Secretary of State Marco Rubio addressed several pressing international issues during an interview with Margaret Brennan on CBS's "Face the Nation." The discussion covered topics ranging from Russia-Ukraine negotiations to U.S. foreign policy in Venezuela, South Africa, Israel, and Iran.
Rubio spoke about recent talks between Russia and Ukraine held in Türkiye, which marked the first such meeting in nearly three years. Russian President Vladimir Putin did not attend, sending representatives instead. Ukraine's top diplomat described this as a tactic by Russia to buy time under the guise of peace talks. Rubio noted that while the talks were not entirely fruitless, as they resulted in an agreement to exchange 1,000 prisoners, he expressed skepticism about Russia's intentions: "Are they tapping us along? Well, that’s what we’re trying to find out."
On potential sanctions against Russia, Rubio stated that although there is legislative momentum for imposing them, he has asked for time to assess progress from diplomatic efforts. He emphasized ongoing communication with Russian officials regarding this issue.
The conversation also touched on Venezuela and the designation of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua as a terrorist organization by the U.S. Intelligence Community. Rubio disagreed with their assessment that the gang is not a proxy force of the Maduro government: "They’re wrong...this is a group that the regime in Venezuela uses not just to try to destabilize the United States but to project power."
Regarding South Africa, Rubio defended U.S. efforts to bring Afrikaners facing property seizures and violence into America amid claims of genocide by President Trump. He highlighted these individuals' plight: "These are people that on the basis of their race are having their properties taken away from them and their lives being threatened."
On Israel's military actions in Gaza following attacks by Hamas on October 7th, Rubio supported efforts aimed at ending Hamas but stressed support for a ceasefire: "We support a future for the people of Gaza that is free of Hamas and full of opportunity."
Lastly, addressing concerns over Iran potentially becoming a nuclear state, Rubio reiterated U.S. policy goals: "Iran can never have a nuclear weapon." He emphasized President Trump's preference for peaceful negotiation over conflict.
Rubio concluded by expressing hope for diplomatic resolutions across these complex global issues.
