politics
February 27, 2026
Press review: Trump pushes Iran strike plans and Israel threatens Gaza as Hamas vote nears
Top stories from the Russian press on Thursday, February 26th

TL;DR
- US President Donald Trump is escalating tensions with Iran, with increased troop deployment and rhetoric suggesting potential military action, although a swift resolution remains uncertain.
- The US administration is considering new guidance that would allow exporters to sell oil to Cuba's private sector, potentially easing the island's humanitarian crisis.
- Hamas is undergoing a leadership election, with potential outcomes influencing its stance on disarming and engaging in peace talks with Israel, which is threatening military action.
- The European Union is reportedly blocking a long-term gas contract between Russia and Serbia, aiming to redirect Serbia to EU-controlled supply channels.
- Russia and China have ratified a protocol strengthening cooperation on the Yamal LNG project, enhancing their energy partnership amid tightened sanctions.
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