The possibility of direct talks with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro surfaced Sunday, according to statements made by former President Donald Trump. Amidst escalating tensions, Trump revealed Maduro’s expressed desire for dialogue with the United States, a surprising development in a fraught relationship.
Trump was emphatic, however, in dismissing any immediate plans for military intervention. He specifically stated that no land-based military strikes against Venezuela had been planned or authorized, clarifying the scope of potential U.S. action.
A recent U.S. designation of a Venezuelan-linked cartel, Trump explained, provides the administration with the legal authority to target Maduro’s assets and critical infrastructure. While this option remains on the table, a final decision has not yet been made, leaving the path forward uncertain.
The former president underscored his administration’s commitment to disrupting the flow of drugs through Venezuela and Mexico, keeping Congress informed of these ongoing efforts. He asserted that executive action doesn’t require legislative approval, viewing congressional briefings as a matter of courtesy, not necessity.
Trump directed Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials to communicate a firm message to lawmakers: the U.S. will not tolerate the continued influx of narcotics through either nation. This stance reflects a broader strategy to combat drug trafficking at its source.
A critical concern for Trump is the protection of sensitive operational details. He cautioned members of Congress against leaking classified information, warning that such disclosures could jeopardize the safety of U.S. military and intelligence personnel in the field.
The former president highlighted significant international support for U.S. efforts to pressure Venezuela, framing the campaign as part of a larger global fight against narcotics and illegal immigration. He accused the Maduro regime of deliberately releasing dangerous criminals into the United States.
Trump claimed his administration is actively working to identify and remove these individuals, characterizing them as a direct threat to American security. He asserted that Venezuela’s actions extend beyond drug trafficking to include the deliberate release of violent offenders.
Shifting focus, Trump placed blame for the current border situation squarely on the Biden administration, citing a historic surge in migrants and criminals entering the country. He described the influx as a crisis stemming from policies enacted during the previous administration.
According to Trump, the unchecked and unvetted entry of an estimated 20 to 25 million people represents a profound failure of border security. He specifically alleged that this group included individuals from prisons, mental institutions, and criminal organizations.
Despite these criticisms, Trump maintained that the country is currently performing well. However, he insisted that the actions of the previous administration regarding border security should not be forgotten, framing it as a critical issue for national security.
