Trump Claims US Captured Venezuelan President Maduro in Major Strike
In a recent statement, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro expressed his willingness to engage in talks with the United States regarding drug trafficking and oil trade. He stated that discussions could happen “wherever and whenever they want.” This openness to dialogue comes amidst heightened tensions between the two countries.
US Strike on Venezuelan Drug Facilities
During an interview with Venezuelan state television, Maduro refrained from directly addressing remarks made by US President Donald Trump. Trump announced that the US had executed a strike on a docking facility in Venezuela, which was reportedly the first operation of its kind conducted by the CIA within the country. This strike targeted a location associated with alleged Venezuelan drug boats, leading to what Trump described as a “major explosion” at the site.
Escalation of Tensions
These developments follow weeks of intensified rhetoric from Trump aimed at Maduro. The US President accused Maduro of “emptying his prisons and insane asylums,” claiming that this action forced detainees to migrate to the US. Trump also alleged that Maduro was using oil revenues to support drug-related activities.
US Military Actions Against Drug Smuggling
Since September, the US military has conducted approximately 30 strikes targeting alleged drug-smuggling vessels. These operations have predominantly focused on the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. The military efforts have led to significant casualties, with reports indicating over 110 individuals killed since the first attack, which occurred on September 2 in international waters.
- President Maduro is open to US discussions on drug trafficking and oil.
- Trump announced a CIA strike on a Venezuelan docking facility.
- 30 US military strikes have targeted drug-smuggling boats since September.
- Over 110 fatalities reported due to military actions against drug trafficking.
The ongoing situation reflects the complex dynamics of US-Venezuela relations and highlights the increasing focus on drug trafficking linked to Venezuelan oil revenues.