Venezuela: Maduro avoids confirming alleged US attack, signals readiness for talks

Friday 02 January 2026 - 07:00

By: Sahili Aya

Venezuela: Maduro avoids confirming alleged US attack, signals readiness for talks

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has avoided confirming or denying reports of a US attack on Venezuelan port facilities, while stating that he remains open to negotiations with Washington amid rising tensions between the two countries.

Speaking on state television, Maduro responded cautiously to claims made earlier this week by US President Donald Trump, who said that American forces had destroyed docking areas allegedly used by vessels linked to drug trafficking. If confirmed, such an operation would represent the first US ground attack on Venezuelan territory.

Maduro emphasized that Venezuela’s national defense system continues to guarantee territorial integrity and public safety, adding that the country remains peaceful. He did not provide details regarding the alleged incident but suggested the issue could be discussed through diplomatic channels in the coming days.

The Venezuelan government is currently under intense pressure from the United States, which has reinforced its naval presence in the Caribbean and tightened oil-related sanctions. US authorities have also seized vessels carrying Venezuelan crude oil.

Despite the tensions, Maduro reiterated his willingness to engage in dialogue with Washington, particularly on issues such as anti-narcotics cooperation, migration, and energy investments. He pointed to previous agreements between the two countries as evidence that dialogue remains possible.

In a parallel development, Venezuelan authorities announced the release of dozens of detainees linked to protests following the disputed 2024 presidential election, though legal proceedings against them remain ongoing.