The US is freezing all visa applications for 75 countries, including Russia, Iran, Somalia, and others — Fox News.

The suspension will take effect on January 21 and remain in place indefinitely until the State Department completes a review of the visa process. Consular officers have been instructed to deny visas in line with current law.

Ukraine and Moldova have “neutralized” Russian-occupied Transnistria without firing a single shot — Euromaidan Press.

As of midnight on January 1, both countries significantly tightened customs procedures on the border with the occupied region. Strict checks now apply to all goods and people entering Transnistria.

“Together, these steps are turning Transnistria from a gray zone quietly controlled by Russia into a regulated space where external support becomes clearly visible. The strategic goal is to isolate Russian troops without firing a single shot. About 1,500 Russian soldiers are now cut off from steady access to fuel, equipment, and daily supplies that for years flowed through informal trade routes and Russia-friendly businesses under lax customs controls.

Coordinated customs rules, border controls, and airspace management are effectively turning Transnistria into a closed zone without the use of force. Both countries have the legal right to apply such measures without provoking conflict. From now on, the movement of people and goods requires consent from both sides, closing previous loopholes.

Moldova’s control of its airspace blocks any air deliveries to Transnistria, while rail and road supplies are subject to strict new customs rules,” the article says.

At the same time, Russia’s ability to respond is extremely limited. There is no secure route for supplies or troop rotations that bypasses Ukraine or Moldova.

Any covert attempts to break the blockade would carry serious political risks if exposed, while open actions would immediately draw international attention.