U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio Defends U.S. Actions in Venezuela Amid International Criticism

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio strongly defended Washington’s recent intervention in Venezuela during a press conference on February 15, 2026, in Bratislava, Slovakia. Rubio responded to questions about international criticism, including comments from world leaders who objected to the U.S. military operation and capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Rubio said that “a lot of countries didn’t like what we did in Venezuela”, but added that it’s normal for countries to express differing opinions. He stressed that such disagreements should not prevent cooperation between governments.

Rubio defended the U.S. operation as necessary and successful, saying the government is proud of what was done. He argued that removing Maduro, whom the U.S. alleges was involved in narcotics and criminal activity, has opened a new opportunity for Venezuela’s future. According to Rubio, the situation in Venezuela is now “much better today than it was six weeks ago”, signaling progress since the January operation.

The statement comes amid broader international reactions to the U.S. intervention, which has drawn both support and criticism worldwide. Some nations condemned the military action as a violation of Venezuela’s sovereignty, while others welcomed the removal of Maduro and expressed hope for political and economic recovery in the country