CARACAS — Venezuela’s imprisoned former president Nicolas Maduro said Sunday he supports “any path to dialogue” as the country’s interim government and opposition prepare to begin US-backed political transition talks in Caracas this week.
Maduro, who was ousted and captured in a US military raid in January, expressed support for negotiations in a message posted on his official Telegram account. He and his wife, Cilia Flores, remain in a New York detention center while awaiting trial on US charges involving drug and firearms trafficking. Both have pleaded not guilty.
“We welcome any path to dialogue that helps consolidate peace, coexistence, and reconciliation among Venezuelans,” Maduro said in the message.
Maduro also called for national unity, saying political discussions should include respect for diversity and participation from Venezuelans across the political spectrum.
It was not immediately clear how Maduro posted the message from detention. His son, lawmaker Nicolas Maduro Guerra, reposted it on X.
The comments came as Venezuela’s government and opposition announced Saturday that they expect to begin in-person transition talks in Caracas this week. National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, who serves as the government’s chief negotiator and is the brother of interim President Delcy Rodriguez, said the schedule followed a phone call with opposition figure Dinorah Figuera.
The talks are expected to address political transition, future elections, democratic reforms and political rights. Officials also plan to discuss assistance following devastating earthquakes in June that killed more than 5,500 people, according to Venezuelan authorities.
The talks will proceed without the participation of opposition leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Maria Corina Machado, who has said she will not obstruct the process.
The United States has backed Delcy Rodriguez as Venezuela’s interim leader following Maduro’s removal and has pressed the new government to begin political negotiations that could establish a timetable for future elections.
Washington has also pushed for greater access for US companies to Venezuela’s oil, minerals and other natural resources.
Maduro’s government had faced years of political and economic turmoil before his removal. Venezuela holds the world’s largest proven oil reserves, but its economy has suffered prolonged instability and shortages.
Maduro and Flores face federal charges in the United States and are awaiting trial. Their detention and the US military operation that removed Maduro have become central issues in Venezuela’s political transition.