Senator Rubio Testifies Before US Senate on Venezuelan President Abduction

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio Testifies Before Senate Committee

Secretary of State Marco Rubio appeared before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on Wednesday to discuss the US operation that abducted Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro. The hearing began with Rubio’s defense of the January 3 operation, which has been widely criticized as a violation of international law.

Rubio emphasized the “strategic” significance of the operation, stating that Venezuela serves as a base for various adversaries and enemies worldwide. He cited alleged ties between Venezuela and countries such as Iran, Russia, and Cuba. According to Rubio, having Maduro in power posed a significant risk to US interests in the hemisphere, affecting not only Colombia but also the Caribbean Basin.

The US objectives in Venezuela, according to Rubio, include establishing a stable and prosperous nation with democratic institutions. He defended President Donald Trump’s decision to work with the government surrounding Maduro, including interim President Delcy Rodriguez, despite initial opposition to an opposition takeover.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the top Democrat on the Senate, focused primarily on the cost of the operation and ongoing naval blockade, estimating it to be around $1 billion. She noted that many constituents are concerned about the allocation of resources away from pressing domestic issues.

Rubio’s testimony centered on the US goals for Venezuela, with an emphasis on avoiding civil war and establishing direct communication with the nation’s leaders. He also discussed a “period of recovery” aimed at normalizing the oil industry.

Source: Al Jazeera