Trump suggests Venezuela could become US ’51st state’ after baseball win

WASHINGTON, United States (MNTV) – U.S. President Donald Trump raised the prospect of Venezuelan statehood in a social media post congratulating the country’s baseball team after it defeated Italy 4-2 in the World Baseball Classic semifinals.

“Good things are happening in Venezuela lately. I wonder what this magic is all about. Is there anyone who wants to become the 51st state?” Trump wrote on his platform, adding a layer of provocation to already complicated relations between Washington and Caracas.

The “51st state” reference is often used jokingly in the U.S. in relation to neighboring countries, but Trump’s framing has reignited debate over American interventionist tendencies in Latin America.

Critics argue such statements undermine Venezuelan sovereignty.

The Venezuelan government had not issued an official response at the time of publication.

Trump’s administration has previously shown strong interest in Venezuela’s oil reserves and political landscape, and his comment may also be intended to resonate with domestic audiences. Analysts note it comes as his administration continues to take an assertive posture across Latin America.