U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the Trump administration's foreign policy direction during his first Senate testimony, pushing back against criticism over steep foreign aid cuts, immigration policies, and closer ties with Russia. Rubio emphasized that the U.S. is not retreating from global leadership, highlighting his travels to 18 countries in as many weeks.
Rubio clashed with Democratic lawmakers over the administration’s decision to prioritize white South African immigrants over refugees from conflict zones like Sudan. Senator Chris Van Hollen criticized Rubio for aligning too closely with President Donald Trump and accused him of abandoning his previous foreign policy stances. Rubio shot back, saying Van Hollen’s regret over confirming him only validated his performance.
Despite slashing $20 billion in what he called “duplicative, wasteful, and ideologically driven programs,” Rubio said the U.S. remains the top global donor of humanitarian aid. He introduced the proposed $2.9 billion “America First Opportunity Fund,” aimed at streamlining aid with lessons from USAID, which is now being absorbed by the State Department.
Rubio also addressed ongoing crises, including Israel’s conflict in Gaza and sanctions on Syria. He supported humanitarian aid to Palestinians while backing Israel’s military actions against Hamas. He denied rumors about relocating Gazan refugees to Libya but confirmed discussions with regional allies.
Currently serving simultaneously as Secretary of State, acting National Security Adviser, and head of USAID, Rubio is the first person since Henry Kissinger to hold dual top security posts. While critics accuse him of enabling Trump’s foreign policy shifts, Republican lawmakers praised Rubio’s leadership, with Trump calling him his go-to problem solver.
Rubio is scheduled for two more hearings in the House of Representatives on Wednesday.