**Explosions Hit Russian-Linked Oil Tanker in Italy**
On February 18, two explosions occurred on the oil tanker Seajewel, which was moored in the Italian city of Savona. The vessel is believed to have been transporting Russian oil to Europe.
The cause of the blasts is still unknown, but initial evidence suggests possible sabotage. The crew reported hearing two loud bangs and the tanker’s hull showed damage below the waterline and a fish kill near the ship.
**Russian Oil Fleet Under Scrutiny**
The Seajewel is part of Moscow’s “shadow fleet” used to evade sanctions. The vessel had previously loaded oil in Russia three times in 2024 and was reportedly heading back to Novorossiysk, Russia for reloading after unloading in the Romanian port of Constanta.
**Investigation Underway**
The Savona Coast Guard is investigating the incident with divers. No further details have been released.
**Sanctions and International Tensions**
Russia’s “shadow fleet” has come under scrutiny as sanctions intensify. Ukraine recently sanctioned captains of these vessels, targeting Russian and Iranian nationals involved in illicit oil exports.
**Global Leaders Discuss Ukraine Conflict**
Meanwhile, global leaders are discussing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. U.S. President Donald Trump is meeting with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia, despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky‘s concerns that he was not invited to this meeting.
**Russia’s Use of Propaganda**
Russia has widely used the claim that Zelensky is illegitimate in its propaganda to discredit the Ukrainian government. European leaders are pushing for a leadership role in providing Ukraine with security guarantees, while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte wrote on X that Europe is ready and willing to take on this responsibility.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com