U.S. Focuses on Drug Lords, Not War with Venezuela

Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the United States is not engaging in war with Venezuela, following the arrest of Nicolas Maduro. Instead, he emphasized that the U.S. is targeting drug traffickers operating in the region.

In a recent NBC News interview, Rubio indicated that actions taken in Venezuela won’t lead to a large-scale military conflict, reinforcing the objectives of the Trump administration in response to Maduro’s capture.

“This was not an invasion. This was not a large-scale military operation. This was a very precise operation involving several hours of action,” he stated.

Rubio mentioned that many people perceive U.S. foreign policy through the lens of the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, which, he pointed out, are not directly applicable to the situation in Venezuela.

“The entire foreign policy establishment thinks it’s all Libya, it’s all Iraq, it’s all Afghanistan. This is not the Middle East, and our mission here is completely different. This is the Western Hemisphere,” he elaborated.

He expressed that the U.S. aims to guide Venezuela toward a more favorable direction, both for the Venezuelan populace and for U.S. interests, suggesting a desire for a regime in Venezuela that aligns better with American policies.

Rubio referred to President Trump’s announcement that the U.S. would effectively oversee the Venezuelan government until a safe transition of power can be established.

He called for realism, noting the longstanding “chavismo regime” that has persisted in Venezuela for over 15 years. He acknowledged that while there is a desire for democracy, the primary focus remains on the security and interests of the United States.

“We care about elections, we care about democracy, we care about all those things, but what we care about most is the safety, security, welfare and prosperity of America,” Rubio stressed.

Rubio also stated that all prior options for U.S. engagement in Venezuela are still on the table and underscored that significant changes were underway, which could benefit its oil industry.

Meanwhile, President Trump announced Delcy Rodriguez, Maduro’s vice president, has taken over as Venezuela’s new president and has already communicated with American officials.

Although the specifics of U.S. policy remain unclear, Trump has mentioned the possible deployment of military personnel to Venezuela if the situation escalates.

“If necessary, we are prepared to do a second wave, and even more massive attacks,” he declared, further emphasizing his unrelenting stance toward the evolving scenario.

“I don’t mind saying it, but I’m going to make sure the country is run properly. I’m not doing anything unnecessary,” Trump added.