The United States is publicly backing Bolivia’s President Rodrigo Paz as unrest and shortages worsen in the country. Multiple outlets report that on June 4, the U.S. defense secretary stated the United States would reject attempts to overthrow what Washington calls the “legitimate government.” Separately, the U.S. secretary of state, Marco Rubio, speaks by phone with Paz and says the United States is increasing emergency assistance for Bolivians affected by food and other shortages. The announcements come as protests continue and Bolivia faces an economic crisis, according to the reports. France 24 and The Punch describe the situation as growing unrest tied to worsening access to basic goods, while The Rio Times emphasizes the diplomatic warning against attempts at removing Paz from office. The sources agree that the U.S. response includes both political messaging—opposing any move to topple the president—and material support in the form of emergency aid for the population dealing with hardship. No outlet provides details on the size, conditions, or delivery timetable of the assistance.