US won't 'stand by and watch sanctioned vessels', warns White House after tanker seized off 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.

The White House has launched a TikTok account for the Trump administration Cabinet, as announced in a post on the social platform X. This initiative aims to engage with a younger audience through social media, with the first post featuring video clips highlighting the Cabinet's activities.

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.

The U.S. government has confirmed plans to seize oil from a Venezuelan tanker intercepted off the coast of Venezuela, as stated by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. This operation is part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on the Venezuelan regime, which the U.S. has accused of engaging in illicit activities.

The U.S. military has seized the Skipper, an oil tanker previously sanctioned in 2022, off the coast of Venezuela, reportedly carrying 1.1 million barrels of Venezuelan oil. This operation, confirmed by President Donald Trump, marks a significant escalation in U.S. military actions in the region, which has seen increased military presence, including the USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carrier.