Venezuela's Maduro to Trump: "Let's Talk Drugs, I'll Sell You Oil"

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro says he is ready for direct talks with U.S. President Donald Trump. The proposed topic is cooperation against drug trafficking. This offer follows a recent escalation by Washington. U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against five boats allegedly smuggling drugs. Reports indicate one of these strikes hit Venezuelan territory, a first in this conflict. Maduro paired his call for diplomacy with a business proposal. He offered to sell more oil to the United States, stating he is ready to do so "whenever, wherever, however." Tensions are also rising at sea. The U.S. Coast Guard is currently pursuing an oil tanker. The vessel, previously unflagged, has suddenly declared itself Russian in an apparent bid for protection.