Rubio Condemns Venezuela’s Status Quo Amid New Sanctions on Maduro’s Family
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio critiqued the ongoing “status quo” under Nicolás Maduro’s regime, labeling it “intolerable.” His remarks followed the Trump administration’s announcement of new sanctions targeting family members of the Venezuelan leader.
New Sanctions on Maduro’s Family
This latest move by the Trump administration marks the second round of sanctions against Maduro’s relatives in just weeks. The sanctions specifically focus on:
- Maduro’s sister-in-law
- Other relatives of Carlos Erik Malpica Flores, a sanctioned official
Previously, three of Maduro’s nephews, known controversially as the “narco nephews,” faced sanctions. These men were granted clemency in 2022 as part of a prisoner exchange with the U.S.
Military Actions and Pressure on Venezuela
The Trump administration has intensified military operations aimed at disrupting drug trafficking from Venezuela. U.S. military forces have conducted numerous strikes against alleged drug vessels, resulting in over 100 deaths. These operations have sparked significant scrutiny from Congress.
Statements from Trump and Rubio
During a recent press conference, Rubio reiterated that partnerships between the Maduro regime and terrorist groups pose a threat to U.S. national interests. He stated, “We reserve the right to utilize every element of national power to defend the national interest of the United States.” Meanwhile, President Trump has not dismissed the possibility of military intervention, saying, “We want to keep blowing boats up until Maduro cries uncle.”
Goals of the U.S. Sanctions
The U.S. government maintains that its punitive measures focus on combating drug trafficking rather than facilitating regime change. Nonetheless, Rubio emphasized the need to alter the current dynamics, stating that the ongoing situation is unsustainable. The continued economic and military pressures aim to disrupt the support network for Maduro’s government, which officials accuse of deepening Venezuela’s economic crisis and threatening regional stability.
According to State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott, “Maduro and his cronies have devastated Venezuela’s economy and continue to threaten our region’s stability.” The Trump administration remains committed to dismantling the operations that sustain Maduro’s regime.
