Post Reports Marco Rubio, the Viceroy of Venezuela
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Jan 6, 2026 
State Department reporter John Hudson provides an in-depth look at Marco Rubio's growing influence as he navigates the complex political landscape of Venezuela. He discusses Rubio's strategic role in persuading Trump to target Maduro and how his Cuban-American roots fuel his commitment to regime change. Hudson reveals the proposed methods for exerting control over Venezuela’s future, including economic pressure and military threats, while highlighting the political risks Rubio faces and his ambitions for both U.S. foreign policy and personal gain.
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Military Action Framed As Law Enforcement
- The U.S. operation in Venezuela combined kinetic military action with law-enforcement goals to seize Nicolás Maduro.
- John Hudson frames Rubio as central to pushing Trump toward strikes that targeted vessels near Venezuela to avoid rupturing relations with Mexico.
Rubio's Cuba Roots Drive Venezuela Policy
- Rubio's Venezuela policy is shaped by his Cuban-American identity and Florida politics fearing socialist influence in the region.
- He sees Venezuela as propping up Cuba through oil-for-security ties that must be broken to weaken the Cuban regime.
Trump's Motives: Oil And Migration
- Trump was persuaded by potential oil gains and migration reduction more than democracy arguments.
- Experts warn oil profits are uncertain and instability after Maduro's ouster could increase migration instead of reducing it.