Washington, Jan 3 (NationPress) President Donald Trump stated that the United States will take charge of Venezuela temporarily after the arrest of its leader, Nicolas Maduro. He emphasized that Washington would manage a transition while revitalizing the nation's oil sector and ensuring a persistent American involvement linked to energy interests.

During a news conference held at Mar-a-Lago, Trump outlined what he termed an extraordinary U.S. operation and its expected outcomes.

When questioned about who would lead Venezuela, he responded, “We’re going to be running it with a group,” mentioning that the administration was already “designating various people” to oversee the transition.

Regarding the potential deployment of U.S. troops, Trump remarked, “We’re not afraid of boots on the ground,” indicating that American forces had been involved during the operation.

He asserted that Washington stands ready to intervene again if deemed necessary, stating the United States is “ready to go again if we have to.”

The president noted that the United States would maintain a continuous presence related to Venezuela’s oil sector.

“We’re going to have a continued presence as it pertains to oil,” Trump articulated, claiming that reconstructing the energy framework is vital for stabilizing the country and financing its recovery.

He mentioned that the operation aims to prevent any remnants of the Maduro regime from holding power.

When asked if he was worried about “bad elements” remaining, he responded, “We know who they are. We’re on them,” adding that their conduct had already altered.

Inquiries regarding congressional notifications were redirected to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who stated that the mission details could not be shared beforehand.

“This was not the kind of mission that you can do congressional notification on,” Rubio pointed out, cautioning that prior notice “endangers the mission.”

Trump was also questioned about the broader geopolitical ramifications, including the implications for relations with China and Russia.

He asserted that the United States would market Venezuelan oil on the global stage and dismissed concerns that the operation would restrict future energy exports.

Responding to critiques that former U.S. interventions lacked clear post-operation plans, Trump insisted, “Not with me,” referencing past operations he considered successful. He expressed a desire for a swift transition but acknowledged that restoring what he termed “rotted” infrastructure would require time.

When pressed on why managing a South American nation aligns with his “America First” doctrine, Trump explained that regional stability is a U.S. priority. “We want to surround ourselves with good neighbors,” he stated, noting the significance of protecting Venezuela’s energy resources.

Trump was also interrogated about whether this strategy sends a message to Cuba. He characterized Cuba as “a failing nation” and indicated that the United States aims to assist its citizens, while Rubio cautioned that officials in Havana “would be concerned at least a little bit.”

Towards the conclusion of the dialogue, Trump was asked about Russian President Vladimir Putin. “I’m not thrilled with Putin,” he remarked. “He’s killing too many people,” adding that he seeks to halt the conflict and loss of life.

Venezuela is currently embroiled in an extended political and economic crisis characterized by international sanctions, conflicting leadership claims, and a significant drop in oil production, leading millions of Venezuelans to flee the country and attracting sustained U.S. interest in the region.