Duval Times

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) has emphasized the importance of the U.S. State Department's annual Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, stating that it is a crucial tool in exposing human rights violations worldwide. Rubio highlighted the severity of oppression faced by people in various regimes, as indicated in this year's report.

Addressing the conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, Rubio reiterated the United States' support for Israel's right to self-defense and condemned the terrorist attack that resulted in significant casualties and abductions at the hands of Hamas.

Rubio expressed concerns about the instability in countries across the Western Hemisphere, including Cuba, Nicaragua, Haiti, and Venezuela, emphasizing the need to defend human rights in the region and stand against censorship, detention, and exile of dissidents.

Regarding the war in Ukraine, Rubio condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin's actions, which have led to the death of thousands of innocent civilians. He also criticized the Chinese Communist Party for supporting the conflict and carrying out acts of genocide against Uyghurs and other minorities.

Rubio called for strict enforcement of measures to prevent complicity in atrocities, such as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, and emphasized the importance of the United States condemning acts of violence globally and upholding human rights and freedom.

In conclusion, Rubio stressed the necessity for the United States to remain vigilant in addressing national security threats posed by various nations and to continue advocating for human rights and freedom both domestically and internationally.