US President Donald Trump stated on Monday that his administration has achieved "total control" over Venezuela, a development he claims places the United States in possession of half of the world's oil supply. Speaking to Fox News host Sean Hannity, Trump confirmed that Washington now controls the South American nation and has deployed American representatives there.
The President emphasized the strategic weight of combining US and Venezuelan oil reserves, asserting that this total exceeds the combined holdings of Saudi Arabia, Russia, and the next largest reserve holder. "We have total control over Venezuela. We put our people there. We have a lot of oil," Trump declared during the interview.
These remarks come amid growing public concern regarding the rising cost of living in the United States. A Pew Research Center poll released in October indicated that 74% of Americans are very worried about fuel and energy prices, a significant increase from the 43% recorded in January prior to the outbreak of war with Iran.
The conflict has contributed to a sharp rise in gasoline costs. According to data from Brown University based on records from the American Automobile Association, the national average price for regular gas climbed from $2.98 per gallon to $4.25, representing a 42.4% increase.
Economic stability and the cost of living have emerged as central themes in the current election cycle. An AP-NORC poll conducted in October revealed that 79% of voters disapprove of Trump's management of the cost of living, while 84% consider it a critical factor in their voting decision.
The elections scheduled for Tuesday will determine the renewal of all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate. Republicans aim to maintain control of both chambers, whereas Democrats are seeking to regain a legislative majority to limit Trump's maneuvering room during the second half of his term.
Sources: Observador.