.
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The United States is escalating pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro by imposing sanctions on his relatives and associated businesses. Following the seizure of an oil tanker, the U.S. plans to intercept more ships carrying Venezuelan oil, with the seized oil now destined for an American port. Further intensifying the situation, the U.S. military has conducted numerous strikes against Venezuelan boats suspected of drug smuggling and has increased its military presence in the region. The Trump administration’s ultimate strategy for removing Maduro from power remains unclear, despite the assertive actions taken.
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Trump plans envision major U.S. investment in Russia and restoring Russian oil flows to Europe. It’s almost unbelievable, isn’t it? The core idea seems to be this: a massive influx of American money into Russia, coupled with the renewed flow of Russian oil back into European markets. The implications of this are staggering, and the narrative, frankly, is alarming.
This sudden shift feels like a betrayal, doesn’t it? One moment, the rhetoric condemns Russian aggression, especially in light of the war in Ukraine, and the next, there’s a proposed alliance that financially benefits Russia. This raises the question of motives. Is it simply a calculated business deal, as some might argue?… Continue reading
The United States, as confirmed by former President Trump, has seized a large oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, marking a significant escalation in the administration’s pressure on the Maduro government. The vessel, sanctioned for transporting oil from Venezuela and Iran, was seized by a collaborative effort involving the FBI, Homeland Security, the US Coast Guard, and the Department of Defense. This action, targeting a major source of funding for the Maduro regime, is part of a broader strategy, which may include the US keeping the oil. The seizure raises questions about international law and follows previous US military actions in the region, including airstrikes, further fueling tensions and concerns about potential confrontation.
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According to sources in Ukraine’s Military Intelligence (HUR), the Druzhba oil pipeline, which transports Russian crude to several EU countries, was hit again on Monday near Kazynskiye Vyselki. The blast was caused by a remotely detonated explosive, intensifying the fire. This attack is part of Kyiv’s escalating campaign against Russia’s oil infrastructure, intended to disrupt the flow of revenue funding Moscow’s war effort. Previous strikes on the pipeline’s Unecha pumping station, a key hub in the Druzhba system, had already drawn condemnation from Hungary, which relies on the pipeline for oil imports.
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President Trump is scheduled to hold a White House meeting to discuss the next steps regarding Venezuela, as the administration faces increased scrutiny over its actions. The meeting will include key members of Trump’s cabinet and national security team amidst growing questions about the legality of US strikes on alleged drug vessels in the region. Reports suggest a second strike on a suspected drug vessel, following an initial attack that did not kill everyone on board, is being investigated by lawmakers who are questioning the chain of command and the Secretary of Defense’s authorization. The administration has defended the strikes as self-defense conducted in international waters, while also designating Maduro and allies as members of a foreign terrorist organization.
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Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has appealed to OPEC for assistance in countering escalating threats from the United States, accusing the US of seeking to seize Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves. Maduro formally denounced the potential use of military force against Venezuela, expressing concern over the growing US military presence in the Caribbean. This appeal follows a statement by former President Donald Trump, who declared Venezuela’s airspace closed, a move Caracas deemed a “colonialist threat.” Maduro’s plea to OPEC highlights concerns regarding the stability of the international energy market and the potential impact of US actions on oil-producing countries.
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Kazakhstan has urged Ukraine to cease attacks on the Caspian Pipeline Consortium (CPC) terminal after a Ukrainian naval drone attack caused significant damage and halted operations. The CPC, a major pipeline handling over 1% of global oil, includes shareholders from Russia, Kazakhstan, and the U.S., with Kazakhstan being its primary oil exporter. Kazakhstan’s foreign ministry protested the attack on the civilian infrastructure, viewing it as harmful to bilateral relations and expecting preventative measures from Ukraine. Russia has labeled the attacks as terrorism, while Ukraine defends its actions as self-defense against Russian aggression.
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Representative Maria Salazar told Fox Business that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro understands that the U.S. is preparing for intervention, citing economic and security reasons for potential involvement. Salazar emphasized the economic benefits for the U.S., particularly for American oil companies, given Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. The congresswoman also referenced the White House’s designation of Maduro’s regime as a foreign terrorist organization, potentially paving the way for further action. She drew parallels to the 1989 Panama invasion and suggested a similar outcome.
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Beginning Monday, the Trump administration was set to gain expanded authority to take action against Venezuela by designating the Venezuelan government as a foreign terrorist organization. This designation, focused on the “Cartel de los Soles,” allows for sanctions against Maduro’s assets and infrastructure, potentially expanding military options. Concurrently, the US military has increased its presence in the region with numerous warships and troops, as officials discuss various action options. Despite this, a recent poll indicates significant public opposition to US military intervention in Venezuela, while the administration claims its focus is on combating illegal activities with regime change as a potential side effect.
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John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood