US Will Not Govern Venezuela, Rubio Says
The United States does not intend to govern Venezuela directly but will continue to apply pressure to push for political and economic changes, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. His remarks were aimed at addressing speculation about Washington’s role in Venezuela amid rising tensions and renewed debate over U.S. actions targeting the country’s oil sector.
Oil Pressure as Primary Tool
Rubio said the U.S. will rely on economic measures, including restrictions linked to Venezuela’s oil industry, to influence the country’s leadership. He stressed that the objective is to force policy changes and accountability rather than take control of Venezuela’s administration. Oil exports remain Venezuela’s main source of revenue, making the sector a central focus of U.S. pressure.
No Plans for Direct Administration
Rejecting suggestions of direct rule or occupation, Rubio said the U.S. has no interest in managing Venezuela’s internal governance. He maintained that decisions about Venezuela’s future must ultimately be taken by Venezuelans themselves, even as Washington continues to use sanctions and energy-related leverage to shape outcomes.
Reaction and Wider Context
Venezuelan authorities have consistently opposed U.S. sanctions, describing them as coercive and harmful to ordinary citizens. The comments from Rubio come at a time of heightened global scrutiny of energy supply chains and geopolitical use of oil as a strategic tool.
Ongoing Diplomatic Tensions
The situation underscores continued strain between Washington and Caracas, with oil policy remaining at the centre of diplomatic and economic confrontation. Analysts say the effectiveness of pressure through energy restrictions will depend on global market conditions and international alignment.
