Trump plans call with Venezuela's Maduro amid drug crackdown

President Donald Trump is arranging to speak directly with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, as reported by Axios, even as his administration formally labels a Venezuelan cartel a terrorist organization. This potential dialogue represents a significant development in the tense relationship between Washington and Caracas.

A Shift in Diplomatic Tactics

According to US officials familiar with the matter, this move suggests that immediate military action, such as missile strikes or a ground operation, is not currently the primary strategy. One official stated, “Nobody is planning to go in and shoot him or snatch him — at this point. I wouldn't say never, but that's not the plan right now.” The official added that the immediate focus is on interdicting narcotics, saying, “In the meantime, we're going to blow up boats shipping drugs.”

Terrorist Designation and Planned Communication

The reported planning for a Trump-Maduro call coincides with the US government's formal designation of the Venezuela-based Cartel de los Soles as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO). An administration official emphasized the US stance, noting that “Maduro is a narcoterrorist,” a term that reflects the president's view. While the call is in its planning stages, no specific date has been set for the conversation between the two leaders.

Military Buildup and Openness to Talks

The United States has been intensifying its military presence in Latin America with deployments of warships, aircraft, and personnel, fueling speculation about a potential confrontation with Venezuela. However, Trump's recent comments about speaking with Maduro, coupled with Maduro’s own expressed readiness for “face-to-face” dialogue with Washington, point toward a potential diplomatic opening amidst the ongoing pressure campaign.