Trump Signals Diplomatic Approach with Venezuela's Maduro While Maintaining Military Options

President Donald Trump announced Monday that he plans to engage in dialogue with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro amid escalating tensions, while also expressing openness to potential U.S. military actions in the region.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump confirmed to reporters, "At a certain period of time, I'll be talking to him," though he noted that Maduro "has not been good to the United States."

When questioned about the possibility of deploying U.S. ground forces in Venezuela, Trump maintained a firm stance: "No I don't rule out that, I don't rule out anything."

The President elaborated on his concerns regarding Venezuela, stating, "We just have to take care of Venezuela. They dumped hundreds of thousands of people into our country from prisons."

This declaration comes as the United States has significantly expanded its military presence in the Caribbean, deploying an aircraft carrier group, warships, and stealth jets in what Trump describes as an effort to combat drug trafficking organizations operating in several Latin American nations, including Venezuela and Mexico.

Venezuelan authorities have accused Washington of attempting to orchestrate regime change in Caracas through this military buildup. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has labeled Maduro as the leader of a "terrorist" drug cartel, allegations that the Venezuelan president has consistently denied.

Trump's comments extended to Mexico as well, criticizing the country for purportedly failing to address drug trafficking effectively. When asked about potential counter-drug operations in Mexico, Trump responded, "Would I launch strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? It's OK with me. Whatever we have to do to stop drugs."

He clarified his position by adding, "I didn't say I'm doing it, but I'd be proud to do it. Because we're going to save millions of lives by doing it."

The statements underscore growing tensions between the United States and its Latin American neighbors as the Trump administration intensifies its focus on drug trafficking concerns in the region.