US Politics

U.S. President Donald Trump outlines a strategy for Venezuela’s oil sector following the capture of ex-leader Nicolás Maduro in an overnight operation. As the administration defends the legality of U.S. involvement, Democrats and a Republican push War Powers resolutions to curb future strikes without congressional authorization. Lawmakers debate executive authority, energy security and the impact on global oil markets. Regional governments and human rights groups respond as analysts assess how the war powers vote may shape U.S. policy, sanctions, and control of Venezuelan oil resources.

U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone call with Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Wednesday amid rising tensions between the two leaders. The discussion followed months of growing strain over policy differences on security, drug trafficking, and regional influence. Officials did not release a detailed account of the conversation, but people familiar with the call said it addressed recent disagreements and the broader state of U.S.–Colombia ties. The contact came at a sensitive moment for bilateral relations and drew close attention from diplomats, analysts, and regional governments.

The U.S. House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a three-year extension of expired health care tax credits that help reduce insurance premiums. The measure is drawing support from many Democrats and a growing number of Republicans, who describe it as a temporary step to stabilize coverage and costs while broader health policy debates continue.

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.

U.S. Senator Rand Paul says he opposes any U.S. military action in Greenland as the White House reviews “all options” for the Arctic territory, including potential security measures. The administration has not released detailed plans but is assessing diplomatic, economic and military dimensions of U.S. policy toward Greenland. Paul, a critic of overseas interventions, says no military move involving Greenland would happen with his support. The island, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, holds strategic value in the Arctic, where global powers are increasing their presence.