The standoff between the United States and Venezuela has taken a dramatic turn after a senior American senator revealed that Washington urged President Nicolás Maduro to consider leaving the country with his family. Senator Markwayne Mullin said the US made it clear that Maduro would be given safe passage if he chose to relocate, even suggesting destinations like Russia or another country willing to receive him. Mullin also emphasised that there was no plan for a full military invasion, hoping to calm speculation sparked by recent statements from former President Donald Trump.
The pressure on Caracas has been rising steadily. The US recently declared Venezuelan airspace completely closed, warning all pilots to avoid flying over or near the country. Officials in Washington say this step is part of a wider effort to clamp down on what they describe as organised drug networks linked to Venezuela’s leadership. Alongside this, US naval operations in the region have increased, targeting vessels believed to be involved in drug trafficking.
Venezuelan authorities reacted with anger, accusing the US of threatening national sovereignty and trying to destabilise the government. Maduro’s administration dismissed the allegations of drug operations as politically motivated and warned that Washington’s actions violated international norms.
The situation became even more charged after reports that Trump and Maduro held a brief phone conversation, though neither side has shared much detail about what was discussed. Despite this, the US continues to reject Maduro’s legitimacy and maintains its push for political change through diplomatic and economic pressure.
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