Maduro signals openness to serious talks with Washington

Comments on US-Venezuela cooperation

In an interview on state television, Maduro said dialogue with the US could take place “wherever they want and whenever they want,” particularly on issues such as drug trafficking, oil, and migration.

Alleged US dock attack remains unconfirmed

Maduro avoided directly confirming or denying reports of a US attack on a Venezuelan dock allegedly used by drug traffickers. When asked about the incident, he said, “this could be something we talk about in a few days.”

US President Donald Trump claimed on Monday that American forces destroyed a dock used by boats involved in drug trafficking in Venezuela, describing a “major explosion” at the site. He did not specify whether the operation was military or intelligence-led, nor its exact location.

Growing US military pressure

If confirmed, the strike would mark the first known land attack in the US campaign against drug trafficking linked to Venezuela. Trump has repeatedly threatened ground operations against drug cartels in the region and said such actions would begin “soon.”

US forces have already carried out multiple strikes on boats in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific since September, targeting vessels Washington says are linked to drug smuggling.

Legal concerns and international criticism

The US administration has not provided evidence linking the targeted boats to drug trafficking, prompting debate over the legality of the operations. International law experts and rights groups have raised concerns that the strikes could amount to extrajudicial killings, an accusation denied by Washington.