Yesterday brought a series of setbacks for Russia, including a US seizure of the shadow fleet oil tanker Olin, which was sanctioned for transporting Russian oil. The US president publicly expressed satisfaction at targeting Russian tankers, highlighting Moscow's inability to protect its vessels.
Mounting attacks on Russian oil infrastructure and shadow fleet tankers have pushed Russian oil exports to near-historic lows, threatening the country's economy. US authorities are now holding talks with leading global oil companies to increase Venezuelan oil exports and further decrease global oil prices. As a result, Russian oil could soon drop below $30 per barrel.
At the same time, Iran, a key Russian ally, has been swept by mass protests spurred by deteriorating economic conditions and widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling regime. The unrest has spread to major cities, accompanied by worker strikes and the formation of armed Kurdish groups. Western reports suggest Iranian leaders are considering escaping to Russia.
If the ayatollah regime collapses, Iran could become pro-Western, with sanctions lifted, likely increasing oil supplies and further depressing global prices. This would have dire consequences for Russia’s already strained economy, which now faces a growing budget deficit.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian society continues to support its army with donations and drone supplies, emphasizing the importance of sustained assistance for the military.
2026 has started poorly for Russia, with continued external pressure and internal economic challenges expected to worsen the situation.
