Trump floats possible talks with Venezuela but leaves military action on the table
November 17, 2025
President Donald Trump isn’t ruling out military action against Venezuela despite bringing up potential diplomatic talks with its leader, Nicolás Maduro. Trump reiterated Monday that he “probably would talk to” Maduro but underscored that he’s not taking off the table the possibility of military action on Venezuelan territory. The comments deepe then uncertainty about the Trump administration’s next steps toward Maduro’s government. The U.S. military has increased its presence near Venezuela, which some see as a pressure tactic against Maduro. Analysts suggest the U.S. aims to negotiate from a position of strength, emphasizing the need for a democratic transition in Venezuela.