Poland lowers fuel VAT as global supply concerns rise with tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, while Russia ships oil to sanctioned Cuba, drawing a muted response from Trump.
Fuel Price Cuts in Poland, Global Supply Concerns
Polish Prime Minister Tusk announced fuel price reductions following government decisions to lower VAT on fuels to 8 percent and excise taxes to the EU minimum, while also setting maximum prices at stations.
However, Poland and Europe face a potential drop in oil supply due to the ongoing blockage of the Strait of Hormuz. Donald Trump has threatened Iran with the complete destruction of its infrastructure if it doesn’t allow free passage of resources.
Cuba Receives Russian Oil Despite US Blockade
Cuba continues to experience a humanitarian crisis due to the US embargo. Deliveries of Venezuelan oil have been disrupted, and Trump has threatened Mexico with sanctions for selling oil to Cuba.
This has led to shortages of food, water, and healthcare supplies, with operations and vital medical equipment being suspended. Russia has responded by sending a shipment of oil to Cuba, which Trump dismissed as inconsequential, stating “Kuba jest skończona” (Cuba is finished).
Israel Approves Death Penalty for Palestinians
The Israeli Knesset has passed a law introducing the death penalty for Palestinians convicted of “causing the death of an Israeli citizen” with the intent to harm the state of Israel or “the revival of the Jewish nation on its land.”
The law will be applied by military courts, which predominantly try Palestinians in occupied territories, where a 95 percent conviction rate exists. Conversely, Jewish Israelis committing violence against Palestinians are typically tried in civil courts with a low prosecution rate (97% of investigations closed without indictment).
Podcast Announcement
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