Up First from NPR Coast Guard Pursues Tanker, Epstein Files Release, Immigration Court No-Shows
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Dec 22, 2025 
Carrie Kahn, an NPR correspondent in Rio, discusses the U.S. Coast Guard's pursuit of a Venezuela-linked tanker, shedding light on sanctions enforcement and regional tensions. Luke Garrett covers the recent partial release of Jeffrey Epstein files, highlighting the political fallout and frustrations over redactions. Jimena Bastillo reveals concerning trends in immigration court no-shows, linking them to rising fears among immigrants and implications for due process. Together, they explore urgent issues affecting U.S. policy and justice.
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U.S. Targets Deceptive 'Dark Fleet' Tankers
- The U.S. says it's actively pursuing tankers that use deceptive tactics to evade sanctions, including false flags and disabled transponders.
- These actions form part of a broader campaign to enforce a blockade on oil linked to Venezuela and pressure Maduro's government.
Multiple Rationales Behind U.S. Seizures
- The administration frames seizures as combating narco-terrorism and reclaiming allegedly stolen assets tied to Venezuela's oil sales.
- Venezuela denies theft and accuses the U.S. of seeking control of its vast oil reserves.
Maduro Denounces Seizure And Frames Narrative
- Nicolás Maduro publicly condemned the seizure, called it piracy, and appealed to the U.N. for intervention.
- He highlighted U.S. strikes and framed himself as seeking peace while using pro-Trump imagery in speeches.