Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has confirmed a recent phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, describing the exchange as “cordial,” amid rising tensions between the two nations. The call comes during one of the most serious diplomatic crises in years, as the United States has increased pressure on Caracas through military deployments, threats of strikes, and anti-drug operations.
Speaking to state-run Venezolana de Televisión, Maduro emphasized the importance of diplomatic prudence, stressing that sensitive matters should be handled quietly rather than through “microphone diplomacy.” While the details of the discussion remain undisclosed, Maduro suggested the conversation could mark a step toward respectful dialogue. The exchange highlights the delicate balance between Venezuela’s sovereignty, regional stability, and international efforts to address ongoing political and security challenges.
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Maduro Emphasizes Diplomatic Prudence
Speaking to state-run Venezolana de Televisión on Wednesday, Maduro explained that he chose to address the call—made approximately ten days ago—after international media circulated partial reports. He stressed the importance of avoiding “microphone diplomacy” in sensitive matters.
“During my six years as foreign minister, I learned diplomatic prudence, and now, as president, I continue to value prudence,” Maduro said, referencing the mentorship of the late Venezuelan leader Hugo Chavez. “I don’t like diplomacy with microphones; important matters must be handled quietly until they are resolved.”
Call Seen as a Step Toward Dialogue
Maduro described the conversation as a potential step toward “respectful dialogue” and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to peace. However, he declined to provide further details, citing the need for “prudence” and “respect.”
“With the favor of God and our Commander of Commanders, Our Lord Jesus Christ, everything will go well for the peace, independence, dignity, and future of Venezuela,” he stated.
Trump Confirms Conversation
The White House confirmed that Trump spoke with Maduro amid heightened diplomatic tensions, though details of the call remain vague.
“I spoke to him briefly, just told him a couple of things, and we’ll see what happens with that,” Trump said during a news conference. “Venezuela sends us drugs, but Venezuela sends us people that they shouldn’t be sending.”
Escalating U.S. Pressure
The call comes as the Trump administration has taken unprecedented measures against Venezuela, including deploying the U.S. Navy’s largest aircraft carrier to the Caribbean, destroying vessels alleged to be involved in drug trafficking, and threatening potential strikes on Venezuelan soil.
While Venezuela accounts for a small portion of global cocaine production, it served as a transit point for 10–13 percent of the estimated global supply in 2020, according to U.S. government estimates.
Maduro has accused the Trump administration of using anti-drug operations as a pretext to undermine his government and gain control over Venezuela’s oil resources.
Maduro Calls for Peace on Sovereign Terms
In a rally in Caracas on Monday, Maduro reiterated that Venezuela seeks peace, but only based on “sovereignty, equality, and freedom.”
“We do not want a slave’s peace, nor the peace of colonies! Colony, never! Slaves, never!” he declared, reinforcing his stance against foreign intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro speak with U.S. President Donald Trump?
Yes. Maduro confirmed a phone conversation with Trump that took place approximately ten days prior to his interview with state-run Venezolana de Televisión. He described the call as “cordial.”
Why did Maduro speak publicly about the call?
He stated that he wanted to clarify media reports and avoid “microphone diplomacy,” emphasizing that sensitive matters should be handled quietly.
What did Maduro say about the nature of the conversation?
Maduro called the exchange a potential step toward “respectful dialogue” and reaffirmed Venezuela’s commitment to peace, but he did not disclose specific details.
How did Trump respond to the call?
Trump confirmed the conversation but provided few details, stating that he “spoke to him briefly” and hinted at ongoing concerns regarding drug trafficking.
What is the context of tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela?
The U.S. has escalated pressure on Venezuela, including deploying a large aircraft carrier to the Caribbean, destroying alleged drug-smuggling vessels, and threatening military action. The Trump administration frames these measures as efforts to combat drug trafficking.
How significant is Venezuela in global drug trafficking?
Venezuela produces little cocaine itself but acts as a transit point for an estimated 10–13% of global cocaine shipments in 2020, according to U.S. government estimates.
Conclusion
The confirmed phone call between Presidents Maduro and Trump highlights a rare moment of direct communication amid one of the most serious diplomatic crises between the U.S. and Venezuela in years. While details of the conversation remain scarce, Maduro’s emphasis on prudence and peaceful dialogue signals his preference for careful, measured diplomacy over public confrontation.
