Trump Says The U.S. Has Seized An Oil Tanker Off The Coast Of Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has escalated tensions with the United States by vowing to 'smash the teeth' of the 'North American empire' following the U.S. seizure of an oil tanker off Venezuela's coast. This incident marks a significant diplomatic crisis between the two nations, with Maduro's remarks reflecting a defiant stance against U.S. actions.

Speaker Johnson defended the recent military strikes on a Venezuelan drug boat, labeling the actions as 'entirely appropriate' after reviewing classified video evidence. This statement follows the controversial second strike that has drawn significant scrutiny and debate regarding its legality and ethical implications.

Indiana Republicans have blocked a redistricting effort that would have favored their party, prompting former President Trump to express his disapproval, stating he hopes the Senate leader responsible loses in future elections. This rejection signifies a notable shift in the state's political landscape, distancing local Republicans from Trump's influence.

The U.S. military has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, a move confirmed by President Donald Trump. The White House intends to hold the vessel at a Texas port while releasing the crew upon docking. This action marks a significant escalation in U.S. military operations in the region, part of an ongoing pressure campaign against the Venezuelan government.

General Gregory Guillot, head of U.S. Northern Command, contradicted President Trump's claims of an 'enemy within' justifying National Guard deployments in American cities during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing. Guillot stated he has no indications of such an enemy, highlighting a significant divergence from the President's narrative.

Indiana Republicans voted against a proposal to redraw the state's congressional map, which aimed to add two GOP-friendly seats, resulting in a 19-31 defeat. This decision marks a significant rebuke of former President Donald Trump's influence over the party's redistricting efforts.

The U.S. Coast Guard, in coordination with the Departments of Defense and Justice, seized a Venezuelan oil tanker, a move that has raised alarms among Democrats regarding potential escalation in U.S.-Venezuela relations. This action is part of the Trump administration's ongoing pressure campaign against President Nicolás Maduro's regime, which has been characterized by increasing military operations in the region.

Senator Bernie Sanders condemned Jared Kushner's involvement in Paramount's hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros., labeling it a sign of authoritarianism linked to former President Donald Trump's influence over media acquisitions. Sanders expressed concern over the concentration of media ownership in the hands of a few corporations, suggesting that Trump's intervention in such deals undermines democratic principles.