Overview
- U.S. forces conducted two more strikes Thursday in the eastern Pacific that killed five people, bringing reported deaths since September to at least 104, according to an AFP tally.
- President Trump said he is not obligated to seek congressional authorization for any potential ground operation, even as lawmakers in both parties argue such action would require approval.
- Washington’s declared blockade targets all sanctioned tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, following last week’s seizure of the tanker Skipper and a months-long buildup of U.S. naval and air assets.
- Caracas condemned the measures as a threat to sovereignty, PDVSA said exports are continuing, and the U.N. urged restraint as Venezuela’s defense chief vowed not to be intimidated.
- China, Russia and Iran denounced the U.S. campaign, and energy analysts warned Venezuelan oil exports could fall by as much as 50%, with potential knock-on effects for China and global prices.