In an unprecedented development that has sent shockwaves through international diplomacy, former US President Donald Trump has publicly declared himself the 'Acting President of Venezuela'. This bold proclamation follows a massive military operation by United States forces, which resulted in the capture of Venezuela's elected leader, President Nicolas Maduro, along with his wife.
The Shocking Declaration on Truth Social
The world first learned of this extraordinary claim through a post made by Trump on his social media platform, Truth Social, dated 12 January 2026. Without providing extensive legal or diplomatic justification, the former US leader simply announced his self-appointed role as the acting head of state for the South American nation. This move comes in the immediate aftermath of a significant military intervention, where American forces executed a large-scale strike within Venezuelan territory.
Operation Details and the Capture of Maduro
The sequence of events appears to have begun with a coordinated massive strike by US forces against Venezuela. The precise nature and location of this military action remain unclear, but its outcome was decisive. The operation successfully led to the detention of the country's sitting president, Nicolas Maduro, and his spouse, Cilia Flores. Their current status and location are unknown, raising immediate concerns about international law and the sovereignty of nations. This action represents a severe escalation in the long-standing political and economic tensions between the US government and the Venezuelan administration.
Immediate Repercussions and Global Response
Trump's self-declaration as Venezuela's acting president is likely to trigger a severe international crisis. Legal experts and diplomats worldwide are scrambling to assess the legitimacy and consequences of such a claim, which lacks any apparent recognition from the United Nations, Venezuela's own institutions, or most global powers. The act fundamentally challenges established norms of state sovereignty and non-intervention. Reactions from capitals across Europe, Asia, and Latin America are expected to be overwhelmingly critical, potentially leading to emergency sessions at the UN Security Council. The situation also poses a direct challenge to the current sitting US President and the official foreign policy of the United States.
The future of Venezuela now hangs in an uncertain balance. This event, dated 12 January 2026, 03:26 IST, marks a potentially historic and dangerous turning point in international relations, blurring the lines between domestic US politics and aggressive foreign intervention. The world watches closely as the ramifications of this stunning announcement continue to unfold.
