President Trump’s bold move in Venezuela marks a new era of U.S. intervention, stirring both hope and controversy.
Story Highlights
- The U.S. has taken control of Venezuela following a military operation.
- Nicolás Maduro was captured, and the U.S. plans to lead Venezuela’s transition.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth are appointed as viceroys.
- International reactions are mixed, with allies distancing themselves and adversaries condemning the move.
Trump’s Unprecedented Decision
On January 3, 2026, President Donald Trump announced a decisive military operation leading to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This move signifies a bold step as the U.S. assumes control over Venezuela, declaring an intent to guide the nation toward a “safe, proper, and judicious transition” to a new government.
Trump’s administration has justified this intervention as a necessary action to curb narcotics trafficking and prevent the establishment of hostile military bases in Latin America. This operation follows months of military buildup in the Caribbean and highlights a strategic shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s leadership.
Strategic Interests and Power Dynamics
Venezuela stands as a nation rich in oil and mineral resources, making it a focal point for U.S. interests in the hemisphere. The U.S. now holds administrative control, with Trump explicitly stating that Venezuela will be “run” by the U.S., with no specific timeline for withdrawal. This decision marks a significant shift in hemispheric power dynamics, with Trump threatening to deploy American troops for occupation if necessary.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth have been appointed as viceroys to oversee the transition process. While this move has garnered support from certain opposition figures in Venezuela, it has also provoked international condemnation, with countries such as Russia and China expressing concerns over geopolitical stability.
International and Domestic Reactions
The international community’s response has been mixed. U.S. allies have distanced themselves from the operation, while adversaries like Russia and China have condemned it as a violation of sovereignty. Domestically, reactions among Venezuelans are divided, with some celebrating the intervention as a path to change, while others express outrage over foreign control.
As the U.S. maintains its presence in Venezuela, the long-term implications of this intervention remain uncertain. The operation has set a precedent for direct U.S. military intervention in the Western Hemisphere, raising questions about future foreign policy actions under Trump’s administration.
Sources:
Trump: “We Are in Venezuela Now, and We Are Going to Stay”
Trump: “We Are Going to Run Venezuela Until Proper Transition Can Be Done”
Trump: “Something Big Will Happen with Venezuela”
