Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Escalate After Purported Final Offer from Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
It is alleged that ex-President Trump conveyed a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon the presidency – and flee the country – at once.
According to accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and your inner circle, but you have to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president reportedly declared, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign immediately."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to step down right then and reportedly made a set of requests, including international amnesty and being allowed to cede civilian authority while maintaining command of the military.
Latest Increase in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This incident constitutes the most recent increase of strains between the two nations. On Monday, Trump allegedly held talks with his senior national security advisers to deliberate on the Venezuela issue, though specifics of that discussion were not revealed.
Central Elements from the Reported Exchange
- Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a fast exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place amid a wider U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as stating, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released additional particulars about the topics discussed during the highly unusual exchange, which is thought to have occurred in late November.
