US President Donald Trump has said the United States will “run Venezuela until a safe transition can take place,” a statement that has intensified international scrutiny following Washington’s confirmation of military action in the South American country.
Speaking amid escalating tensions, Trump framed the move as a temporary measure aimed at restoring stability and security in Venezuela. The remark followed reports of US strikes and the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, actions that have drawn sharp reactions from governments across Latin America, Africa and Europe.
The White House has argued that the intervention is tied to long-standing allegations against Maduro’s administration, including claims of narcotics trafficking and organised crime links. US officials insist the objective is not permanent control but the facilitation of a political transition that would lead to internationally recognised governance.
Venezuela’s government has rejected the US position, describing the actions as a violation of sovereignty and international law. Several countries have echoed those concerns, calling for urgent discussions at the United Nations and warning that unilateral military interventions risk destabilising the wider region.
As diplomatic fallout continues, analysts say Trump’s statement marks one of the clearest signals yet of Washington’s intent to directly shape Venezuela’s political future, raising questions about the duration, legality and regional consequences of US involvement.
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