The oil tanker Eventin, part of Russia’s “shadow fleet,” was towed to safety near Sassnitz, Germany, after a blackout left it adrift in the Baltic Sea. Carrying 99,000 tons of oil, the 19-year-old ship had prior technical issues and inadequate insurance, raising concerns about environmental risks. German officials criticized Russia’s use of aging vessels to bypass sanctions, citing security and ecological threats. The Eventin remains anchored offshore while repair plans are determined. Greenpeace and German authorities have warned of potential taxpayer burdens in accidents involving such dilapidated ships.
MACRON’S COMMENTS SPARK AFRICAN OUTRAGE.
French President Emmanuel Macron has drawn sharp criticism for remarks perceived as dismissive toward African nations. Macron’s statement that African governments owe gratitude to French military interventions reignited tensions over France’s colonial legacy. Leaders and analysts criticized the speech, pointing out Africa’s historical sacrifices for France and the strained post-colonial ties. Amid waning French influence, countries like Chad, Senegal, and Ivory Coast have moved to end military cooperation with France. Macron’s comments come as Russia’s presence in Africa grows, signaling a shifting geopolitical landscape. Analysts warn his remarks may undermine France’s efforts to rebuild trust in the region.
VENEZUELA CONSULATE ATTACKED IN LISBON
The Venezuelan Consulate in Lisbon was attacked with a Molotov cocktail on January 11, 2025, causing material damage but no injuries. Portuguese authorities are investigating the incident as tensions escalate following Nicolas Maduro’s contested inauguration for a third term. The Venezuelan government denounced the attack, attributing it to “fascist aggression” against the Bolivarian Revolution. Portugal has condemned the act and pledged to enhance consulate security. Maduro, citing support from allies like Russia and Cuba, vowed to defend his regime, while opposition leaders continue to challenge his legitimacy, intensifying Venezuela’s international isolation.
BIDEN AWARDS POPE HIGHEST HONOUR.
President Joe Biden awarded Pope Francis the Presidential Medal of Freedom with distinction, marking the highest civilian honour. During a phone call on January 11, 2025, Biden commended the pope’s global efforts in promoting peace and alleviating suffering. The citation highlighted Pope Francis’s commitment to serving the poor, interfaith outreach, and environmental advocacy. Biden, a Catholic, is set to leave office soon and has presented honors to prominent figures in recent weeks. Since 1980, Biden has awarded the fewest Presidential Medals of Freedom among U.S. presidents, at 19, compared to Barack Obama’s record of 118.
CHINA, PAKISTAN DEEPEN CPEC TIES.
During diplomatic talks in Beijing, China and Pakistan reaffirmed their commitment to the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Officials emphasized “high-quality development” focusing on industrialization, clean energy, and Special Economic Zones. The initiative, part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aims to strengthen trade connectivity. However, challenges such as political instability and energy crises in Pakistan persist. Protests over power outages recently disrupted CPEC-linked freight routes. Despite hurdles, both nations pledged to enhance their “ironclad friendship” through deeper collaboration under CPEC 2.0.
