Trump's Policies Impact Oil and Aid: Venezuela, Ukraine, and Blackrock Silver Update

Oil prices fell following Donald Trump's announcement of potential tariffs and the revocation of an oil agreement with Venezuela. Brent crude decreased by 0.59% to $72.07 per barrel, while WTI crude fell by 0.44% to $68.62 per barrel. Trump also stated that sanctions on Russia would remain until a peace agreement in Ukraine is reached. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio assigned Yuri Kim to oversee aid to Ukraine, granting access to previously frozen funds. Kim will compile a list of programs for expanded exemptions, addressing damage to humanitarian efforts supporting Ukrainian refugees. The U.S. government reversed a decision allowing Chevron to operate in Venezuela, criticized by Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. Trump cited a lack of electoral reforms and migrant returns as reasons for retracting oil concessions initially restored under President Biden's administration. Blackrock Silver Corp. reported high-grade silver and gold findings at its Tonopah West project in Nevada. Initial drill results from the resource expansion program confirmed the company's geological model. Highlights include samples with up to 4,335 g/t AgEq. Further drilling is planned to expand resources, potentially adding 30-50% to Tonopah West.