Rubio Defends Trump Foreign Policy Amid Senate Criticism

Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the Trump administration's foreign policy and proposed State Department budget cuts during congressional hearings, emphasizing that U.S. foreign policy should prioritize national interests over global concerns. Rubio argued that the budget reductions target ineffective programs, ensuring that every dollar spent enhances U.S. safety or prosperity, and maintained that the U.S. remains the world's largest foreign aid donor despite cuts. He rejected accusations of U.S. retreat from global affairs, highlighting his extensive diplomatic visits and commitment to strategic, 'smart' engagement worldwide. However, Rubio faced sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Chris Van Hollen, who expressed regret over his confirmation due to perceived alignment with Trump and Russia, and condemned the cuts to foreign aid as harmful to human rights and global stability. Rubio responded defiantly to these critiques, framing dissent as a sign of his success and reiterating his support for the administration's approach to conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. The hearings underscored deep partisan divisions over the direction of U.S. foreign policy and aid under the Trump administration.