Nicolás Maduro Discussed Possible Drug Deal with Trump Days Before U.S. Capture
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro was captured by U.S. forces days after revealing in a rare car interview that his government was open to negotiating a drug trafficking agreement with the United States. The interview, conducted with Spanish journalist Ignacio Ramonet and aired on Venezuelan state television, showed Maduro behind the wheel discussing potential cooperation on drug trafficking and oil investment.
In the pre-recorded segment, Maduro stated that Venezuela was “ready” to engage in serious talks with the U.S., emphasizing that the two countries should “start talking seriously, with data in hand.” He also extended an olive branch regarding Venezuela’s oil sector, suggesting that U.S. companies like Chevron could invest freely. “If they want oil, Venezuela is ready for U.S. investment, like with Chevron, whenever they want it, wherever they want it and however they want it,” Maduro said.
This interview aired just days before U.S. military forces launched a large-scale operation in Caracas, resulting in Maduro and his wife’s capture. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation early Saturday morning via his social media platform, Truth Social, announcing that Maduro had been flown out of Venezuela following the strike.
Trump detailed the operation during an appearance on Fox & Friends Weekend, explaining that the Venezuelan leader and his wife were transported by helicopter to the USS Iwo Jima. “They’ll be heading to New York,” Trump said, underscoring the precision and scale of the mission.
The capture follows months of intensified U.S. pressure targeting drug trafficking networks tied to Maduro’s regime. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Venezuela has been a significant transit point for narcotics, with Maduro’s government accused of facilitating illicit operations.
U.S. officials have described the operation as a “masterclass in precision and execution,” with lawmakers from both parties praising the administration’s decisive action. Senator Lindsey Graham called the capture “America at her best,” while the Department of Homeland Security has labeled Maduro as one of the world’s largest drug traffickers, citing his extensive global network.
The operation, dubbed “Operation Absolute Resolve” by some congressional members, marks a turning point in U.S.-Venezuela relations, which have been strained for years due to Maduro’s authoritarian rule and alleged corruption. The U.S. government had previously imposed sanctions and supported opposition leaders but has now escalated to direct military involvement.
Despite the military action, Maduro’s recent interview suggested a willingness to explore diplomatic avenues. His call for talks with the U.S. government, especially on combating drug trafficking, was seen by some analysts as an attempt to ease tensions amid growing international isolation.
As Maduro faces charges of narco-terrorism and weapons offenses, he is expected to be arraigned in New York. The Department of Justice has indicated that the case will be pursued vigorously, with former federal prosecutors expressing little doubt about his culpability.
The unfolding events have sent ripples through the international community, with Venezuelan exiles and opposition figures welcoming the capture as a long-awaited moment of justice. However, questions remain about the future of U.S. policy in the region and the potential impact on Venezuela’s political landscape.
For now, the unprecedented removal of Maduro underscores the complexities of addressing transnational crime and authoritarianism through a combination of diplomacy and force.
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