**US Considers More Sanctions on Russia’s “Shadow Fleet”**
The US government is thinking about imposing more sanctions on tankers that help Russia evade oil trade restrictions. This move comes ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in an interview that the Biden administration will continue to use sanctions as a tool to support Ukraine until Trump takes office. She emphasized that the US will keep looking for ways to hurt Russian oil revenues, which would help Ukraine’s position.
Yellen also mentioned that the US is discussing with Chinese officials how to identify activities linked to Russia’s war effort. If they find evidence of Chinese banks supporting Russia, Yellen said she wouldn’t rule out sanctioning them.
**Other Countries Also Take Action**
The UK has already targeted Russian tankers involved in illicit oil trades. In November, it sanctioned 30 more tankers from Russia’s “shadow fleet”. The European Union also agreed on a new sanctions package against Russia earlier this month.
**Ukraine and Its Allies Fight Back**
Ukrainian air defense intercepted 58 out of 132 drones launched by Russia overnight. Since the start of the invasion, over 2,000 Ukrainian servicemen have been hospitalized with chemical poisoning, and three have died.
Norway will continue training Ukrainian pilots as part of its support for Ukraine’s defense. Russia has lost 761,160 troops in Ukraine since February 2022.
**US Weighs New Measures**
The US is considering additional measures against entities that help Russia evade sanctions. This could include sanctioning individuals and organizations that support the war effort.
**Russia Loses Control of Syria**
Russia’s focus on the war in Ukraine has reduced its ability to support Syria’s Assad regime, increasing the risk of losing key military assets in the region.
**Ceasefire Talks Ahead**
US officials are discussing a ceasefire deal with Russia. If reached, this could lead to European soldiers being deployed to Ukraine.