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Marco Rubio with a slew of appointments: never this central since Kissinger’s time
After Waltz’s removal, Trump entrusts Rubio with dual State and Security posts: this is the fourth appointment for the former Florida senator
Marco Rubio, current secretary of state, has also been appointed by Donald Trump as national security adviser, following the removal of Michael Waltz. With this new appointment, Rubio becomes the first person in American politics to simultaneously hold the two major foreign policy leadership roles since Henry Kissinger. A dual post that, between 1973 and 1975, was given to Kissinger by President Richard Nixon.
Four appointments under the Trump administration: the “secretary of everything”
With this new appointment, Rubio comes to hold four official positions in the current Trump administration, surpassing Kissinger’s own record. In fact, prior to his dual appointment at State and Security, the 53-year-old former Florida senator had also been named acting head of Usaid, the federal development aid agency hit hard by funding and staff cuts, and the Federal National Archives.
The New York Times jokes about this concentration of power, headlining “Marco Rubio, Secretary of Everything,” and raises questions about Rubio’s actual ability to effectively manage so many contemporary posts. In a context where Trump continues to ignore many traditional institutional practices, the president’s choices reflect a personalistic and centralized style of governing.
Trump rejects strong names, entrusts everything to Rubio
After Waltz’s exit, alternative names had circulated for the role of Security Adviser, including Stephen Miller, current deputy chief of staff and director of migration policy, and Seb Gorka, now head of counterterrorism. Ric Grenell, special envoy for strategic missions, has also been mentioned but has ruled out taking the post.
More sensational is the rumor about Steve Witkoff, a Trump-friendly businessman and former special envoy for sensitive issues, who would be in the running for the post. Sources cited by CBSNews, however, denied his nomination.
The sudden announcement and press conference gaffe
Trump’s decision to put Rubio in charge of the National Security Council as well came in a post published directly by the president. The announcement took by surprise State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, who, during a briefing with reporters, had just denied the possibility of an interim for Rubio. “Miracle of modern technology,” she merely commented, avoiding further explanation of how Rubio will be able to handle the burden of responsibility.
From “Little Marco” to trusted fixer
The nomination also certifies that the tensions that had pitted Trump and Rubio against each other during the 2016 Republican primary have finally been overcome. At the time, the tycoon contemptuously nicknamed the senator “Little Marco.” Today, the relationship between the two appears solid, strengthened by the loyalty Rubio has shown in following the president’s line without hesitation.
CNN points out that Rubio has always publicly praised Trump’s foreign policy skills, declaring himself “an enforcer of presidential directives.” Words confirmed by the president himself, “Amazing Marco, when I have a problem, I call Marco and he solves it,” Trump said emphatically during a public speech.
Amid high tensions, Beijing also reminded that it was the United States that unilaterally started the tariff war. Nevertheless, the Chinese government left open the possibility of negotiation while maintaining a hard line. “If we talk, the door will be open,” said the spokesman, but he made it clear that China is not willing to compromise on its fundamental positions.
China maintains hard line and responds with tariffs
In response to increased tariffs by the United States, China has imposed 125 percent tariffs on some U.S. products. In addition, an official video underscored Beijing’s determination, stating that “bowing to a bully is like drinking poison to quench your thirst.” The message is clear: China will not accept threats or pressure and will continue to defend its position firmly.
Despite economic difficulties, China has resisted pressure. Trade tensions with the United States do not seem to have dented Beijing’s determination not to give in on its demands.
China’s economic woes and U.S. pressure
The effects of trade tensions are also beginning to be felt in China’s economy. In April, the country’s manufacturing activity was at its lowest level in two years, a clear sign that the trade war is negatively affecting the manufacturing sector.
Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called for a de-escalation of the trade dispute with China. In an interview with Fox Business, Bessent spoke of a multi-step process that could lead to a rebalancing of trade relations. The secretary stressed that Beijing needs to review its economic model and fulfill past commitments, including those in the trade agreement signed with Donald Trump during his first administration.
The possible revision of the bilateral agreement
Bessent added that China’s economy is slowing “substantially” and that this could prompt Washington to revise “phase one” of the trade agreement. The goal, he said, is to reduce trade barriers deemed unfair and protectionist by China. The hope is that, over time, agreements can be reached that promote more balanced trade between the two countries.
In sum, the situation between the United States and China remains tense, with Beijing prepared to negotiate only if Washington removes unilateral tariffs. Although economic difficulties are being felt, China has no intention of giving in easily. It remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming months, with both superpowers waiting for mutual signals of openness and sincerity.
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