President Donald Trump acknowledged reports that Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has offered the U.S. access to Venezuela’s oil and natural resources, amid escalating tensions as Trump intensifies his anti-drug efforts.
Trump remarked that Maduro’s proposal indicates the leader’s desire to avoid confrontation with the U.S.
“You’re right. You know why? Because he doesn’t want to f*** around with the United States,” Trump stated to reporters on Friday during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The New York Times reported on October 10 that Maduro suggested U.S. companies could engage in current and future oil and gold projects in Venezuela, with the promise of “preferential” contracts. Additionally, Maduro requested a reduction in energy and mining contracts with U.S. adversaries, including China, Iran, and Russia.
Despite the proposal, the Trump administration dismissed the offer, indicating a lack of interest in diplomatic negotiations, according to the Times.
This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
