Best known for its mercenaries, the Wagner Group also mines diamonds, spreads disinformation and props up autocrats in an effort to grow Russia’s footprint.
Tag: Embargoes and Sanctions
Your Wednesday Briefing: More Aid to Ukraine
Plus China’s advantage in the Pacific and Shanghai’s loosening restrictions.
Seizing Russian Assets to Help Ukraine Sets Off White House Debate
Some European officials want to use more than $300 billion in Russian central bank assets to rebuild Ukraine. But Biden administration officials warn that diverting those funds could be illegal.
Hungary’s Oil Embargo Exemption Is a Sign of Orban’s Affinity for Russia
Prime Minister Viktor Orban has spoken admiringly of President Vladimir Putin and expressed sympathy for his security demands to NATO.
Cuba Allows Its Boxers to Fight Professionally
A move to allow boxers to fight professionally is a big shift for Cuba’s communist government.
U.S. Speeds Up Reshaping of Taiwan’s Defenses to Deter China
The Biden administration is taking lessons from the war in Ukraine to turn Taiwan into a “porcupine” bristling with weapons that would inflict severe pain if attacked.
U.S. Will Start Blocking Russia’s Bond Payments to American Investors
The Biden administration’s escalation of sanctions could lead to Russia’s first default on foreign debt in a century.
Biden’s Tough Words
Gaffe or not, President Biden’s latest remark on Taiwan is consistent with his administration’s new policy.
The Refinery Standing Between Germany and an Oil Embargo
A Russian-owned refinery, linked to a Soviet-era pipeline, is a reminder of Germany’s past and a stumbling block to efforts to cut off Russian oil.
Former German Chancellor Loses Perks Over Ties to Russia
The former German leader, a lobbyist for Russian energy companies and a friend of President Vladimir V. Putin, has declined to distance himself from Russia.