A Saudi energy company, Midad Energy, has become a leading contender to buy parts of Russian oil major Lukoil’s global assets, worth around $22 billion. The sale comes as Western sanctions have crippled Lukoil’s overseas business, forcing a forced divestment. Midad, backed by strong ties in Riyadh, is competing with U.S. giants Exxon and Chevron. The U.S. Treasury has already blocked two rival bids. If successful, the deal could reshape energy geopolitics by shifting Russian oil assets into a Saudi-linked portfolio and strengthening U.S.–Saudi cooperation on sanctions regimes. (Reuters)
U.S. PUSH TO ESTABLISH GAZA STABILIZATION FORCE
The United States Central Command will host a meeting in Doha with officials from 25+ nations to plan a Gaza international stabilization force. This initiative aims to support security and stability in the Gaza Strip amid ongoing tensions, border violence, and humanitarian strain. The conference will lay out potential command structures and collaborative frameworks for peacekeeping or stabilization missions. The step reflects a coordinated diplomatic and military effort by Western and Middle Eastern partners to reduce violence and assure safe conditions for civilians, even as political solutions remain elusive. (Reuters)
U.S. OFFERS NATO-STYLE SECURITY GUARANTEES TO UKRAINE
In ongoing peace talks in Berlin, the United States has offered NATO-style security guarantees to Ukraine as part of efforts to end the war with Russia. U.S. envoys proposed stronger defensive commitments similar to Article 5, meant to protect Ukraine against future aggression. European leaders welcomed the initiative, but no final agreement has been reached. A major sticking point is whether Ukraine should make territorial concessions, which Kyiv rejects, especially concerning eastern regions like Donbas. Negotiations continue, with expectations of further discussions in the U.S. The offer marks one of the boldest security proposals from Western allies for Ukraine’s long-term defence. Reuters
INDIA’S EXPORTS SURPASS TARIFF PRESSURES, BOOST TRADE DIPLOMACY
India’s exports rose strongly in November 2025, exceeding expectations despite high U.S. tariffs. The strong shipment figures, the highest November exports in a decade, give New Delhi leverage in ongoing trade talks with Washington after tariff disputes erupted earlier in the year. The U.S. had doubled duties on some Indian goods, including textiles and steel. India’s export resilience helps ease pressure on its trade balance and strengthens its bargaining position as discussions continue over tariffs and market access. Economic diplomacy is now intertwined with strategic trade relations between the two major democracies. Reuters
WTO WARNS US-CHINA TRADE WAR THREATENS GLOBAL GROWTH
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has urged the United States and China to de-escalate their trade war, warning that prolonged tensions could significantly slow global economic growth. The WTO’s appeal highlights risks that a sustained trade conflict between the world’s two largest economies could cut global output and disrupt supply chains. WTO leaders stressed cooperation to avoid damaging tariffs and trade barriers that harm emerging economies and global business confidence. This diplomatic warning comes amid broader geopolitical competition over technology, minerals and strategic industry dominance. Reuters
