In a December 2, 2025 interview on Fox News’ Hannity, Secretary of State Marco Rubio argued that Maduro’s regime is not a legitimate government but a transshipment network for drugs. He warned that unlike President Biden, Donald Trump will not be ‘suckered’ by Maduro, signaling a tougher U.S. stance toward Caracas from the outset of a Trump administration.
Rubio described Maduro’s government as illegitimate and as a conduit that enables drug trafficking through Venezuelan territory. The remarks come as U.S. counter-drug operations continue near Venezuela, with officials warning that sanctions could intensify if Maduro fails to meet stated conditions.
The Secretary noted ongoing counter-drug missions and threatened severe sanctions should Maduro not cooperate, including potential measures tied to political or humanitarian conditions such as accepting Venezuelan citizens. He framed these moves within a broader America-first approach to Venezuela, arguing that past deals with Maduro failed and that the United States must adopt a tougher posture.
Rubio’s comments were part of a broader effort to reassure Trump supporters that the new administration would not be duped by Maduro and would pursue aggressive measures to curb drug trafficking flowing through Venezuela. For more context, see Fox News’ coverage and related State Department releases linked below.
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