Tensions with Venezuela Intensify After Purported Ultimatum from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump delivered a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish the presidency – and flee the nation – without delay.
Per reports, the U.S. leader supposedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a sustained diplomatic offensive that has featured a substantial deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can secure your safety and those closest to you, but you need to leave the nation now," the U.S. president reportedly stated, providing safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to resign immediately."
However, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to relinquish power immediately and is said to have presented a series of conditions, including global immunity from prosecution and being allowed to give up political control while maintaining control of the military.
Recent Increase in Long-Running Bilateral Strain
This development represents the most recent increase of strains between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly convened with his leading national security advisers to deliberate on the Venezuelan crisis, though specifics of that discussion have not been disclosed.
Central Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Immediate resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a fast exit.
- Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested international immunity and ongoing control over the armed forces.
- Broader Context: This occurs within a broader American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have offered more details about the topics discussed during the remarkable dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in late November.
