Asked how long American oversight would continue—whether months or years—Trump replied that the duration would be lengthy. “Only time will tell, but it will be a long period, probably for years,” he said. The President did not specify a timeline for elections in Venezuela and declined to comment on whether US troops would be deployed, saying only, “I cannot tell you that.”
Trump’s remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of US policy following recent military action that led to the removal of President Nicolás Maduro from power. The administration has described the intervention as essential to restoring democracy, citing allegations that Maduro’s government was linked to drug and arms trafficking networks.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier said Washington would retain control over Venezuela’s oil sales indefinitely, reinforcing the administration’s position that energy oversight is central to its strategy. While most Republican lawmakers have supported the move, Democrats have raised concerns that the US may be entering a prolonged international intervention without clear legal authority.
During the interview, Trump avoided explaining why the US has not backed opposition leader María Corina Machado, whose party claimed victory in the 2024 elections and who recently received the Nobel Peace Prize. He also declined to clarify whether Washington recognizes Delcy Rodríguez, Maduro’s former vice president, as Venezuela’s interim leader, though he said discussions with the new administration are ongoing.
Trump confirmed that the US plans to purchase between 30 and 50 million barrels of heavy crude oil from Venezuela and is in talks with American energy companies about future investments. He acknowledged that firms remain cautious due to political uncertainty and concerns over long-term security. “It will take some time for the oil to arrive,” he said.
The President also revealed that he personally monitored Operation Absolute Resolve, the mission that resulted in the arrest of Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. He said the operation involved extensive preparation and was carried out amid fears of failure, drawing comparisons to past US military setbacks.
Trump indicated he hopes to visit Venezuela once security conditions improve, adding that a time will come when it is safe to do so. Meanwhile, protests by Maduro supporters were reported in Caracas, underscoring the political volatility that continues to surround the US-led transition.
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