Trump Spoke by Phone Last Week With Maduro, Venezuela’s Leader

Trump and Maduro Phone Conversation

Last week, President Donald Trump spoke by phone with Nicolás Maduro, the leader of Venezuela. They discussed a potential in-person meeting in the United States, though no plans have been set for this to happen. The call included Secretary of State Marco Rubio and took place just days before the U.S. State Department designated Maduro as the head of a foreign terrorist organization known as the Cartel de los Soles.

Context and U.S. Policy

The United States has increased its military presence in the Caribbean, targeting Venezuela with the stated goal of deterring drug trafficking. The Trump administration also seeks to remove Maduro from power, possibly through military means. Various strategies have been considered, including the seizure of Venezuelan oil fields. Rubio has publicly called Maduro an illegitimate leader.

Mixed Signals and Diplomatic Hints

Despite the tough rhetoric, the direct communication between Trump and Maduro may signal an effort to reduce military tensions. Trump himself described the phone call ambiguously, saying, "I wouldn’t say it went well or badly; it was a phone call." At the same time, Trump declared Venezuela's airspace closed, escalating pressure on Maduro's regime.

Response and Secrecy

The White House declined to comment on the call, and the Venezuelan government did not issue a public statement. However, two Venezuelan officials confirmed the conversation occurred but spoke anonymously due to restrictions on discussing it openly.

“I wouldn’t say it went well or badly; it was a phone call.” — Donald Trump on his conversation with Maduro

Author's Summary

The phone call between Trump and Maduro reveals a complex mix of confrontation and tentative diplomacy in U.S.-Venezuela relations amid escalating tensions and military posturing.

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The New York Times The New York Times — 2025-11-28

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