Maduro Describes Phone Call with Trump as "Friendly" and Welcomes Diplomacy Despite Military Tensions

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro confirmed today, Wednesday, that he had a "friendly" phone call with his US counterpart Donald Trump amidst the crisis between the two countries.

Speaking to state television, Maduro said: "I spoke with the President of the United States, Donald Trump. I can say that the conversation took place in a respectful tone, I can even say it was friendly."

Maduro expressed his welcome for any step toward dialogue, stating: "I will go even further... If this call means that we are taking steps toward respectful dialogue, from state to state, from country to country, then welcome dialogue, welcome diplomacy, because we will always seek peace."

Trump admitted on Sunday to having the conversation, but offered no details, merely saying from Air Force One: "I can't say it went well or badly. It was a phone call."

Context of Tensions: The conversation takes place as the United States intensifies pressure on Venezuela, including:

• A major military deployment in the Caribbean Sea.

• Airstrikes against boats suspected of drug smuggling.

• Prior warnings about the possibility of strikes on Venezuelan territory.

Maduro indicated that the call took place about ten days ago, initiated by the White House contacting Miraflores Palace (the presidential palace). He emphasized the importance of diplomatic caution, stating he prefers not to conduct diplomacy "via microphones."

Trump accuses Venezuela of managing drug smuggling operations into the US market, while Caracas denies this, asserting that Washington's real goal is regime change and control over Venezuelan oil reserves.