This morning, Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the rounds on various news outlets to discuss the Trump administration’s recent high-stakes operation that successfully captured Nicolás Maduro, the indicted narcoterrorist and self-proclaimed former dictator of Venezuela. Secretary Rubio emphasized President Donald J. Trump’s unwavering resolve to ensure that the Western Hemisphere does not become a playground for drug traffickers, Iranian proxies, or other hostile regimes that threaten U.S. national security. He proclaimed that the era of perceived weakness is behind us, and the U.S. will utilize every available resource to eliminate these dangers from our vicinity.
- “We are not at war with Venezuela; our battle is against drug trafficking organizations.” (Watch)
- “U.S. forces were only on the ground in Venezuela for about two hours during the capture of Maduro. The President is quite clear: he will not be discussing his potential actions publicly.” (Watch)
- “The Western Hemisphere is our home, and we will not allow it to serve as a base for our adversaries.” (Watch)
- “Our priority is securing the national interest of the United States while also benefiting the people of Venezuela. We aim to eradicate drug trafficking and remove Iran and Hezbollah from the region.” (Watch)
- “This operation did not necessitate congressional approval as it was not an invasion or a lengthy military campaign. We will, however, inform Congress of any actions that require their input.” (Watch)
- “Our foreign policy is not a one-size-fits-all approach like Libya or Iraq. This is the Western Hemisphere, and our objectives here differ significantly.” (Watch)
- “The immediate changes we pursue align with U.S. national interests. Our involvement is driven by its direct impact on our country.” (Watch)
- “We will not allow our adversaries to exploit resources in the Western Hemisphere as they do in other regions. Under President Trump, that will not happen. Our national security strategy reflects this seriousness.” (Watch)
- “Our reactions will be based on tangible outcomes: Do the drugs stop? Are changes implemented? Is Iran expelled from the region?” (Watch)
- “Our policy aims to guide Venezuela towards a direction that benefits both its citizens and U.S. interests.” (Watch)
- “We still have all the options available to us following this raid and arrest until we see necessary changes.” (Watch)
- “While the Biden Administration placed a $25 million bounty on Maduro’s head, they did little to enforce it. This is where President Trump distinguishes himself: he took action.” (Watch)
- “As long as these issues remain unaddressed, Venezuela will face ongoing pressure from the U.S. We will actively target drug shipments heading towards our shores and maintain our sanctions until our demands are met. The safety and prosperity of the United States is our primary concern.” (Watch)
- “Maduro is not merely an indicted drug trafficker; he was an illegitimate leader. I continue to see media references to him as ‘President Maduro’ — he was never the legitimate head of state.” (Watch)
