WASHINGTON — U.S. officials are contemplating providing asylum to Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan socialist leader, perhaps allowing him to live comfortably in a wealthy country. This comes as President Trump’s military efforts against drug smuggling ships could extend toward South America’s coastline.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed a willingness for Maduro, who is 63, to relocate to Qatar, a nation rich in gas, as it plays a role in mediating the ongoing conflict, according to a senior official in the Trump administration.
Several current and former officials believe this option could be likely.
“Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE often engage in these kinds of arrangements. It potentially strengthens their ties with the U.S.,” a source close to the administration remarked.
“All three are vying for the best relationship with the region and the United States.”
However, sources familiar with the negotiations have stated that Maduro is not actively seeking a luxurious residence in Doha. Notably, the ruling powers in Qatar had previously assisted in facilitating a peace initiative between Israel and Hamas, which was proposed by President Trump. Hamas leaders currently reside in Qatar, and Israel conducted airstrikes on the emirate in September to remove these leaders.
“It’s not accurate to say that Maduro is planning to flee to Qatar,” an official clarified.
In a recent meeting, Trump urged Maduro to resign immediately, but the Venezuelan president indicated he might hand over power to his vice president and pardon himself and his allies.
The State Department has not provided comments regarding this situation.
Last month, the Trump administration classified Maduro and his associates as members of foreign terrorist organizations, a designation meant to expand U.S. military options for action within Venezuela. Rubio accused the so-called Cartel de los Soles (Cartel of the Suns) of being linked to acts of terrorism.
The White House has leveraged this designation to justify military actions against suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean, including a September 2 assault that resulted in significant casualties. White House press secretary Caroline Levitt defended these actions as necessary for the protection of American interests, stating they were acts of “self-defense.”
Trump recently convened with Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and other officials to strategize regarding Maduro.
U.S. authorities are collecting information to inform upcoming recommendations, with a decision expected later this week or early next week.
The next potential action could involve raids on suspected drug traffickers within Venezuela’s territorial waters—defined as 12 nautical miles offshore. However, bipartisan lawmakers have criticized previous boat attacks without formal approval, which could heighten political pressure on Trump to seek congressional authorization for military action.
On October 23, Trump indicated he was preparing to inform Congress of plans for a ground offensive in Venezuela, although he was pausing these efforts in hopes of negotiating Maduro’s removal and potential asylum.
During a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday, Trump hinted at possible strikes against land-based Venezuelan drug traffickers, stating that Colombian traders could also face risks.
“Anyone who engages in such acts targeting our nation will be at risk. It’s not solely about Venezuela,” Trump asserted.
