Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has said his government is open to holding talks with the United States on combating drug trafficking, signaling a potential diplomatic opening despite years of strained relations between the two countries. Speaking in a recent televised interview, Maduro said Venezuela was prepared for “serious dialogue” with Washington on drug control cooperation and was willing to meet “when, where and how” the U.S. government prefers.
Maduro rejected long-standing U.S. accusations that senior Venezuelan officials are involved in drug trafficking, arguing instead that Venezuela has been a victim of narcotics routes originating in neighboring countries. He said Venezuelan authorities have seized large quantities of illegal drugs in recent years and insisted that cooperation, rather than confrontation, would be more effective in addressing transnational crime.
The remarks come amid heightened tensions following expanded U.S. counternarcotics operations in the Caribbean and Pacific regions, including actions targeting vessels suspected of smuggling drugs linked to Venezuela. Washington has repeatedly accused the Maduro government of facilitating cocaine trafficking into the United States, allegations Caracas strongly denies. Maduro has also criticized U.S. sanctions and military pressure, describing them as part of a broader effort to undermine his government.
At the same time, Maduro hinted that improved cooperation on security issues could open the door to broader engagement, including economic ties. He pointed to limited U.S. involvement in Venezuela’s oil sector, particularly through licenses granted to American energy companies, as evidence that dialogue is still possible despite political differences.
U.S. officials have not publicly responded to Maduro’s comments, and it remains unclear whether Washington is willing to engage in direct talks under the current circumstances. Analysts say the offer may reflect Caracas’s desire to reduce the risk of further escalation while attempting to counter the international narrative portraying Venezuela as a hub for drug trafficking.
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