Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has expressed a willingness to engage in negotiations with the United States aimed at combating drug trafficking. This statement comes in the wake of reported military actions by the US, including a CIA-led strike on a Venezuelan docking area allegedly used by drug cartels. Maduro, however, refrained from commenting on the specifics of the strike.

Negotiation Offer
In a pre-recorded interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet, Maduro reiterated his belief that the US is attempting to destabilize his government to gain access to Venezuela's vast oil reserves. He stated, "What are they seeking? It is clear that they seek to impose themselves through threats, intimidation and force." Maduro emphasized the need for serious discussions, inviting the US to engage with concrete proposals to address drug trafficking.

US Military Actions
The backdrop to Maduro's offer includes a significant military presence by the US in the Caribbean, which began in August. This deployment has involved a series of naval operations, airstrikes on suspected drug traffickers, and a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers. Reports indicate that the CIA conducted a drone strike targeting a docking facility used by drug traffickers, a claim Maduro has not confirmed but is willing to discuss in the future.

Economic Context
Maduro highlighted Venezuela's readiness for US investment in its oil sector, specifically mentioning Chevron, the only major oil company currently exporting Venezuelan crude to the US. He suggested that if the US is interested in oil, the country is prepared to facilitate investment "whenever they want it, wherever they want it, and however they want it." This statement underscores the complex interplay between Venezuela's economic needs and the ongoing tensions with the US.

Casualties and Military Justifications
The US military has reported that its operations have resulted in 35 strikes against drug-smuggling boats, with at least 115 fatalities, including Venezuelans. President Trump has justified these actions as necessary to combat the flow of drugs into the United States, asserting an "armed conflict" with drug cartels. The situation remains tense, with Maduro indicating that he has not communicated with Trump since a cordial conversation on November 12.

Wrap-up
The potential for negotiations between Venezuela and the US presents a complex scenario amid escalating military actions and longstanding political tensions. While Maduro's offer to discuss drug trafficking may signal a willingness to engage, the backdrop of military operations complicates the prospects for meaningful dialogue.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team