The article states that the United States views certain actions as “economic terrorism against the entire world.” This perspective suggests that if Iran attempts to disrupt global commerce, a reciprocal response will be implemented, preventing Iranian ships from operating. This policy aims to establish a principle of mutual restriction in response to perceived economic aggression.
Iran has presented a 10-point proposal aimed at resolving ongoing conflict, conveyed through Pakistan as an intermediary. This plan includes demands for guarantees against attack, the cessation of Israeli strikes against Hezbollah, and the lifting of all economic sanctions. In return, Iran proposes allowing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, and establishing a regulated transit system with fees that would contribute to rebuilding damaged infrastructure. While described as a “significant step” by US President Donald Trump, the proposal has been deemed “not good enough” as a deadline for compliance approaches, with Trump reiterating stern warnings of potential military action.
The news is that Russian oil terminals have been under attack and are unable to accept shipments for the second week running, according to sources. This ongoing situation is having a noticeable impact on the flow of oil, essentially preventing Russia from profiting from its resources as effectively as before. The effectiveness of these attacks is a key point of discussion, with the sentiment being that keeping the pressure up is a strategic move to hinder Russia’s financial gains.
It’s interesting to consider the broader implications of these attacks. The idea that burning oil, whether accidental or intentional, could create a persistent scent is a grim observation.… Continue reading
Iran has recently added the demand for recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz to its list of war-ending requirements, seeking to leverage the vital global shipping lane for revenue and economic pressure. The country’s success in disrupting trade through attacks has apparently expanded its ambitions, with lawmakers considering a bill to impose tolls on vessels using the strait. This move aims to formalize control and potentially generate billions, rivaling the Suez Canal, as a means to offset economic shortfalls from sanctions.
Doctors in Cuba are voicing grave concerns, stating that patients are dying due to the ongoing U.S. blockade. This situation is not a new one, but the current policies have exacerbated an already difficult humanitarian crisis, leading to a tangible impact on the lives of ordinary Cubans. The consequences are severe, affecting everything from the availability of basic medical supplies to the functioning of essential services.
The U.S. blockade, a term that has been a point of contention, is seen by many as a deliberate act of economic warfare. This policy has been in place for decades, but recent actions have intensified its impact.… Continue reading
The U.S. issued a license on Friday authorizing dealings with Venezuela’s state-owned gold mining company, Minerven, a move signaling increased U.S. oversight of the South American nation’s natural resources. This decision followed a meeting between U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Venezuelan acting President Delcy Rodríguez, where security assurances for mining companies interested in investing were discussed. Notably, the license specifically prohibits engagement with Minerven by entities from Russia, Iran, North Korea, and Cuba, aligning with the administration’s strategy to counter China’s influence on critical minerals and support Venezuela’s economic recovery.
French President Emmanuel Macron has declared Russia’s invasion of Ukraine a “triple failure”—military, economic, and strategic. He highlighted that despite Russia’s initial aims, NATO has been strengthened, Europe unified, and Russian territorial gains remain minimal with catastrophic human costs. Macron reaffirmed France’s continued commitment to supplying Ukraine with equipment, training, and air defense capabilities to ensure its resilience and demonstrate that Russia cannot win.
As of January 1, 2026, China ceased all electricity imports from Russia, including the minimum contractual obligation. This decision was primarily due to the high export prices, which exceeded domestic Chinese rates, rendering further purchases economically unfavorable. The supply contract, signed in 2012 with Russia’s Inter RAO, was slated to run until 2037 and encompassed roughly 4 billion kWh annually. While exports are unlikely to resume in 2026, the Russian Ministry of Energy has not completely ruled out a future resumption if China expresses interest.
President Zelenskyy received a report from the Head of the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, detailing the impact of pressure on Russia’s energy sector. This pressure has resulted in a decline in Russia’s oil production and refining, leading to a decrease in oil and gas revenue. This year Russia will lose at least $37 billion in oil and gas income, limiting their war efforts. Furthermore, Zelenskyy discussed measures for the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
Zelenskyy demands tougher sanctions as Russia’s oil revenues plunge 27%, and honestly, it’s about time. We’re talking about a significant drop in legitimate revenue, a 27% year-on-year collapse in Moscow’s oil revenues in October, specifically. This translates to Russia collecting 888.6 billion rubles, or roughly $9.7 billion, in oil and gas taxes that month. While that’s still a substantial sum, it reflects the impact of existing restrictions and falling crude prices. The fact that President Zelenskyy is pushing for harsher measures underscores the understanding that what’s currently in place isn’t enough.
Now, you might be thinking, if Russia’s oil exports were really down, wouldn’t we feel it at the pump?… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood