Mexican President Sheinbaum Offers to Mediate In U.S.–Venezuela Standoff: 'Dialogue and Peace Must Be Pursued'

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum called for dialogue between the United States and Venezuela following President Donald Trump's recent comments suggesting he may be willing to speak with Nicolás Maduro.

Sheinbaum told reporters she hopes the growing tensions can be addressed through "understanding," adding:

"We are a country that always seeks peace, dialogue, and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. We are not in favor of invasions. In whatever way Mexico can help, we will be there"

Sheinbaum's remarks come as the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford to the Caribbean has raised the possibility of U.S. military operations against targets inside Venezuela. Asked about the heightened tension, Trump said the deployment "allows us to do it," referring to a potential strike, but noted that no decision had been made. "We could be having some conversations with Maduro," he said. "They want to talk... I'll talk to anyone. We'll see what happens." The State Department also announced it it designating the Cartel de los Soles, which it claims is led by Maduro, as a terrorist organizations. The designation will go into effect next Monday.

Sheinbaum's push for de-escalation follows her earlier criticism of U.S. strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific when she said Mexico "does not agree" with the operations and reminded Washington that "there are international laws about the way to operate on the alleged transportation of illegal drugs or weapons in international waters." The strikes, part of what the administration describes as a counter-narcotics campaign, have killed over 70 people, according to official statements.

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has also offered to act as an intermediary. Following a meeting with Trump in Kuala Lumpur in late October, Brazil's foreign minister said Lula emphasized that South America is "a region of peace" and volunteered to serve as a "contact" to help both governments find "mutually acceptable" solutions.