Two Russian tankers were badly damaged during a storm in the Kerch Strait, leading to a major oil spill. Additionally, tensions rise in West Africa, Ukraine continues drone strikes in retaliation against Russia, and Israel closes its embassy in Ireland amid escalating conflicts.

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Russia launches a rescue operation after two oil tankers suffered significant damage in the Kerch Strait due to a storm, resulting in an oil spill. The incident has prompted emergency measures amid concerns for environmental impact. Meanwhile, the West African regional bloc ECOWAS expressed dismay at the exit of three member states led by military juntas, undermining recent mediation efforts. In a related conflict, Ukrainian forces struck a campus of Russia's National Guard in Chechnya as retaliation for recent attacks from Moscow. Moldova's parliament declared a state of emergency over potential disruptions in Russian gas supplies via Ukraine, while former Ukrainian foreign minister warned that failure in Ukraine could lead to war spilling into European cities. Analysts noted that Europe might be able to fill any funding gaps if U.S. support wanes. In business news, Affirm Holdings secured a $4 billion loan deal with Sixth Street, marking a significant capital infusion. Former footballer Mikheil Kavelashvili was voted president of Georgia amid rising tensions with Russia. Separately, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza have reportedly killed over 30 people, prompting Israel to close its embassy in Ireland due to deteriorating relations. Finally, two Russian oil tankers have been severely damaged and captured on video amidst a storm, contributing to concerns about ecological disaster as oil spills into the sea.