Trump: 'We've Made a Fortune From Venezuelan Oil'
Translated from Spanish and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.
At a glance
- Former US President Donald Trump claimed the United States has "made a fortune" from Venezuelan oil.
- He asserted that Venezuela has also earned more money in the past eight months than in the previous ten years due to US involvement.
- Trump also highlighted the strengthening of the US military during his presidency, citing a swift operation in Venezuela as an example of its power.
Caracas – Former United States President Donald Trump has once again commented on the energy relationship between the US and Venezuela, asserting that his administration profited significantly from Venezuelan oil. This claim comes amidst ongoing political and economic discussions surrounding sanctions, trade restrictions, and the global energy market dynamics related to Venezuela.
Now, by the way, we have made a fortune with your oil, and they have too. They have earned more money in the last eight months than in the last 10 years and we are really participating in the profits.
Trump stated that the United States has reaped substantial benefits from Venezuelan oil, a topic that has been a recurring theme in US political discourse. He further contended that Venezuela itself has seen increased revenue, claiming they have "earned more money in the last eight months than in the last 10 years" due to US participation in the profits. This assertion suggests a narrative of mutual economic benefit, albeit framed from a position of US advantage.
Beyond economic claims, Trump also emphasized the perceived enhancement of US military capabilities during his tenure. He pointed to a specific military operation in Venezuela, which he described as having been completed in a remarkably short time – "48 minutes and 13 seconds" – as evidence of American military superiority. "The good thing is that during my first four years I built the most powerful army in the world. We have the most powerful army in the world, that was demonstrated in Venezuela," he stated, referencing events from January 3 related to the capture of Nicolás Maduro.
It took 48 minutes and 13 seconds.
From a Venezuelan perspective, these statements by Trump are part of a broader pattern of rhetoric that often simplifies complex geopolitical and economic situations. While the former president frames the energy relationship as a lucrative venture for both nations, the reality on the ground in Venezuela involves significant challenges in its oil sector, including production fluctuations and investment hurdles. Trump's focus on military prowess and economic gains from Venezuelan resources, while perhaps intended to bolster his administration's record, overlooks the intricate socio-economic context within Venezuela. The narrative of "making a fortune" from Venezuelan oil, while potentially reflecting certain market dynamics, is a starkly different portrayal than the one experienced by the Venezuelan people grappling with economic hardship.
The good thing is that during my first four years I built the most powerful army in the world. We have the most powerful army in the world, that was demonstrated in Venezuela.
Originally published by El Nacional in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.