U.S. seizes sanctioned oil tanker off coast of Venezuela

Geopolitical & Economic Sanctions - US seized a "very large" oil tanker off the coast of Venezuela, the "largest one ever seized" [1] - The tanker seizure is considered an escalation of pressure on Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro [2] - The seized tanker is a "sanctioned tanker", indicating it violated existing sanctions [3] US Foreign Policy & Military Posture - Increased US military presence and discussions about potential force usage in Venezuela are noted [2] - The tanker seizure is viewed in the context of escalating tensions and "war drums" regarding Venezuela, raising questions about future actions [3]