August M
A major U.S. military buildup targeting Venezuela’s coast has taken a surprising turn after reports emerged that Donald Trump privately discussed the possibility of meeting President Nicolás Maduro. The conversation, first revealed by The New York Times, unfolded as Washington ramped up counter-narcotics operations and expanded its regional presence.
A sharp expansion of U.S. military activity near Venezuela has become the backdrop for a political twist.
Donald Trump reportedly held private discussions with Nicolás Maduro about the possibility of a meeting, according to reporting cited by The Express and first revealed by The New York Times.
Regional buildup intensifies
Washington has increased counter-narcotics operations across the Caribbean, conducting at least 21 strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in recent months.
Reuters confirmed that the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford and its strike group entered the U.S. Southern Command region earlier in November, signalling a larger-than-usual deployment aimed at pressuring Caracas.
Trump has repeatedly tied these operations to a broader goal of confronting Maduro’s government. On Thanksgiving, he told reporters that anti-trafficking efforts would soon expand onto land, calling it “easier” than sea-based missions.
Diplomatic twist
Against this militarised backdrop, The New York Times reported that Trump and Maduro held a phone conversation exploring the idea of an eventual face-to-face meeting, possibly even in the United States.
Two individuals familiar with the exchange said Secretary of State Marco Rubio was also on the call. No plans were finalised, and the discussions were described as exploratory.
The outreach occurred shortly before the State Department designated Maduro as the leader of the Cartel de los Soles, a network the Trump administration labelled a foreign terrorist organisation..
Political stakes
Despite the diplomatic undercurrent, the administration has maintained its objective of ousting Maduro.
The ongoing military posture, coupled with intensified sanctions and anti-trafficking campaigns, signals a multi-front pressure strategy.
Sources: The New York Times-The Express
