Rubio and Hegseth Detail Three-Step Strategy for Venezuela: NPR

Bassyonni

ago 20 hours

In a recent brief, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth outlined a comprehensive strategy for Venezuela following the U.S. capture of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. This three-step plan focuses on stabilization, recovery, and transition as the administration navigates the unfolding situation.

Three-Step Strategy for Venezuela

Rubio articulated the first phase of the strategy as “stabilization.” He emphasized the need for a quarantine approach, which includes the sale of sanctioned oil and controlling the distribution of its profits. “We want to avoid chaos,” he stated, underlining the importance of compliance with this strategy.

Stabilization Phase

Quarantine of Venezuela.
Sale of sanctioned oil to control funds.
Seizure of oil tankers, with projections of transferring 30 to 50 million barrels to the market.

Revenue from the oil sales will be managed to ensure that it benefits the Venezuelan populace rather than corrupt entities. This measure is aimed at shortening the regime’s influence over the country’s assets.

Recovery Phase

The second step is focused on the “recovery” of the Venezuelan economy. Rubio noted that facilitating access to the market should be executed in a fair manner. This phase will also encompass national reconciliation efforts, including amnesty for opposition members and rebuilding civil society.

Transition Phase

While specifics regarding the final phase, “transition,” remain vague, Rubio acknowledged that various elements of this strategy could overlap. Lawmakers have displayed a range of reactions regarding this operational update.

Lawmakers’ Reactions

Following the briefing, opinions among lawmakers diverged. Republican members generally supported the operation while Democrats voiced concerns regarding transparency and future planning.

House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed the administration’s objective of avoiding U.S. boots on the ground.
Rep. Kat Cammack praised the clarity of the mission.
Rep. Seth Moulton and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez expressed skepticism about the administration’s future plans.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for public hearings to address unanswered questions.

The developments surrounding Venezuela continue to evolve, and the administration is under pressure to provide clear communication about its intended path moving forward.