1. The US government has imposed new sanctions on six oil tankers, six shipping firms, and relatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, accusing them of providing financial support to his administration.

2. The Treasury Department alleges that these individuals are also involved in drug trafficking activities. Three of Maduro's relatives have been added to a sanctions list due to their suspected involvement.

3. The move is part of increasing pressure on the Venezuelan leader, following a day where the US seized an oil tanker carrying crude oil from Venezuela, claiming it was intended for illegal activities. The White House has stated that it will not tolerate such actions.