video screenshot

Confusion reigns as Donald Trump and Marco Rubio deliver conflicting messages on the U.S. role in Venezuela. After U.S. forces captured Nicolás Maduro, Trump asserted the U.S. is "in charge," saying they would guide Venezuela through a safe transition. However, Rubio hinted at a less direct involvement, focusing on economic strategies.

Prior to this, Caracas detained Maduro and his wife on charges of narco-terrorism. Trump declared in Florida that the U.S. was prepared to utilise Venezuela's oil resources. Meanwhile, Rubio spoke on ABC, stressing U.S. policies aim for changes beneficial first to America and also to Venezuelans.

U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz clarified at the UN that the mission is not an occupation but a long-standing law enforcement operation. Maduro pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan court but insists he's still president. Delcy Rodriguez, now interim president, urged for Maduro's release, contradicting Trump's remarks about her cooperation.

Trump’s statements raise questions about the U.S.'s true intentions, while Rodriguez promotes peaceful relations. The future U.S. role in governing Venezuela remains murky, with serious consequences for both countries, reported ABC News.

Key Takeaways:

• Donald Trump claims the U.S. is running Venezuela, sparking confusion.

• Marco Rubio downplays direct involvement, highlighting economic influence.

• Nicolás Maduro is detained and pleads not guilty to narco-terrorism charges.

  

Adapted by ASEAN Now from ABC News 2026-01-06

 

 

Donnie can't even run one country..except into the ground!

1 hour ago, unblocktheplanet said:

Donnie can't even run one country..except into the ground!

He can’t even run his casino except to bankruptcy.

18 hours ago, unblocktheplanet said:

Donnie can't even run one country..except into the ground!

But look on the bright side. At least the Venezuelans are accustomed to being lied to?

Trump said on Saturday that Venezuela's opposition leader María Corina Machado had neither the support nor the respect within Venezuela to become its leader.

Venezuela's Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez, who was part of Maduro's inner circle, is now the interim president after being sworn in by the nation's Supreme Court.

On 1/6/2026 at 6:30 AM, webfact said:

Trump asserted the U.S. is "in charge," saying they would guide Venezuela through a safe transition.

US will have to occupy the whole nation of about 28 million to be in charge.

I should imagine that The Fragrant Leader would feel right at home running Venezuela - isn't the place practically bankrupt anyway?