Frictions with Venezuela Escalate Following Purported Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump conveyed a direct message to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave office – and depart the nation – immediately.
Per reports, the U.S. leader supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and your family, but you must leave the country immediately," the U.S. president reportedly declared, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he agreed to resign immediately."
However, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to resign immediately and is said to have presented a set of conditions, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and being allowed to cede civilian authority while keeping command of the military.
Latest Escalation in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions
This incident represents the most recent increase of frictions between the two nations. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior security officials to review the Venezuela situation, though particulars of that discussion were not made public.
Key Details from the Reported Exchange
- Ultimatum: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro did not accept the offer for a swift exit.
- Requests: Sought global amnesty and ongoing control over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a wider U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided additional particulars about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in the latter part of November.
