English/Español: Rubio Introduces Measure to Address Growing Instability in Venezuela and Nicaragua

Press Release

U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced an amendment to the FY2019 Defense-LHHS Minibus appropriations bill that would address the growing instability in Venezuela and Nicaragua by requiring the Secretary of Defense, with the Director of National Intelligence and the Secretary of State, to report to Congress on the implications that the ongoing crises in both countries have for U.S. national security and regional stability.

"As the crises in Venezuela and Nicaragua continue to worsen, the United States must evaluate the national security threats posed by instability in both nations," Rubio said. "This proposal will help hold accountable the Maduro and Ortega regimes, and enhance our security partnership with strategic regional allies."

Specifically, the unclassified report would include:
How the political, economic and humanitarian crises in Venezuela and Nicaragua affect U.S. national security and the stability of the Western Hemisphere;
What policy options the U.S. should consider to mitigate this threat;
How the U.S. can enhance its security partnerships with Colombia, Costa Rica and other strategic regional allies;
What additional financial or other support SOUTHCOM may require, and how the Defense Department is postured to address the worsening instability in Venezuela and Nicaragua.

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