In a dramatic escalation that has sent shockwaves across the globe, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared himself the 'acting president' of Venezuela. This unprecedented move follows a large-scale military strike by American forces that resulted in the capture of the South American nation's leader, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife.
A Startling Declaration and a Power Vacuum
The crisis unfolded after U.S. forces successfully carried out an operation leading to the apprehension of President Maduro. In the immediate aftermath, Venezuela's Supreme Court moved to name Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as the country's interim leader. However, President Trump upended this transition by sharing a provocative image portraying himself as Venezuela's acting head of state, asserting American authority over the tumultuous situation.
Amidst the chaos, a significant revelation emerged concerning the nation's vital oil resources. President Trump disclosed details of a massive $50 million oil deal involving the newly appointed interim leader, Delcy Rodríguez. This admission has fueled accusations that the U.S. intervention is strategically aimed at securing control over Venezuela's vast petroleum reserves, one of the largest in the world.
The U.S. Blueprint and Mounting International Fury
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has outlined a clear three-step plan devised by the United States to shape Venezuela's future. This strategy is believed to involve continued military pressure, the establishment of a transitional government favourable to U.S. interests, and the systematic takeover of the country's oil infrastructure to stabilize and redirect its economy.
However, this bold American maneuver has not gone unchallenged. Critics around the world are condemning the action as a flagrant assault on Venezuela's sovereignty and a dangerous violation of international law. The move has triggered a wave of international condemnation, significantly escalating geopolitical tensions. Many nations view it as a perilous precedent of a superpower forcibly removing a foreign government and claiming executive control.
Regional Stability and Global Repercussions
The situation on the ground remains highly volatile. With Maduro in custody and competing claims to leadership, Venezuela is plunged into deep uncertainty. President Trump's declaration and the ongoing U.S. military plotting suggest that Washington intends to maintain a dominant role in Caracas's affairs for the foreseeable future.
The global community is now watching closely. This event marks a sharp turn in foreign policy, raising urgent questions about the limits of intervention and the new rules of power in an increasingly multipolar world. The focus now shifts to how other major powers, including Russia and China, will respond to what they perceive as an American overreach in their strategic backyard.
