WASHINGTON

The US is "running" Venezuela during its transition period, a senior aide to President Donald Trump said Monday, citing the military’s presence there and economic measures as evidence of American authority.

Deputy White House Chief of Staff Stephen Miller, speaking to CNN, said the US sets the terms for Venezuela’s economic activity and maintains oversight during the transition.

"By definition, we are in charge, because we have the United States military stationed outside the country. We set the terms and conditions. We have a complete embargo on all of their oil and their ability to do commerce," Miller said.

"So for them to do commerce, they need our permission. For them to be able to run an economy, they need our permission. So the United States is in charge. The United States is running the country during this transition period," he added.

His remarks came amid an ongoing debate in Washington over the legality and international implications of US involvement in Venezuela, with critics warning that such actions could violate international law and worsen instability in the region.

Trump said Saturday that US military action had resulted in the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, first lady Cilia Flores, also pledging to assert American control over the country for the time being, with US troops if necessary.