Frictions with Venezuela Intensify After Purported Ultimatum from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
It is alleged that ex-President Trump conveyed a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish office – and flee the nation – at once.
Per reports, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a sustained pressure campaign that has featured a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and your family, but you must leave the nation right away," Trump reportedly declared, offering assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to resign immediately."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to relinquish power immediately and reportedly presented a set of conditions, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and being allowed to cede political control while maintaining command of the military.
New Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This development represents the latest increase of tensions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly met with his top foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuela issue, though particulars of that meeting have not been revealed.
Central Details from the Reported Conversation
- Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro did not accept the offer for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested global amnesty and ongoing control over the army.
- Broader Context: This occurs amid a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have released more particulars about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which reportedly taken place in the latter part of November.
