Frictions with Venezuela Intensify After Purported Final Offer from Donald Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Trump issued a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave power – and exit the country – at once.
Per reports, the U.S. leader allegedly held a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the target of a sustained pressure campaign that has included a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you have to leave the nation immediately," Trump allegedly stated, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to resign without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to step down right then and reportedly presented a series of conditions, such as worldwide amnesty and the right to cede civilian authority while keeping control of the military.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions
This incident constitutes the most recent escalation of strains between the two nations. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior foreign policy team to review the Venezuela issue, though particulars of that meeting were not made public.
Salient Points from the Alleged Conversation
- Demand: Immediate departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro supposedly turned down the offer for a swift exit.
- Conditions: Sought global amnesty and continued control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place amid a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly stating, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the American nor Venezuelan governments have provided additional particulars about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have happened in late November.
