Trump Proclaims Himself ‘Acting President of Venezuela’ Amid Maduro’s Arrest

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Washington: The United States President, Donald Trump, has ignited a wave of international scrutiny by sharing a digitally modified image on social media, proclaiming himself the “Acting President of Venezuela” just days following the apprehension of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. operation.

The image, which appeared on Trump’s Truth Social platform, resembled an official profile, showcasing Trump’s likeness with the label “Acting President of Venezuela” beneath it. The post garnered significant attention, provoking strong reactions from political figures, legal experts, and users across various social media platforms.

In a subsequent post, Trump humorously suggested that Senator Marco Rubio should assume the title of “President of Cuba,” further intensifying the political dialogue surrounding his comments.

Venezuelan Leadership Established Internally

Despite Trump’s assertions, the transfer of power in Venezuela has adhered to its constitutional framework. Following Maduro’s ousting, the nation’s Supreme Tribunal of Justice appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as the acting president to ensure governmental continuity and uphold national institutions.

Authorities in Caracas have clarified that the interim leadership structure was determined domestically rather than appointed by any foreign power. Legal analysts emphasize that no nation can dictate leadership to another sovereign state.

Aftermath of Maduro’s Arrest

Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores, were detained during a U.S.-led operation earlier this month and taken to the United States to face federal charges. Maduro has rejected the allegations, asserting that his arrest contravenes international law and undermines his nation’s sovereignty.

Post-operation, Trump indicated that the U.S. would oversee Venezuela during a “transition period” and claimed Washington's role as “in charge” of the country, particularly to revive oil production and stabilize the economy.

Nevertheless, senior U.S. officials later specified that America does not aim to directly govern Venezuela, despite ongoing pressure through economic and energy policies.

Escalating Global Tensions

Trump's declaration as “Acting President of Venezuela” has exacerbated pre-existing international tensions. Many countries and diplomatic observers have denounced both the military action and subsequent political declarations, warning that it risks additional instability in the region.

Meanwhile, Venezuela’s interim government continues its operations from Caracas, asserting that the country's trajectory will be shaped by its own legal and constitutional systems, rather than statements emanating from foreign social media platforms.

As the political landscape remains tumultuous, global focus now shifts toward the implications this crisis will have on both regional dynamics and international relations.