Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., criticized the Biden administration’s approach to Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro, suggesting that it has bolstered his regime’s powerful image and strengthened his authoritarian objectives.
“In my opinion, it has enhanced their internal position and given him the audacity to declare: I can get away with this now,” Rubio asserted. “I may face condemnation. They might reinstate some sanctions, and people will speak harshly of me, but in a few months… 2 million more people will flee Venezuela. I can imprison some individuals and suppress dissent, while those close to me and the regime will remain steadfast, as I’ve demonstrated my ability to prevail and succeed in negotiations.”
Rubio elaborated that he thinks the root issue lies with the advisors surrounding President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, which includes individuals “who are convinced that a favorable outcome can be negotiated anywhere.”
“There are certain leaders that can’t be reasoned with due to their inherent nature and interests,” Rubio emphasized. “Sadly, a diplomatic resolution is not forthcoming in the near term… especially when dealing with authoritarian figures who are focused on maintaining power.”
BLINKEN STATES VENEZUELA’S NICOLAS MADURO LOST ELECTION BEFORE CLAIMING VICTORY WITHOUT ‘SUPPORTING EVIDENCE’
Anti-government demonstrations have persisted in the wake of the July presidential election, which the Maduro-controlled National Electoral Council declared in favor of the incumbent with a claimed victory margin of 51%, as opposed to 44% backing for the opposition.
Illegal pre-election polling indicated that opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez had twice the support of Maduro and his United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV). Venezuelans took to the streets in peaceful protests, but Maduro deployed police to suppress them and clear the streets, resulting in violent confrontations and escalating tensions.
