The United States has intensified its military and diplomatic pressure on Nicolás Maduro, prompting an unprecedented response from the Cuban power structure. International agencies report that certain "elements within the Cuban regime" have initiated discreet communications with U.S. officials to assess what the region might look like without the Venezuelan leader at the helm.
These discussions are reported to be exploratory and are being conducted with a high degree of confidentiality. They are said to focus on transitional scenarios and the potential impacts of Maduro's ousting on energy dynamics, security, and political alliances across Latin America. While no official confirmation has been provided by either side, multiple sources indicate that these contacts highlight Havana's concern over Washington's escalating campaign against Caracas.
The Trump-Maduro Call and Cuba's Role
These developments occur against the backdrop of a recent phone call between Donald Trump and Nicolás Maduro. Reports suggest that during the conversation, the Venezuelan leader may have expressed willingness to step down in exchange for assurances of amnesty and the lifting of sanctions, an offer that was ultimately rejected by the White House.
CiberCuba has emphasized that any negotiations regarding Maduro's exit involve not just Washington and Caracas but also the Cuban intelligence services. These services are crucial to the protection of the Chavista regime and possess sensitive information on joint operations, which explains the increased presence of Cuban bodyguards around the Venezuelan leader.
Questions About U.S. and Cuba Relations Amid Venezuelan Crisis
Why are Cuban factions reaching out to the U.S.?
Certain factions within the Cuban regime are reaching out to the U.S. to explore the implications and potential scenarios of a Latin America without Nicolás Maduro leading Venezuela.
What was discussed in the Trump-Maduro phone call?
In their phone call, Nicolás Maduro reportedly suggested he might be willing to leave power in exchange for amnesty and the lifting of sanctions, a proposal that was turned down by the U.S.