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Trump, Maduro Confirm Talks Between High-Level Officials

Associated Press

   President Donald Trump said Tuesday his government is talking to
   "various representatives" of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who
   also confirmed that discussions had been taking place.
   In a nationally broadcast appearance hours after Trump spoke, Maduro
   said that "secret" talks had long been under way between high officials
   in his government and the U.S. administration.

   "I confirm that for months we've had contact with senior officials of
   the U.S. government," Maduro said, adding that all talks had been
   carried out under his "direct authorization."

   The Associated Press reported over the weekend that the U.S. has made
   secret contact with socialist party boss Diosdado Cabello as close
   allies of Maduro's inner circle seek guarantees they won't face
   prosecution for alleged abuses and crimes if they cede to growing
   demands to remove him.

   Maduro did not name any officials in his government participating in
   U.S. meetings. The socialist leader said that he's ready to meet with
   Trump himself to normalize relations, an offer he's made before.

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