Donald Trump now brands himself ‘acting president of Venezuela’ in controversial Truth Social Post
PTC Web Desk: In a move that has stirred global attention, US President Donald Trump posted an image on his Truth Social account depicting himself as the “Acting President of Venezuela” with an “Incumbent January 2026” label, a title that has no official recognition and is not reflected in formal Venezuelan records.
The graphic, styled like a Wikipedia entry, also lists Trump’s role as the 45th and 47th President of the United States, noting he took office in January 2025. Trump’s post comes amid intense geopolitical developments following a recent US military operation in Venezuela.
Earlier this month, the United States launched what it described as a large-scale strike in Caracas, during which Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were detained and flown to New York to face federal narco-terrorism conspiracy charges. Venezuelan authorities have condemned the action, calling it an unlawful act of aggression.
In his Truth Social post, Trump asserted that the United States would administer Venezuelan affairs “until such time” as a stable and secure transition can be arranged, insisting this approach serves both American and Venezuelan interests. The president also outlined plans for Venezuela to deliver between 30 million and 50 million barrels of oil to the United States, with proceeds to be managed under US direction.
Meanwhile, Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s vice president and former oil minister, was sworn in last week as the country’s interim president under the national constitution. Her government has rejected US assertions of authority and has described the capture of Maduro as illegal.
Trump’s online declaration has prompted debate across Washington and global capitals, with critics questioning its legality and implications for international norms, while supporters see it as a bold stance in reshaping Venezuelan governance after years of political turmoil.
- With inputs from agencies
