Trump Confirms Phone Call With Venezuela’s Maduro Amid Rising Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on Sunday that he recently spoke with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, acknowledging the call but declining to share details about their discussion. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said simply, “The answer is yes,” when asked whether the conversation took place, adding that he would not characterize the tone of the call beyond noting it was “a phone call.”

The New York Times first reported that Trump and Maduro spoke earlier this month, allegedly discussing the possibility of a future meeting in the United States. The revelation adds a new layer to an already tense relationship, as Washington continues to exert pressure on Maduro’s government while simultaneously signaling a willingness to explore diplomatic openings.

Over the weekend, Trump intensified his rhetoric by declaring that airspace above and around Venezuela should be considered “closed in its entirety,” a statement that sparked confusion and concern in Caracas. When questioned about whether such comments suggested imminent military action, Trump responded, “Don’t read anything into it,” leaving officials and analysts uncertain about U.S. intentions.

U.S. officials have continued to accuse Maduro of enabling drug trafficking operations that harm Americans—charges the Venezuelan leader firmly denies. Reuters has reported that the Trump administration is evaluating several Venezuela-related options, including efforts aimed at removing Maduro from power. The U.S. military has already increased its presence in the Caribbean, carrying out months of strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels near Venezuelan waters.

Human rights groups have criticized these operations, calling them unlawful and warning that they could amount to extrajudicial killings. Trump said he would investigate reports that a second strike in September targeted survivors, adding he “would not have wanted” such an outcome. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has defended the missions as legal and intentionally “lethal.”

Maduro and Venezuelan officials have not publicly addressed the reported phone call. Jorge Rodriguez, head of Venezuela’s National Assembly, declined to comment when asked, saying his focus was on announcing an investigation into U.S. military actions in the Caribbean.