Yesterday January 3, 2026 President Donald Trump made a series of major statements following a dramatic U.S. military operation in Venezuela
In a press conference at Mar-a-Lago, he announced that U.S. forces had successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores.
Here are the key takeaways from what he said
On the Future of Venezuela
We're going to run the country Trump stated that the United States would temporarily oversee Venezuela's administration until a safe, proper, and judicious transition" can be organized.
The Transition Team: He mentioned that he is "designating people" to manage this, indicating that his cabinet officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth would be heavily involved Control over Oil:** He repeatedly emphasized that the U.S. would "fix" Venezuela's oil infrastructure and "get the oil flowing," claiming that the U.S. would be reimbursed for the operation through these resources
On the Military Operation
Assault like World War He hailed the overnight strikes and capture as a historic military achievement, calling it an assault unlike anything people have not seen since World War
Prepared for More: While he noted that a second wave of attacks was likely unnecessary, he warned that the U.S. is "ready to stage a second, much larger attack if needed."
Boots on the ground He dismissed concerns about military involvement, stating we re not afraid of boots on the ground."
On Regional Neighbors and Critics
Warning to Colombia: Trump issued a direct warning to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of "making cocaine" and telling him he should "watch his ass."
Dismissal of Critics:He brushed off questions regarding the legality or constitutionality of the intervention, calling such criticisms the "same old stuff" and insisting the primary goal was stopping drug trafficking
Where are they now
According to recent reports, Nicolás Maduro has already been transported to New York, where he faces federal narco-terrorism charges. Meanwhile, Venezuela's Vice President, Delcy Rodriguez, has condemned the action as a "barbaric kidnapping" and is calling for his immediate release.
Comments
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!