Trump announces Venezuela administration after Maduro's arrest: Details of the US plan

In a dramatic development that is reshaping the political landscape in Latin America, US President Donald Trump unveiled an immediate roadmap for Venezuela's future following the military operation that led to the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Trump explicitly stated that the United States would temporarily assume control of Venezuela to ensure a "safe and orderly political transition," effectively blocking any attempts by the previous regime to maintain its grip on power.

Details of the American announcement and the threat of new strikes

During a press conference held to comment on the event, Trump asserted that US forces were not only focused on the arrest but were also prepared to launch a "second wave" of military strikes that would be "much larger" if necessary to impose stability. This statement coincided with his posting of the first image of Maduro after his arrest via Truth Social, indicating that the detained president was aboard the USS Iwo Jima.

Speaking to Fox News, the US president stressed Washington's firm rejection of any scenario that would allow Maduro's successor to continue his political path, saying: "We cannot risk letting someone else take his place and continue his path," indicating a US desire to completely uproot the current regime.

Context of the historical tension between Washington and Caracas

This event cannot be separated from the context of years of deep-seated animosity between the United States and the Maduro regime. Washington has consistently considered Maduro's rule illegitimate, particularly after the 2018 elections, which were marred by allegations of fraud, and the subsequent US and international recognition of opposition leaders as the legitimate government. The US Department of Justice has also formally indicted Maduro and senior officials in his regime for involvement in narco-terrorism, offering substantial financial rewards for information leading to their capture. This makes the recent military operation the culmination of a long campaign of political, economic, and legal pressure.

Expected regional and international repercussions

This radical transformation in Venezuela has far-reaching implications that extend beyond local borders:

• On the economic front: Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves. American control and the restructuring of its dilapidated energy sector are expected to lead to fundamental changes in the global oil market, potentially alleviating the fuel crisis in the West.
• On the humanitarian front: Venezuela has suffered one of the worst economic crises in modern history, leading to the exodus of millions. Observers believe the interim US administration may prioritize the delivery of urgent humanitarian aid to stem the flow of migrants directly impacting the US border.
• On the geopolitical level: Maduro's downfall represents a major blow to Russian, Chinese, and Iranian influence in the United States' backyard, as the previous regime was a strategic ally of these powers that are rivals to Washington.

The international community is now watching how Washington will handle this thorny issue, amid questions about internal reactions in Venezuela and the extent to which the new administration can achieve stability in a country suffering from deep divisions.