Marco Rubio Begins Caribbean Tour to Promote Energy Security and Regional Stability

The U.S. Secretary of State's visit to Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname emphasizes reducing reliance on Venezuelan oil, addressing illegal immigration, and supporting Haiti's peacekeeping efforts.

• Secretary of State Marco Rubio has started a diplomatic visit to Jamaica, Guyana, and Suriname to advance U.S. energy security initiatives and foster regional collaboration.
• The trip follows President Trump's announcement of new sanctions on Venezuelan oil exports and a proposed 25% tariff on goods from countries importing Venezuelan oil.
• Rubio is advocating for energy diversification in the Caribbean, highlighting opportunities from Guyana and Suriname's rising oil production, which now surpasses Venezuela's output.
• The U.S. continues to back a multinational peacekeeping force in Haiti, with Rubio extending waivers to fund the effort aimed at curbing gang control in the country.
• Regional leaders may address U.S. sanctions on Cuba's medical programs, though U.S. officials have minimized the significance of this issue during the visit.

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The Guardian