Post by : Badri Ariffin

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has ignited a new wave of international controversy by sharing a digitally enhanced image on social media, asserting he is the “Acting President of Venezuela,” shortly after Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro was apprehended in a U.S. operation.

The image, shared on Trump’s Truth Social account, resembles an official profile page, featuring Trump’s photo along with the label “Acting President of Venezuela.” This posting rapidly gained traction, provoking strong responses from global political figures, legal analysts, and social media users.

In another reaction, Trump humorously suggested Senator Marco Rubio should be designated as “President of Cuba,” further escalating the political tensions surrounding his remarks.

Venezuela's Leadership Decisions Made Within

Despite Trump's statements, the transition of leadership within Venezuela has adhered to its constitutional framework. Following Maduro's ousting, Venezuela's Supreme Tribunal of Justice appointed Vice President Delcy Rodríguez as the acting president to ensure government continuity and safeguard national institutions.

Caracas officials emphasized that Venezuela's interim leadership is a domestic matter, not dictated by any foreign nation. Legal experts reiterated that no external country can appoint a leader for a sovereign state.

Aftermath of Maduro's Arrest

Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores, were apprehended earlier this month during a U.S.-led operation and are now facing federal charges in the United States. Maduro has dismissed the allegations, asserting they infringe upon international law and Venezuelan sovereignty.

In the wake of these events, Trump noted that the U.S. would supervise Venezuela during a “transition period,” indicating that Washington is “in charge” of efforts to restore oil production and stabilize the nation's economy.

However, senior U.S. officials later clarified that the country does not plan to govern Venezuela directly, even as it maintains pressure via economic and energy sanctions.

International Response and Escalating Tensions

Trump’s declaration of himself as “Acting President of Venezuela” has escalated existing international tensions. Various nations and diplomatic experts have denounced both the military action and the subsequent political messaging, cautioning that such developments could further destabilize the region.

In the meantime, Venezuela’s interim administration continues to operate from Caracas, determined that the country’s future will be governed by its legal and constitutional frameworks, rather than foreign social media statements.

As legal disputes and diplomatic discussions proceed, the situation in Venezuela remains precarious, attracting global scrutiny regarding its implications on regional politics and international relations.

#Global News #Donald Trump