When It Comes to Russia, Trump Navigates Conflicting Goals
President Trump’s efforts to court President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia are rife with contradictions about stability and displays of American power.
United States International Relations
U.S., Cementing Control on Venezuelan Oil, Seizes Russian-Flagged Tanker
The vessel was one of two taken into American custody as the Trump administration said it was executing a “deal to take all the oil.”
Lawmakers Split After Classified Briefings on Venezuela
Republicans praised what they characterized as a narrow and well-executed plan, while Democrats expressed alarm, warning that the mission was vaguely defined.
During Maduro Raid in Venezuela, a Close Call for Helicopters and Trump’s Plan
As a damaged U.S. helicopter struggled to stay aloft over Venezuela’s capital, the success of the entire operation hung in the balance.
All Eyes on the U.S. in 2026
Our reporters in Washington tell us what they’re watching from the Trump administration.
U.S. Seizes Oil Tanker and Boards Another Amid Tensions With Russia
The first ship had eluded the Coast Guard after being stopped on its way to pick up oil in Venezuela. U.S. forces also boarded another tanker in international waters near the Caribbean.
Maduro Is Gone, but Repression in Venezuela Has Intensified
Security forces have boarded buses, searched phones and interrogated people, looking for evidence that they welcomed the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
Buy Greenland? Take It? Why? An Old Pact Already Gives Trump a Free Hand.
Analysts say the Cold War agreement allows the president to increase the American military presence almost at will.
Europe Tries to Come to Terms With Trump’s Intervention in Venezuela
Needing U.S. support to fend off Russia in Ukraine, European leaders have been cautious about criticizing President Trump on Greenland, Iran, Venezuela and much else.
Russia Sends Naval Vessel to Escort Oil Tanker U.S. Is Pursuing
The development deepens the confrontation over the tanker formerly known as the Bella 1, which the United States wants to seize but which Russia has sought to protect.