Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has stated his government is prepared to engage in discussions with the United States regarding drug trafficking and oil investment, following intensified American military operations targeting networks linked to his administration.
In a prerecorded interview with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet, broadcast on state television, Maduro emphasized Venezuela’s readiness to negotiate a cooperative agreement on narcotics enforcement and to welcome U.S. investment in its oil sector. “If they want to seriously discuss an agreement to combat drug trafficking, we’re ready,” Maduro said. “If they want oil, Venezuela is ready for U.S. investment.”
This overture comes amid a sustained pressure campaign by the U.S., which has included military strikes and an oil blockade. President Donald Trump recently designated Maduro’s government as a terrorist organization and imposed comprehensive sanctions aimed at curtailing Venezuela’s oil exports. Chevron Corp. remains the sole major U.S. oil company permitted to export Venezuelan crude to the United States.
Maduro accused the U.S. of seeking regime change and attempting to gain control over Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves through intimidation and force. The interview was recorded on December 31, 2025, coinciding with a U.S. military operation that resulted in several casualties aboard vessels allegedly involved in drug trafficking.
Since early September, American operations in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific have reportedly led to over 100 fatalities. The U.S. has not ruled out expanding its campaign, which may include ground operations. President Trump confirmed a recent strike on a Venezuelan port used for narcotics trafficking but did not specify whether U.S. military or intelligence agencies were responsible.
The situation remains highly volatile, with diplomatic channels yet to show significant signs of easing.
