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January 23 – January 29

 Here’s what happened at State this week. ⤵️

• 🎤 Secretary Rubio testified before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on U.S. policy towards Venezuela.
• 🕊️ The Board of Peace welcomed new members.
• 🍃 The U.S. withdrew from the one-sided Paris Climate Agreement. 

Secretary Rubio Testifies on U.S. Policy Towards Venezuela

Secretary Rubio testifies to the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in Washington, D.C., on January 28, 2026. (Photo credit: U.S. Senate)

On January 28, Secretary Rubio briefed the Senate Foreign Relations Committee on U.S. policy towards Venezuela.

The Secretary told the Committee that “the Western Hemisphere is our home, and we will not tolerate criminality within this Hemisphere that harms American citizens or permit territory to become platforms for our adversaries.”

With the removal of Nicolás Maduro, “President Trump’s actions have created the conditions for Venezuelans to begin returning home and rebuilding their country. The United States is prepared to help oversee Venezuela’s transition from a criminal state to a responsible partner,” said Secretary Rubio.

President Trump Welcomes Founding Members of Board of Peace

President Trump addresses world leaders attending the inauguration of the Board of Peace. (Official White House Photo by Daniel Torok)

Last week in Davos, President Trump ratified the Charter of the Board of Peace. 

This week, he welcomed founding members from around the world. The founding members represent countries around the world who have committed to building a secure and prosperous future for Gaza that delivers lasting peace, stability, and opportunity for its people.

As President Trump said, “The first steps toward a brighter day for the Middle East, and a much safer future for the world are unfolding right before your very eyes.”

The United States Exits From the Paris Climate Agreement

The President announced that the U.S. would withdraw from the Paris Climate Agreement upon taking office. This action took effect on January 27. 

Secretary Rubio welcomed the exit with a statement. The President “withdrew from the one-sided Paris Climate Agreement which raises prices, hinders economic growth, and weakens our national security,” he said. 

“The U.S. will no longer be a part of international agreements and initiatives that undermine our national interests.”

News You May Have Missed

• The State Department cut spending by $1.8 billion in the first year of President Trump’s second term. 
• President Trump and Mexican President Sheinbaum discussed border security, trade, and drug trafficking. 
• The White House and the State Department observed International Holocaust Remembrance Day, marking the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and reaffirming our commitment to countering antisemitism.
• The White House announced that the last body belonging to a hostage captured by Hamas on October 7, 2023, had been returned.  
• The State Department announced a partnership with the National Football League to support the Department’s sports diplomacy initiatives and to collaborate on major sporting events, including international NFL games and the Super Bowl.

Upcoming Dates

• February 4: Critical Minerals Ministerial
• February 6: Milan Cortina Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony
• February 13-15: Munich Security Conference

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