The United States has said it is not worried about tensions rising with Russia over Venezuela. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the statement on Friday, even as the Trump administration strengthens its military presence in the Caribbean.
At the same time, Washington has deployed thousands of troops to the region. It has also sent an aircraft carrier, warships, and fighter jets as part of the military buildup.
Rubio downplays risk of conflict with Moscow
Speaking to reporters, Rubio made it clear that Russia’s involvement does not concern the US. “We’re not concerned about an escalation with Russia when it comes to Venezuela,” Rubio said.
He explained that Washington has long expected Moscow to publicly support Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. However, he stressed that such backing does not affect US policy.
“That’s not a factor in how we look at this situation,” Rubio said.
US calls Venezuela situation unacceptable
Meanwhile, Rubio described conditions in Venezuela as “intolerable” and said the current situation must change. He also played down the importance of Russia’s support for Caracas, pointing to Moscow’s heavy focus on the war in Ukraine.
“It’s clear that the status quo with the Venezuelan regime is unacceptable for the United States,” he said.
He added that Washington does not fear provoking Russia over Venezuela because “they have their hands full in Ukraine.”
Russia warns US against risky decisions
Earlier, Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a warning to the Trump administration. It said it hoped Washington would avoid what it called a potentially disastrous decision on Venezuela.
In addition, Moscow said it was concerned about US actions that could threaten international shipping routes.
Trump signals tougher Western Hemisphere strategy
Although Venezuela and Russia maintain close relations, a recent Trump administration strategy document signaled a tougher US stance. The document said Washington would reassert its dominance in the Western Hemisphere.
It also argued that the United States should revive the 19th-century Monroe Doctrine, which declared the region to be America’s sphere of influence.
US steps up pressure on Venezuela
Meanwhile, the Trump administration has increased pressure on Caracas. It has carried out strikes against suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the region. It has also seized a sanctioned oil tanker off Venezuela’s coast. In addition, the administration declared a “blockade” on all sanctioned oil tankers entering or leaving Venezuela.
At the same time, Trump has repeatedly warned that strikes on land inside Venezuela will happen soon.
Lawmakers seek clarity on military actions
However, Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about transparency. They said the administration has shared limited information about its operations in the region.
In response, Rubio said the situation does not require congressional approval. “Nothing has happened that requires us to notify Congress or get congressional approval or cross the threshold into war,” Rubio said.