U.S. Influence Over Venezuela's Future

On Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States was steering the course of events in Venezuela following the early Saturday morning detainment of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces.

Discussion on U.S. Authority

During an interview on ABC News' 'This Week,' host George Stephanopoulos questioned the legal grounds on which President Trump declared U.S. oversight of Venezuela.

Rubio responded by highlighting a U.S.-imposed oil embargo that binds Venezuela's economy until it aligns with U.S. national interests and those of the Venezuelan populace.

Assessing U.S. Role

When asked if the U.S. was currently controlling Venezuela directly, Rubio clarified that America was shaping the strategic direction, leveraging an economic embargo.

He elaborated that the embargo is part of a Department of Defense initiative, occasionally involving the Coast Guard in intercepting vessels in accordance with law enforcement objectives.

Rubio criticized Maduro as an unreliable partner and stated that the U.S. does not recognize Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as a legitimate leader.

Calls for Democratic Transition

Rubio asserted that the legitimacy of Venezuela's government must be attained via transitional processes and authentic elections.

He also noted the administration's readiness to utilize strategies considered prior to Maduro's capture.

Rubio emphasized that any sanctioned vessel attempting to enter or leave Venezuela would be seized based on court approvals secured in the U.S.

Debating the Raid's Legality

Inquiries regarding the need for Congressional consent for the operation against Maduro were raised, to which Rubio responded that approval was unnecessary as the raid did not qualify as an invasion.

He mentioned that given the hostile territory, involving the Department of Defense was necessary for Maduro's apprehension.

Concerns Over Secrecy and Urgency

Rubio stressed that Congressional notification would be impractical due to the potential for leaks and the urgent nature of the situation.

Additionally, Rubio distanced himself from President Trump's decision to pardon former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández.

He stated that the president exercises the power of pardon, informed by White House evaluations, and he did not partake in those discussions.