Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro declared on Monday that he intends to continue sending letters to the U.S. President, Donald Trump, even though the White House has not formally responded. "If they shut a door on you, climb through the window, and if they close the window, go through the door," he stated, highlighting his determination to maintain communication with Washington.
Maduro acknowledged that his initial attempt to reach out to Trump did not provoke the response he anticipated. Nevertheless, he plans to send new communications. "What truly matters is defending your country's truth in every possible way," he remarked during a broadcast on Venezuelan state television.
During his speech, the Venezuelan president emphasized his aim to "enlighten the White House with Venezuela's truth." He insisted that his letters are part of an effort to counteract what he described as a "false narrative" pushed by his government's opponents.
Maduro's address also included accusations against leaders in Ecuador, alleging that the neighboring country is entangled in drug trafficking through private banana companies. "In that letter, I refrained from adding that 70 percent of all South American cocaine is shipped in the vessels, boxes, and freighters of the banana companies owned by Daniel Noboa, president of Ecuador. If Trump honestly asked his intelligence agencies, the U.S. intelligence professionals, for a report on Ecuador, how Guillermo Lasso established a narco-state model, and how Daniel Noboa runs drug trafficking enterprises, he would know where and how it originates," Maduro asserted. However, he did not provide evidence, and analysts interpreted his comments as an attempt to divert attention from Venezuela's internal crisis.
Since Trump's return to the presidency in January 2025, Maduro has expressed interest in opening dialogue channels with Washington. Nevertheless, bilateral relations remain strained by distrust and economic sanctions imposed on high-ranking officials of his regime.
This gesture from the Venezuelan leader comes amidst growing international isolation and internal pressures from a severe economic crisis, rampant inflation, and allegations of human rights abuses within the country.
Frequently Asked Questions about Maduro's Correspondence with Trump
Why does Maduro want to communicate with Trump?
Maduro aims to defend Venezuela's truth and counteract what he sees as a false narrative promoted by his opponents. He seeks to open dialogue channels with Washington amid strained relations.
What accusations did Maduro make against Ecuador?
Maduro accused Ecuador of being involved in drug trafficking through private banana companies, specifically targeting the businesses of President Daniel Noboa, though he provided no evidence.
How have analysts interpreted Maduro's comments?
Analysts have seen Maduro's accusations as an attempt to divert attention from Venezuela's internal issues, including its economic crisis and human rights allegations.