Washington, D.C. – The United States has formulated a three-stage plan for Venezuela following recent military actions, focusing on stabilization, recovery, and political transition, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
During a briefing to members of the Senate on Wednesday, Rubio outlined the plan, emphasizing that its primary objective is to “prevent Venezuela from descending into chaos.” He stressed that the initiative is not an impromptu reaction but the result of detailed planning.
Speaking to reporters after meeting with lawmakers, Rubio explained that the administration has engaged in extensive discussions regarding the next steps. He elaborated that the first phase centers on re-establishing stability within Venezuela.
The second phase, described as a period of “recovery,” aims to ensure fair access for American and Western companies to the Venezuelan market. This phase also includes initiating a national reconciliation process within Venezuela, potentially involving amnesty for opposition figures, the release or repatriation of detainees, and the rebuilding of civil society.
“This is about ensuring a stable and prosperous future for the Venezuelan people,” Rubio stated.
Rubio further detailed that the third and final phase will concentrate on a political transition, paving the way for democratic governance.
In a related matter, Secretary Rubio affirmed that Venezuelan officials are cooperating with the United States regarding a seized oil tanker in the Caribbean. “They understand that transporting oil, securing revenue, and averting economic collapse are contingent upon cooperation with Washington,” he asserted.
Rubio also suggested that American involvement in Venezuela would be cost-neutral to the United States, highlighting the seizure of an oil tanker by American forces in the Caribbean that was allegedly operating on behalf of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.
Furthermore, he indicated that Venezuelan authorities have requested access to the proceeds from the sale of the oil from the seized tanker, underscoring Washington’s significant influence and control over the actions of the transitional authorities in Venezuela. He noted that the US military has strong control over the situation.
This announcement follows earlier reports indicating the United States’ seizure of an oil tanker named “Marine,” further solidifying the US presence in the region and its commitment to overseeing the future of Venezuela.
