U.S. Flies Bombers in High-Profile Show of Support for Japan

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 Trump administration is reshaping American diplomacy, particularly regarding its relationships with Europe, as discussed in a recent NPR episode featuring correspondents Greg Myre and Eleanor Beardsley. The focus is on the evolving U.S. stance towards Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia and the implications for European alliances.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is engaging with U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders to discuss a vision for peace amid ongoing territorial tensions with Russia. This dialogue comes as European leaders are pushing for a more assertive stance from the U.S. regarding Ukraine's situation.

The U.S. has imposed new sanctions on Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's three nephews, Franqui Flores, Carlos Flores, and Efrain Campo, as part of an escalating pressure campaign against the Maduro regime. This announcement follows the U.S. military's recent seizure of an oil tanker off the Venezuelan coast, signaling a significant increase in military and economic actions against Venezuela.

The U.S. and Japan conducted joint military exercises as a show of force amid escalating tensions with China, particularly following joint drills by Chinese and Russian military aircraft that prompted Japan and South Korea to scramble their jets. This display of military readiness underscores the growing security concerns in the region.

The Trump administration has proposed a policy requiring visa applicants from 42 countries, including the UK, Australia, and Germany, to disclose their social media, phone, and email histories for vetting before entering the US. Critics have labeled this move as a form of censorship that undermines civil liberties and could deter tourism, particularly ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Aonishiki, a 21-year-old Ukrainian sumo wrestler, has made history by becoming the first Ukrainian to win a professional sumo tournament in Japan. He achieved this remarkable feat just two years after arriving in Japan in 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and has quickly risen through the ranks of the sport.

María Corina Machado, a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader, has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her efforts against the regime of Nicolás Maduro. She credits U.S. support for aiding her escape from Venezuela, where she faced significant danger. After navigating through military checkpoints, she reached Curaçao and then Norway to receive the prestigious award.