Mysterious Trump–Maduro Phone Call: Tensions Heat Up, What's Behind It?
Tensions between the United States and Venezuela have escalated again after US President Donald Trump confirmed that he recently spoke with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. The conversation took place amid accusations from Caracas that Washington was preparing a military invasion. Although Trump called it "just a phone call," the conversation sparked widespread speculation, especially as the US has increased pressure on Venezuela in recent months.
Washington asserts that its military deployment in the Caribbean is aimed at suppressing drug trafficking. However, Venezuela views the move as an attempt to change the regime. US media reports indicate that Trump and Maduro even discussed the possibility of a meeting and an amnesty scenario if Maduro steps down. Some US politicians have claimed that Venezuelans have been given the option to leave the country, including possibly heading to Russia. Meanwhile, the US continues to accuse Maduro of leading the "Cartel of the Suns," although Caracas and several experts deny this allegation.
Meanwhile, Venezuela claims to have requested OPEC assistance to deter what it calls "US aggression." In a letter read by Vice President Delcy Rodriguez, the Venezuelan government accused Washington of attempting to seize the country's oil reserves, some of the world's largest. Since September, US airstrikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels have killed more than 80 people, but the legality of the operations remains questionable.
Tensions have escalated following reports that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the "kill everyone" during one of the military operations. Trump insisted that Hegseth denied giving the order, but said an investigation would be conducted. Venezuela views the action as an "extrajudicial execution," as there is no official war going on between the two countries.
Amid the escalating situation, the US continues to strengthen its military presence around Venezuela, including deploying the world's largest aircraft carrier and conducting intensive air patrols. Although several airlines have canceled services to the country, Caracas' international airport remains operating normally. With direct communication between Trump and Maduro and the increasing military presence in the region, many fear that this diplomatic crisis could escalate into something much larger. (az)
Source: Newsmaker.id
