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Black-market oil buyers will push Venezuela for bigger discounts following US seizure – starving Maduro of much-needed revenue

A video posted on Attorney General Pam Bondi's X account shows the moment an oil tanker was seized by U.S. forces off the coast of Venezuela. U.S. Attorney General's Office/X via APThe U.S. seizure of an oil tanker off the Venezuelan coast looks designed to further squeeze the economy of President Nicolás Maduro’s country.

Why big shops are trying to sell you a glamorous Christmas

In the dark months of winter, the warm glow of Christmas fairy lights and flickering candles brings some welcome atmospheric respite. And that atmosphere is something many retailers try to capture as they tempt shoppers with their festive marketing campaigns.

The John Lewis Christmas advert for example, has become a seasonal staple, while rival Marks and Spencer has found success with its “Magic and Sparkle” campaign, which plays on the company’s brand name.

‘Mindful gifting’ could be the kindest thing you do for yourself and others this Christmas

Mr. SEPTEMBER/ShutterstockThis year’s Christmas advert from UK department store John Lewis is notable for its emotional impact and captivating storytelling. In it, a middle-aged former raver is gifted a vintage vinyl record by his son. The focus is on this fairly modest gift, which quietly speaks a language of love amid the noise and excess of the festivities.

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