Maduro warns US military intervention would spell Trump's 'political end'

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro issued a stark warning Monday that any US military intervention in Venezuela would result in the "political end" of President Donald Trump's leadership. During a televised address, Maduro asserted that influential circles surrounding Trump are "provoking" armed action that would lead the American president "to a cliff." The Venezuelan leader claimed "powerful sectors in the US" are attempting to destroy Trump by pushing him toward military confrontation, stating such a move would represent "the most serious mistake of his entire life" and ultimately terminate his political career.

Diplomatic Overture Amid Rising Tensions

Despite the strong rhetoric, Maduro extended an olive branch to Washington, affirming Venezuela's readiness for "face-to-face" dialogue. He emphasized that diplomacy and the pursuit of common ground remain the "invariable" position of his government. This conciliatory gesture came alongside Maduro's description of "16 weeks of threats, of psychological aggression and of stalking" from the United States, which he said has prompted Venezuela to strengthen its military preparedness through a revitalized armed forces and expanded militia training programs.

Escalating US-Venezuela Confrontation

The exchange occurs amid heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas. The US State Department recently announced it would designate the Cartel de los Soles, an organization allegedly linked to Maduro, as a foreign terrorist organization effective November 24. Venezuela has dismissed this classification as "an invention." Since Trump ordered a Caribbean military deployment in August targeting drug cartels, US forces have conducted 21 strikes on vessels allegedly transporting narcotics, resulting in 83 fatalities. Trump has indicated potential expansion of these operations to include ground targets within Venezuela, though he acknowledged Sunday that "there could be discussions" with Maduro since "Venezuela wants to talk."