Frictions involving Venezuela Rise After Alleged Demand from Donald Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and exit the country – at once.
According to reports, the U.S. leader reportedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and those closest to you, but you have to exit the nation immediately," Trump allegedly declared, providing assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to step down immediately."
However, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to resign immediately and reportedly presented a series of requests, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to cede civilian authority while keeping control of the military.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Persistent Two-Nation Tensions
This exchange marks the most recent escalation of strains between the two nations. Recently, Trump allegedly met with his top national security advisers to discuss the Venezuelan crisis, though details of that gathering were not made public.
Central Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the offer for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the army.
- Wider Situation: This occurs during a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have offered further information about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual exchange, which is thought to have occurred in late November.
