Key Takeaways:
- The US has arrested Nicolas Maduro and his wife, and they will face trial in the US for their crimes.
- The US has imposed an oil quarantine on Venezuela, which will remain in place until the country’s oil industry is reformed to benefit the people, not just the ruling elite.
- The US is working to ensure that Venezuela transitions to a democratic government, but the process will take time.
- The US is committed to protecting its national interests in the region, including preventing the spread of malign influences such as Hezbollah and Iran.
- The US is open to working with the new leadership in Venezuela, but will judge them based on their actions, not just their words.
Introduction to the Interview
The interview with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, which aired on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" on January 4, 2026, provided valuable insights into the US government’s stance on Venezuela and its recent actions in the country. Secretary Rubio discussed the US’s goals for Venezuela, including the need for democratic reforms and the protection of US national interests.
The US’s Goals for Venezuela
Secretary Rubio emphasized that the US’s primary goal is to ensure that Venezuela’s oil industry is reformed to benefit the people, not just the ruling elite. He stated that the current regime has stolen the country’s wealth, and that the US is working to prevent the spread of malign influences such as Hezbollah and Iran in the region. The US is also committed to protecting its national interests, including preventing the trafficking of drugs and gang members into the US.
The Arrest of Nicolas Maduro
Secretary Rubio discussed the recent arrest of Nicolas Maduro and his wife, who will face trial in the US for their crimes. He emphasized that the US had offered Maduro the opportunity to remove himself from power peacefully, but he refused. The arrest was a necessary step to protect US national interests and to bring Maduro to justice. The US is working to ensure that those responsible for crimes against the US and its people are held accountable.
The Oil Quarantine
The US has imposed an oil quarantine on Venezuela, which will remain in place until the country’s oil industry is reformed. Secretary Rubio stated that the quarantine is a powerful tool that will allow the US to exert leverage over the Venezuelan government and ensure that the country’s oil wealth is used for the benefit of the people, not just the ruling elite. The quarantine is also intended to prevent the Venezuelan government from using its oil wealth to fund malign activities.
Transition to Democracy
Secretary Rubio emphasized that the US is committed to supporting a transition to democracy in Venezuela. However, he noted that this process will take time and will require careful planning and coordination. The US is working with the Venezuelan opposition and other stakeholders to ensure that the transition is peaceful and democratic. The US is also providing support to the Venezuelan people, including humanitarian aid and economic assistance.
The Role of Delcy Rodríguez
Secretary Rubio discussed his conversation with Delcy Rodríguez, who has been sworn in as the new leader of Venezuela. He stated that the US is willing to work with Rodríguez, but will judge her based on her actions, not just her words. The US is looking for concrete steps towards democratic reforms and the protection of US national interests. Secretary Rubio emphasized that the US will not tolerate any actions that undermine its national interests or threaten regional stability.
The Future of Venezuela
The future of Venezuela is uncertain, but the US is committed to supporting a democratic and peaceful transition. Secretary Rubio emphasized that the US will continue to work with the Venezuelan people and the international community to ensure that Venezuela becomes a stable and prosperous democracy. The US is also committed to protecting its national interests and preventing the spread of malign influences in the region.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the interview with Secretary of State Marco Rubio provided valuable insights into the US government’s stance on Venezuela and its recent actions in the country. The US is committed to supporting a democratic and peaceful transition in Venezuela, and is working to ensure that the country’s oil industry is reformed to benefit the people, not just the ruling elite. The US is also committed to protecting its national interests and preventing the spread of malign influences in the region. The US will continue to work with the Venezuelan people and the international community to ensure that Venezuela becomes a stable and prosperous democracy.