Donald Trump’s Truth Social post shows he wants to make Venezuela the 51st state. Photo: Donald Trump Truth Social/White House
US President Donald Trump has stirred fresh controversy after posting an image on Truth Social that portrayed Venezuela as the “51st state” of the United States.
The image showed the South American nation draped in the American flag, fueling debate over Washington’s relationship with the oil-rich country.
In his previous interaction with Fox News, Trump had said he was seriously considering making oil-rich Venezuela its 51st state.
Trump said in a phone call with Fox News that he is motivated by the estimated $40 trillion value of oil in Venezuela, adding that he is popular with the country’s citizens
. “Venezuela loves Trump,” Trump said.
He remarked months after the US invaded Venezuela, which dethroned President Nicolas Maduro from power.
“As the President has said, relations between Venezuela and the United States have been extraordinary. Oil is starting to flow, and large amounts of money, unseen for many years, will soon be helping the great people of Venezuela,” a White House spokesperson told Fox News Digital. “Only President Trump can be credited for the revitalization of this newfound partnership – and the best is yet to come!”
Venezuela responds sharply
Venezuela’s interim President Delcy Rodríguez strongly rejected Trump’s remarks, making it clear that the country’s sovereignty is not up for discussion.
“That is not contemplated. It would never be contemplated because if there is one thing Venezuelan men and women have, it is that we love our independence process,” Rodríguez said while speaking to reporters in The Hague, reported Miami Herald.
The exchange has added another layer of tension to an already unusual chapter in U.S.-Venezuela relations.