Donald Trump: US Control Over Venezuela May Last More Than a Year

In an interview published in The New York Times, Donald Trump noted that it will take time to understand the further duration of U.S. control over Venezuela. He also added that this control will pertain not only to oil production but also to its prices, as well as the financing of the republic for many years.

The president emphasized that the interim government of Venezuela is demonstrating a willingness to cooperate by providing the U.S. with all necessary conditions. Trump also confirmed that Washington is in contact with Delcy Rodriguez. However, he did not comment on why the American authorities chose her instead of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado. Information regarding the timing of elections in Venezuela also remained unanswered.

Let us remind you that on the night of January 3, the U.S. conducted an operation in Caracas, during which President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores were arrested. Two days later, they were charged in New York with drug terrorism, supplying cocaine to the United States, illegal possession of weapons, and conspiracy. Both suspects pleaded not guilty. Earlier, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined the main points of the plan for Venezuela, which includes selling Venezuelan oil at market price. Washington expects to obtain between 30 to 50 million barrels of fuel, as well as to ensure access for American companies to the country's market and a transfer of power.