Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro has declared his willingness to engage in formal talks with the United States to combat drug trafficking, even as he accuses the Trump administration of seeking to overthrow his government and seize the nation's vast oil reserves.
A Call for Dialogue Amid Rising Pressure
In a pre-recorded interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet, Maduro struck a dual tone of defiance and diplomacy. He reiterated his long-held conviction that the US pressure campaign, which began with a massive military deployment to the Caribbean Sea in August, is fundamentally aimed at forcing a change of leadership in Caracas.
"What are they seeking? It is clear that they seek to impose themselves through threats, intimidation and force," Maduro stated. However, he later added a conciliatory note, suggesting it was time for both nations to "start talking seriously, with data in hand."
Unconfirmed Strikes and Shadow War Escalation
The Venezuelan leader pointedly refused to confirm or deny reports of a CIA-led drone strike on a Venezuelan docking facility, which President Donald Trump claimed last month was used by drug cartels. When asked directly about the alleged attack, Maduro responded, "this could be something we talk about in a few days."
If verified, such a strike on Venezuelan soil would mark a significant escalation in what analysts describe as a "shadow war." This campaign has included:
- A substantial US naval fleet deployment.
- Multiple airstrikes on alleged drug smuggling boats.
- A blockade of sanctioned oil tankers and vessel seizures.
According to figures announced by the Trump administration, these maritime strikes have now hit at least 35 boats and resulted in over 115 fatalities, including Venezuelan citizens. The latest of these were announced on New Year's Eve, the same day Maduro's interview was recorded.
Oil, Accusations, and a 'Pleasant' Conversation
Maduro directly addressed the US accusations that he leads a drug trafficking cartel, which he denies. He stated, "The US government knows... that if they want to seriously discuss an agreement to combat drug trafficking, we're ready."
Turning to the economic dimension of the crisis, he extended an olive branch to American business interests, specifically mentioning Chevron—the only major US oil company still exporting Venezuelan crude. "If they want oil, Venezuela is ready for US investment, like with Chevron, whenever they want it," he said, referencing the country's position as holder of the world's largest proven oil reserves.
Maduro revealed that his last contact with President Trump was a conversation on 12 November, which he described as cordial and respectful. "I think that conversation was even pleasant, but since then the evolution has not been pleasant. Let's wait," he concluded, leaving the door open for future developments while acknowledging the current strained state of relations.
