President Donald Trump has declared himself the “Acting President of Venezuela” in a recent post on social media. The announcement came on January 11, 2026, when Trump shared a screenshot that appears to be from a Wikipedia page, highlighting this new title alongside his photo. The post has sparked widespread attention and debate regarding its implications for U.S.-Venezuela relations.
This declaration follows a significant military operation ordered by Trump on January 3, 2026. The operation involved a Delta Force strike aimed at capturing Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which resulted in Maduro’s capture. In the wake of the operation, Maduro’s vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, has taken on the role of acting president.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump indicated that he plans to facilitate elections in Venezuela “eventually.” He emphasized the need to first focus on rebuilding the country’s oil infrastructure. Trump stated, “We’re gonna rebuild the oil and the oil infrastructure,” highlighting his administration’s intentions to restore Venezuela’s oil economy.
Trump also noted that he had communicated his plans to oil companies prior to the military action. His remarks suggest a strategic approach to rebuilding Venezuela’s economy in the aftermath of the political upheaval.
The situation in Venezuela remains complex, with international observers closely monitoring developments. Trump’s self-proclaimed title raises questions about the legitimacy of governance and the future of democracy in the country. As events unfold, the implications of this declaration may have far-reaching consequences for U.S.-Latin American relations and global oil markets.
The ongoing political and military tensions in Venezuela highlight the intricate dynamics of international diplomacy, especially regarding the United States’ engagement in Latin America. With Trump at the forefront of these developments, the world watches closely as the situation evolves.
