Washington DC, March 19 -- US Department of State Spokesperson Tammy Bruce stated on Wednesday that White House Secretary of State Marco Rubio has mandated the Venezuelan government to take back its illegally deported citizens.

Bruce warned that Venezuela's failure to accept deported individuals would lead to increased sanctions and tariffs.

"Secretary Rubio made clear yesterday that Venezuela is obligated to accept its repatriated citizens from the United States. This is not an issue for debate or negotiation, nor does it merit any reward unless the Maduro regime accepts a consistent flow of deportation flights, without further excuses or delays, the US will impose new, severe, and escalating sanctions," she said.

Referencing a statem...