Trump Declares Himself 'Acting President of Venezuela' Following Maduro's Arrest

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited a new wave of global controversy by posting a digitally altered image on social media claiming he is the “Acting President of Venezuela,” just days after the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in a U.S. operation.

The image shared on Trump’s Truth Social account imitated an official profile, showcasing Trump’s photo with the title “Acting President of Venezuela.” This post rapidly gained traction, provoking strong reactions from political figures, legal experts, and social media audiences globally.

In another message, Trump jokingly proposed that Senator Marco Rubio should be named “President of Cuba,” further amplifying the political outcry surrounding his comments.

Venezuela's Leadership Determined Internally

Despite Trump’s assertion, Venezuela’s transition has adhered to its constitutional framework. Following Maduro’s dismissal, the nation's Supreme Tribunal of Justice instructed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to serve as acting president, ensuring government continuity and the protection of national institutions.

Caracas officials clarified that Venezuela’s interim leadership was determined within the country and not by external powers. Legal analysts have emphasized that no nation can unilaterally install a leader in a sovereign state.

Events Post-Maduro's Capture

Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores, were apprehended in a U.S.-led operation earlier this month and extradited to the United States, where they are facing federal charges. Maduro contends that the arrest is a breach of international law and his country’s sovereignty.

In the aftermath, Trump indicated that the U.S. would manage Venezuela during a “transition period,” claiming Washington was “in charge” of the country with the aim of revitalizing oil production and stabilizing the economy.

However, senior U.S. officials subsequently clarified that there are no intentions for direct governance over Venezuela, even as economic pressures continue to mount.

International Reactions and Escalating Strains

Trump’s declaration of himself as the “Acting President of Venezuela” has exacerbated already heightened international tensions. Various countries and diplomatic observers have condemned both the military actions and the ensuing political language, cautioning against potential regional destabilization.

Meanwhile, Venezuela’s interim government operates from Caracas, affirming that the nation's future will be determined by its own legal frameworks, not by foreign social media proclamations.

As legal disputes and diplomatic efforts progress, Venezuela’s situation remains precarious, with global scrutiny now directed at how these events will influence regional dynamics and international relations.