Tag: Europe

Standard & Poor's has downgraded Russia's credit rating to "selective default" after Russia attempted to pay foreign bond payments in rubles instead of dollars. The move suggests Russia is likely to default on external loans for the first time in over a century, impacted by international sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict. - EXCERPT: Provides context and key information within 100 words - Uses relevant keywords: S&P, Russia, default, sanctions, Ukraine

The US doubts Russia's appointment of General Alexander Dvornikov will significantly improve Moscow's military performance in Ukraine. A 60-year-old veteran with a controversial record in Syria, Dvornikov becomes the first centralized war commander for Russia's invasion.

The UN Food and Agriculture Organization reports food prices hit unprecedented levels in March, with grains and vegetable oils experiencing significant price increases. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has caused massive supply disruptions, potentially leading to widespread hunger and malnutrition in vulnerable regions.

The European Union has agreed to ban Russian coal, marking its first significant energy sanctions over the Ukraine conflict. While the €4 billion annual ban represents a symbolic break from Russian energy dependence, deeper challenges remain in restricting oil and natural gas imports without triggering potential economic recession.

The United Nations General Assembly voted to remove Russia from the Human Rights Council following accusations of severe human rights violations during the Ukraine conflict, marking a significant diplomatic rebuke against a UN Security Council permanent member.

Germany's government unveiled a comprehensive energy reform package aimed at dramatically increasing renewable power generation. The 600-page "Easter package" prioritizes wind and solar energy expansion, streamlining bureaucratic processes and targeting nearly 100% renewable electricity by 2035. This strategic move addresses climate goals and reduces dependence on Russian energy imports.

The United Nations will vote on suspending Russia from the Human Rights Council following the discovery of civilian casualties in Bucha, near Kyiv, sparking international condemnation and calls for accountability.

As the war in Ukraine intensifies, Mariupol's mayor reveals a staggering civilian death toll of more than 5,000. Ukrainian authorities continue documenting Russian war crimes around Kyiv, while the U.S. and Western allies prepare to impose additional sanctions against Moscow for alleged atrocities committed during the invasion.

The United States has launched a fresh wave of financial sanctions against Russia, focusing on President Vladimir Putin's family and blocking two major Russian banks. The move comes in response to alleged war crimes in Ukraine, with the UK and EU expected to follow suit in escalating economic pressure.

Asia is investing over $350 billion in liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, aiming to reduce coal usage. While these projects could help lower emissions, they also risk prolonging fossil fuel dependency and potentially slowing renewable energy adoption.