In a revealing New York Times interview, President Trump projected an extended US presence in Venezuela, centered on exploiting its enormous oil wealth. Following Maduro’s arrest, Washington shows no rush to withdraw, with Trump forecasting oversight lasting ‘quite a long time.’
‘Rebuilding it profitably—we’ll use the oil and take it,’ Trump declared, eyeing indefinite management of sales to steady the nation and tame worldwide energy costs. This dovetails with Secretary Rubio’s congressional blueprint, which Republicans endorse heartily amid Democratic cautions of overreach sans legal clarity.
Elections? No timeline offered. Recognition of Rodriguez as interim head instead of foes? Trump pointed to Rubio’s steady dialogue and persistent US engagement. The oil sector’s decay means years of effort ahead, he allowed.
Ground forces? A non-answer: ‘I can’t tell you.’ Cooperation from the ground leadership persists, Trump stressed, supplying Washington’s needs despite naysayers.
Portraying the operation as a success story, the administration braces for scrutiny on its open-ended commitment. Venezuela’s reserves offer a prize, but sustaining control invites debates on imperialism, budgets, and blowback. Trump’s words paint a picture of strategic patience, prioritizing oil flows over quick fixes.