President Donald Trump stated that the United States must first restore law and order in Venezuela before credible elections can take place, and that an opposition victory would likely depend on U.S. support.
In public remarks outlining U.S. policy toward the political crisis in Venezuela, Trump emphasized that stability and security are prerequisites for fair democratic processes. He said that ongoing unrest, weak institutions, and the absence of basic rule of law would undermine any electoral outcome if not addressed first.
Trump also noted that the Venezuelan opposition — struggling to unite under a single leadership — would be better positioned to win with continued backing from the United States. His comments reflect a belief that external support and internal reforms are both necessary to level the playing field for democratic competition.
The president’s remarks came as part of a broader discussion on U.S. involvement in Venezuela following a major operation that resulted in the removal of longtime leader Nicolás Maduro from power. Trump framed the approach as one aimed at helping restore democratic governance in the country.
The administration’s stance insists that only once a stable and secure environment is in place can elections be meaningful and credible. Trump’s focus on law and order underscores a strategy that links security conditions with the prospects for free political contests in Venezuela.