US President Donald Trump has suggested he may hold talks with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. The White House said he has not yet decided on attacking Venezuelan land.

On Monday, Trump said he was open to speaking with Maduro at a “certain time.” His comment showed he sees another path that does not involve airstrikes or commandos.

Trump Warns Drug Cartels

Trump also warned drug cartels in countries like Venezuela, Mexico and Colombia. He said, “We know their address. We know their address. We know everything about every one of them.”

A reporter asked if he would rule out sending US troops into Venezuela. Trump replied, “No, I don’t rule out that, I don’t rule out anything.”

He added, “We just have to take care of Venezuela.” He claimed, “They dumped hundreds of thousands of people into our country from prisons.”

US Military Drills Near Venezuela

US Marines are holding military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago. This is the second drill in less than a month. The islands lie only about 10 kilometres (six miles) from Venezuela.

Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said her country will not allow its land to be used for an attack. She also said the US never asked for such permission.
She stated, “The US has NEVER requested use of our territory to launch any attacks against the people of Venezuela.”

Maduro Responds

Maduro welcomed Trump’s idea. He said he is ready to talk “face to face” with anyone in the United States “who wants to talk to Venezuela.”

Rising Tensions

Venezuela has accused the US of trying to force regime change. It pointed to a US military build-up that includes an aircraft carrier group, warships and stealth jets.

The US accuses Maduro of running a “terrorist” drug cartel. Maduro denies this claim.

US Airstrikes at Sea

US forces have carried out airstrikes on boats suspected of transporting drugs. These strikes took place in international waters. Since September, they have killed at least 83 people, according to AFP.