President Trump said U.S. oversight of Venezuela could last “for years,” as Washington begins selling 30–50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude with revenue under American control following the capture of Nicolás Maduro. The unprecedented move consolidates U.S. leverage over Caracas but invites legal and diplomatic challenges from rivals and uneasy partners alike.
Source: New York Times
U.S. seizes Russian-flagged tanker tied to Venezuela, heightening tensions with Moscow
After a two-week chase, U.S. forces seized a Russian-flagged oil tanker in the North Atlantic that had sought to evade interception on a Venezuela-linked voyage. The operation underscores Washington’s broader campaign against “shadow fleet” shipments and risks further straining U.S.-Russia relations amid global energy and sanctions disputes.
Source: New York Times
Protests spread in Iran as security crackdown intensifies
Nationwide demonstrations over economic hardship expanded to key commercial hubs, with bazaars shuttered and security forces escalating their response. The unrest adds pressure on Tehran’s leadership and raises the risk of prolonged instability at a moment of heightened regional tension.
Source: New York Times
Trump call to Colombia’s Petro eases fears of U.S. military action
A phone conversation between President Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro appeared to defuse a crisis sparked by Trump’s remarks that military action against Colombia “sounds good.” A White House meeting is now being arranged, signaling a tactical de-escalation even as Andean security dynamics remain volatile.
Source: New York Times
U.S. exits 66 international bodies in retreat from multilateralism
The administration announced withdrawals from dozens of international organizations and advisory bodies, many linked to the U.N., including a major climate framework. The move diminishes U.S. engagement on global norms around climate, labor, and governance, and could complicate future efforts to rebuild cooperative frameworks.
Source: NPR
Russian strikes knock out power in Ukraine’s Dnipro region
Fresh Russian attacks disabled electricity and disrupted water supplies in the Dnipro region, with authorities urging residents to stock up as crews raced to restore service. The strikes highlight Ukraine’s energy vulnerability deep into winter and Moscow’s continued use of infrastructure targeting to pressure Kyiv.
Source: New York Times
Cambodia deports bank founder to China over alleged cyber crimes
Chen Zhi, the founder of Cambodia’s Prince Bank, was deported to China following a U.S. federal indictment, in a case linked to transnational cyber offenses. The extradition signals intensifying cross-border enforcement against cyber-enabled crime—and Beijing’s growing reach in Southeast Asia’s law enforcement landscape.
Source: The Diplomat
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