In a dramatic escalation of foreign intervention, the administration of US President Donald Trump has declared it will directly dictate decisions to Venezuela's interim leadership and assume indefinite control over the country's lucrative oil sales. This move follows the military operation that toppled President Nicolas Maduro.
Trump's Bold Assertion of Control
The United States could effectively run Venezuela and access its massive oil reserves for years to come, President Trump later told the New York Times. This stark assertion of American dominance over the oil-rich South American nation was made public on Thursday, just days after a lightning raid by US special forces.
On Saturday, forces captured president Nicolas Maduro and his wife, transporting them to New York to face trial on drug and weapons charges. This action underscores what Trump has termed the "Monroe Doctrine," a reaffirmation of US influence in its traditional backyard.
"Maximum Leverage" Over Interim Authorities
Following the capture operation, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Washington now holds "maximum leverage" over Venezuela's interim authorities. "We're continuing to be in close coordination with the interim authorities, and their decisions are going to continue to be dictated by the United States of America," Leavitt told a briefing.
This declaration of control comes despite firm denials from Venezuela's interim leader, Delcy Rodriguez. Rodriguez insisted that no foreign power governs Caracas, calling the US-led deposition of her predecessor a historic stain on bilateral relations. "There is a stain on our relations such as had never occurred in our history," she stated.
Regional Repercussions and Oil Ambitions
The US strategy is clearly focused on Venezuela's primary resource: the world's largest proven oil reserves. Trump's explicit goal to "run" Venezuela is intrinsically linked to controlling this energy wealth. However, the aggressive move has sent shockwaves through the region.
Neighboring Colombia has expressed deep concern, fearing the US strike and subsequent takeover could lead to a regional 'catastrophe.' The situation creates a precarious new chapter in hemispheric relations, with the US openly directing a sovereign nation's governance and economy for the foreseeable future.
