Stephen Miller: US ‘running Venezuela by definition’
Following the capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller supported President Trump's assertion that the U.S. will govern Venezuela, emphasizing the role of power in international relations. Trump stated that the U.S. would manage the country until a safe transition occurs, with American oil companies set to control Venezuela's vast petroleum resources. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted ongoing issues in Venezuela that need addressing, Trump asserted that elections cannot take place until the country is stabilized. Meanwhile, acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez has called for collaboration with the U.S. towards peaceful resolutions.
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Stephen Miller's comments on CNN reinforced Trump's claim about U.S. governance in Venezuela, stating, 'What the president said is true.' He emphasized that power dictates international affairs.
Trump mentioned that the U.S. would run Venezuela until a 'safe, proper, and judicious transition' could occur, also indicating that American oil companies would take control of the country's oil infrastructure, which holds the largest reserves worldwide.
The White House is reportedly considering giving Miller a more significant role in overseeing the situation in Venezuela following Maduro's detention.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that the U.S. is focused on stopping drug trafficking and oil sanctions linked to Venezuela, expressing skepticism about the feasibility of elections in the near term.
In a response to Trump's statements, Delcy Rodríguez extended an olive branch, inviting the U.S. to collaborate on development under international law, contrasting with her earlier demands for Maduro's release.