January 1, Trump Hints Talks With Maduro While Troops Gather

Wyatt’s Take

• President Trump said talks with Venezuela’s Maduro may happen.
• US military power is building up in the Caribbean near Venezuela.
• Washington is focused on stopping drugs from crossing into America.

President Trump is considering discussions with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro while American military forces increase patrols in the Caribbean.

“We may be having some discussions with Maduro, and we’ll see how that turns out,” said Trump in Florida. “They would like to talk.”

Trump said he is open to speaking with anyone but won’t let up the pressure.

“We’re stopping drug dealers and drugs from coming into our country,” he stated.

The Pentagon just announced another hit on a drug-running boat in the eastern Pacific, claiming three “narco-terrorists” were killed. That marks the 21st strike on these boats since September, with over 80 killed so far.

The Navy’s largest aircraft carrier and its strike group just moved into the Caribbean with 5,000 troops, dozens of aircraft, and warships. There are now eight more warships, a nuclear sub, and F-35 jets already stationed in the area.

Senior officials say the White House has met three times in the past week about possible military action against Venezuela, even considering ground strikes.

Trump also said he has “sort of made up my mind” about Venezuela, which might mean a decision is coming soon.

The Venezuelan communications ministry did not comment on the remarks.

America’s next move in the region is still up in the air.

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Wyatt Matters

Decisions about force and talks in far-off places can impact our safety and what shows up at our door. When our leaders take bold steps, it’s working families who feel the ripple, whether that’s higher security or worries about America’s place in the world.