Speaking to reporters, Trump said the U.S. is considering the possibility of engaging Maduro directly, adding that he had 'sort of made up' his mind on the direction of American policy toward Venezuela. His comments come at a moment when tensions in the region remain high and U.S. military activity around the Caribbean has increased significantly.
"We may be having some discussions with Maduro, and we'll see how that turns out," Trump told reporters on Sunday in West Palm Beach, Florida, before getting on a flight back to Washington. "They would like to talk."
The United States recently deployed the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, along with a fleet of supporting warships, to the Caribbean as part of operations targeting drug-trafficking networks. Washington accuses elements within the Venezuelan government, including the alleged Cartel de los Soles, of involvement in narcotics operations. Maduro and his administration strongly deny the allegations, saying they are fabricated to justify external interference.
Despite hinting at possible dialogue, Trump made clear that pressure on Venezuela would not ease. U.S. officials are preparing to designate the Cartel de los Soles as a foreign terrorist organisation, a move that would mark one of the most aggressive steps taken against Caracas in years.
This opening toward potential talks marks a notable shift in tone. The U.S. has spent years isolating Maduro through economic sanctions and diplomatic pressure, and relations have been further complicated by Washington's recognition of opposition figure Juan Guaidó as interim president in 2019, a position that has since lost momentum internationally.
A willingness to even consider discussions suggests the Trump administration may be exploring a new path, though it remains uncertain whether this reflects a firm policy change or an exploratory gesture.
Any diplomatic movement would carry significant consequences for the region. Venezuela's economic collapse and political turmoil have forced millions to flee, impacting neighbouring countries and reshaping regional alliances.
Observers note that a U.S. shift, even symbolic, could influence political dynamics across Latin America. At the same time, the strong U.S. military presence in the Caribbean raises questions about whether diplomacy or pressure will ultimately shape Washington's strategy.
For now, the future of U.S.-Venezuela relations remains unclear. Neither government has confirmed any formal steps toward negotiation, and deep mistrust continues to define their interactions. Trump's remarks, however, have opened a rare possibility for dialogue between two governments whose relations have been frozen for years.
As events unfold, the prospect of talks, however uncertain, will be closely watched by regional leaders, international observers, and humanitarian groups hoping for stability in one of Latin America's most complex political crises.
Rania Umutoni
