Maduro characterizes conversation with Trump as friendly and polite

Venezuelan leader Nicols Maduro spoke publicly on Wednesday for the first time about his recent telephone exchange with US President Donald Trump, characterizing the discussion as both respectful and cordial.

"I received a call and had a conversation with the President of the United States, Donald Trump," Maduro stated during a televised address on state-run media. He emphasized that the dialogue occurred "in a tone of respect" and expressed optimism that it could serve as a starting point for "respectful engagement" between the two nations, which have lacked formal diplomatic ties since 2019.

"Dialogue is welcome, diplomacy is welcome because we are always seeking peace," Maduro added, concluding in English: "Peace yes. War never."

Trump had previously acknowledged on Sunday that he had spoken with Maduro, though he did not disclose any specifics. "I wouldn't say it went well or badly. It was a phone call," the US president remarked.

The Trump administration has intensified pressure on Venezuela in recent months, accusing the country of trafficking lethal drugs into the United States. Washington has also deployed additional military forces to the Caribbean and sent the USS Gerald R Ford, the worlds largest aircraft carrier, to the region. Trump confirmed that he authorized CIA covert actions in Venezuela.

Since September, US forces have engaged boats suspected of drug smuggling in the Caribbean, resulting in over 80 fatalities, according to American data. UN human rights authorities have raised concerns that these strikes may breach international law. Caracas, in turn, accuses Washington of attempting to instigate regime change.

Author: Gavin Porter