Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Nov 18: US President Donald Trump on Monday said he is open to speaking with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, even as Washington’s military build-up in the Caribbean has sharply escalated regional tensions. He also stirred controversy by saying he would be “ok” with US strikes inside Mexico to combat drug trafficking.

Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump said, “At a certain period of time, I’ll be talking to him,” when asked about engaging with Maduro. On possible US strikes in Mexico, he remarked, “It’s ok with me. Whatever we have to do to stop drugs,” adding that while he had not decided on such action, he would be “proud to do it” if it saved American lives.

Maduro, during his weekly television programme later in the day, said he was prepared to talk “face to face” with anyone in the US “who wants to talk to Venezuela.”

Washington has significantly increased its military presence near Venezuela, deploying an aircraft carrier group, warships and stealth jets. US officials claim the build-up targets drug trafficking networks allegedly linked to the Maduro government — charges Caracas calls part of a regime-change agenda.

Since September, US forces have conducted air strikes on boats in international waters, killing at least 83 people accused of smuggling drugs, according to AFP figures.

Meanwhile, US Marines are holding military exercises in Trinidad and Tobago — the second round in less than a month. The island nation, just 10 km off the Venezuelan coast, has clarified its position. Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said Trinidad and Tobago would not permit its land or waters to be used for any attack on Venezuela and stressed that Washington had never sought such access.

Tensions continue to simmer as both nations signal readiness for dialogue even while hardening their military postures.