President Donald Trump has declared that the United States is “in charge” of Venezuela after a dramatic military raid captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Maduro is now in U.S. custody facing drug-trafficking charges in New York. Trump announced that American oil companies will move into Venezuela to rebuild infrastructure, while interim leader Delcy Rodríguez has been sworn in. The United Nations Security Council is meeting today to discuss the legality of the intervention, which has sparked global controversy.
Trump’s Declaration: “We’re in Charge”
At a press conference, Trump doubled down: “Don’t ask me who’s in charge, because I’ll give you an answer, and it’ll be very controversial. We’re in charge.” He emphasized that U.S. oil companies would invest billions to repair Venezuela’s crumbling infrastructure.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the U.S. would not govern Venezuela day-to-day but would enforce an “oil quarantine” to control exports. Still, Trump insisted that Washington would oversee the transition, leaving many Venezuelans uncertain about their sovereignty.
Interim Leadership: Delcy Rodríguez
Following Maduro’s capture, Venezuelan politician Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president. Rodríguez has called for a “balanced and respectful” relationship with Washington, but Trump warned that if she “doesn’t do what’s right, she is going to pay a very big price, probably bigger than Maduro”UPI.
This statement has raised fears of further regime change efforts, with Trump openly suggesting that Rodríguez’s government could be replaced if it fails to align with U.S. interests.
Global Reactions
- United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the raid as a “dangerous precedent,” warning that unilateral interventions undermine international law.
- Colombia: President Gustavo Petro dismissed Trump’s threats against his country as “illegitimate”.
- Mexico: Trump warned Mexico to “get its act together,” sparking diplomatic tension.
- U.S. Allies: Some Western nations expressed cautious support, citing Maduro’s alleged crimes, while others criticized the intervention as neo-imperialism.
Domestic Response in the U.S.
Trump’s supporters hailed the raid as a bold move against corruption and socialism. Critics, however, warned of entanglement in another costly foreign intervention. A poll released today asked Americans whether it was “a good thing that Donald Trump will be running Venezuela,” reflecting the divisive nature of the decision.
Oil and Economic Stakes
Trump’s announcement that “very large United States oil companies” would enter Venezuela highlights the economic motivations behind the raid. Venezuela holds some of the world’s largest proven oil reserves, but years of mismanagement and sanctions have crippled production. U.S. firms are expected to play a central role in rebuilding the sector.
What Comes Next?
Maduro’s trial in New York will be closely watched. If convicted, it could cement Trump’s justification for intervention. Meanwhile, Rodríguez’s fragile interim government faces pressure from both Washington and Venezuelan citizens. The UNSC debate may determine whether the U.S. faces sanctions or gains international legitimacy for its actions.
Conclusion
This breaking story represents a turning point in U.S. foreign policy under Trump. By capturing a sitting foreign leader and declaring control over Venezuela, the administration has set a precedent that could reshape global norms. Whether this leads to stability or chaos remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Trump has once again placed himself at the center of international controversy.
