President Trump announced the seizure of an oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, an action that will escalate tensions with the South American country.

President Donald Trump confirmed the seizure of a tanker off the coast of Venezuela, describing the vessel as "the largest ever seized." This action, carried out by the U.S. Coast Guard, has not been detailed, but it is expected to escalate tensions between the United States and Venezuela. Following the announcement, oil prices rose, with futures contracts for Brent and West Texas Intermediate recording significant increases. Venezuela, which relies on oil exports for revenue, has been forced to reduce prices to China due to competition with sanctioned oil from Russia and Iran. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused Washington of intending to overthrow him and take control of the country's oil reserves. Trump previously suggested the possibility of military intervention in Venezuela, stating that Maduro's days are "numbered."