US President Donald Trump on Saturday claimed that the United States would assume temporary administrative control over Venezuela after a US military operation led to the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Addressing reporters in Florida, Trump said the US would manage the country during an interim phase until what he described as a “carefully planned and secure transition” is established. While he did not outline the structure of such governance, Trump stressed that American oversight would remain in place until new leadership arrangements are finalised.

The president began his remarks by lauding the overnight operation—named Operation Absolute Resolve—calling it an unprecedented demonstration of US military capability. According to Trump, American forces neutralised Venezuela’s military assets and, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, took Maduro into custody during the operation.

Trump sharply criticised Maduro’s rule, describing it as disastrous for the country, and said the intervention was intended to restore stability and safeguard the future of Venezuelans. He stated that the US aims to promote peace, freedom and justice, adding that many Venezuelans living abroad wish to return once conditions improve.

Emphasising Washington’s role in the transition, Trump said the US would not permit a leadership change that fails to prioritise the welfare of Venezuelan citizens. He added that American forces would remain on the ground until a new political framework is securely in place.

The president also pointed to Venezuela’s energy resources, indicating that US oil companies would be involved in reviving the nation’s struggling petroleum sector. He said American firms would invest heavily to repair damaged infrastructure and help rebuild the economy.

Trump further revealed that US forces had prepared contingency plans for additional military action if the initial operation had failed. While a second phase of strikes had been readied, he said it was ultimately deemed unnecessary.