Donald Trump has proclaimed himself the “Acting President of Venezuela, Incumbent January 2026,” in a Wikipedia page styled post on Truth Social. An image, posted to social media, displayed his official portrait and listed his tenure as both the 45th and 47th President of the United States.
The post followed the US’ capture and removal of sitting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who was flown to New York along with his wife to face federal drug trafficking charges. The operation came after months of US pressure, sanctions, and military activity targeting the oil-rich nation. Maduro has claimed he was “kidnapped.” China, Russia, Colombia, and even Spain have called the US action a blatant violation of international law.
Hours after the operation, Trump declared that the US would “run” Venezuela temporarily, citing security concerns and the need for a controlled transition. He also said the US would oversee and sell Venezuelan oil to global markets during this interim period.
Inside Venezuela, Maduro’s second-in-command, Delcy Rodriguez, who took the oath as interim President rejected US claims of authority, demanded Maduro’s release, and declared him the nation’s rightful leader.
The US President has also asked major American oil companies to invest up to $100 billion in Venezuela to rapidly expand the country’s oil production. Speaking at a White House meeting with oil executives last week, Trump said the US would decide which companies are allowed to operate in Venezuela and help rebuild its deteriorated oil sector.