CARACAS, Venezuela — President Nicolás Maduro has expressed Venezuela’s willingness to enter negotiations with the United States aimed at combating drug trafficking. In a pre-recorded interview aired on state television, Maduro emphasized the need for serious discussions between the two nations, while also criticizing what he described as the U.S. government’s attempts to instigate a change in Venezuela’s regime and gain access to the country’s vast oil reserves.
According to Maduro, the U.S. has sought to impose its will through threats and intimidation. “What are they seeking? It is clear that they seek to impose themselves through threats, intimidation and force,” he stated, suggesting that constructive dialogue is imperative. He indicated that if the U.S. is interested in addressing drug trafficking seriously, Venezuela is ready to collaborate. Furthermore, he mentioned that the country is open to U.S. investment in its oil industry, including opportunities for Chevron, which currently exports Venezuelan crude to the U.S.
The backdrop for these remarks includes a series of military operations by the U.S. targeting alleged drug-smuggling operations originating from Venezuela. Recently, the U.S. launched strikes against five boats, marking a total of 35 known attacks in this campaign, which has reportedly resulted in over 115 fatalities, including Venezuelan nationals. Maduro’s comments come in the wake of a CIA drone strike on a docking area used by drug cartels, representing a significant escalation in the U.S. administration’s pressure on his government.
While Maduro has declined to comment specifically on the CIA operation for now, he hinted at addressing the situation publicly in the coming days. This situation underscores the ongoing complexities of U.S.-Venezuela relations, particularly as both nations navigate the intertwined issues of drug trafficking, military actions, and oil resource management. Maduro’s readiness for negotiation could signal a potential thaw in relations, although the underlying tensions remain significant.