The U.S. military seized two oil tankers, the Marinera and the Sophia, which officials say are linked to Venezuela. Authorities carried out the operation under federal sanctions and maritime enforcement powers. The vessels are now under U.S. control while investigations continue into their ownership, cargo history, and alleged connections to Venezuelan oil shipments. No injuries were reported during the operation, and further details are expected as legal proceedings and public filings move forward.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Washington has a three-phase plan for Venezuela, with an initial focus on stabilizing the country. He states that the United States will control money from sales of Venezuelan oil through U.S.-linked financial channels. Rubio describes revenue oversight as a key tool in the broader Venezuela strategy and indicates that later phases will build on conditions created in the first stage. He highlights coordination with U.S. agencies and international partners and links the plan to sanctions enforcement and monitoring of oil-related financial flows.

A federal judge has ordered attorney Lindsey Halligan to explain her continued use of the U.S. attorney title after a November ruling found her interim appointment in the Eastern District of New York invalid. The court is seeking details on how she has represented her status since that decision and is reviewing compliance with federal appointment rules and professional standards.