U.S. President Donald Trump signaled a bold and contentious new chapter in American foreign policy, suggesting that U.S. oversight of Venezuela could stretch on for years after the dramatic capture of President Nicolás Maduro, according to a recent interview with The New York Times. Trump hinted that Washington’s involvement won’t be short-lived, saying, “Only time will tell” how long the United States will oversee Venezuela’s governance and oil resources, adding that it could be “much longer” than a year.

The president outlined plans to rebuild the nation and tap into its vast oil reserves, which he claims will benefit both U.S. and Venezuelan interests. Trump also noted ongoing coordination with Venezuela’s interim leadership, though critics warn prolonged oversight could inflame geopolitical tensions and draw Congressional pushback.