UPDATE: Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has issued a stark warning regarding a recent CIA operation on Venezuelan soil, as he expressed willingness to negotiate a deal with the United States to combat drug trafficking. In a pre-recorded interview aired on January 4, 2024, Maduro maintained that Washington is intent on regime change in Venezuela, fueled by a military buildup in the Caribbean Sea initiated in August.
Maduro’s comments come in the wake of a drone strike attributed to the CIA, targeting a dock suspected of serving as a hub for drug cartels. “What are they seeking? It is clear that they seek to impose themselves through threats, intimidation, and force,” he stated emphatically. When pressed on the CIA operation, Maduro hinted at discussing it in more detail soon but remained focused on the possibility of collaboration with the U.S. government.
During the interview, he stated, “If they want to seriously discuss an agreement to combat drug trafficking, we’re ready.” Maduro also signaled readiness for U.S. investment in Venezuelan oil, declaring, “Venezuela is ready for U.S. investment, like with Chemron, whenever they want it, wherever they want it, and however they want it.” Chevron remains the only major oil company actively shipping Venezuelan crude to the United States, which boasts the largest confirmed oil reserves globally.
These developments coincide with the recent U.S. military announcement of strikes against five suspected drug-smuggling vessels, raising the total confirmed boat strikes to 35 and the death toll to no fewer than 115, including Venezuelan nationals. President Donald Trump has described these operations as crucial in the ongoing “armed conflict” with drug trafficking organizations.
As tensions escalate, Maduro’s remarks underline a potential shift in dialogue between the two nations. The Venezuelan leader’s cryptic warning about the CIA operation signals a precarious moment in U.S.-Venezuelan relations, marked by serious implications for both nations.
The situation continues to develop rapidly, with officials and analysts closely monitoring the exchange of threats and the potential for diplomatic overtures. Maduro’s insistence on opening negotiations could serve as a pivotal point in the ongoing saga of U.S.-Venezuela relations.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.