In an attempt to remove Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro from power, the United States has reportedly offered him amnesty, according to sources familiar with the matter. This latest development comes as Maduro continues to hold onto his position despite allegations of an unfair election. The Wall Street Journal reports that the Biden administration has engaged in secret talks, with the aim of convincing Maduro to step down before his term ends in January.

The discussions between Washington and Caracas have included the possibility of pardoning Maduro and other top officials who are facing indictments by the US Department of Justice. Sources have revealed that the Biden administration is willing to put "everything on the table" to sway Maduro's decision. It is worth noting that the US had previously offered a $15 million bounty for information leading to Maduro's arrest in 2020, accusing him of collaborating with allies to flood the US with cocaine.

This recent development brings hope to the opposition in Venezuela, who have claimed that their candidate, Edmundo González, emerged as the clear winner in the July 28 election. The talks have been conducted virtually between Jorge Rodríguez, president of Venezuela's congress and a close confidant of Maduro, and Daniel P. Erikson, responsible for America's policy towards Venezuela at the White House National Security Council. The officials have also stated that Western oil companies would not be forced to leave Venezuela as part of any agreement.

This is not the first time the US has attempted to negotiate Maduro's departure. Last year, during secret talks in Doha, Washington had proposed an amnesty offer, which Maduro declined, indicating his unwillingness to leave office. The Venezuelan president has previously stated that he is open to discussions if treated with respect, while also telling the US to stay out of Venezuela's internal affairs.

The negotiations involve not only the United States but also the three most populous South American nations: Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. These countries are actively engaged in finding a resolution to the ongoing political standoff in Venezuela.

With five months remaining until Venezuela's presidential inauguration, the US has limited time to strike a deal. The outcome of these talks will determine whether Maduro will be granted amnesty and if Venezuela will witness a peaceful transition of power.