On January 3, 2026, President Donald Trump released a photograph of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro onboard the USS Iwo Jima. The image was shared via Trump"s official channels, generating significant attention.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with the U.S. government frequently criticizing Maduro"s administration. The release of the photo has sparked discussions regarding U.S. foreign policy in Latin America, particularly in relation to the Monroe Doctrine and hemispheric defense strategies. For more on this topic, see our recent developments.
As previously reported, the U.S. has maintained a critical stance towards Maduro, who has been accused of authoritarian practices and human rights violations. The implications of this photograph and its timing remain to be seen.
Further information about Trump"s foreign relations can be found in our coverage of his interactions with global leaders, including a recent video where he discussed his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping.






