Russian Energy Attacks Continue; Australian Tax Office Faces Credit Card Payment Pressure

Russia has continued its attacks on energy assets, despite claims by Donald Trump that pledges existed for an energy ceasefire in the war, according to Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky. Separately, Labor MPs are urging the federal government to ensure the Australian Taxation Office accepts credit cards from businesspeople experiencing cashflow problems, following a delay by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on the ban. Meanwhile, the Greens are debating Labor’s Digital Duty of Care laws, with Pauline Hanson stating the laws would target her party and impinge on freedom of speech.

The ongoing attacks on energy assets introduce instability to global energy markets. Domestically, the push for the Australian Taxation Office to accept credit cards could force operational changes for the agency and provide greater payment flexibility for businesses facing financial difficulties.