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The Associated Press post reports that Secretary of State **Marco Rubio** has clarified the U.S. will not directly govern Venezuela, but will instead use an ongoing oil embargo (described as a "quarantine") to pressure the post-Maduro government into policy changes. This appears to soften President Trump's earlier statements on January 3, 2026, where he claimed the U.S. would "run" the country temporarily following the capture of Nicolás Maduro.


### Background

On January 3, 2026, the U.S. conducted **"Operation Absolute Resolve"**, a large-scale military strike involving over 150 aircraft, airstrikes on Venezuelan targets, and a special forces raid that captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, in Caracas. Maduro was flown to New York City and is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, facing federal charges including narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation, and weapons offenses (based on a long-standing indictment).


Trump initially announced the U.S. would oversee Venezuela's transition and involve American oil companies in rebuilding and exploiting its vast reserves (the largest in the world). This drew international criticism for suggesting intervention or occupation.


### Rubio's Clarification and Impacts

Rubio emphasized on January 4 that the U.S. does not need Venezuelan oil (as domestic production is sufficient) but aims to prevent adversaries (e.g., China, Russia, Iran) from controlling it. The naval blockade/enforcement in the Caribbean will continue to block oil exports, crippling revenue for any uncooperative elements in Caracas. Venezuela's current oil output is low (around 1 million barrels per day due to sanctions and infrastructure decay), but unlocking it could significantly boost global supply.


Rubio has not ruled out further actions, including ground troops if needed, but described the current approach as economic leverage rather than direct governance. Interim leadership (possibly Vice President Delcy Rodríguez) is under pressure to cooperate.


This has sparked debates on legality (no congressional authorization, framed as "law enforcement"), regional stability, and potential escalation. International reactions include condemnation from allies of Venezuela and caution from others.