Latest Secretary Of State News | ӣ��Ƶ

White House blasts Cruz, Pompeo for trashing Trump peace efforts as Iran appeasement

Sun, 24 May 2026 09:42:05 -0400

While President Donald Trump was burning the midnight oil hammering out a last-minute peace and denuclearization deal with Iran, his White House inner circle was hammering critics from the right for either working to "undermine" peace efforts or "illegally" abusing residual security clearance.

Former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a ӣ��Ƶ contributor, and Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, received X criticism from some of Trump's top inner circle advisors, including White House communications director Steven Cheung, deputy assistant on counterterror Sebastian Gorka and outside political advisor Alex Bruesewitz.

"Mike Pompeo has no idea what the f--- he's talking about," Cheung wrote in a scathing X post Saturday night. "He should shut his stupid mouth and leave the real work to the professionals. He's not read into anything that’s happening, so how would he know."

Trump himself finally weighed in on the latest peace talks Sunday morning, rebuking his predecessors along with his current critics.

TOP REPUBLICAN WARNS TRUMP AGAINST MAKING A DEAL WITH IRAN: ‘FINISH THE JOB’

"One of the worst deals ever made by our Country was the Iran Nuclear Deal, put forth and signed into existence by Barack Hussein Obama and the rank amateurs of the Obama Administration. It was a direct path to Iran developing a Nuclear Weapon," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Not so with the transaction currently being negotiated with Iran by the Trump Administration - THE EXACT OPPOSITE, in fact!

"The negotiations are proceeding in an orderly and constructive manner, and I have informed my representatives not to rush into a deal in that time is on our side. The Blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right. There can be no mistakes!

"Our relationship with Iran is becoming a much more professional and productive one. They must understand, however, that they cannot develop or procure a Nuclear Weapon or Bomb."

The Pompeo post that drew the White House ire suggested an impending Trump deal would wind up being an Obama-era-esque capitulation to Iran's ongoing nuclear weapons aspirations.

MORNING GLORY: PRESIDENT TRUMP MUST REJECT A SECOND MUNICH AND HOLD FIRM AGAIN IRAN

"The deal being floated with Iran seems straight out of the Wendy Sherman-Robert Malley-Ben Rhodes playbook: Pay the IRGC to build a WMD program and terrorize the world," Pompeo wrote on X. "Not remotely America First."

"It's straightforward: Open the damned strait. Deny Iran access to money. Take out enough Iranian capability so it cannot threaten our allies in the region.

"Overdue. Let's go."

MIKE POMPEO: TRUMP'S IRAN STRIKES SHOW WORLD WHAT 'AMERICA FIRST' FOREIGN POLICY LOOKS LIKE

Gorka, while confirming nothing from Pompeo's post, did suggest the former secretary of state might be "illegally" abusing his residual high security clearance.

"You have no knowledge of what is being negotiated in secret," Gorka wrote on X. "If you did, you would be in possession of information illegally provided to you and which you are wholly unauthorized to have or to share."

"So are you a liar or a criminal Pompeo?" Gorka asked.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio weighed in Sunday morning with a further rebuke of critics of the Trump administration's peace-making efforts.

WHY IRAN TALKS ARE IN LIMBO AS TRUMP SCRAMBLES FOR A WAY OUT OF THE WAR HE STARTED

"The idea that somehow this president, given everything he's already proven he's willing to do, is going to somehow agree to a deal that ultimately winds up putting Iran in a stronger position when it comes to nuclear ambitions is absurd," Rubio said. "That's just not going to happen.

"But our preference is to address this through diplomatic means, and that's what we're endeavoring to do here."

IRAN'S PRESIDENT FINALLY CAVES TO TRUMP, MAKES MAJOR ADMISSION ABOUT NUCLEAR WEAPONS

Rubio admitted he remains only "cautiously" optimistic Iran will put its words on paper into "action."

"You can agree to things on paper," he continued. "They actually have to be implemented. You can agree to things in writing and then you actually have to go out and do it."

Cruz also received blowback for a post suggesting Trump's peace efforts would come up short because of releasing "billions of dollars" to the Iranian regime.

"I am deeply concerned about what we are hearing about an Iran 'deal,' being pushed by some voices in the administration," Cruz wrote Saturday on X. "President Trump’s decision to strike Iran was the most consequential decision of his second term. He was right to do so, and we achieved extraordinary military results — including destroying all of their missiles & drones and sinking their entire navy.

MORNING GLORY: TRUMP SHOULD DEMAND A CLEAR VICTORY OVER IRAN AND REJECT WEAK COMPROMISES

"If the result of all that is to be an Iranian regime—still run by Islamists who chant "death to America" — now receiving billions of dollars, being able to enrich uranium & develop nuclear weapons, and having effective control over the Strait of Hormuz, then that outcome would be a disastrous mistake.

"The details are still coming out — and I pray the early reports are wrong — but the fact that Biden’s Rob Malley is praising the deal is not encouraging.

"President Trump believes in peace through strength, and his strong leadership has already made America much safer. He should continue to hold the line, defend America & enforce the red lines he has repeatedly drawn."

That drew criticism from one of Trump's outside political advisors in Bruesewitz.

ISRAEL-IRAN WAR DIVIDES DEMOCRATS, BUT TRUMP'S DIPLOMACY ALSO SPLITTING REPUBLICANS

"Cool, Ted," Bruesewitz wrote on X, touching off a tit-for-tat exchange with Cruz. "No one asked you, bro.

"Stop trying to undermine the President and his administration."

Cruz fired back, suggesting Trump's inner circle might be pushing Obama-era "Iran appeasement."

DAVID MARCUS: THE MAGA 'CIVIL WAR' OVER IRAN IS A MYTH

"Hush, child," Cruz replied on X. "The adults are talking. I’m not your 'bro.' And young political grifters pushing Iran appeasement are not remotely helping the President."

While there is some criticism of the Trump White House peace efforts, a noted Senate anti-war voice from the right came out to tell critics to let Trump cook.

"War virtually always ends with negotiations," Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., wrote Sunday morning on X. "Critics of President Trump's peace negotiations should give President Trump the space to find an American First solution."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Trump, in his Sunday morning Truth Social post, suggested Iran might ultimately wind up a reliable member of the Abraham Accords, his signature deal to secure long-lasting peace in the Middle East.

"I would like to thank, thus far, all of the countries of the Middle East for their support and cooperation, which will be further enhanced and strengthened by their joining the Nations of the historic Abraham Accords and, who knows, perhaps the Islamic Republic of Iran would like to join, as well!" Trump wrote.

Trump-appointed federal judge rules against admin on Maine voter roll data

Fri, 22 May 2026 13:40:57 -0400

A federal judge appointed by President Donald Trump dismissed a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) lawsuit against Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows on Thursday.

The lawsuit, brought against Bellows in September, alleged that Maine violated federal election laws when the state refused to turn over data about Maine voters to the federal government.

Bellows argued that the DOJ did not provide an explanation for how it planned to use the data they requested, which included the names of everybody on Maine's voter rolls as well as driver's license numbers, partial Social Security numbers and full dates of birth.

She rejected the DOJ's request in August and then filed a motion to dismiss the federal lawsuit in December.

TRUMP-APPOINTED FEDERAL JUDGE TOSSES DOJ LAWSUIT SEEKING ARIZONA VOTER DATA

"The Gulf of Maine is awfully cold, but maybe that’s what the DOJ needs to cool down. So, here's my answer to Trump's DOJ today: Go jump in the Gulf of Maine," she said in a July news conference.

On Thursday, Maine Chief U.S. District Judge Lance Walker, who Trump appointed in 2018, granted Bellows' motion and dismissed the DOJ lawsuit.

"The United States' requests would require me to turn a blind eye to traditional practices of federalism and how those expressions have found expression in American elections," Walker said.

DOJ SUES SIX STATES FOR REFUSING TO TURN OVER VOTER REGISTRATION ROLLS, WARNS ‘OPEN DEFIANCE’ OF FEDERAL LAW

Bellows praised the ruling. "Today’s ruling affirms that the states, not the federal government, are in charge of our elections. From the moment the Trump Administration sought every American’s voter data, I said no. When they tried to bully me by suing Maine, I helped lead of coalition of states to fight back – and we’re winning. I will continue to defend every Mainer’s voting rights and their privacy," she said in a statement.

"Let me be clear – Trump and the DOJ may continue to try to interfere with free and fair elections run by the states. We will not let them," Bellows said. "Under our Constitution, states are the primary regulators and administrators of elections for federal office, unless Congress passes legislation that preempts that framework. And Congress’s power to do even that is itself subject to limitations."

The DOJ has sued 30 states for refusing to turn over unredacted lists of their voter rolls. Those lawsuits have been dismissed in Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Michigan, Oregon, Rhode Island and now Maine, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The DOJ has not publicly commented on the dismissal.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital contacted the DOJ and Maine secretary of state for additional comment.

EXCLUSIVE: Tulsi Gabbard resigns from Trump Cabinet

Fri, 22 May 2026 13:00:58 -0400

EXCLUSIVE: Tulsi Gabbard is resigning from her post as Director of National Intelligence to support her husband through his battle with "an extremely rare form of bone cancer," ӣ��Ƶ Digital learned.

Gabbard notified President Donald Trump during a meeting in the Oval Office Friday. Her last day at ODNI is expected to be June 30.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital exclusively obtained her formal resignation letter, in which Gabbard says she is "deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me and for the opportunity to lead the Office of the Director of National Intelligence for the last year and a half."

"Unfortunately, I must submit my resignation, effective June 30, 2026," she wrote. "My husband, Abraham, has recently been diagnosed with an extremely rare form of bone cancer."

GABBARD ESTABLISHES NEW INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY TASK FORCE TO RESTORE TRANSPARENCY

Gabbard said her husband "faces major challenges in the coming weeks and months."

"At this time, I must step away from public service to be by his side and fully support him through this battle," she said.

Gabbard added: "Abraham has been my rock throughout our eleven years of marriage — standing steadfast through my deployment to East Africa on a Joint Special Operations mission, multiple political campaigns and now my service in this role."

"His strength and love have sustained me through every challenge," she continued. "I cannot in good conscience ask him to face this fight alone while I continue in this demanding and time-consuming position."

Trump reacted to the resignation later on Friday, writing on Truth Social, "Unfortunately, after having done a great job, Tulsi Gabbard will be leaving the Administration on June 30th."

"Her wonderful husband, Abraham, has been recently diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer, and she, rightfully, wants to be with him, bringing him back to good health as they currently fight a tough battle together," he continued. "I have no doubt he will soon be better than ever. Tulsi has done an incredible job, and we will miss her. Her highly respected Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, Aaron Lukas, will serve as Acting Director of National Intelligence."

Gabbard said she has "made significant progress at the ODNI — advancing unprecedented transparency and restoring integrity to the intelligence community," but said she recognizes "there is still important work to be done."

"I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth and thorough transition over the coming weeks so that you and your team experience no disruption in leadership or momentum," she said.

"Thank you for your understanding during this deeply personal and difficult time for our family."

Gabbard added: "I will remain forever grateful to you and to the American people for the profound honor of serving our nation as DNI."

Gabbard posted her resignation letter to X later Friday afternoon, noting that, "It has been a profound honor to serve the American people as DNI."

GREGG JARRETT: LONG-HIDDEN DOCUMENTS REVEAL FIRST TRUMP IMPEACHMENT WAS A TOTAL FRAUD

Gabbard, as DNI, began a transformational effort to reshape the Intelligence Community— reducing the agency in size and saving taxpayers more than $700 million per year, dismantling DEI programs in the IC and more.

Gabbard, as of this month, declassified more than half a million pages of government records, including those related to the Trump-Russia investigation, the JFK and RFK assassinations and more.

Gabbard also declassified documents tied to the origins of the Trump-Russia "Crossfire Hurricane" probe, arguing they showed Obama administration officials politicized intelligence related to Russia’s 2016 election interference and used it to undermine Trump’s first presidential victory.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Meanwhile, Gabbard created the first-ever "Weaponization Working Group," aimed at coordinating efforts across the federal government to expose the Biden Admin’s weaponization of government.

As DNI, Gabbard’s National Counterterrorism Center prevented more than 10,000 individuals with ties to narco-terrorism from entering the country in 2025 and placed more than 85,000 similarly tied individuals on the terror watchlist.

Colorado Democrats formally censure Gov Polis over Tina Peters commutation

Thu, 21 May 2026 02:51:38 -0400

Colorado Democrats formally censured Gov. Jared Polis on Wednesday after he commuted the prison sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters, a prominent election denier convicted in a voting system breach case.

The Colorado Democratic Party State Central Committee voted Wednesday to censure Polis, a fellow Democrat, after he issued a controversial commutation for Peters, who was convicted in connection with a 2021 voting equipment breach case.

"Reducing her sentence now, under pressure from Donald Trump, is not justice," the party said in a statement. "It sends a message to future bad actors that election tampering has consequences, unless you’re friends with the president."

"That’s a dangerous and disappointing precedent to set," the statement added.

COLORADO GOVERNOR COMMUTES TINA PETERS' SENTENCE AS TRUMP POSTS ‘FREE TINA!’

The party accused Polis of having "materially harmed" the state party’s credibility and barred him from participating in official Democratic Party-sponsored events moving forward.

It also said the clemency decision "does not reflect the values, institutional positions, or democratic commitments of the Colorado Democratic Party."

When reached for comment, a spokesperson for Polis defended the governor’s decision in a statement to ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

TRUMP CONTINUES TO PUSH FOR RELEASE OF TINA PETERS AS COLORADO GOVERNOR WEIGHS CLEMENCY

"The Governor made this decision based on the facts of the case and what he believed was the right thing to do," the spokesperson said. "Sometimes the right thing isn’t the popular thing with everybody. Democracy is strongest when disagreement is met with debate and dialogue, not censorship."

The reprimand came after Polis announced clemency for 44 individuals last Friday, including 35 pardons and nine commutations.

Peters was among those granted a commutation, reducing her prison sentence and making her eligible for parole beginning June 1, 2026.

APPEALS JUDGE SEEMS SKEPTICAL OF SENTENCE FOR PRO-TRUMP COLORADO CLERK TINA PETERS

Peters became a nationally known figure among 2020 election skeptics following the Mesa County voting equipment breach controversy and subsequent criminal prosecution.

President Donald Trump quickly weighed in on the commutation, posting on Truth Social: "FREE TINA!"

According to the executive order signed Friday, Peters’ sentence was reduced from eight years and three months to four years and four-and-a-half months.

The order also stated the clemency action "shall not in any way affect the underlying criminal conviction."

Peters was convicted in 2024 of three counts of attempting to influence a public servant, along with conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation, official misconduct, violation of duty and failure to comply with secretary of state requirements.

In a statement announcing the clemencies, Polis said, "the Clemency power is a serious responsibility, and not one that I take lightly."

"This power has the ability to change lives — help grant a second chance for someone who has made grave mistakes — and it comes with great consideration, and sometimes even controversy," he added.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The move was immediately condemned by Democrats, including Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold, who accused Polis of legitimizing "the election denial movement."

ӣ��Ƶ Digital's Jasmine Baehr contributed to this report.

Georgia Republicans head to runoff in secretary of state race defined by 2020 election claims

Wed, 20 May 2026 02:33:45 -0400

Vernon Jones and Tim Fleming are heading to a runoff after neither claimed at least 50% of the vote in Georgia’s Republican primary for secretary of state on Tuesday.

The Republican field included Jones, Fleming, Gabriel Sterling, Kelvin King and Ted Metz, while Democrats Cam Ashling, Dana Barrett, Adrian Consonery Jr. and Penny Brown Reynolds competed for their party’s nomination for Georgia’s top election officer.

The race underscored how disputes stemming from the 2020 presidential election, including claims from President Donald Trump that the contest was stolen, continue to shape debates over voting laws and election security years later.

2026 MIDTERMS: PRIMARIES, KEY RACES AND ELECTION RESULTS

The winner of the runoff on June 16 will advance to the general election in November, where control of the office overseeing voter registration, election certification and ballot administration is expected to remain a closely watched issue in one of the nation’s most competitive battleground states.

Sterling, Georgia’s former chief operating officer in the secretary of state’s office, entered the race with statewide name recognition after publicly defending Georgia’s handling of the 2020 election.

Jones, a former Democratic state lawmaker turned Trump ally, campaigned as a staunch supporter of the president and emerged as a fierce critic of the state’s election system.

REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK: DEMOCRATS SAY THEY CAN STILL FLIP THE HOUSE DESPITE GOP REDISTRICTING GAINS IN THE SOUTH

King is a general contractor who previously ran for U.S. Senate and is married to State Election Board member and conservative commentator Janelle King.

Fleming previously worked in the secretary of state’s office when current Republican Gov. Brian Kemp held the position. The former chairman of the Georgia Republican Party pitched himself as a conservative focused on tightening election procedures.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Metz, the Libertarian Party’s 2022 gubernatorial nominee, also joined the GOP primary field.

Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican who drew national attention after rejecting efforts to overturn the state’s 2020 presidential election results, is running for governor.

This is a developing story. Check back for the latest election results and updates.

Colorado governor commutes Tina Peters' sentence as Trump posts ‘FREE TINA!’

Fri, 15 May 2026 19:07:57 -0400

Democrat Colorado Gov. Jared Polis on Friday commuted the sentence of former Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters — the former election clerk convicted in connection with a 2021 voting equipment breach case that became a flashpoint in the election integrity fight — drawing immediate backlash from Colorado Secretary of State Jena Griswold and praise from President Donald Trump, who posted "FREE TINA!" on Truth Social.

Polis announced clemency for 44 individuals Friday, including 35 pardons and nine commutations, according to the governor’s office. Peters was among those granted a commutation reducing her prison sentence and granting parole effective June 1, 2026.

"The Clemency power is a serious responsibility, and not one that I take lightly," Polis said in a statement announcing the clemency actions.

"This power has the ability to change lives - help grant a second chance for someone who has made grave mistakes - and it comes with great consideration, and sometimes even controversy," he added.

TRUMP ANNOUNCES PARDON FOR COLORADO CLERK: 'SIMPLY WANTED TO MAKE SURE THAT OUR ELECTIONS WERE FAIR'

The move immediately prompted a blistering response from Griswold, who accused Polis of legitimizing "the election denial movement."

"This clemency grant to Tina Peters is an affront to our democracy, the people of Colorado, and election officials across the country," Griswold said in a statement Friday.

"The Governor’s actions today will validate and embolden the election denial movement, and leave a dark, dangerous imprint on American democracy for years to come," she added.

FEDERAL JUDGE REFUSES TO RELEASE PRO-TRUMP CLERK CONVICTED IN 2020 ELECTION SCHEME

According to the executive order signed Friday, Peters’ sentence was commuted from 8 years and 3 months to 4 years and 4.5 months. The order grants her parole effective June 1, 2026, with conditions to be set by the Colorado Parole Board.

"Tina M. Peters be and hereby is granted a limited commutation such that her total sentence, inclusive of time in County Jail and the Department of Corrections, is commuted to 4 years and 4.5 months, and that she is granted parole effective June 1, 2026," the order states.

The executive order also explicitly noted that the clemency action "shall not in any way affect the underlying criminal conviction."

TRUMP PARDONS RUDY GIULIANI, MARK MEADOWS, SIDNEY POWELL, OTHERS INVOLVED IN 2020 ELECTION INTERFERENCE SAGA

Polis wrote in the order that "the constitutional and statutory conditions for granting this clemency petition have been satisfied, and granting this commutation is in the interest of justice."

According to the executive order, Peters was convicted in 2024 of three counts of attempt to influence a public servant, along with conspiracy to commit criminal impersonation - cause liability, official misconduct, violation of duty elections and failure to comply with secretary of state requirements.

She had been sentenced to 8 years and 3 months in Department of Corrections custody, along with 6 months in county jail. Her mandatory release date had previously been listed in 2033, while her estimated parole eligibility date had been in 2028.

BIDEN SETS RECORD WITH FIRST-TERM CLEMENCY GRANTS, HERE'S HOW OTHERS PRESIDENTS RANK

Griswold’s office said Peters’ actions stemmed from a 2021 breach involving Mesa County voting equipment.

"In 2021, then-Mesa County Clerk Tina Peters compromised her county’s voting equipment trying to prove conspiracies," Griswold’s office said in a release Friday.

The office said Griswold responded by decertifying the county’s voting equipment, working with Mesa County commissioners to remove Peters from election oversight and appointing a former Republican secretary of state to oversee the election process.

Griswold’s office also said Peters’ actions cost Mesa County "nearly one million dollars in replacement equipment."

The secretary of state’s office noted that on April 2, 2026, the Colorado Court of Appeals upheld Peters’ convictions while ordering that she be re-sentenced by the district court.

Trump weighed in on the commutation Friday afternoon with a brief Truth Social post reading simply: "FREE TINA!"

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Peters became a nationally known figure among 2020 election skeptics following the Mesa County voting equipment breach controversy and subsequent criminal prosecution.

Friday’s clemency order immediately deepened political divisions surrounding one of the highest-profile criminal prosecutions in the wake of the 2020 presidential election.

The White House did not immediately respond to ӣ��Ƶ Digital's request for comment.

Rubio warns America must 'stay ahead of the curve' as China works to surpass the US with stolen tech

Thu, 14 May 2026 15:55:36 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned Wednesday that the United States must "stay ahead of the curve" on innovation to counter China’s widespread intellectual property theft, arguing that Beijing has leveraged stolen American technology to fuel its progress.

"A lot of the advancements you've seen in the commercial sector and the industrial sector, the technological sector in China, is a product of intellectual property theft and/or reverse engineering, which is the same thing, of our own technology," Rubio said.

"That has to be addressed."

In an exclusive interview on "Hannity," Rubio described intellectual property theft as an "enormous issue" that the Trump administration plans to confront in Thursday's high-stakes talks with China.

AMERICA HAS TO RESPOND WITH A UNITED FRONT TO CHINA’S MASSIVE ECONOMIC WARFARE

"We're not trying to constrain China, but their rise cannot come at our expense. Their rise cannot come at our fall," Rubio said.

He insisted that his warning only scratches the surface and stressed that enforcement alone won’t be enough, arguing that America’s long-term advantage depends on outpacing China in innovation.

WHITE HOUSE: US WILL LEAD IN AI, BUT CHINA IS CATCHING UP

"One thing is, if you're stealing or taking the stuff that was cutting edge five years ago, but the things that are going to be cutting edge years from now, we've got to continue to invest and push our companies to continue to stay ahead of that pace of theft and continue to lead the world in innovation."

Rubio's remarks came ahead of meetings in China where President Donald Trump, several key members of his administration and multiple U.S. business leaders were slated to participate in a summit to discuss trade, artificial intelligence and more.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The secretary of state offered his thoughts ahead of the summit.

"They [China] believe they will be the world’s most powerful country, they'll surpass the United States, and they have a plan to do it. And they're executing on that plan," he said.

"We, on the other hand, don't view it that way."

Vance confronted about 2028 ambitions after Trump teases 'dream team' Rubio ticket

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:02:48 -0400

Vice President JD Vance brushed off questions about a possible 2028 Republican ticket with Secretary of State Marco Rubio after President Donald Trump floated the pair as a political force earlier this week.

"I love Marco. I think he's a great secretary of state. He's become a very, very dear friend. But I think both of us are very much focused on accomplishing the American people's business right now," Vance said during a news conference Wednesday focused on the administration's fraud crackdown.

Trump teased a potential ticket with Vance and Rubio earlier this week, but the president did not say who would fill Trump's shoes. Vance had previously said the media was creating "conflict" when asked in recent months about alleged tension between the pair as Washington, D.C., inches closer to 2028.

"Who likes J.D. Vance? Who likes Marco Rubio? All right. Sounds like a good ticket," Trump said Monday. "By the way, I do believe that’s a dream team."

JD VANCE ADDRESSES POSSIBLE PRESIDENTIAL RUN WITH MARCO RUBIO AFTER TRUMP TEASES 'UNSTOPPABLE' TICKET

Vance shared that it is one of the topics he least likes to discuss when he is "having a good time and trying to do good work in the job that the American people already elected me to do."

"If I was the American people, there are a few things that I would hate more than a person who's barely been in one office for a year and a half, is angling for a job two and a half years down the road," Vance said, referencing himself.

VANCE TAPPED AS ‘FRAUD CZAR’ AS TRUMP TARGETS BLUE STATES OVER TAXPAYER THEFT

A second reporter followed up during the news conference that the media was not promoting 2028 tension between the pair as the president floated the potential ticket.

"I just don't think it sounds like the president of the United States to have a televised competition for who would succeed him as his apprentice," Vance quipped in response. "I just think that's not at all what you would expect the president to do."

Vance added it was "natural" for Trump to joke around with him and Rubio, adding that the president has "always been fascinated by politics."

RUBIO HEADS TO ROME WITH TRUMP’S IRAN CLASH LOOMING OVER POPE LEO, MELONI TALKS

Vance’s big initiative has been cracking down on fraud, waste and abuse while leading the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The news conference Wednesday was held as Vance holds down the fort at the White House while Trump is in China for high-stakes meetings alongside administration leaders, such as Rubio and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.

Rubio meets Meloni as Trump–Pope clash clash escalates US strains with key European ally

Fri, 08 May 2026 07:16:06 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is meeting Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni Thursday in Rome amid diplomatic tensions with both Italy and the Vatican.

The meeting comes one day after Rubio, a practicing Catholic, held talks at the Vatican with Pope Leo and senior church officials in what many observers viewed as an effort to calm relations after weeks of escalating rhetoric between President Donald Trump and the Holy See.

For much of Trump’s second term, Meloni was widely viewed as Trump’s closest ideological ally among major European leaders. But that relationship has begun to fray amid disputes over the Iran war.

That political partnership, however, has come under strain in recent months, as Trump’s escalating clash with Pope Leo XIV collided with separate tensions over Italy’s limits on using its territory for U.S. combat-linked operations tied to the Iran war.

RUBIO TO VISIT ITALY, VATICAN AMID TROOP DRAWDOWN CALL, TENSION WITH TRUMP, POPE LEO: REPORTS

Asked April 30 whether he’d consider pulling troops out of Italy and Spain, Trump said, "Yeah, probably. ... Why shouldn't I?"

"Italy has not been of any help to us," the president said.

The Italian prime minister built a strong rapport with Trump through their shared positions on immigration, nationalism, border security and opposition to progressive cultural politics. Meloni was the only European leader to attend Trump’s second inauguration in January 2025, and she also visited Trump at Mar-a-Lago as she sought to position herself as a key intermediary between Washington and Europe.

TRUMP MEETS WITH ITALIAN PM GIORGIA MELONI AT HIS MAR-A-LAGO RESORT

The relationship often appeared notably warm in public.

During a 2025 Middle East summit in Egypt, Trump publicly praised Meloni as "a beautiful young woman" and joked, "You don’t mind being called beautiful, right?" before describing her as an "incredible leader" respected throughout Italy.

Trump and Meloni also found common ground politically.

Both leaders embraced tougher border enforcement policies, criticized "woke" ideology in Western institutions and argued for stronger nationalist identities inside their respective countries. Meloni’s conservative Brothers of Italy party was frequently described by Trump allies as an example of the type of populist movement reshaping Europe.

The split became visible after Meloni publicly criticized Trump’s attacks on the pope as "unacceptable," prompting Trump to lash back and reportedly tell aides she was "much different than I thought."

RUBIO HOLDS ‘CONSTRUCTIVE’ MEETING WITH POPE LEO AFTER TRUMP SENDS HARD-LINE IRAN MESSAGE TO VATICAN

Italian media and European analysts have described the dispute as a remarkable deterioration between two leaders once viewed as natural political allies.

The Vatican dispute has been especially politically sensitive for Meloni because Pope Leo, the first U.S.-born pontiff, remains highly influential in Italy, where criticism of the pope by foreign leaders can quickly become politically toxic. Trump’s remarks about Leo’s opposition to the war against Iran generated significant backlash among Italian Catholics and across portions of Italy’s political establishment.

The Iran conflict has further complicated relations. Italian officials reportedly have expressed growing discomfort over the possibility of deeper U.S. military escalation and concerns surrounding American military base access in Italy. Rome has also faced pressure domestically to distance itself from Washington’s handling of the conflict.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Economic tensions continue simmering in the background as well. While Trump earlier in 2026 reduced tariffs on some Italian exports, including pasta products, as what he described as a "New Year’s gift" to Italy, concerns remain in Rome and Brussels over the administration’s repeated threats to impose broader tariffs on European goods.

Against that backdrop, Rubio’s visit is widely being interpreted as an effort to stabilize relations before the political rift deepens further. The secretary of state is expected to discuss Middle East security, NATO coordination, migration and trade during his talks with Meloni and other Italian officials as the administration works to preserve Italy’s role as one of Washington’s closest partners in Southern Europe.

The White House and Italian embassy in the U.S. could not immediately be reached for comment.

What Rubio’s rise as the internet’s 'fixer' tells us about today’s politics

Fri, 08 May 2026 05:00:58 -0400

"If you want something done, ask a busy person," is a famous phrase attributed to polymath Founding Father Benjamin Franklin as well as comedy icon Lucille Ball. But if you want the living embodiment of that credo today, search no further than Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Most of the time, politicians are widely lampooned for being all talk but no action. We have seen many politicians at all levels of government do very little, or worse, do their jobs so poorly that the results have been destructive to our country.

However, Rubio has flipped the script on that notion. In fact, he has become a meme not for inaction, but rather for being effective at not only one job, but various other roles that have been granted to him alongside his secretary of State position.

There may not be anything on the internet as wholesome today as Rubio becoming a meme for being good at his jobs.

RUBIO’S TRUMP ADMIN JUGGLING ACT GROWS AS MEME-WORTHY ROLE LIST BECOMES REALITY

At one point mid-last year, Rubio held four positions simultaneously, bringing attention to his hardworking nature and effective outcomes. As the go-to man for not only his secretary of State duties, but also acting national security advisor, as well as interim roles as acting administrator of USAID prior to its wind-down and acting archivist of the United States, it seems like any time there’s a role to fill, Rubio’s name comes up, because he embodies a busy and effective politician who can get the job done.

Rubio’s effectiveness has become the source of an endearing memeing across social media. Whenever there is a job to fill, whether it is a CEO vacancy, an open position on a major sports team or even the ruler of another nation, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and other social platforms are filled with mock-ups of Rubio in the role.

Giving the internet even more fodder, Rubio went viral again after a recent video shared by Trump Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino showed him acting as the DJ and spinning tunes at a family wedding, prompting funny comments, including those labeling Rubio as the "Secretary of Everything."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION

Another recent post by X user and filmmaker @charliebcurran includes a video trailer captioned "Marco Rubio finding out he has to run Spirit Airlines now too," with a satirical short showing Rubio trying to save the now defunct airline, complete with hijinks ensuing.

The internet may be laughing, but they are doing so with Rubio as a savior figure, positioning that should serve him well should he choose to make a presidential run in 2028.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Politicians are often known for scandals, bad policy, gaslighting, and for being full of hot air. It’s refreshing and quite remarkable for a politician to be known as the guy you want to turn to when you need to get the job done.

We deserve more Rubios among our representation. In the meantime, we will look forward to seeing what real or fictional job Marco Rubio gets to hold next.

State Department set to revoke passports of thousands of parents with unpaid child support debt

Thu, 07 May 2026 20:44:40 -0400

The U.S. State Department is set to begin revoking the passports of thousands of Americans who owe substantial unpaid child support, according to officials.

Revocations will begin Friday and will initially focus on parents who owe $100,000 or more in past-due child support. That group includes about 2,700 passport holders, according to figures supplied by the Department of Health and Human Services.

Under Federal law, anyone with more than $2,500 in unpaid, court-ordered child support can be denied a passport or have an existing one yanked, according to a release by the State Department Thursday. Officials said the department is expanding coordination with the Department of Health and Human Services to include parents above that threshold.

The enforcement push is intended to pressure delinquent parents to comply with court-ordered child support obligations, officials said.

Once a passport is revoked, it may no longer be used for travel, even if the debt is later paid, according to State Department guidance. The State Department advised any American with significant child support debt to contact the relevant state agency and arrange payment before any passport action is taken.

STATE DEPARTMENT TO PULL ADDITIONAL PASSPORTS FROM PARENTS WHO OWE CHILD SUPPORT

"Eligibility for a new passport will only be restored after child support debt is paid to the relevant state child support enforcement agency and the individual is no longer delinquent according to HHS records," they said.

Affected individuals must work with the state child support enforcement agency where the debt is owed. HHS must then update its records before the State Department can process a new passport, a process the department says can take at least two to three weeks.

It was not clear on Thursday how many passport holders owe more than $2,500 because HHS is still collecting data from state agencies that track the figures, but it could encompass many more thousands of people, officials told the Associated Press.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

A passport holder who is abroad at the time of revocation will need to contact the state where the debt is owed and may visit a U.S. embassy or consulate for passport application procedures. The State Department says such individuals may be eligible only for a limited-validity passport for direct return to the United States until HHS verifies repayment of the debt.

"The State Department is putting American families first through our passport process," they said.

The passport denial program has existed for decades and is used by federal and state officials as a tool to enforce past-due child support obligations. The Administration for Children and Families says state child support agencies submit qualifying cases, and federal officials forward those records to the State Department.

Viral Marco Rubio clip on his vision for America sparks more 2028 speculation

Thu, 07 May 2026 15:52:28 -0400

A viral clip of Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivering a hopeful vision for America's future while answering a question this week at the White House is stoking more buzz about a possible 2028 presidential bid.

Rubio, in his debut performance at a White House briefing, gave an uplifting answer that noted America's "story of perpetual improvement" when asked about his hope for the country in the years ahead.

Recordings of the secretary of state's 53-second answer, including a campaign-style video put out by Rubio's team, grabbed tons of views on social media.

The frenzy is understandable, as every move and each comment Rubio makes is often seen as a possible prelude to a potential White House run in the race to succeed his boss, term-limited President Donald Trump.

RUBIO GAINS MOMENTUM IN HYPOTHETICAL 2028 GOP PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATION RACE AS VANCE REMAINS CLEAR FRONT-RUNNER

Rubio, briefing reporters ahead of his current overseas trip, including Thursday's meeting with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican amid strained relations due to recent critical comments of the U.S.-born pontiff from Trump, said his "hope for America is what it’s always been. I think it’s the hope I hope we all share. We want it to continue to be the place where anyone from anywhere can achieve anything, where you’re not limited by the circumstances of your birth, by the color of your skin, by your ethnicity, but frankly, it’s a place where you are able to overcome challenges and achieve your full potential."

"I think that should be the goal of every country in the world, frankly, but I think in the U.S. – we’re not perfect. Our history is not one of perfection, but it’s still better than anybody else’s history," Rubio said. "And ours is a story of perpetual improvement. Each generation has left the next generation of Americans freer, more prosperous, safer, and that is our goal as well."

The secretary, who is a devout Catholic, added, "But it is a unique and exceptional country and, as we come upon this 250-year anniversary, I think we have a lot to learn and be proud of in our history. It is one of perpetual and continuous improvement, where each generation has done its part to bring us closer to fulfilling the vision that the founders of this country had upon its founding."

A clip of the comments grabbed over 6 million views on X.

Rubio's team also put out a minute-long vertical video of the soliloquy that included voice-over video of the secretary of state, Trump, jets flying over the White House, a diverse mix of Americans, the late President Ronald Reagan and the American flag being raised.

The video, on the secretary's X account, was viewed over 3 million times and grabbed the attention of some of the biggest names in MAGA world.

Right-wing activist Laura Loomer, who is close to Trump, retweeted the video and said, "Wow! This looks like it could be a launch video for a Presidential campaign. Amazing production quality and vibes."

Meanwhile, Elon Musk retweeted a separate video of the Rubio comments.

Vice President JD Vance has long been seen as the heir apparent to Trump and his MAGA and America First base. While Vance remains the hypothetical clear frontrunner ahead of the start of the 2028 White House race, which won't ignite until after this year's midterm elections, Rubio appears to be on the rise.

WHITE HOUSE RACE UNDERWAY: WITH 2026 LOOMING, BOTH PARTIES ARE ALREADY PLAYING FOR 2028

Thanks to an increase in his responsibilities and public profile, more recently around the U.S. operation in Venezuela and the war against Iran, Rubio has seen speculation and support for a possible presidential bid soar in recent months.

Among the most notable evidence is Rubio's strong second-place finish in March in the 2028 Republican presidential nomination straw poll at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC).

Rubio, who was one of more than a dozen Republican contenders who ran and lost to Trump in the tumultuous 2016 presidential race, grabbed 35% of the vote at CPAC when the straw poll results were announced this past weekend, up from a mere 3% a year earlier.

Vance, who is popular with MAGA and America First groups, finished first at 53%. While the vice president saw his support slightly edge down from 61% last year, Vance's numbers are higher than anyone else in CPAC presidential straw poll history other than Trump.

Rubio insists he'll support Vance if the vice president launches a White House campaign.

"If JD Vance runs for president, he's going to be our nominee, and I'll be one of the first people to support him," Rubio told Vanity Fair late last year.

MARCO RUBIO SPOTTED BEHIND DJ BOOTH AT FAMILY WEDDING AS SOCIAL MEDIA REACTS TO VIRAL CLIP

Vance, who like Rubio has highlighted his Catholic faith, will likely get plenty of chances next month to spotlight his devotion amid the release of his new book, "Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith."

VANCE IN 'CATBIRD SEAT' FOR 2028 GOP PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATION, BUT THESE REPUBLICANS MAY ALSO RUN

Partially fueling Rubio's rise has been Trump, who has lavishly praised his secretary of state.

The president recently declared that Rubio would go down as "the greatest secretary of state in history."

Trump has also promoted a Vance-Rubio ticket — calling it "unstoppable" a few months ago — but has not said who should be at the top of the ticket.

But the president said last year that Vance is "most likely" his heir apparent. "In all fairness, he's the vice president," Trump added.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

And Trump, in an interview on NBC News' "Meet the Press" last year, called Vance a "fantastic, brilliant guy."

Trump, who has yet to say whom he would endorse in the race for the 2028 Republican presidential nomination, added in that interview, "certainly you would say that somebody’s the VP, if that person is outstanding, I guess that person would have an advantage."

Rubio holds ‘constructive’ meeting with Pope Leo after Trump sends hard-line Iran message to Vatican

Thu, 07 May 2026 10:29:29 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Pope Leo at the Vatican for "constructive" conversations on Thursday following heightened tensions between President Donald Trump and the pontiff over the U.S.-Iran conflict.

"The conversations today were friendly and constructive," a State Department official told ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

Rubio, a Catholic, held a private meeting with the pope to reaffirm the Vatican-U.S. partnership early on Thursday morning. Trump said he sent Rubio to deliver what he described as a "very simple" message: Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon.

Rubio and Leo discussed the situation in the Middle East and "topics of mutual interest in the Western Hemisphere," according to a State Department readout.

RUBIO TO VISIT ITALY, VATICAN AMID TROOP DRAWDOWN CALL, TENSION WITH TRUMP, POPE LEO: REPORTS

"The meeting underscored the strong relationship between the United States and the Holy See and their shared commitment to promoting peace and human dignity," said spokesperson Tommy Pigott in a statement.

The Vatican issued a statement following the "cordial talks" that "renewed" a common commitment to bilateral relations.
"There was then an exchange of views on the regional and international situation, with particular attention to countries marked by war, political tensions and difficult situations Humanitarian, as well as on the need to work tirelessly for peace," the statement said.

The meeting marked the Trump administration’s first engagement with the pontiff in nearly a year following tension.

POPE LEO CALLS OUT TRUMP’S IRAN RHETORIC BEFORE LAST-MINUTE CEASEFIRE EMERGES

The pope has criticized the war with Iran by casting the conflict as a moral issue, warning that rhetoric targeting Iran’s population crosses a dangerous line.

"There has also been this threat against the entire people of Iran, and this is truly unacceptable," the pope said in April. "There are certainly issues of international law here, but even more so a moral issue for the good of the whole entire population."

POPE LEO SLAMS THOSE WHO 'MANIPULATE RELIGION' FOR MILITARY OR POLITICAL GAIN, TRUMP RESPONDS

The comments were seemingly in reference to one of Trump's Truth Social posts, where he wrote, "A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that to happen, but it probably will... God Bless the Great People of Iran!"

Trump has taken an aggressive approach to his messaging with Iran and told reporters on Wednesday he only has one message for the pope.

"I can tell you this, that as far as the Pope is concerned, and it's very simple. Whether I make him happy or I don't make him happy, Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. And he seemed to be saying that they can. And I say they cannot, because if that happened, the entire world would be hostage. And we're not going to let that happen," he said.

Following his meeting with the pope, Rubio met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, secretary of state of the Holy See, to discuss shared priorities related to the conflict with Iran.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"They reviewed ongoing humanitarian efforts in the Western Hemisphere and efforts to achieve a durable peace in the Middle East. The discussion reflected the enduring partnership between the United States and the Holy See in advancing religious freedom," said Pigott in a readout.

Rubio is set to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on Friday.

Rubio’s Trump admin juggling act grows as meme-worthy role list becomes reality

Tue, 05 May 2026 13:27:01 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has become one of the Trump administration’s most visible multitaskers, racking up a string of additional titles that have fueled viral memes, and on Tuesday, he is set to add another spotlight role when he takes the podium of the White House press briefing.

"As an invaluable member of President Trump’s national security team, Secretary Rubio will provide an update on the humanitarian successes of Project Freedom and other foreign policy priorities," White House Principal deputy press secretary Anna Kelly told ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

Tuesday’s press briefing will mark the first since press secretary Karoline Leavitt took maternity leave at the end of April ahead of the birth of her second child.

MARCO RUBIO SPOTTED BEHIND DJ BOOTH AT FAMILY WEDDING AS SOCIAL MEDIA REACTS TO VIRAL CLIP

While Leavitt is on maternity leave, the White House is planning to have a rotation of Trump admin officials take the podium, such as Vice President JD Vance and even Trump himself.

The Secretary has been a robust figure in the Trump administration, holding multiple public-facing official and unofficial titles that have led to a parade of memes on social media.

For example, Rubio was named U.S. Administration for International Development (USAID) acting administrator shortly after being sworn in at the State Department. He was also tapped to serve as the acting archivist of the United States for roughly a year, recently handing off the post in February.

SECRETARY OF STATE RUBIO CONFIRMS BECOMING ACTING USAID CHIEF

Rubio does still serve as the interim national security advisor, a role he has held since May after the departure of Michael Waltz.

Rubio has taken social media by storm, as critics and allies of the administration share viral memes showing doctored photos of Rubio sitting in the Oval Office wearing various outfits to fit a new job role he could pick up, such as a Spirit Airlines pilot, a White House beekeeper or a Kentucky Derby jockey.

DAN GAINOR: FROM SECRETARY OF STATE TO SECRETARY OF MEMES, RUBIO WINS OVER MAGA

Over the weekend, Rubio went viral for a video of him stepping behind a DJ booth at a family wedding and hyping up the crowd.

The video, posted by White House Deputy Chief of Staff Dan Scavino on X, shows Rubio wearing headphones and standing behind a DJ setup, leaning over the controls as music plays and guests dance nearby.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

At several points, he pumped his fist, nodded along to the beat and appeared to cue up the next track, drawing cheers from people gathered around the booth.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital’s Emma Colton, Alex Schemmel, and Greg Wehner contributed to this report.

Marco Rubio spotted behind DJ booth at family wedding as social media reacts to viral clip

Sun, 03 May 2026 20:39:02 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is going viral — not for diplomacy, but for stepping behind a DJ booth at a family wedding and hyping up the crowd in a clip shared online that’s quickly gaining attention.

At several points, he pumps his fist, nods along to the beat and appears to cue up the next track, drawing cheers from people gathered around the booth.

"MOMENTS AGO, BEHIND THE SCENES—Our Great Secretary of State @MarcoRubio DJ’s weddings too! Here he is in action tonight at a family wedding… Let’s goooooo!!!" Scavino wrote in the post.

DUFFY JUST GOT AN ADDITIONAL JOB IN TRUMP'S ADMINISTRATION — AND HE'S NOT THE ONLY ONE WEARING MULTIPLE HATS

The track playing in the video is "Shiver" by John Summit and Hayla, a high-energy dance song known for its pulsing beat and dramatic drop — a fitting backdrop as the crowd moves in sync and reacts to the music.

The unexpected scene has set social media on fire, with users reacting to the unusual sight of a sitting U.S. secretary of state taking on DJ duties at what appears to be a family celebration.

ONE-MAN CABINET: MARCO RUBIO WENT FROM RIVAL TO TRUMP'S POINT MAN, BUT CAN HE HANDLE IT?

One user wrote, "Marco becoming the official White House DJ," while sharing an AI photo of Rubio dressed in black, wearing sunglasses and headphones and standing beside DJ equipment. The image shows Rubio in a club-like setting, with lighting and staging that mirrors a professional DJ setup.

Other X users shared AI images of Rubio mixing it up behind two turntables and a microphone.

MARCO RUBIO EMERGES AS KEY TRUMP POWER PLAYER AFTER VENEZUELA OPERATION

Another user wrote, "Marco can do it all!" posting another AI image showing Rubio at the turntables as Vice President JD Vance sits nearby on an ottoman, surrounded by haze and lighting effects.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Rubio, who is also serving as acting national security advisor and has held several other roles, has taken on a wide range of responsibilities over the course of his career — and now, at least for one night, he can add DJ to the list.

Rubio to visit Italy, Vatican amid troop drawdown call, tension with Trump, Pope Leo: reports

Sun, 03 May 2026 07:54:38 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is reportedly planning to travel to the Vatican and Italy this week for meetings aimed at steadying relations after public spats between President Donald Trump, Pope Leo and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.

Rubio, a Catholic, is expected to meet with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s top diplomatic official, Reuters reported, citing Italian newspapers La Repubblica and Corriere della Sera.

Rubio is also expected to hold talks with Italy’s foreign and defense ministers, the Italian newspapers reported.

The visit would come at a tense moment for U.S.-European relations. The Pentagon on Friday announced a drawdown of 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, the largest American base presence in Europe, as disagreements over Iran and tariffs deepen strains between Washington and several European capitals.

TRUMP MEETS WITH ITALIAN PM GIORGIA MELONI AT HIS MAR-A-LAGO RESORT

Trump added he "probably should" weigh a drawdown of U.S. troops for NATO in Italy, too.

"Why shouldn't I? Italy has not been of any help to us, and Spain has been horrible," Trump said Friday from the Oval Office.

"I didn't need the help, but I said, 'Yeah, we'd love to have your help,' because I want to see if they'd do it. And they, in all cases, they said, 'We don't want to get involved.' And you know the amazing thing is they use the Strait of Hormuz, and we don't. We don't use it. We don't need it. We have a lot of oil."

Trump has praised Rubio for his peacemaking and diplomatic efforts.

FIRST AMERICAN POPE WELCOMES VANCE AND RUBIO FOR PRIVATE VATICAN AUDIENCE

"People like you," Trump said of Rubio during his State of the Union address earlier this year. The president even joked he might consider firing Rubio after the Munich Security Conference for being so likable and effective on the world stage.

"You have done a great job, a great secretary of state. I think he'll go down as the best ever."

Italy remains one of the largest hosts of U.S. forces in Europe, with nearly 13,000 active-duty American troops stationed across six bases at the end of 2025.

It is uncertain whether Rubio will also meet with the pope, who has been critical of the Trump administration's peacemaking efforts in the Middle East.

Rubio and Vice President JD Vance attended Pope Leo's inaugural Mass in St. Peter’s Square and held a private meeting with him the following day in May 2025.

TRUMP ACCUSES POPE LEO OF BEING 'TERRIBLE' ON FOREIGN POLICY OVER PONTIFF'S ANTI-WAR COMMENTS

The reported trip also comes weeks after Trump drew criticism from Christians across the political spectrum for attacking Leo on social media, including at one point calling the pontiff "terrible."

"I have no fear of the Trump administration," Pope Leo said last month before backing down and saying "I will not enter into debate."

Trump had repeatedly blasted the pope for criticizing the war on Iran and the Trump administration’s hard-line immigration policies.

POPE LEO SLAMS THOSE WHO 'MANIPULATE RELIGION' FOR MILITARY OR POLITICAL GAIN, TRUMP RESPONDS

"Pope Leo is WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy," Trump wrote in a scathing Truth Social post.

"Leo should get his act together as Pope, use Common Sense, stop catering to the Radical Left, and focus on being a Great Pope, not a Politician. It’s hurting him very badly and, more importantly, it’s hurting the Catholic Church," he concluded.

ӣ��Ƶ reached out to the White House, State Department, Holy See press office and the Italian government for comment.

The trip is aimed in part at easing tensions between Washington and Rome after Trump publicly criticized Meloni, one of his closest European allies, over her stance on the Iran war and her defense of the pope.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Corriere reported that Rubio’s schedule has not been finalized. La Repubblica said a meeting with Meloni has not been ruled out.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Rubio warns China after Panama ship detentions, calls hemisphere sovereignty 'non-negotiable'

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:26:23 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned China that "the sovereignty of our hemisphere is non-negotiable" after the U.S. and regional allies accused Beijing of detaining Panama-flagged ships in a dispute tied to canal port control.

In a joint statement with Bolivia, Costa Rica, Guyana, Paraguay and Trinidad and Tobago, the U.S. said China’s actions targeting Panama-flagged vessels were a "blatant attempt to politicize maritime trade" and infringe on regional sovereignty, framing the dispute as a broader strategic test over control of one of the world’s most critical commercial arteries.

While the Panama dispute centers on shipping detentions rather than a physical blockade, critics increasingly view it alongside battles over other strategic choke points, such as the Strait of Hormuz, as part of a widening contest over whether Beijing or Washington will shape the rules governing global trade and energy corridors.

IRAN’S $800M OIL SMUGGLING SCHEME USES TANKERS POSING AS IRAQI SHIPS TO DODGE BLOCKADE

The confrontation follows Panama’s Supreme Court decision earlier in 2026 to invalidate the legal framework behind Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison’s long-held control of the Balboa and Cristobal terminals flanking the Panama Canal, a choke point that handles roughly 5% of global maritime trade.

U.S. regulators have monitored nearly 70 Panama-flagged vessels detained by Chinese authorities since March 8, according to Reuters — a surge American officials say appears designed to retaliate against Panama and pressure global shipping.

"China has used Iran to destabilize the Middle East. In effect, Iran has been China’s proxy," China expert Gordon Chang told ӣ��Ƶ Digital, arguing Beijing’s actions in Panama fit a broader global pattern in which China uses economic leverage, trade pressure and regional partners to expand influence while condemning similar tactics from Washington.

Chang said Beijing is now facing growing resistance as the U.S. increasingly moves not only against China directly, but also against governments and geopolitical flash points he argues have strengthened Beijing’s hand.

"Trump apparently decided that he would counter this sly tactic by taking China’s proxies — Venezuela, Cuba and Iran — off the board," Chang said.

HOUSE REPUBLICANS INTRODUCE BILL TO REPURCHASE PANAMA CANAL AFTER TRUMP RAISES CONCERNS OF CHINESE CONTROL

He also framed pressure on Iran and threats to the Strait of Hormuz as part of a larger strategic effort aimed at both Tehran and Beijing.

"Closing the Strait of Hormuz is a two-fer, starving Iran’s regime and shaking China’s already fragile economy," Chang said. "Trump is using energy to reorder the world."

Chang also accused Beijing of hypocrisy over trade.

"China’s Communists invented hypocrisy. Nobody does hypocrisy better than the Chinese Communists," he said, arguing that China long benefited from a global trading system it increasingly weaponized for geopolitical purposes.

"The elemental truth is that China started this cycle of action and retaliation," Chang said. "If China had not threatened America, America would not have leaned on Panama. If America had not leaned on Panama, China would not have detained Panamanian vessels."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

China has rejected accusations that it is politicizing trade, with its foreign ministry arguing U.S. criticism reflects Washington’s own strategic ambitions around the canal.

China's Foreign Ministry called the statement on Wednesday "entirely baseless and misleading", said it would take steps to safeguard China's interests in Panama, and accused the United States of politicizing ports, according to Reuters.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., spokesperson Liu Pengyu told ӣ��Ƶ Digital that, "Chinese competent authorities conducted routine inspections of vessels in accordance with laws and regulations. The allegations are completely unfounded and merely a distortion of facts. It is the United States that has framed normal affairs concerning relevant terminals as issues about politics and security, making pretenses and slandering others with rumors. China’s position on the Panamanian ports issue is clear and will firmly defend its legitimate rights and interests. We urge relevant countries not to be blinded and utilized by those with ill intentions."

Reuters contributed to this article.

Rubio targets Nicaraguan official over alleged torture tied to 'brutal' Ortega regime

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 14:51:27 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Saturday that the Trump administration is sanctioning a senior Nicaraguan official over alleged human rights violations.

Rubio said the U.S. is designating Vice Minister of the Interior Luis Roberto Cañas Novoa for his role in "gross violations of human rights" under the government of President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo, the latest effort to hold the regime accountable.

"The Trump administration continues to hold the Murillo-Ortega dictatorship accountable for brutal human rights violations against Nicaraguans," Rubio said in a post on X.

"I’m designating Nicaraguan Vice Minister of the Interior Luis Roberto Cañas Novoa for his role in human rights violations."

RUBIO TESTIFIES IN TRIAL OF EX-FLORIDA CONGRESSMAN ALLEGEDLY HIRED BY MADURO GOVERNMENT TO LOBBY FOR VENEZUELA

The designation was made under Section 7031(c), which allows the State Department to bar foreign officials and their immediate family members from entering the United States due to involvement in significant corruption or human rights abuses.

The State Department has said the Ortega-Murillo government has engaged in arbitrary arrests, torture and extrajudicial killings after mass protests that began in April 2018.

"Nearly eight years ago, the Rosario Murillo and Daniel Ortega dictatorship unleashed a brutal wave of repression against Nicaraguans who courageously stood against the regime’s increased tyranny, corruption and abuse," the statement said.

The State Department said the sanction marked the anniversary of the 2018 protests, after which more than 325 protesters were murdered.

A panel of U.N.-backed human rights experts previously accused Nicaragua’s government of systematic abuses "tantamount to crimes against humanity" after an investigation into the country’s crackdown on political dissent, according to The Associated Press.

The experts said the repression intensified after mass protests in 2018 and has since expanded across large parts of society, targeting perceived opponents of the government.

TRUMP ADMIN ANNOUNCES EXPANSION OF VISA RESTRICTION POLICY IN WESTERN HEMISPHERE

Nicaragua’s government has rejected those findings.

The designation follows a series of recent U.S. actions targeting the Ortega-Murillo government. In February, the State Department sanctioned five senior Nicaraguan officials tied to repression, citing arbitrary detention, torture, killings and the targeting of clergy, media and civil society.

Earlier this week, the department also announced sanctions on individuals and companies linked to Nicaragua’s gold sector, including two of Ortega and Murillo’s sons, accusing the regime of using the industry to generate foreign currency, launder assets and consolidate power within the ruling family.

The State Department said the move is part of ongoing efforts to hold the Nicaraguan government accountable for its actions.

ӣ��Ƶ Digital reached out to the Nicaraguan government and its embassy in Washington for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The Trump administration has taken an increasingly aggressive posture in the Western Hemisphere in recent months, including a Jan. 3, 2026, operation that resulted in the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.

The U.S. has also carried out a series of strikes targeting suspected drug-trafficking vessels in the region, part of a broader crackdown tied to regional security and narcotics enforcement efforts.

Trump claims he’d win as the president of Venezuela — just needs to 'quickly' learn Spanish

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:04:00 -0400

President Donald Trump joked that he might run for president of Venezuela, claiming he polls higher than any other politician in the South American country.

Trump made those remarks during a Monday press conference centered on the rescue mission of an Air Force officer who had gone missing after a fighter jet was shot down over Iran.

"The people of Venezuela, they say, if I ran for president of Venezuela, I'm polling higher than anybody has ever polled in Venezuela, so after I'm finished with this, I can go to Venezuela," Trump said. "I will quickly learn Spanish. It won't take too long. I'm good at language and I will go to Venezuela. I'm going to run for president. But we're very happy with the president-elect that we have right now."

TRUMP TOUTS AIRMAN RESCUE MISSION, BOASTS IRAN COULD BE ‘TAKEN OUT IN 1 NIGHT’

Trump mentioned Venezuela on several occasions during the press conference. He compared the Easter weekend rescue mission's success to the Pentagon's capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. He also suggested that the outcome in Iran would be similar to Venezuela. He described the conflict with Venezuela as being "over in 45 minutes," and boasted that the United States has now taken hundreds of millions of barrels of oil from the country.

During a cabinet meeting late last month, Trump joked that he "may run" for president against acting President Delcy Rodriguez, whom he installed as the leader after Maduro was captured.

TRUMP TEASES VENEZUELA AS 51ST STATE AFTER TEAM ADVANCES TO WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC FINAL

"The people — actually, I’m the highest polling person. In other words, after the presidency, I think I may go to Venezuela and run for president," Trump said.

Trump described the prospect as a "wonderful option" for him.

While Trump boasted his "good" language skills at Monday's press conference, last month he told Latin American leaders at the inaugural Shield of the Americas Summit that he would not learn a new language.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

During his address, Trump praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who, as the son of Cuban immigrants, speaks fluent Spanish.

"He’s got a language advantage over me, ‘cause I’m not learning your damn language," Trump said. "I don’t have time. I was okay with languages but I’m not gonna spend time learning your language. That much I won’t do."

Afghanistan frees US citizen Dennis Coyle over a year after Taliban arrest

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 08:56:27 -0400

An American man held by the Taliban for more than a year without charges has been released and is on his way home, Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler told ӣ��Ƶ.

Dennis Coyle, 64, an academic who spent nearly two decades working in Afghanistan, was taken from his home in Kabul in January 2025 by Taliban intelligence and held in near-solitary confinement, Boehler said, adding that Coyle committed no crime and was used as leverage.

"The United States welcomes the release of American citizen Dennis Coyle, who was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan for more than a year," Boehler said in a statement to ӣ��Ƶ.

ELDERLY BRITISH COUPLE RELEASED BY TALIBAN AFTER EIGHT MONTHS IN CUSTODY FOLLOWING NEGOTIATIONS

"President Trump made clear: the United States will not tolerate the unjust detention of its citizens — anywhere. His personal determination — executed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and a fully aligned interagency team — has driven a shift to accountability, pressure and results."

Coyle's family said he had been legally working in Afghanistan to support language communities as an academic researcher.

Rubio welcomed Coyle's release, saying it was a "positive step by the Taliban," but added that the United States is still seeking the immediate return of Mahmood Habibi, Paul Overby and all other unjustly detained Americans.

"The Taliban must end their practice of hostage diplomacy," Rubio said. "President Trump is committed to ending unjust detentions overseas – Dennis joins over 100 Americans who have been freed in the past 15 months under his second term in office."

"We thank the United Arab Emirates for its support in securing Dennis’ release. We also appreciate Qatar’s continued support and advocacy for Americans unjustly detained in Afghanistan.

IRAN REGIME CITED AS TRUMP ADMIN SET TO DESIGNATE SUDAN'S MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD A TERROR GROUP

Earlier this month, Rubio designated Afghanistan a "state sponsor of wrongful detention," accusing the Taliban of unjustly detaining Americans and other foreign nationals like Coyle and calling for his release.

To date, the Trump administration has brought home 176 individuals, including more than 100 Americans, from wrongful detention or captivity abroad, Boehler said.

In Venezuela, all detained Americans were released following the capture of Nicolás Maduro, while in Iran, the Islamist regime has routinely taken Americans hostage over decades and continues to detain Americans today, Boehler said.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

"In Israel, the president and his team’s dogged persistence resulted in the release of all hostages held by Hamas," Boehler said.

"Behind these outcomes are professionals whose names will never be known—individuals who take real risks to bring Americans home. We will not accept hostage diplomacy. We will impose consequences. Americans remain detained abroad. We will not stop until every single American is home."

Rubio says Cuba needs ‘new people in charge’ as blackouts, unrest grip island

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 17:00:55 -0400

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that U.S. sanctions on Cuba are tied to political change on the island, as the country faces widespread blackouts, unrest and a worsening economic crisis.

"Suffice it to say that the embargo is tied to political change on the island," Rubio told reporters at the White House. "The law, it's been codified. And, but the bottom line is their economy doesn't work. It's a nonfunctional economy. It's an economy that has survived.… That thing they have, has survived on subsidies from the Soviet Union and now from Venezuela. They don't get subsidies anymore. So they're in a lot of trouble. And the people in charge of them don't know how to fix it. So they have to get new people in charge."

Rubio’s comments come as Cuba faces a deepening energy crisis that has fueled protests and instability.

A nationwide power grid collapse left roughly 10 million people without electricity, according to U.S. Embassy statements and Cuban authorities.

PROTESTERS TORCH COMMUNIST PARTY HQ IN CUBA AS VIDEO APPEARS TO CAPTURE GUNFIRE

President Donald Trump indicated his administration is actively engaged.

"Cuba right now is in very bad shape. They're talking to Marco," Trump told the reporters, "We’ll be doing something with Cuba very soon.… We’re dealing with Cuba."

Trump escalated his rhetoric against Cuba Monday, saying ‌he expected to have the "honor" of "taking Cuba in some form" and that "I can do anything I want" with the neighboring country.

A senior State Department official rejected claims that U.S. sanctions are responsible for the humanitarian situation, saying, "Widespread blackouts have sadly become common for many years in Cuba — a symptom of the failing regime’s incompetence and inability to provide even the most basic goods and service for its people."

"This is the tragic result of over 60 years of Communist rule," the official added. "An island that was once the crown jewel of the Caribbean has plunged into extreme poverty and darkness.

"As President Trump has said, what is left of the regime should make a deal and finally let the Cuban people be free and prosperous, with the help of the United States," the official told ӣ��Ƶ Digital.

TRUMP DECLARES NATIONAL EMERGENCY OVER CUBA, THREATENS TARIFFS ON NATIONS THAT SUPPLY OIL TO COMMUNIST REGIME

Cuban human rights activist Rosa María Payá argued that the current crisis reflects systemic collapse inside the regime, not external pressure.

"The blackout is the regime's collapse made visible: 65 years of totalitarianism finally consuming itself," Payá told ӣ��Ƶ Digital. "The protests are Cubans refusing to disappear into that darkness."

She rejected claims that U.S. sanctions are driving the humanitarian situation.

"Cubans are not suffering because of American policy," she said. "They are suffering because of a dictatorship. Pressure on the regime works. What hurts the Cuban people is legitimizing it."

"The only way to end the humanitarian catastrophe is to end the regime," Payá added. "That’s the demand of the Cuban people."

Recent blackouts and shortages have been linked to failures at key infrastructure, including the Antonio Guiteras thermoelectric power plant, as well as fuel shortages following U.S. actions to curtail oil shipments from Venezuela, one of Cuba’s primary energy suppliers.

At the same time, Pentagon officials told lawmakers there are no plans to invade Cuba, even as they described it as a long-standing security concern.

Joseph Humire, performing the duties of assistant secretary of defense for homeland defense and Americas security affairs, said he was "not familiar with any plans on Cuba" when asked during a House Armed Services Committee hearing Tuesday.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

He described Cuba as "one of the strongest intelligence adversaries that we've had in the United States," adding that Cuban officials have operated across the region and were "defending Nicolás Maduro… in Caracas" during past operations.

Cuba’s government has blamed U.S. sanctions for worsening the crisis, while U.S. officials argue it stems from decades of economic mismanagement and reliance on foreign subsidies.

Rubio designates Afghanistan as 'state sponsor of wrongful detention': 'Despicable tactics'

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 23:55:30 -0400

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Afghanistan as a "state sponsor of wrongful detention," accusing the Taliban of "unjustly" detaining Americans and other foreign nationals.

In his announcement on Monday, Rubio said the Taliban continues to use "terrorist tactics" that he insisted "need to end."

"I am designating Afghanistan as a State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention," Rubio said in a statement. "The Taliban continues to use terrorist tactics, kidnapping individuals for ransom or to seek policy concessions. These despicable tactics need to end."

The secretary also called on the terror group to free a pair of Americans who are "unjustly detained" in Afghanistan.

IRAN REGIME CITED AS TRUMP ADMIN SET TO DESIGNATE SUDAN'S MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD A TERROR GROUP

"It is not safe for Americans to travel to Afghanistan because the Taliban continues to unjustly detain our fellow Americans and other foreign nationals," he said. "The Taliban needs to release Dennis Coyle, Mahmoud Habibi, and all Americans unjustly detained in Afghanistan now and commit to cease the practice of hostage diplomacy forever."

Coyle, 64, was detained more than a year ago without charges by the Taliban General Directorate of Intelligence, according to his family, noting that he still has not been charged. His family said he was legally working to support Afghan language communities as an academic researcher.

Habibi, a 38-year-old American citizen who was born in Afghanistan, was taken along with his driver from their vehicle in the capital of Kabul in August 2022 by the Taliban General Directorate of Intelligence, according to the State Department.

The FBI said Habibi was previously Afghanistan’s director of civil aviation and worked for the Kabul-based telecommunications company Asia Consultancy Group. The FBI said the Taliban detained 29 other employees of the company but has released most of them.

Habibi has not been heard from since his arrest, and the Taliban has not disclosed his whereabouts or condition, according to the State Department and FBI. The Taliban has previously denied it detained Habibi.

The U.S. is also calling for the return of the remains of Paul Overby, an author who was last seen close to Afghanistan's border with Pakistan in 2014, according to Reuters, citing two sources familiar with the situation.

The State Department could restrict the use of U.S. passports for travel to Afghanistan if the Taliban does not meet the U.S. government's demands, the sources told the outlet.

A passport restriction of this kind is currently only in place for North Korea.

The Taliban called the decision by Rubio to designate Afghanistan a "state sponsor of wrongful detention" regrettable, adding that it wanted to resolve the matter through dialogue.

STATE DEPARTMENT DEFENDS 'PROACTIVE' EVACUATION EFFORTS AGAINST DEMS' CLAIMS OF DIPLOMATIC CHAOS

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021 during the U.S. military’s chaotic withdrawal from the country that ended the 20-year war in the region.

Rubio gave the "state sponsor of wrongful detention" designation to Iran late last month, just one day before the U.S.-Israeli strikes on the country. He warned that the U.S. could restrict travel to Iran over its detention of U.S. citizens, but there have not been any restrictions yet.

"The Iranian regime must stop taking hostages and release all Americans unjustly detained in Iran, steps that could end this designation and associated actions," Rubio said at the time.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Rubio says in ‘simple English’ Iran run by ‘lunatics,’ defends Trump strike as ‘right decision’

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 13:37:32 -0500

Secretary of State Marco Rubio delivered one of his bluntest defenses yet of President Donald Trump’s strikes on Iran Tuesday, sharply rejecting criticism and describing the regime as "lunatics" as he argued the president acted at the right moment to prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

"Let me explain to you guys this in simple English, okay? Iran is run by lunatics, religious fanatic lunatics," Rubio told reporters.

FETTERMAN ‘BAFFLED’ BY LACK OF SUPPORT FOR TRUMP’S IRAN STRIKES AND DEATH OF ‘EVIL’ LEADERS

"They have an ambition to have nuclear weapons," Rubio said. "This is the weakest they’ve ever been. Now is the time to go after them."

Rubio said Trump made the "right decision" to dismantle Iran’s military capabilities before they could shield a nuclear program.

"The president made the decision to go after them, take away their missiles, take away their navy, take away their drones … so that they can never have a nuclear weapon," Rubio said.

He acknowledged "there will be a price to pay," but argued it would be far lower than allowing Iran to become nuclear-armed.

"That is a much lower price to pay than having a nuclear armed Iran," he said.

Rubio grew visibly sharper when pressed on whether Israel dictated the timing of the operation.

"Your statement is false," he told one reporter who suggested the U.S. acted because Israel was about to strike.

Rubio confirmed Monday that Israel was prepared to act independently.

"We knew that there was going to be an Israeli action. We knew that that would precipitate an attack against American forces," Rubio said. "And we knew that if we didn’t preemptively go after them … we would suffer higher casualties."

He emphasized Tuesday that the decision ultimately rested with President Donald Trump.

"The president determined we were not going to get hit first," Rubio said. "If you tell the president of the United States that if we don’t go first, we’re going to have more people killed and more people injured, the president is going to go first."

Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said after a classified briefing that Israel was "determined to act … with or without American support," and that U.S. officials concluded "a coordinated response was necessary."

"I am convinced that they did the right thing," Johnson said.

Despite Rubio’s harsh rhetoric toward Iran’s clerical leadership, administration officials have emphasized that the mission is not aimed at overthrowing the regime but at dismantling its military capabilities.

Rubio repeatedly framed the operation as focused on destroying Iran’s ballistic missiles, launchers, drone capabilities and naval assets.

"Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon," he said. "It cannot have the things it was hiding behind to have a nuclear weapons program."

SEN. KENNEDY PRAISES TRUMP'S RESOLVE ON IRAN, SAYS 'WORLD IS SAFER TODAY BECAUSE OF WHAT HE'S DONE'

So far, U.S. and Israeli strikes largely have targeted missile infrastructure and military facilities. Officials have not indicated that nuclear enrichment sites have been the primary focus of the campaign.

Some Democrats questioned whether the administration demonstrated an imminent threat to the United States.

"There was no imminent threat to the United States of America by the Iranians. It was a threat to Israel," Sen. Mark Warner, D-Va., said after the briefing. "We equate a threat to Israel is the equivalent of an imminent threat to the United States. Then we are in uncharted territory."

Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn., said after the classified briefing, "I have no idea what the objective is, and I didn’t get any additional clarity."

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Rubio brushed aside the criticism, predicting opponents would emerge from briefings claiming they "didn’t hear anything" while insisting the administration complied with congressional notification requirements.

"This is an action by the president to address a real threat," Rubio said. "The world will be a safer place when these radical clerics no longer have access to these weapons."

Rubio designates Iran over wrongful detentions, urges Americans to leave country 'immediately'

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 16:48:32 -0500

Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Friday designated Iran as a State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention, calling for Americans currently in Iran to "leave immediately."

"When the Iranian regime seized power 47 years ago, Ayatollah Khomeini consolidated his control of power by endorsing the hostage taking of U.S. embassy staff," Rubio wrote in a news statement. "For decades, Iran has continued to cruelly detain innocent Americans, as well as citizens of other nations, to use as political leverage against other states. This abhorrent practice must end."

"President [Donald] Trump issued an Executive Order to Protect U.S. Nationals from Wrongful Detention Abroad last fall and Congress subsequently enacted the Countering Wrongful Detention Act of 2025, authorizing the Department to designate Iran as a State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention," he added.

Rubio said if Iran does not stop, the U.S. will be forced to consider "additional measures," including a potential geographic travel restriction on the use of U.S. passports to, through, or from Iran.

TRUMP SAYS IRAN ALREADY HAS US TERMS AS MILITARY STRIKE CLOCK TICKS

"The Iranian regime must stop taking hostages and release all Americans unjustly detained in Iran, steps that could end this designation and associated actions. We encourage it to do so," Rubio wrote. "No American should travel to Iran for any reason. We reiterate our call for Americans who are currently in Iran to leave immediately."

Rubio's comments came amid rising tensions between the U.S. and Iran as they take part in indirect nuclear negotiations.

Trump last week gave Iran roughly 10 to 15 days to reach an agreement, warning during his State of the Union address that the urgency to make a deal was backed by force.

TRUMP SAYS IRAN 'SERIOUSLY TALKING TO US' AS MILITARY SHIPS HEAD TO MIDDLE EAST

Trump told reporters on Friday that he is "not happy" with the way Iran is negotiating, but said he has not yet made a final decision on potential military strikes.

Eleven U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor stealth fighters recently arrived at Israel’s Ovda Air Base in the country’s south, ӣ��Ƶ reported, marking the first-ever operational deployment of American combat aircraft to Israel.

When asked how close a decision may be, Trump told a reporter, "I'd rather not tell you, you would have the greatest scoop in history, right?"

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

The president noted that there is "always a risk" of long-term conflict in the Middle East.

"I guess you could say there's always a risk," Trump said. "You know, when there's war, there's a risk in anything both good and bad."

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

ӣ��Ƶ' Efrat Lachter, Peter Doocy and Morgan Phillips, along with ӣ��Ƶ Digital's Rachel Wolf contributed to this report.

US moves fast to reopen Venezuela embassy after yearslong freeze

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 15:52:10 -0500

The U.S. will "very quickly" reopen its embassy in Venezuela and establish a diplomatic presence on the ground, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

"We have a team on the ground there assessing it, and we think very quickly we'll be able to open a U.S. diplomatic presence on the ground," Rubio told members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee Wednesday.

The goal, he said, would be not just to interact with officials on the ground but also "civil society and the opposition."

Such a move would mean restoring diplomatic relations with Venezuela, which were broken off in 2019 when the U.S. embassy’s doors shuttered.

VENEZUELA’S DELCY RODRÍGUEZ SNAPS AT WASHINGTON, DECLARES ‘ENOUGH’ OF US INFLUENCE

The Trump administration has been in dialogue with Delcy Rodríguez, Nicolás Maduro’s former vice president whom U.S. officials describe as an interim leader, since the capture of the wanted Venezuelan dictator.

Reopening the embassy would require the U.S. to acknowledge a governing authority in Caracas, Venezuela, capable of receiving diplomats — a step that would mark a clear shift from Washington’s long-standing refusal to engage Venezuela’s executive.

The current Venezuelan leadership has "been very cooperative on that front," Rubio said. "Obviously there's been some hard asks along the way."

Rubio said the administration is not seeking further military action in Venezuela but stressed that force has not been taken off the table.

"The president never rules out his options as commander in chief to protect the national interest of the United States," Rubio told lawmakers, while emphasizing that the U.S. is "not postured to, nor do we intend or expect to have to take any military action in Venezuela at any time."

Rubio also offered details about the first $500 million of the U.S.-brokered sale of Venezuelan oil, saying $300 million went back to Venezuela to pay for public services, while $200 million remains in a U.S.-run account.

CIA DIRECTOR WAS IN VENEZUELA TO MEET WITH ACTING PRESIDENT DELCY RODRIGUEZ, OFFICIAL SAYS

He declined to share details on how long Rodríguez would remain in power, but said a diplomatic presence would help keep a check on the new government.

"I can't give you a timeline of how long it takes. It can't take forever," Rubio said. "But it’s not even been four weeks."

His comments come amid mixed signals from Venezuela’s interim leadership. In recent days, Rodríguez has struck a defiant tone toward Washington, declaring she had "enough" of U.S. influence in Venezuelan politics during a speech to oil workers broadcast on state television.

The remarks appeared aimed largely at a domestic audience, even as Venezuela remains constrained by U.S. sanctions and dependent on American decisions over oil licenses and revenue controls.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP

Rubio said the administration’s goal is to push Venezuela toward a democratic transition, describing the Maduro regime as "a base of operation for virtually every competitor, adversary and enemy in the world."

He said the U.S. is aiming for a "friendly, stable, prosperous Venezuela and democratic… with free and fair elections," while acknowledging the process will take time.

Pressed on corruption concerns, Rubio said an audit mechanism is being established.

"The audit will be on," he told senators, stressing that spending would be restricted to approved public needs.

Latest Secretary Of State News | ӣ����Ƶ

White House blasts Cruz, Pompeo for trashing Trump peace efforts as Iran appeasement

IRAN'S PRESIDENT FINALLY CAVES TO TRUMP, MAKES MAJOR ADMISSION ABOUT NUCLEAR WEAPONS

Trump-appointed federal judge rules against admin on Maine voter roll data

EXCLUSIVE: Tulsi Gabbard resigns from Trump Cabinet

Colorado Democrats formally censure Gov Polis over Tina Peters commutation

Georgia Republicans head to runoff in secretary of state race defined by 2020 election claims

Colorado governor commutes Tina Peters' sentence as Trump posts ‘FREE TINA!’

Rubio warns America must 'stay ahead of the curve' as China works to surpass the US with stolen tech

Vance confronted about 2028 ambitions after Trump teases 'dream team' Rubio ticket

Rubio meets Meloni as Trump–Pope clash clash escalates US strains with key European ally

What Rubio’s rise as the internet’s 'fixer' tells us about today’s politics

State Department set to revoke passports of thousands of parents with unpaid child support debt

Viral Marco Rubio clip on his vision for America sparks more 2028 speculation

Rubio holds ‘constructive’ meeting with Pope Leo after Trump sends hard-line Iran message to Vatican

Rubio’s Trump admin juggling act grows as meme-worthy role list becomes reality

Marco Rubio spotted behind DJ booth at family wedding as social media reacts to viral clip

Rubio to visit Italy, Vatican amid troop drawdown call, tension with Trump, Pope Leo: reports

Rubio warns China after Panama ship detentions, calls hemisphere sovereignty 'non-negotiable'

Rubio targets Nicaraguan official over alleged torture tied to 'brutal' Ortega regime

Trump claims he’d win as the president of Venezuela — just needs to 'quickly' learn Spanish

Afghanistan frees US citizen Dennis Coyle over a year after Taliban arrest

Rubio says Cuba needs ‘new people in charge’ as blackouts, unrest grip island

Rubio designates Afghanistan as 'state sponsor of wrongful detention': 'Despicable tactics'

Rubio says in ‘simple English’ Iran run by ‘lunatics,’ defends Trump strike as ‘right decision’

Rubio designates Iran over wrongful detentions, urges Americans to leave country 'immediately'

US moves fast to reopen Venezuela embassy after yearslong freeze

Latest Secretary Of State News | ӣ��Ƶ