U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated on Sunday that the United States would not play a direct role in governing Venezuela beyond implementing an existing “oil quarantine” on the country. This statement followed President Donald Trump’s earlier announcement that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela after the removal of leader Nicolás Maduro. Rubio’s remarks on television aimed to address concerns about potential long-term foreign intervention or unsuccessful nation-building efforts resulting from aggressive American actions for regime change.
In contrast to Trump’s ambiguous assertion that the U.S. would temporarily “run” Venezuela, Rubio emphasized the enforcement of the ongoing oil quarantine on sanctioned tankers as a leverage point to push for policy reforms in Venezuela. He clarified that this control mechanism would continue to be in effect to drive changes beneficial not only to the U.S. national interest but also to improve the future of the Venezuelan people.
Venezuela’s interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez, expressed a conciliatory tone by seeking “respectful relations” with the U.S., signaling a shift from her previous confrontational stance. She extended an invitation to collaborate with the U.S. government for cooperative development within the framework of international law to enhance mutual community coexistence.
Rubio highlighted the importance of maintaining the oil quarantine on sanctioned tankers, emphasizing its significant leverage until favorable changes are seen in Venezuela, particularly in the oil industry’s operations and efforts to combat drug trafficking. He underscored the need for policy adjustments that align with both U.S. interests and the well-being of the Venezuelan populace.
The article also mentioned Trump’s statements regarding potential American involvement in Colombia and Mexico, as well as his views on Cuba and Mexico’s handling of drug trafficking issues. The White House declined to provide further comments on Trump’s remarks about potential actions in these countries. Additionally, the article discussed Maduro’s arrival in New York following his extraction from Venezuela, highlighting the legal charges he faces in the U.S. related to narco-terrorism conspiracy.
Finally, the article touched on the aftermath of the U.S. operation in Venezuela, describing Caracas’ subdued atmosphere post-events and the security measures in place. It noted the impact on daily activities in the city and the reactions of local residents, portraying a sense of unease and uncertainty following the recent developments.