WASHINGTON — Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to address Caribbean nations’ reliance on Venezuelan oil and the pressing issue of illegal immigration during his upcoming tour of Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname. This visit marks a significant step as the administration intensifies its focus on the Western Hemisphere.
The State Department has stated that Rubio will advocate for energy diversification in the region, following the recent announcement of new sanctions on Venezuelan oil exports and the proposed tariffs on goods from countries that import Venezuelan oil.
A critical topic during Rubio’s discussions will be the situation in Haiti, where a multinational peacekeeping force is battling gang violence. While details remain sparse regarding Rubio’s policy suggestions for Haiti, his administration continues to provide aid to support security efforts within the country.
Energy security is poised to be a primary focus of Rubio’s visit, as officials highlight the historic opportunity for improving energy infrastructure in the Caribbean, which has long been burdened by high energy prices and their implications for economic development.
Rubio’s visit is timely, coinciding with President Trump’s announcement to tighten U.S. sanctions on Venezuelan oil exports and impose tariffs. However, the Treasury Department recently granted a waiver allowing a U.S. company to continue Venezuelan oil imports temporarily.
The potential for countries like Guyana and Suriname to ramp up their oil production presents a significant opportunity for the Caribbean. U.S. officials remain open to addressing questions from regional leaders concerning sanctions on Cuba, particularly those affecting medical programs, which have faced criticism.
The focus remains on prioritizing energy security and economic growth, with challenges in Haiti underscored as a crucial aspect of this strategy.
