Key Takeaways

• President Trump says he, personally, is the top person in charge of Venezuela.
• A U.S. special operations raid captured Nicolás Maduro in Caracas.
• Maduro now faces narco-terrorism and drug charges in New York.
• Trump named a team including Marco Rubio, Pete Hegseth, Stephen Miller, and “JD.”
• Trump believes interim leader Delcy Rodríguez may cooperate with the U.S.

After the stunning U.S. raid that ousted Nicolás Maduro, many wonder who truly runs Venezuela. President Trump stunned viewers by claiming he is the “top person” in charge of the country. His bold remarks sparked debates about the future of Venezuela leadership. In a sit-down with NBC News, Trump laid out his view on how power now works in Caracas.

What Happened in Venezuela?

Early Saturday, U.S. special forces launched a pre-dawn mission in Caracas. They broke through air defenses and blacked out parts of the capital. Then, after a brief firefight, they seized Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, at a military complex. Soon after, they flew him to New York to face narco-terrorism and drug trafficking charges.
Meanwhile, Venezuela’s vice president, Delcy Rodríguez, was sworn in as interim president. She assumed power almost instantly. Yet her authority remains unclear, given the surprise U.S. operation. As a result, questions swirl about the real Venezuela leadership.

Trump Discusses Venezuela Leadership Plans

In his NBC interview, Trump faced direct questions about who would lead Venezuela. Reporter Kristen Welker asked if Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, or advisor Stephen Miller would take charge. Trump replied that all three would play major roles and added that “JD will be involved also.”
Then she pressed him: who is the single top person? Trump answered simply, “Me.” With that, he claimed the top spot in Venezuela leadership. He emphasized that, although others would help, he would make the final calls. He said this because he wanted clear authority in the aftermath of the raid.

Who Are the Key Figures?

First, there is Marco Rubio. As Secretary of State, Rubio would handle diplomacy and rebuild ties with regional partners. Second, Pete Hegseth, the Defense Secretary, would oversee security and any military support. Third, Stephen Miller, a White House advisor, would shape policy and strategy. Finally, “JD” – likely a senior official known to Trump – would help coordinate behind the scenes.
Together, this team forms the core of what Trump calls the new Venezuela leadership. They will decide how to help Venezuela recover. Moreover, they will manage U.S. relations with Latin American allies. Thus, Trump’s claim sets up a power-sharing model under his ultimate control.

What About Delcy Rodríguez?

Delcy Rodríguez stepped in as interim president just hours after the raid. Surprisingly, Trump said he “gets the sense” she wants to cooperate. He noted she “loves her country” and seeks help to survive. While this may sound odd, Trump hinted at a pragmatic approach. If Rodríguez works with the U.S., she could ease the transition.
However, many Venezuelans distrust her ties to Maduro’s regime. For example, she served as vice president under Maduro for years. Still, Trump’s team may court her support to stabilize the country. In any case, her role will test how well U.S. plans mesh with local politics.

What Comes Next in Venezuela?

First, the U.S. team must secure support from regional allies. Countries in Latin America will watch closely. They will judge U.S. plans for democracy and human rights. Second, Trump’s group will face challenges rebuilding Venezuela’s economy. Years of mismanagement left the country in chaos. Restoring oil production and basic services will be urgent tasks.
Third, the interim government under Delcy Rodríguez must prove its legitimacy. If she cooperates, the U.S. may offer aid and investment. Yet if she resists, tensions could rise again. Therefore, clear communication and fair elections will be crucial. Finally, Maduro’s trial in New York will draw global attention. It could set a precedent for holding leaders accountable for drug and terror offenses.

In the coming weeks, the world will watch how this unusual power structure unfolds. Trump’s bold claim to lead Venezuela marks a new chapter in international politics. Whether this approach brings stability remains to be seen.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Trump mean by saying he is the top person in charge of Venezuela?

Trump meant that he will have the final say over U.S. policy and actions regarding Venezuela. He identified himself above his own team in the chain of command.

Who is Delcy Rodríguez and why does Trump think she will cooperate?

Delcy Rodríguez served as vice president under Maduro and became interim president after the raid. Trump believes she wants her country to survive and may work with the U.S. for help.

What charges does Nicolás Maduro face in the United States?

Maduro faces narco-terrorism and related drug trafficking charges in a New York federal court. These allege he led a network that moved cocaine into the U.S. and funded terror groups.

What challenges lie ahead for the new Venezuela leadership?

The team must gain regional support, rebuild a collapsed economy, and manage local politics under interim leadership. They also must oversee free and fair elections to restore trust.