China and the United States were reportedly the largest importers of Venezuelan crude in 2024.

Russia's biggest fossil fuel importers: Western nations have surprisingly retreated. Stepping into the big shoes are rather unexpected Asian powerhouses amid ongoing conflicts with Ukraine.

​As of February 28, 2025, the prospect of the Ukraine war concluding within this year remains uncertain, with varying opinions among global leaders, experts, and the public.​

Alexander Lukashenko, often referred to as "Europe's last dictator," has ruled Belarus for over three decades.