Washington, Jan 8 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump indicated that the United States anticipates maintaining oversight over Venezuela and extracting oil from its extensive reserves for an extended period. This announcement comes in light of the recent arrest of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

In a comprehensive interview with The New York Times, Trump stated that "only time will tell" the duration of US oversight but suggested it would extend "much longer" than mere months. "We will rebuild it in a highly profitable manner," he asserted, adding, "We’re going to be utilizing oil, and we’re going to be extracting oil."

Trump mentioned that the US intends to oversee the sale of Venezuelan oil indefinitely, a strategy he believes is essential for stabilizing the nation and reducing global energy prices. "We’re lowering oil prices, and we’re going to provide funds to Venezuela, which they critically require," he stated.

These remarks followed statements from administration officials to Congress, revealing that the US would take effective control over the sale of Venezuelan oil as part of a three-phase plan introduced by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. While Republicans largely support this strategy, Democrats have raised concerns about the potential for a long-term intervention lacking clear legal justification.

Trump avoided specifying the timeline for elections in Venezuela and refrained from elaborating on why the US recognized Maduro’s Vice President, Delcy Rodríguez, as the interim leader rather than backing opposition figures. He noted that Rubio "communicates with her frequently" and added that US officials maintain "constant communication" with current authorities.

The US President also acknowledged that revitalizing Venezuela’s damaged oil sector would require years. "The oil will take some time," he admitted.

When asked about possible triggers for deploying US ground troops, Trump declined to provide details. "I can’t disclose that," he said. "I wouldn’t want to share that information."

Trump emphasized that Venezuela’s current leadership is collaborating with Washington despite public critiques. "They’re providing us with everything we deem necessary," he stated.

These comments highlight Trump’s focus on the successful military operation that led to Maduro's capture, even as inquiries grow in Washington about the length, cost, and implications of the US involvement in Venezuela.