The New York Times

1. Trump’s Tanker Crackdown Paralyzes Venezuelan Oil Exports

   Oil exports, the country’s financial lifeblood, have plummeted after the United States took action against three ships that have been used to carry its crude.

2. U.S. Is Adding to Its Military Buildup in the Caribbean

   Over the past week, C-17 heavy-lift cargo planes, which usually transport troops and equipment, flew to Puerto Rico at least 16 times, according to flight tracking data reviewed by The New York Times.

3. Supreme Court Refuses to Allow Trump to Deploy National Guard in Chicago

   President Trump ordered state-based troops to Portland, Ore.; Los Angeles; Washington; and Chicago over the objections of state and local officials.

4. 19 States Sue to Block White House Plan to End Gender-Related Care for Minors

   The coalition of states seeks to stop a Trump administration effort to cut off federal funding to hospitals that provide such care.

5. Student Loan Borrowers in Default Could See Wages Garnished in Early 2026

   Starting the week of Jan. 7, the Education Department will begin sending notices about paycheck deductions to about 1,000 of five million borrowers in default.