Washington, Jan. 4, 2026 — U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Sunday strongly defended the Trump administration’s operation that led to the capture of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, declaring that the United States will not allow the Western Hemisphere to become a base for drug traffickers, hostile regimes, or foreign adversaries.
Speaking on multiple U.S. television programs, Rubio said the operation was limited in scope and duration, stressing that it was not a war against Venezuela. According to him, U.S. forces were on the ground for only a short time to apprehend Maduro, whom he described as an “indicted narcoterrorist” and an “illegitimate former dictator.”
“There’s not a war. We are at war against drug trafficking organizations — not a war against Venezuela,” Rubio said, adding that the United States has no intention of launching a prolonged military campaign in the country.
Rubio emphasized President Donald Trump’s determination to secure U.S. national interests in the region, saying the administration would not tolerate the presence of Iran, Hezbollah, or other hostile actors in Venezuela. He also accused Maduro of using the country’s oil industry to benefit U.S. adversaries and criminal networks.
“This is the Western Hemisphere. This is where we live — and we’re not going to allow it to be a base of operation for our rivals,” Rubio said, describing the move as part of a broader strategy to curb drug trafficking and foreign influence close to U.S. borders.
Addressing questions about legality, Rubio argued that the operation did not require prior congressional approval because it was neither an invasion nor an extended military action. He said Congress would be notified when required under U.S. law.
Rubio also criticized media references to “President Maduro,” insisting that Maduro was not Venezuela’s legitimate head of state. He noted that a reward for Maduro’s capture had existed under previous administrations, but claimed the Trump administration was the first to act decisively.
The secretary warned that U.S. pressure on Venezuela would continue until concrete changes are made, including halting drug flows, expelling Iranian-linked groups, and ending activities Washington considers a threat to its security.
“The number one thing we care about is the safety, security, and prosperity of the United States,” Rubio said, adding that all options remain on the table if U.S. demands are not met.
