Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Escalate Following Alleged Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump conveyed a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave the presidency – and exit the nation – immediately.
Per reports, the American president reportedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a sustained pressure campaign that has featured a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the country right away," Trump reportedly declared, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to resign without delay."
However, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to step down right then and reportedly presented a set of conditions, such as worldwide amnesty and the right to cede political control while keeping control of the armed forces.
Latest Increase in Persistent Bilateral Strain
This exchange constitutes the latest escalation of tensions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly met with his senior security officials to review the Venezuela crisis, though specifics of that gathering have not been made public.
Key Points from the Reported Exchange
- Demand: Immediate departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued authority over the military.
- Broader Context: This takes place amid a broader American pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan administration.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided additional details about the topics talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which reportedly taken place in late November.
