Standing beneath the historic monument to Simon Bolivar in Caracas, Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy delivered high praise for President Donald Trump, calling him a modern-day “great liberator” following a dramatic political shift in Venezuela.
Appearing live on Newsmax with host Rob Schmitt, Ruddy emphasized the symbolism of the location and the moment.
“Simon Bolivar is remembered as the great liberator of Latin America,” Ruddy said. “And today, we’re witnessing the rise of a new great liberator — President Donald Trump.”
Trump Credited With Ending Socialist Rule in Venezuela
Ruddy credited President Trump with dismantling the long-standing socialist regime tied to Hugo Chávez and Nicolás Maduro, which had ruled Venezuela for more than 25 years.
“For decades, people believed this regime could never be removed,” Ruddy explained. “Yet President Trump accomplished it without a full-scale invasion. One decisive military strike — and it was over.”
According to Ruddy, Trump achieved what many foreign policy experts once deemed impossible, restoring hope to a country long crippled by socialism, corruption, and economic collapse.
Marco Rubio Praised for Key Role in Venezuela Transition
Ruddy also highlighted the role of Secretary of State Marco Rubio, saying his leadership has helped place Venezuela on a new path toward stability and economic recovery.
“You’d expect outrage or unrest after a major regime change,” Ruddy said. “But that’s not what we’re seeing here. People are genuinely optimistic. They’re excited about President Trump and encouraged by Marco Rubio’s involvement.”
Newsmax Reports Stability on the Ground in Caracas
Broadcasting from the Venezuelan capital, Newsmax host Rob Schmitt described the situation as calm and unexpectedly stable.
“Caracas almost feels surreal right now,” Schmitt said. “It’s a beautiful city. In some ways, it reminds me of California — but with a sense that history is unfolding.”
Schmitt noted that it had been just over a month since Nicolás Maduro was reportedly detained by U.S. Delta forces and brought to New York to face drug-related charges.
“That kind of event would normally throw a country into chaos,” Schmitt said. “But after being here and talking with people, what we’re seeing is surprising stability.”
Venezuelans Express Hope After Years of Socialist Decline
Schmitt said many Venezuelans appear hopeful after decades of economic devastation under socialist rule.
“This was once one of the wealthiest countries in the world,” he said. “Socialism crushed that prosperity. Now people are cautiously optimistic that their country can recover.”
Venezuela’s Natural Resources Could Benefit the U.S.
Ruddy emphasized Venezuela’s vast economic potential, particularly its oil reserves and critical minerals, saying renewed cooperation could benefit both Venezuelans and Americans.
“This is one of the most resource-rich nations on Earth,” Ruddy said. “Opening that potential responsibly is a huge win — not just for Venezuela, but for the United States as well.”
He added that renewed energy development could strengthen U.S. energy security while helping Venezuela rebuild its economy.
Transition Government Working With Trump Administration
Schmitt said Newsmax is seeking interviews with Venezuela’s transitional leadership to better understand what comes next.
“We’re hoping to speak with key leaders, including acting President Delcy Rodríguez,” Schmitt said. “The big question is how long this transition will take and when real reforms will begin.”
Ruddy said early indications suggest the transition government is cooperating closely with the Trump administration.
“For the first time in years, there’s talk of legitimate elections,” Ruddy said. “Venezuela has faced accusations of stolen elections for decades. This moment represents a real turning point.”
Newsmax Expands Global Reach With Exclusive Coverage
Schmitt closed by emphasizing Newsmax’s on-the-ground reporting, which Ruddy tied to the network’s growing audience.
“People are paying attention,” Ruddy said. “Millions of Americans are making the switch to Newsmax. Being here first, covering this story directly, shows how far the network has come.”