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U.S. Urges Venezuela to Resist Russian and Iranian Influence

1/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Venezuela must not become a base for Russia and Iran.
The United States will pressure Venezuela's new leadership to avoid policies tied to Nicolás Maduro.
Rubio dismisses claims the United States seeks Venezuelan oil, saying it does not need oil.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the Maduro operation sends a strong message to authoritarian regimes.

History

Historical Context

In January 2019, Juan Guaidó was declared interim president of Venezuela by the National Assembly, challenging Nicolás Maduro's regime. The U.S. recognized Guaidó and imposed sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil exports, which constituted 90% of its revenue. Today, Secretary of State Marco Rubio warns against foreign influence in Venezuela, reflecting ongoing U.S. efforts to counter authoritarianism in Latin America.

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Story summary

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio says Venezuela must not become a base for Russia and Iran.
The United States will pressure Venezuela's new leadership to avoid policies tied to Nicolás Maduro.
Rubio dismisses claims the United States seeks Venezuelan oil, saying it does not need oil.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says the Maduro operation sends a strong message to authoritarian regimes.

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