Rubio Defends US Control Over Venezuelan Oil Revenues

Testifying before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Rubio argued that the U.S. is merely overseeing a transition for a "criminal state." He outlined a mechanism where sanctioned oil is sold at market rates, with proceeds held in a controlled account intended for humanitarian needs and government payrolls. Rubio admitted that of $500 million in recent oil sales, $200 million remains held in a temporary Qatari account, pending a future transfer to a blocked U.S. Treasury account.

Congressional Scrutiny and Accusations

Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) challenged the legality of the arrangement, describing the project as an unprecedented "taking" of resources at gunpoint. Legal experts and advocacy groups, including Public Citizen, argue that the blockade and the recent abduction of President Nicolás Maduro violate international law and the U.S. Constitution. During the three-hour hearing, protesters interrupted proceedings to label the administration’s actions "thuggery." Despite claims that the policy is not aimed at further military escalation, Rubio refused to rule out future actions under the guise of self-defense, while also hinting at a desire for regime change in Cuba.