DAVOS – During his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, U.S. President Donald Trump presented an upbeat and politically charged assessment of Venezuela’s future, asserting that the country – with U.S. involvement – could soon out-earn what it has made in decades.
Speaking to global leaders and business figures at the annual forum, Trump claimed that Venezuela “was a great country twenty years ago” but has since struggled due to poor policies. He said the United States is now helping the nation recover, particularly through increased cooperation in its oil industry. According to Trump, Venezuela is poised to “make more money in the next six months than it has in the last 20 years” as major energy companies prepare to engage with the country’s resources alongside U.S. support.
The remarks follow broader discussion at Davos, where Trump’s address has also touched on U.S.–European tensions over Greenland, global economic direction, and trade policy. While much of the international news coverage has focused on his controversial comments about Europe and territorial ambitions, Trump’s assessment of Venezuela stood out for its optimistic tone and reinterpretation of recent developments.
Trump’s comments reflect a narrative that positions U.S. involvement as pivotal to Venezuela’s economic turnaround. He portrayed cooperation with Venezuelan authorities – including interim leadership following the recent capture of Nicolás Maduro – as a key factor in stimulating renewed investment and growth in the country’s vast oil sector.
The assertion of an imminent boom contrasts with years of economic decline in Venezuela, where oil production and revenue have plummeted due to underinvestment, sanctions, and political turmoil. Still, Trump’s message at Davos underscores his administration’s intention to shape international perceptions of U.S. policy in the region.
As global leaders continue discussions at the forum, Trump’s remarks on Venezuela add a striking chapter to his broader geopolitical messaging — blending economic optimism with assertive political positioning on the world stage.