By Admin 
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated on Sunday (January 04, 2026) that the US will not play any role in the day-to-day governance of Venezuela other than enforcing the oil blockade. This statement has come at a time when President Donald Trump had announced a day earlier that America will take over the governance of Venezuela after removing President Nicolas Maduro from power.
Trump’s statement changed the tone
President Donald Trump said on Saturday that the US will ‘run’ Venezuela for the time being and its role will continue there until a safe and orderly transition of power. After his statement, questions started being raised at the international level whether America was going to directly take over the administration of Venezuela.
cleaning of rubies
Amidst these apprehensions, Foreign Minister Marco Rubio explained Trump’s statement differently. He said that America does not intend to rule Venezuela. According to Rubio, Trump did not mean direct control, but creating pressure so that changes could be brought there.
Oil blockade will continue
Rubio made it clear that America will continue the oil blockade against Venezuela. He said that action against banned oil tankers and their seizure is the biggest means of pressure available to America. Through this pressure, policy changes are being expected from the new government of Venezuela.
America also keeps an eye on drug smuggling
The US Secretary of State said that America wants the Venezuelan oil industry to work in the interest of the people of the country. Along with this, he also described stopping drug smuggling as a big objective. Rubio said that pressure will remain on these issues until concrete changes are made.
America’s interests first
Rubio also said that America will take every step keeping in mind its national interests. He told that the future policy will be decided based on the performance of the people who are currently in power in Venezuela.
Position unclear on military role
Rubio said America’s current military presence is enough to stop drug smuggling and contraband ships. However, he also indicated that other options can be considered if needed.
Situation after Maduro’s arrest
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were detained in a special operation at a military base in Caracas. Both have been brought to America, where they have been charged with serious charges of drug smuggling and conspiracy. The Venezuelan government has called this action an imperialist step.
Appearance in New York court
Nicolas Maduro will appear in New York federal court on Monday. US prosecutors say Maduro’s government has been corrupt and illegal and has been involved in activities related to drug trafficking.