Rubio defends Maduro capture to Caribbean leaders amid rising tensions over Cuba
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 26, 2026
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US Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the Trump administration's military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro during a summit with Caribbean leaders in St Kitts and Nevis. Despite concerns over the legality of the operation, Rubio argued that Venezuela is better off today than before Maduro's ouster, citing progress in economic conditions and security improvements. He emphasized the need for closer cooperation among regional nations to address shared challenges, particularly amid rising tensions over Cuba, migration, and security.
Rubio highlighted the interim Venezuelan government's achievements since Maduro's removal, including efforts to stabilize the economy and improve relations with neighboring countries. He also acknowledged the Caribbean leaders' concerns but assured them that the US remains committed to fostering stability and prosperity in the region. The secretary stressed the importance of collaboration on issues like crime, migration, and economic opportunities, noting the shared challenges faced by Caribbean nations.
In his remarks, Rubio downplayed any aggressive intent behind the administration's Venezuela policy, referring to it as a modern version of the Monroe Doctrine aimed at ensuring US influence in the Western Hemisphere. He emphasized the need for fair democratic elections in Venezuela and the potential for the country to become a valuable partner for regional cooperation on energy and economic development.
Rubio's comments came as the Caribbean leaders gathered to discuss pressing issues, including Cuba's recent incident involving a Florida-registered speedboat and the broader implications of US actions in the region. The secretary's visit underscored the administration's focus on strengthening ties with Caribbean nations and addressing transnational threats like organized crime.
The summit also touched on migration concerns and the impact of US policy decisions on regional stability. Rubio's defense of the Maduro operation
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/26/2026