'Ready For Talks': Maduro’s Last Remarks On The US Before Being Taken Into Custody

Washington: Just before the US Army action, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro had given such a statement in his last TV interview, which surprised many people. He had said that he is ready for talks with America against drug smuggling. This statement was seen as a soft stance amid long-standing confrontational relations.

How quickly did the situation change after the interview?

Within two days of this interview being broadcast, Maduro's power ended. Maduro and his wife were taken into custody in a surprise US military strike. With this, his rule also ended suddenly, and his last public statement came to be seen in a completely different context.

What did Maduro say regarding talks on drug trafficking?

In a recorded conversation broadcast on government channel Telesur on Thursday, Maduro had said that America already knew his intentions. According to him, US officials have been told several times that if serious talks take place on drug trafficking, Venezuela will not back down.

Under what pressure was this interview conducted?

This conversation took place at a time when the Trump administration was continuously putting pressure on Venezuela. Attacks were being carried out on ships associated with drug trafficking in the Caribbean Sea and the Eastern Pacific. Additionally, the US Navy's presence near the Venezuelan coast was also increased.

Why did Maduro keep silent on the news of secret attacks?

According to reports, Maduro did not give any direct response to the alleged covert ground attack on a port last month. Some media organizations had linked this attack to American agencies. Later Trump claimed that an important base related to drug smuggling was destroyed.

Did Maduro seem ready to cooperate?

Although Maduro accused the US of using pressure and intimidation politics, he did not rule out the possibility of cooperation. He had said that there is scope for talks in areas like drug control and energy.

What was Maduro's stance on oil investment?

Maduro had said that if the US shows interest in oil, Venezuela is ready to keep the doors open for American companies. He had made it clear that American companies can invest whenever and however they want.

What explanation did Maduro give on the allegations of drug trafficking?

Maduro once again denied any connection to drug trafficking. He had said that false stories have been fabricated against him. Describing himself as a peace-loving leader, he had said that the people and government of Venezuela are not hostile towards America.