Rubio ATTACKED During Venezuela Hearing

Secretary of State Marco Rubio faced down a disruptive anti-war protester during a crucial Senate hearing on Venezuela, as the Trump administration defended its bold military operation to remove the socialist dictator Nicolás Maduro from power.

Story Snapshot

Anti-war protester arrested after disrupting Rubio’s Senate testimony with “Hands Off Venezuela” sign and war crimes accusations
Rubio defended Trump administration’s successful January 3 military operation that captured and detained Venezuelan dictator Maduro
Senate Committee Chairman enforced zero-tolerance policy, banning disruptor for one year with potential three-year extension
Rubio warned military force remains an option if Venezuela’s interim leadership defies U.S. interests or allows Iranian threats

Protester Swiftly Removed During Opening Testimony

Secretary of State Marco Rubio had barely begun his opening statement before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on January 28, 2026, when an anti-war activist interrupted proceedings. The protester held up a sign reading “Hands Off Venezuela” and shouted accusations of war crimes against the Trump administration’s military intervention. Capitol Police arrested the individual within seconds, removing the disruptor from the Dirksen Senate Office Building. Chairman Jim Risch imposed an immediate one-year ban from committee proceedings, with the possibility of extending it to three years for persistent violators under the committee’s zero-tolerance policy for disruptions.

Rubio Defends Maduro Removal as Necessary Action

Rubio proceeded with his testimony after the brief interruption, characterizing the January 3 operation as a successful law enforcement action that removed a significant obstacle to Venezuelan reform. The Secretary of State argued that Maduro’s authoritarian governance created conditions requiring direct intervention, emphasizing the operation’s role in advancing critical objectives including releasing political prisoners and reducing Iranian, Russian, and Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere. Rubio described Maduro as an impediment to progress, justifying the military action as essential for restoring stability and democratic principles in Venezuela. The operation marked a significant escalation in U.S. foreign policy under President Trump’s second term.

Democrats Question Transition Plan and Leadership Decisions

Democratic Senator Chris Murphy challenged Rubio during the hearing, raising concerns about the administration’s decision to temporarily retain Maduro’s vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, in a leadership role. Murphy questioned the lack of a clear timeline for Venezuela’s political transition, arguing that uncertainty could undermine the administration’s stated goals for the country. Rubio responded that detailed answers would emerge once U.S. personnel fully established their presence on the ground, noting less than four weeks had passed since Maduro’s removal. The exchange highlighted tensions between the executive branch’s assertive approach and congressional oversight responsibilities, with Democrats expressing skepticism about the operation’s long-term strategy and legal justification.

Military Force Remains Option Against Iranian Threats

Rubio made clear that military intervention remains a possibility if Venezuela’s interim leadership fails to cooperate with American interests or allows hostile actors to establish operations. He specifically cited Iran as a continuing concern, noting he would not hesitate to act if Tehran attempted to build a drone factory in Venezuela. Chairman Risch reinforced these security concerns, warning that Venezuela had been providing false passports to Iranian and Hezbollah operatives under Maduro’s regime. Rubio assessed Iran’s current regime as weaker than ever, though he acknowledged Tehran’s violent crackdown on domestic protesters had proven effective in maintaining control. The statements underscore the administration’s commitment to protecting American interests and preventing hostile foreign powers from gaining footholds in the Western Hemisphere.

Committee Enforces Order Against Repeat Disruptors

Chairman Risch’s enforcement of the zero-tolerance policy reflected ongoing challenges with protest activity at Senate hearings on controversial foreign policy matters. The chairman had warned attendees before the hearing that disruptions would result in immediate arrest and banishment from committee proceedings. Risch noted that some individuals present had previously completed bans from the committee, suggesting a pattern of coordinated disruption efforts. Despite the interruption, Risch maintained his composure with humor, joking that Rubio had attracted a more robust following than most witnesses. The swift response by Capitol Police and the committee’s firm stance demonstrated institutional commitment to maintaining decorum during critical oversight hearings on national security matters.