It's in Venezuela's Interest to Cooperate with U.S., Rubio Says in Heated Testimony

During a high-stakes Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on January 28, 2026, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of cooperation between Venezuela and the U.S., especially following the recent ousting of President Nicolás Maduro. The hearing followed military operations that resulted in Maduro's arrest, with the interim government led by Delcy Rodríguez now at the forefront.

Rubio maintained that establishing diplomatic ties with the new Venezuelan leadership is in the country’s best interest for long-term prosperity. "We are at a pivotal moment, and the only way for Venezuela to stabilize is through open dialogue with Washington," he stated. He described current interactions with Venezuela’s leaders as not only productive but also essential for eroding the influence of adversaries like Iran, Russia, and China.

Despite the political upheaval in Venezuela, Rubio reassured lawmakers that the U.S. did not plan military escalation but would maintain a legal and structured approach to its operations in the country. He framed the U.S. military presence as a necessary law enforcement action rather than an occupation. "There are no U.S. troops on the ground, and we do not intend to enforce military action unless absolutely required," Rubio clarified.

Critics, including some members from both parties, raised concerns about the ethical implications of the U.S. working with Rodríguez, who has historically been connected to Maduro’s administration. Rubio acknowledged that while transitional cooperation might involve leadership figures deemed untrustworthy by the U.S., it is essential to achieve stability in Venezuela.

Further discussions during the hearing included the potential for raising Venezuelan oil revenues, controlled by the U.S. to ensure that profits benefit the local economy rather than foreign adversaries. Analysts continue to question whether Venezuela's new government, steeped in a legacy of anti-Americanism, will genuinely engage with U.S. interests.

Rubio's testimony marks an essential pivot in U.S.-Venezuela relations and underscores the complexities involved in navigating this transition towards a stable and democratic Venezuela. The long-term goal is to reshape the political and economic landscape of the country, offering a glimmer of hope for the Venezuelan people amidst the ongoing crisis.