US finds Venezuela situation ‘intolerable,’ vows to change status quo
Speaking to reporters, Rubio said, “It is clear that the current status quo with the Venezuelan regime is intolerable for the United States.” He argued that Caracas poses a direct threat to US interests, alleging cooperation with violent groups. “The status quo that they operate and cooperate with terrorist organizations against the national interest of the United States, not just cooperate, but partner with and participate in activities to threaten the national interest of the United States,” he said.
He underscored the administration’s objective by adding, “Our goal is to change that dynamic,” while reiterating that Washington does not view the government of President Nicolas Maduro as legitimate.
When asked about Moscow’s involvement in Venezuela, Rubio downplayed concerns of a broader confrontation, saying, “We are not concerned about an escalation with Russia with regards to Venezuela. We have always expected them to provide rhetorical support for the Maduro regime. I think they have their hands full in Ukraine.”
His remarks followed a recent announcement by President Donald Trump declaring a "total and complete blockade" on sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela, while designating the Maduro government a "foreign terrorist organization."
According to reports, the US has significantly increased its military activity in the Caribbean over the past four months, carrying out 22 known operations against vessels suspected of drug trafficking. These actions have resulted in at least 87 deaths since operations began in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific Ocean in early September.
Tensions intensified further on Dec. 10 when US forces seized a sanctioned oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast, a move that Caracas condemned as "international piracy."
US officials say the expanded operations are intended to dismantle drug trafficking networks. Venezuelan authorities, however, accuse Washington of using anti-narcotics efforts as a cover to undermine Maduro’s rule and gain control over the country’s oil assets, as stated by reports.
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