Venezuela Tensions Rise as Trump Claims U.S. Control

President Donald Trump declared that the United States is firmly in control of the situation in Venezuela, following the detention of former leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife in a high-profile U.S. operation. The move has sent shockwaves globally and heightened tensions in the oil-rich South American nation.

Maduro, 63, faces narcotrafficking charges in New York, alongside his spouse, after a U.S. operation involving naval forces and aerial strikes near Venezuelan waters. The incident marks a bold step by Washington, demonstrating its intent to influence Venezuela’s leadership while signaling that economic and strategic interests, particularly oil, remain central to U.S. objectives.

In response, interim Venezuelan leader Delcy Rodriguez offered to cooperate with the United States, signaling a potential easing of tensions. Rodriguez’s statement emphasized dialogue and collaboration, suggesting a willingness to allow U.S. access to economic resources, infrastructure, and energy assets, which Trump described as necessary to rebuild and stabilize Venezuela under new leadership.

Although U.S. forces reportedly withdrew from Venezuelan territory, a significant naval presence remains offshore. Economic sanctions continue to restrict Venezuelan oil exports, maintaining pressure on the Maduro administration and its allies. Trump warned that further military action could follow if the interim government fails to comply with U.S. demands for access and cooperation.

Despite the assertive stance, the U.S. clarified it does not seek full regime change. The focus is on replacing Maduro with a government amenable to Washington’s interests. Venezuelan opposition leaders, however, insist that political prisoners must be released and past elections recognized for the intervention to have credibility and legitimacy in the eyes of citizens.

International reactions were sharply divided. China, Russia, and Iran condemned the U.S. action as a violation of international law, while some Western allies expressed concern over escalation risks. Regional leaders, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, warned the operation could trigger humanitarian crises, displacement, and further instability across Latin America if tensions intensify.

The situation remains volatile as global attention turns to upcoming diplomatic and legal proceedings. Analysts suggest that Venezuela’s oil markets, regional security, and U.S.-Latin America relations could be directly affected. Whether cooperation between the interim government and Washington will succeed or tensions escalate remains uncertain, leaving the future of Venezuela’s leadership in the balance.