BASSETERRE — U.S. President Donald Trump has once again raised the prospect of making Venezuela the 51st state of the United States, sparking a firm rejection from the South American nation’s government and renewed debate over the controversial proposal.
Trump posted an image online this week showing Venezuela covered by the U.S. flag, marking the second time the president has referenced possible statehood for the country within days. The digital imagery underscores the unusual diplomatic gambit that has drawn mixed reactions from both regional and international observers.
Venezuela’s acting president, Deli Rodriguez, swiftly rejected the idea.
“The country will continue to defend its sovereignty and independence,” Rodriguez said in response to Trump’s comments.
Analysts note that Caracas’ response has been notably more restrained than in previous years, despite the two nations’ long-standing tensions. The shift reflects a changed political landscape in Venezuela following major developments earlier this year and an apparent thaw in relations between the Trump administration and Venezuela’s current leadership.
Trump has made similar remarks about Canada and other territories in recent months, though the Venezuela proposal remains the most prominent of his territorial expansion suggestions. The comments have fueled questions about the president’s intentions and whether the statements represent serious policy considerations or political messaging.