Europe agrees to ban Russian coal but struggles with oil, gas
The European Union has agreed to ban Russian coal, marking a significant step in economic pressure over the Ukraine conflict. The €4 billion sanctions target Russia's energy exports while highlighting the complex challenge of reducing dependency on Russian oil and natural gas without triggering economic recession.
Congress votes to suspend Russia’s trade status, enact an oil ban
The US Congress voted unanimously to suspend normal trade relations with Russia and ban its oil imports. The legislation follows President Biden's executive actions and supports Ukraine amid ongoing conflict. Both Senate and House overwhelmingly approved the measures.
Germany seeks to boost renewable energy and cut Russian imports.
Germany's government has approved a 600-page "Easter package" aimed at dramatically increasing renewable energy production. The plan seeks to generate almost all electricity from wind and solar sources by 2035, more than doubling current rates while streamlining bureaucratic processes for faster implementation.
UN to vote on suspending Russia from the rights council.
The United Nations will vote on potentially removing Russia from the Human Rights Council following discovery of civilian casualties in Bucha, with U.S. Ambassador calling for accountability amid global outcry.
The US hits Russia with ‘war crimes’ sanctions, Europe following.
The United States has launched a new wave of financial sanctions against Russia, focusing on President Vladimir Putin's family and two major banks. The UK and EU are set to follow, escalating economic pressure over the Ukraine invasion and alleged war crimes.
Asia’s US$350bil gas projects intensify the clean energy debate.
Asia is investing over US$350 billion in liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects, aiming to reduce coal consumption while triggering debates about long-term fossil fuel dependence and renewable energy adoption across China, Philippines, and Vietnam.
Guyana OKs Exxon’s $10B Yellowtail offshore oil project.
Guyana has granted ExxonMobil permission to develop its fourth offshore oil field, the Yellowtail Project. With a $10 billion investment, the project aims to produce up to 250,000 barrels per day, adding to the company's existing Liza and Payara fields. The development is expected to come onstream by 2025.
The US to seek Russia’s suspension from Human Rights Council.
The United States is moving to suspend Russia from the UN Human Rights Council following reports of potential war crimes in Ukraine. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield cited increasing evidence of violence against civilians in Bucha near Kyiv, calling for Russia to be held accountable for its actions.
WHO says 99% of the world’s population breathes poor-quality air.
The World Health Organization warns that nearly all global populations breathe air failing quality standards, with pollutants causing respiratory issues and millions of preventable deaths annually.
Lithuania cuts off Russian gas imports and urges the EU to...
Lithuania becomes first EU nation to completely halt Russian gas imports, signaling strong stance against Moscow's energy influence and supporting Ukraine's resistance.
