Friday World-January 12, 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump has once again stunned the world. On his social media platform Truth Social, he posted an image in which he describes himself as the **"Acting President of Venezuela"**. The post features an official portrait of Trump with the caption: "Acting President of Venezuela, Incumbent January 2026". It also mentions his terms as the 45th and 47th President of the United States, which began on January 20, 2025. This post comes amid escalating U.S. intervention in Venezuela and has sparked intense international debate.
Trump's Claim and the Oil Game: Along with the post, Trump claimed that Venezuela's interim government is handing over 30 to 50 million barrels (approximately 5 crore barrels) of "high-quality, sanctioned oil" to the United States. He stated that this oil will be sold at market price and that he will personally oversee the funds so they benefit "the people of both Venezuela and America". Trump had previously declared that the U.S. would "temporarily run Venezuela" until a safe and proper transition takes place.
Nature of the Post: The image appears to be a digitally edited Wikipedia-style page showing Trump as Acting President of Venezuela. According to experts and media reports, this is a fake or meme-style image — part of Trump's classic "trolling" and "meme diplomacy". Nevertheless, the post is closely linked to recent dramatic developments in Venezuela, including the arrest of former President Nicolás Maduro by U.S. forces.
What Happened in Venezuela? In early January 2026, the United States launched Operation Absolute Resolve, a military action in Venezuela. Nicolás Maduro and his wife were arrested and flown to New York, where they face charges of narco-terrorism. Following this, Venezuela's Vice President and Oil Minister Delsy Rodríguez was sworn in as Interim President. Venezuela's Supreme Court also issued an order authorizing her to carry out presidential duties. Trump has warned Rodríguez to "cooperate" —otherwise her tenure could be short-lived.
International Reaction: The events have triggered widespread controversy. Several countries have described the U.S. action as a **violation of international law. The European Union has questioned the legitimacy of Delsy Rodríguez's appointment. Meanwhile, Trump's post is being seen by some as a symbol of **"imperialism through memes", while critics call it "unhinged criminality". On social media, users are jokingly referring to it as Trump's "speedrun" — after Greenland, Panama, and now Venezuela.
Importance of Oil: Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves. Years of neglect and sanctions had drastically reduced production, but the Trump administration is now planning to restart the flow. American companies claim they can resume significant oil production within 18 months. This move is seen as a major blow to China, Russia, Iran, and Cuba — all of which were heavily dependent on Venezuelan oil.
Trump's Strategy: Trump's post and oil claim appear to be an extension of his "America First" policy. He has stated that the United States will continue to "run" Venezuela until a leader emerges who truly serves the interests of the Venezuelan people. How realistic or sustainable this claim is remains to be seen. For now, Venezuela remains in a state of uncertainty, and the international community is watching closely.
This episode not only raises serious questions about Venezuela's sovereignty but also has the potential to reshape global power dynamics. Trump's self-declared style sends a bold new message to the world — is this just another meme, or does it reflect genuine intent?
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World-January 12, 2026
