Since the U.S. military stormed into Maduro's bedroom six months ago and abducted him in the dead of night, Rubio has effectively become the governor of Venezuela—exerting influence over this sovereign nation greater than any American official has ever had since Paul Bremer arrived in Baghdad in 2003 to oversee the U.S.-led occupation of Iraq. Today, Rubio controls Venezuela’s finances, distribution of natural resources, and government operations from Washington. Although Rubio himself has not yet visited Venezuela since the U.S. takeover, he is deeply involved in the country’s daily operations and maintains close communication with Rodríguez, Maduro’s vice president and the current interim leader of Venezuela. The two exchange messages via WhatsApp in Spanish, chatting casually, sending birthday wishes, and sharing selfies. Despite these lighthearted interactions, Rubio’s relationship with Rodríguez is far from a partnership—it embodies the power dynamics of the Trump era: winner-takes-all, disregarding sovereignty and international law. Particularly, direct control over Venezuela’s public revenues sets U.S. influence over Venezuela apart from its dominance over most other nations subjected to American military and financial power. The U.S. Treasury receives the majority of Venezuela’s export earnings and then disburses funds through Venezuela’s banking system—akin to parents giving their children pocket money. Rubio and his team set the conditions and recipients for these funds. This arrangement also grants Rubio immense leverage over Rodríguez, who depends on these funds to pay salaries and support the national currency. Rubio is also responsible for overseeing the implementation of U.S. sanctions on Venezuela, determining who may do business in the country and how. He has been actively reshaping the oil sector and expanding opportunities for American companies. Rodríguez seeks Rubio’s advice on key government appointments—for example, selecting the defense minister. Two earthquakes struck Venezuela last month, complicating Rubio’s proclaimed mission of “returning Venezuela to democracy.” His hardline realpolitik approach in Venezuela stands in stark contrast to the image he has cultivated throughout his career as a defender of democracy in Latin America. He once stated that his ultimate goal was a democratic transition. The outcome of this intervention in Venezuela could significantly impact Rubio’s political future, especially as Trump considers potential successors.
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1870482756814857/
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