Venezuela's President, Nicolás Maduro, has declared his government's willingness to engage in formal discussions with the United States to combat drug trafficking. This overture comes amidst a significant escalation in pressure from the Trump administration, which has deployed naval assets and conducted strikes in the region.
A Shadow War Intensifies
In a pre-recorded interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet, filmed on New Year's Eve, Maduro reiterated a long-held conviction. He asserted that the US campaign, which began with a massive military deployment to the Caribbean Sea in August, is fundamentally aimed at forcing a change of government in Caracas to gain control of the nation's vast natural resources.
"What are they seeking? It is clear that they seek to impose themselves through threats, intimidation and force," Maduro stated. He later added that it is time for both nations to "start talking seriously, with data in hand." The Trump administration has labelled Maduro the head of a drug cartel, accusations he vehemently denies.
Silence on Reported CIA-Led Strike
Notably, Maduro declined to confirm or comment on a reported attack inside Venezuelan territory. This follows claims from US President Donald Trump on Monday that American forces had targeted a docking facility used by drug trafficking boats last month.
When asked directly about the incident, Maduro responded, "this could be something we talk about in a few days." US media outlets, including the Associated Press, have reported that the strike was conducted by the CIA using a drone. If verified, this would mark the first known US attack on Venezuelan land, representing a dangerous new phase in the ongoing confrontation.
Oil, Investment, and a 'Pleasant' Conversation
Alongside his offer for anti-narcotics cooperation, Maduro extended an olive branch for economic engagement. "If they want oil, Venezuela is ready for US investment, like with Chevron, whenever they want it, wherever they want it and however they want it," he said. Chevron remains the sole major oil company exporting Venezuelan crude to the US, a significant detail given Venezuela possesses the world's largest proven oil reserves.
Maduro revealed 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 remarked. The interview was recorded on the same day the US military announced strikes against five alleged drug-smuggling boats.
The Trump administration justifies its aggressive posture as a necessary measure to stem the flow of narcotics into the United States, claiming it is in an "armed conflict" with drug cartels. According to official US numbers, the campaign has now seen at least 35 boat strikes, resulting in 115 people killed, including Venezuelan nationals. The operations, which started off Venezuela's Caribbean coast, have since expanded to the eastern Pacific Ocean.
