Duval Times

In a scathing critique, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has accused President Biden of going soft on Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro. Rubio's criticism comes in response to Biden's decision to restore sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned gold-mining company, while delaying the restoration of sanctions on the country's oil and gas sector until April.

Rubio highlights that Maduro had promised Biden a free and fair presidential election in October, but instead, he has banned his leading opponent, María Corina Machado, from running for 15 years. This move by Maduro clearly undermines any semblance of democracy in Venezuela.

The Senator argues that Biden's response to Maduro's actions is "outrageously weak." He points out that the current sanction on Venezuela's gold-mining company does not help the Venezuelan people and only serves to empower the oppressive regime. Rubio emphasizes that the meager economic growth experienced by Venezuela last year has been overshadowed by the strengthening of Maduro's tyranny.

Rubio also warns of the implications of Biden's decision on the international stage. He believes that the lack of enforcement of red lines by the United States will only embolden adversaries. The Senator draws a parallel to the Middle East, where he claims American weakness has cost the lives of three Americans and left many more injured. Rubio asserts the urgent need to re-establish international credibility and prevent further aggression from Maduro.

The Senator concludes by urging Secretary of State Antony Blinken to uphold the commitments made in October and restore sanctions on Venezuela's oil and gas sector without delay. Rubio warns that if Biden's unconscionable delay continues, he will call on Blinken to testify before Congress and provide an explanation.

Rubio's strong criticism of Biden's response to Maduro's actions underscores the need for the United States to take a tougher stance against oppressive regimes. The Senator's call for swift action serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and protecting the interests of the American people.