Trump Considers Direct Talks with Maduro Amid Escalated Tensions
US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering direct talks with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro despite Washington’s designation of Maduro’s alleged criminal network as a foreign terrorist organization. The decision comes amid months of US airstrikes targeting narcoterror, the military buildup has raised tensions between the United States and Venezuela. In recent months, the US has conducted airstrikes on small boats off Venezuela’s coast, claiming they are targeting narcoterrorism activities. These strikes have resulted in the deaths of approximately 80 individuals.
According to the administration’s officials, the potential dialogue represents a shift in Trump’s approach to Venezuela, moving from an aggressive stance towards more diplomatic engagement. The White House has not yet set a date for the planned talks with Maduro, which are said to be in the planning stages. An anonymous official mentioned that the US is not currently planning to conduct missile strikes or ground operations to remove Maduro from power, although they have not ruled out such actions in the future.
Washington has designated the so-called ‘Cartel of the Suns’ as a foreign terrorist organization, linking it to Maduro’s administration. This designation is part of a larger strategy to pressure Maduro’s government, which includes covert operations carried out by the CIA. However, the Venezuelan government has denounced these actions as a violation of its sovereignty and an attempt to orchestrate a coup. Maduro has expressed willingness to engage in face-to-face talks with the United States, but has also warned against any military aggression.
The situation remains tense as both sides have differing views on the legitimacy of the other’s claims. The US government continues to assert that Maduro’s regime is involved in illegal drug trafficking and organized crime, while Venezuela maintains that these allegations are politically motivated and a way to justify military action. The ongoing standoff highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the potential consequences of diplomatic versus military approaches.