CNN 5 Things Oil Tanker Mystery, Trump Pulls National Guard, Zohran Mamdani’s Inauguration and more
Dec 31, 2025
A mysterious oil tanker near Venezuela raises questions with its Russian flag. A former special counsel's testimony is revealed, shedding light on serious legal charges related to Trump. In a surprising move, the National Guard is withdrawn from key cities, hinting at potential federal actions. Meanwhile, a new mayor takes the helm in New York City during a sleek midnight inauguration. In a somber note, authorities confirm the tragic death of a missing teenager in Texas.
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Tanker Flaunts Flag To Complicate Seizure
- A tanker off Venezuela resisted U.S. seizure and displayed a crude Russian flag, likely to claim protection.
- That tactic complicates legal options and may prompt the U.S. to abandon a seizure attempt.
Smith Frames Charges As Action-Based, Not Political
- Jack Smith said his charging decisions were based on President Trump's actions, not politics.
- He denied political motivation amid criticism over subpoenaing lawmakers' phone records.
Guard Withdrawn, Federal Forces Still Possible
- President Trump announced withdrawing the National Guard from several cities while leaving open deployment of stronger federal forces.
- The move follows a Supreme Court rejection related to Guard deployment to protect ICE agents amid an immigration crackdown.