Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro adopted a more conciliatory tone toward President Trump, describing the United States as a “brother country” and his government as friendly, while signaling openness to talks on drug trafficking and energy cooperation, including U.S. investment in Venezuela’s oil sector.
In an interview aired on state television on New Year’s Day, Maduro said Caracas is prepared for serious talks with Washington, including joint efforts to combat narcotics trafficking. He also said Venezuela is open to U.S. investment in its oil sector, signaling readiness to grant American companies broad access to Venezuelan crude.
Maduro said his last conversation with President Trump in November reflected mutual recognition, noting that Trump addressed him as “Mr. President.” He told viewers that Venezuela has consistently conveyed to U.S. officials its willingness to negotiate on drug enforcement and energy, stating that if Washington wants Venezuelan oil, U.S. firms, including Chevron, would be welcomed on terms agreed by both sides.
