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Bulgarian court rejects extradition of Russian owner of a ship linked to Beirut port blast

Bulgarian court rejects extradition of Russian owner of a ship linked to Beirut port blast

A Bulgarian court has rejected Lebanon's request to extradite Igor Grechushkin, the owner of a ship linked to the 2020 Beirut port explosion

Turkey Investigates Movements of Damaged Tanker Kairos Amidst Diplomatic Concerns

Turkey Investigates Movements of Damaged Tanker Kairos Amidst Diplomatic Concerns

Turkey has initiated an investigation into the movements of the fire-damaged tanker Kairos, which drifted off the Bulgarian coast. The tanker, damaged during an attack by Ukraine, was towed by a private Turkish company without the knowledge of Turkish authorities. Bulgarian officials have expressed concerns over the tanker's movements, which appeared to be directed towards Bulgarian waters before being abandoned. The Turkish ambassador to Bulgaria has assured full cooperation in the investigation. The tanker remains anchored near the Bulgarian town of Ahtopol, with conditions on board reported as difficult due to lack of electricity and heat.

Turkey Initiates Investigation into Damaged Tanker's Movements Near Bulgaria

Turkey Initiates Investigation into Damaged Tanker's Movements Near Bulgaria

Turkish and Bulgarian officials are collaborating to investigate the movements of the fire-damaged tanker Kairos, which drifted off the Bulgarian coast. The tanker, damaged during an attack by Ukraine, required a rescue operation. Bulgaria's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications, Grozdan Karadjov, along with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Georg Georgiev, met with Turkey's Ambassador to Bulgaria, Mehmet Uyanak, to discuss the situation. The Bulgarian government is seeking clarity on the intentions behind the tanker's movement towards its coast. The Turkish ambassador reported that the tow was arranged by a private Turkish company without the knowledge of Turkish authorities. An investigation has been launched by Turkey to provide full information to Bulgaria. The tanker remains anchored near the Bulgarian town of Ahtopol, with Bulgarian officials ensuring the ship's stability and safety.

British Soldier Killed in Ukraine During Defensive Capability Testing

British Soldier Killed in Ukraine During Defensive Capability Testing

A member of the UK armed forces, Lance Corporal George Hooley, has died in Ukraine following a 'tragic accident' while observing the testing of a new defensive capability. The UK Ministry of Defence confirmed his death, marking the first confirmed casualty of a serving British soldier in Ukraine since the conflict began in February 2022. The incident occurred amidst ongoing discussions between Ukraine and its allies regarding peace plans and security guarantees. The UK Defence Secretary, John Healey, expressed condolences and highlighted the risks faced by service members in conflict zones.

Ukraine Targets Russian Shadow Fleet to Disrupt Oil Sales Amid Sanctions

Ukraine Targets Russian Shadow Fleet to Disrupt Oil Sales Amid Sanctions

Ukraine has reportedly launched attacks on several oil tankers associated with Russia's shadow fleet, aiming to disrupt Moscow's ability to evade international sanctions and continue its oil sales. These operations, which have taken place off the coasts of Turkey and West Africa, are part of Ukraine's broader strategy to undermine Russia's war funding. Ukrainian media, citing intelligence sources, reported that Ukrainian 'Sea Baby' drones targeted the sanctioned oil tankers Kairos and Virat in the Black Sea. The attacks are said to be a joint operation between Ukraine's Security Service and Navy. The Kairos, grounded off Bulgaria's coast, and the Virat were both hit in late November. These actions follow President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's call for stronger international responses to Russia's shadow fleet, which has been accused of violating sanctions and engaging in illicit activities.

Supreme Court hears Alabama's appeal to execute a man found to be intellectually disabled

Supreme Court hears Alabama's appeal to execute a man found to be intellectually disabled

The Supreme Court is taking up an appeal from Alabama, which wants to put to death a man who lower federal courts found is intellectually disabled and shielded from execution

On anniversary of the fall of Bashar Assad, Syrians and their country struggle to heal

On anniversary of the fall of Bashar Assad, Syrians and their country struggle to heal

Mohammad Marwan has been struggling to rebuild his life after being released from Syria’s Saydnaya prison a year ago

As tensions flare on Israel-Lebanon border, war-torn communities struggle to rebuild

As tensions flare on Israel-Lebanon border, war-torn communities struggle to rebuild

One year into a shaky ceasefire between Israel and the militant group Hezbollah, people are trickling back to communities along the Israel-Lebanon border and struggling to rebuild

UN Team Explores Options for Lebanon-Israel Border After Peacekeepers' Departure

UN Team Explores Options for Lebanon-Israel Border After Peacekeepers' Departure

A United Nations delegation is visiting Lebanon to explore options for managing the territory along the border with Israel after the UN peacekeeping force, UNIFIL, ends its term in 2026. The delegation, representing the UN Security Council, is assessing the implementation of resolution 1701, which ended the Israel-Hezbollah war in 2006 and was used again to cease hostilities last year. The visit follows Lebanon's request for a follow-up force to fill the vacuum left by UNIFIL's departure.

Mystery Surrounds Damaged Tanker Kairos Off Bulgarian Coast

Mystery Surrounds Damaged Tanker Kairos Off Bulgarian Coast

The tanker Kairos, involved in the Russian oil trade and sanctioned by the West, is stranded off the Bulgarian coast after being attacked by Ukrainian forces. The vessel, damaged by a drone attack, has a crew of 10 who initially requested evacuation but now await a tow. Bulgarian authorities are investigating the incident, noting the vessel's unclear registration and lack of contact with its owners. The tanker, reportedly registered in Benin, was bound for Russia when attacked. The crew is safe with sufficient supplies, and the vessel poses no environmental threat as it carries no crude oil.

A year after Bashar Assad fled, Syria struggles to heal

A year after Bashar Assad fled, Syria struggles to heal

Mohammad Marwan has been struggling to rebuild his life after being released from Syria’s Saydnaya prison a year ago

European Union Advances Migration Policy Overhaul Amidst Internal Opposition

European Union Advances Migration Policy Overhaul Amidst Internal Opposition

The European Union is moving forward with significant changes to its migration system, aiming to streamline deportations and increase detentions. This overhaul includes the establishment of a 'solidarity pool' to distribute the financial burden of hosting refugees among member states, particularly those facing high migratory pressure like Cyprus, Greece, Italy, and Spain. Hungary and Poland have expressed opposition to mandatory hosting or financial contributions for migrants. The EU's new approach also involves a 'safe third country' concept, allowing for the denial of residency to migrants from designated safe countries. This policy shift comes amid a decade-long debate on migration, influenced by a surge in asylum-seekers and the rise of far-right political parties. The European Council will negotiate with the European Parliament to finalize these changes.