President Donald Trump has dismissed the likelihood of imminent presidential elections in Venezuela and has issued a warning regarding a potential new military intervention if interim leader Delcy Rodríguez ceases cooperation with the United States.
Trump stated that before any elections can take place, Venezuela needs to be "fixed," and his administration is prepared to commit to a long-term role in the country's reconstruction, particularly focusing on the energy sector.
He made these remarks during an interview with NBC News, shortly after U.S. special forces conducted a surprise operation in Caracas that resulted in the capture of Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Rebuilding Before Elections
When asked about the possibility of Venezuela holding presidential elections in the near future, Trump was unequivocal:
"We need to fix the country first. Elections can't be held. It’s impossible for people to vote," he declared.
He further added, "No, it’s going to take time. We have to restore the country’s health."
These comments diminish the hope for an immediate democratic transition, highlighting a strategy focused on economic and social stabilization before proceeding with elections.
Military Operations Framed as Anti-Crime Efforts
Despite the large-scale military operation that led to Maduro's arrest, Trump denied that the U.S. is at war with Venezuela as a state.
Instead, he framed the operation as part of a broader narrative against transnational crime.
"No, we're not," he stated. "We're at war with those who traffic drugs. We're at war with those who flood our country with their prisons, their addicts, and their psychiatric institutions."
Through this lens, the president seeks to justify the intervention as part of his border security and anti-narcotics agenda, a recurring theme throughout his presidency.
Energy Sector Reconstruction Plans
Trump also outlined concrete plans for Venezuela's reconstruction, with a particular focus on revitalizing its energy infrastructure.
He explained that U.S. oil companies are eager to spearhead this process, with financial backing from the American government.
"I think we can do it in less than 18 months, but it will cost a lot of money," he explained.
"A massive amount of money will be spent, and the oil companies will spend it, and then they'll be reimbursed by us or through our revenues," he added.
This model suggests a public-private investment scheme aimed at rejuvenating Venezuela's collapsed oil sector, with future reimbursements in sight.
Questions of Leadership and Cooperation
Regarding Delcy Rodríguez's role, Trump confirmed her cooperation with U.S. authorities but denied any prior deal to facilitate Maduro's downfall.
He refrained from confirming direct contact with Rodríguez since her appointment as interim president, but noted that Secretary of State Marco Rubio maintains a strong relationship with her.
"Rubio speaks with her fluently in Spanish," he said. "And their relationship has been very strong."
Concerning the sanctions imposed on Rodríguez for her role in the previous regime, Trump indicated that a decision on whether they will be lifted is yet to be made, contingent on her conduct during this new phase.
Potential for Further Military Action
Trump cautioned that the U.S. is ready for a second military intervention in Venezuela if the new leader withdraws cooperation.
While he expressed hope that this won’t be necessary, his comments leave open the possibility of a prolonged military presence in Venezuela, amidst a situation lacking a clear political roadmap.
During the interview, Trump refuted claims that opposition leader María Corina Machado was sidelined as a potential leader due to winning the Nobel Peace Prize.
"She shouldn't have won it," he remarked. "But no, that has nothing to do with my decision," he added.
With this, he dismissed any personal motivation in excluding opposition figures from the transition process.
Trump also addressed internal criticism over not seeking congressional approval for the raid in Caracas. He asserted there was "good support" in the legislature, with some members privy to the operation in advance, though he refrained from revealing details.
Regarding U.S. leadership in Venezuela, Trump mentioned key members of his team overseeing the operation: Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, and Vice President JD Vance.
Nonetheless, he made it clear that he is the central figure in the entire strategy.
"It's a team effort. They all have knowledge, different knowledge," he explained. When asked who is truly in charge, he responded with a single word: "Me."
Key Questions on U.S. Involvement in Venezuela
Why does Trump believe Venezuela needs to be "fixed" before elections?
Trump asserts that the country's infrastructure and economic situation must be stabilized to ensure fair and feasible elections.
What is the U.S. strategy for Venezuela's energy sector?
The strategy involves U.S. oil companies leading the reconstruction of Venezuela's energy infrastructure, with financial support from the U.S. government, aiming for a public-private investment model.
Is the U.S. at war with Venezuela?
Trump denies that the U.S. is at war with Venezuela as a state, framing military actions as part of efforts against transnational crime and drug trafficking.