US President Donald Trump confirmed a phone conversation with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as tensions between Washington and Caracas reach new heights. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump acknowledged the call but refrained from sharing specifics, underscoring ongoing US efforts to navigate complex regional and international security challenges.

Trump Confirms Conversation with Maduro

During the flight from Florida to Washington, Trump responded to questions about the alleged conversation with Maduro: “My answer is yes,” he said, but added, “I do not want to comment further.” The call follows reports that the two leaders discussed a possible in-person meeting in the United States, shortly after Trump publicly identified Maduro as connected to the drug cartel Cartel de los Sores.

The New York Times reported that the phone discussion occurred last week, signaling a rare direct dialogue amid heightened tensions over drug trafficking and military activities in the Caribbean.

US-Venezuela Tensions Escalate

Trump defended US actions in the region, including the recent deployment of a strike fleet to the Caribbean, led by the aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, aimed at countering alleged drug trafficking. “We do not view Venezuela as a particularly friendly country,” Trump said. “They send millions of people to our country from prisons and gangs.”

He downplayed speculation regarding the closure of Venezuelan airspace, warning, “Do not interpret it as meaning an imminent strike.” The President also distanced himself from reports about Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth allegedly instructing lethal measures against survivors of anti-drug operations at sea, stating, “Pete said that did not happen, I trust him. But no, I would not want a second strike order—we will investigate.”

Venezuelan Response

In response, Venezuelan President Maduro mobilized a militia of 4.5 million people, pledging to defend the country against any potential attack. The situation underscores the heightened military readiness on both sides amid an already tense US-Venezuela standoff.

Ukraine Peace Talks

Beyond Latin America, Trump also commented on Ukraine, reporting that US and Ukrainian delegations held constructive discussions in Florida on a proposed peace plan. “Ukraine has some difficult minor issues. We also have challenges, but I think Russia wants this [war] to end,” he said. Trump noted that 27,000 deaths occurred in Ukraine last month, emphasizing efforts to halt the bloodshed.

Regarding the likelihood of a peace agreement, he expressed cautious optimism: “I believe we have a high chance of reaching a deal.” He added that US Special Representative Steve Witkoff would travel to Moscow this week and clarified that a formal deadline remains tied to the cessation of hostilities: “My deadline is until the war ends, and I hope it ends soon.”