Washington, Jan 4 (NationPress) US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the apprehension of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro was meant to deliver a definitive message to governments and leaders globally, emphasizing that the United States will respond firmly when its national interests are at stake.

In remarks following President Donald Trump's announcement regarding the operation, Rubio informed the press in Mar-a-Lago that Maduro does not hold the title of legitimate president of Venezuela and pointed out that his status as a fugitive is recognized globally.

“It’s not just our viewpoint,” Rubio remarked, highlighting that both the Trump and Biden administrations, along with the European Union and numerous countries worldwide, have refused to acknowledge Maduro’s presidency.

He indicated that Maduro was indicted in the US in 2020, and there exists a $50 million bounty on him. According to Rubio, Maduro had “numerous chances to evade this situation,” yet opted for confrontation instead. “He received multiple very generous offers but chose to act recklessly,” Rubio added.

Rubio characterized the operation as a broader warning, noting that some leaders mistakenly think they can “play games” with Washington without repercussions. He cited Maduro’s actions, including inviting Iran into Venezuela, seizing American oil properties, and flooding the US with gang members while attempting to negotiate for the release of detained Americans.

“He tends to play games and assumes nothing will happen. I hope what people now realize is that we have a president who is serious. The 47th President of the United States does not engage in games. When he asserts he will take action on an issue, he follows through,” Rubio stated.

Rubio emphasized that the Venezuela operation exemplified a leadership style focused on action rather than mere words. “This is not a president who merely talks and sends letters or holds press conferences,” he explained. “If he claims he is serious about an issue, he genuinely means it.”

Responding to inquiries regarding congressional notification, Rubio justified the decision not to inform lawmakers beforehand. “This mission did not permit congressional notification,” he noted, describing it as a “trigger-based mission” reliant on specific conditions. He asserted that prior notice would have “compromised the mission.”

Rubio underscored that the operation was fundamentally a law enforcement initiative. “This was the capture of two fugitives wanted by American justice,” he stated, adding that the Department of War assisted the Department of Justice in executing the mission.

He also expressed strong sentiments about Cuba, labeling the nation as “a disaster” and suggesting its leadership should be worried. Rubio mentioned that Cuban security forces played a crucial role in safeguarding the Maduro regime. “If I were in the government in Havana, I would be quite concerned,” he remarked.

Rubio indicated that the developments in Venezuela carry lessons beyond the region. “Do not underestimate this president while he is in office,” he advised. “Because things will not end well for you.”

These statements arise as Washington aims to re-establish influence in the Western Hemisphere, where US officials increasingly connect regional stability, migration, energy security, and great-power rivalry to broader global security issues.