Marco Rubio's Caribbean Tour: Energy Security & Immigration in Focus

Secretary of State Marco Rubio's Caribbean tour aims to lessen Venezuelan oil dependency and address illegal immigration. As tensions rise over US sanctions on Venezuela, Rubio's meetings in Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname will prioritize energy diversification. The persistent crisis in Haiti remains a key security focus for the region.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is embarking on a critical tour of three Caribbean nations to address energy security and illegal immigration, issues central to the Trump administration's Western Hemisphere strategy. His visit follows President Trump's announcement of new sanctions on Venezuelan oil, aiming to influence regional energy reliance.

During the trip, which includes stops in Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname, Rubio will advocate for diversifying energy sources, especially as the US enforces stricter sanctions on Venezuelan oil imports. The urgency is compounded by persistent instability in Haiti, a concern shared by international partners.

Claver-Caron emphasized the visit's focus on leveraging new oil opportunities in Guyana and Suriname while dismissing criticisms of US sanctions on Cuban medical missions. The trip aims to enhance regional stability and improve US-Caribbean relations amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)