First Thing: US imposes sanctions on Russian oil over Putin’s ‘refusal’ to end war in Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is advocating for the European Union to quickly approve a plan that would allow Ukraine to utilize frozen Russian assets for purchasing and manufacturing weapons. This proposal, discussed among EU leaders, aims to support Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. Zelenskyy emphasizes that this approach is legal and necessary for Ukraine's defense, highlighting the urgency of the situation as Russia threatens a 'painful response' if the plan is implemented.

Ukrainian President Zelensky recently addressed the European Parliament, advocating for the use of frozen Russian assets to bolster Ukraine's domestic weapons production. This move is significant as it highlights Ukraine's ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict. By tapping into these assets, Ukraine aims to enhance its military resources, which could play a crucial role in its fight for sovereignty and security.

The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant has been reconnected to external power from Ukraine, ending a month-long reliance on backup generators. This reconnection is significant as it alleviates concerns about the safety and future of Europe's largest nuclear facility, which had been in a precarious situation since its power line was cut in September. The move reflects ongoing efforts to stabilize the plant amid the ongoing conflict and highlights the importance of maintaining energy security in the region.

Oil prices surged following President Trump's announcement of new sanctions on Russia's major oil companies, Rosneft and Lukoil. This move has led to a significant rise in shares of energy firms like Shell and BP, contributing to the FTSE 100 reaching an all-time high. This is important as it reflects the market's response to geopolitical tensions and the potential for increased energy prices, which can impact global economies and consumer costs.

The European Union has joined the United States in imposing new economic sanctions on Russia, aiming to pressure President Putin into peace talks regarding Ukraine. This follows recent measures by President Trump targeting the Russian oil sector. While Russian officials have dismissed these sanctions as ineffective, the EU's actions are seen as a significant diplomatic victory for Ukrainian President Zelensky, as they seek to cut off resources fueling the ongoing conflict.

In a recent move, President Trump has imposed significant new sanctions on Russia's oil and gas sector while also allowing Ukraine to use long-range missiles, enabling them to target deeper into Russian territory. This shift in strategy comes after nearly four years of conflict, suggesting that a negotiated settlement might be the most viable path forward, despite its challenges. The implications of these actions could reshape the dynamics of the ongoing war and influence the future of Ukraine's defense strategy.

The European Union is pushing Belgium to permit the seizure of Russian sovereign funds to support Ukraine. This move comes as EU leaders seek ways to aid Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. The implications of this action could reshape financial relations and highlight the EU's stance on the conflict, making it a significant development in international politics.

Russia is expressing strong anger following President Donald Trump's recent sanctions targeting major Russian energy companies, Rosneft and Lukoil. This move is significant as it directly impacts the financial backbone of Putin's war economy, escalating tensions between the two nations. The sanctions are seen as a strategic effort to undermine Russia's economic stability amid ongoing geopolitical conflicts.

A recent jewel heist at the Louvre Museum has been captured on video, showing two suspects escaping in a cherry picker. This incident is significant as it highlights security challenges even at the world's most-visited museum, raising concerns about the safety of priceless artifacts and the effectiveness of current security measures.

A class-action lawsuit against Rogers Communications is gaining traction as millions of Canadians receive notifications about potential compensation following a recent outage. This legal action is significant as it highlights the accountability of major telecom companies and the rights of consumers. If successful, it could lead to substantial payouts for affected customers, emphasizing the importance of reliable service in today's digital age.

In a crucial match at the Women's Cricket World Cup, India has set New Zealand a target of 325 runs from 44 overs as they chase a semi-final spot in Navi Mumbai. This match is significant as it showcases the competitive spirit of women's cricket and the growing interest in the sport, especially in India. Fans are eagerly following the updates, highlighting the importance of this tournament for both teams.

Toronto fire officials have assured the public that there is 'no risk' of Mimico Creek being affected by a recent five-alarm fire at a waste management facility in Etobicoke. This is great news for the community, as it alleviates concerns about potential environmental damage and highlights the effectiveness of the fire response. The swift action taken by the fire department has ensured that the situation is under control, allowing residents to feel safe and secure.

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Russia's largest oil producers, targeting a critical sector of the country's economy during a particularly vulnerable period. This move is significant as it aims to weaken Russia's economic stability and reduce its ability to fund various activities, potentially impacting global oil markets and geopolitical dynamics.

The UK public accounts committee, led by Conservative chair Rachel Reeves, is set to inquire about Prince Andrew's rent-free housing arrangement at Royal Lodge. This scrutiny comes as part of a broader effort to ensure transparency regarding public funds and royal privileges. The inquiry is significant as it reflects ongoing concerns about accountability within the monarchy and the use of taxpayer money, especially in light of recent investments aimed at boosting the economy in the Oxford-Cambridge area.