Donald Trump Calls Himself Venezuela’s Acting President Following US Military Operation

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US President Donald Trump shared an image on his Truth Social account on Sunday showing himself as the “Acting President of Venezuela, Incumbent January 2026.” Styled like an edited Wikipedia page, the post placed Trump alongside his US presidential titles. 

The image quickly drew attention globally. With many people questioning its intent and the legal basis for such a claim.

US Operation Captures Maduro and Cilia Flores

Earlier in January, the United States carried out a military operation in Venezuela that captured President Nicolas Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores. The US described the mission as targeting narcoterrorism and maintaining regional security. 

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Trump said the US would temporarily oversee the Venezuelan government until a “safe, proper and judicious transition” could be ensured, highlighting the country’s ongoing instability.

Venezuelan Leadership Moves

After Maduro’s capture, Venezuela’s Supreme Court appointed Vice President Delcy Rodriguez as interim president, following the nation’s constitutional process. Rodriguez is acknowledged by the local authorities, and her designation is proof that, even though Trump has posted, Venezuela still has its own legal leadership. 

International observers have pointed out that the assertions made by the USA are not able to break the constitutional order of the country.

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US Interests and Oil Strategy

Trump’s post coincided with reports that the US would refine and sell up to 50 million barrels of Venezuelan crude oil. Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined a three-step plan for Venezuela: calming the country down, giving oil access to US companies during the recovery period, and overseeing the transition. 

The strategy indicates that the US participation is aimed not only at securing but also at gaining strategically important resources.

Implications for Venezuela and Beyond

Experts say that the social media post is mainly a symbolic act; however, the situation highlights the disputes concerning sovereignty, legal power, and energy control. This intervention represents a more direct role in Venezuelan affairs, compared to past interventions. 

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How the nation deals with the leadership conflicts and the responses from the rest of the world will determine its political and economic future for the coming months.