Venezuela Open to U.S. Talks on Drug Trafficking Amid Escalating Military Actions
CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro expressed willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States regarding drug trafficking, while avoiding questions about recent U.S. military strikes against alleged drug cartel operations in the country. The remarks were made in a televised interview that aired Thursday.
Why It Matters
The prospect of renewed dialogue between Venezuela and the U.S. comes at a critical juncture amid increasing tensions over drug trafficking and geopolitical rivalries. This potential negotiation showcases the challenges of addressing narcotics-related violence while navigating issues of sovereignty and international relations, especially given Venezuela’s significant oil resources that are of interest to the U.S.
Key Developments
- Maduro indicated Venezuela’s readiness to enter discussions with the U.S. on combating drug trafficking.
- He criticized U.S. actions as a means to instigate government change in Venezuela.
- The Trump administration has escalated military operations, including drone strikes targeting Venezuelan locations suspected of drug cartel activity.
- The CIA conducted a drone strike last week, marking a significant intensification of U.S. efforts against drug trafficking on Venezuelan soil.
Full Report
In an interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet that was recorded on New Year’s Eve, Maduro reiterated allegations that the U.S. seeks to exert control over Venezuela’s government and its abundant oil reserves through intimidation and military presence. He urged for serious discussions between the two nations, stating, “What are they seeking? It is clear that they seek to impose themselves through threats, intimidation and force.”
Maduro confirmed that Venezuela is prepared for U.S. investment in its oil sector, particularly with Chevron, which remains the only major company exporting Venezuelan crude to the U.S. He emphasized that the country is ready for dialogue, provided there’s a genuine interest in addressing drug trafficking.
U.S. strikes have reportedly resulted in multiple casualties, with at least 115 identified as victims, including Venezuelans. These military actions, initially focused on the Caribbean coast, have since expanded to include operations in the eastern Pacific Ocean.
In a move that heightens tensions, the CIA’s drone strike earlier this month was the first known operation on Venezuelan territory amid ongoing strikes against alleged cartel boats. This escalation signals a crucial shift in the U.S. administration’s strategy to confront narco-trafficking operations linked to Maduro, who faces charges of narco-terrorism in the U.S.
When pressed about the recent drone strike, Maduro indicated he might address it in more detail in the coming days.
Context & Previous Events
The U.S. has conducted a series of military strikes against purported drug-smuggling boats off the coast of Venezuela, with the total number of known strikes reaching 35 since the operations commenced. These actions were part of a broader, months-long campaign that started after a significant military deployment to the Caribbean Sea in August under the Trump administration.
Additionally, President Donald Trump has described these actions as necessary to combat the influx of drugs into the United States, framing the situation as an “armed conflict” with drug cartels engaged in illicit activities in Venezuela.
