Frictions with Venezuela Escalate Following Alleged Demand from Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Sources indicate that ex-President Donald Trump issued a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave the presidency – and depart the nation – at once.
Per reports, the U.S. leader reportedly held a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you need to depart from the nation now," Trump allegedly declared, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to step down right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to resign right then and reportedly presented a list of requests, such as worldwide legal immunity and the right to give up political control while retaining command of the armed forces.
New Increase in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This development represents the latest heightening of tensions between the Washington and Caracas. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly held talks with his senior security officials to review the Venezuela crisis, though specifics of that discussion were not made public.
Key Elements from the Alleged Exchange
- Ultimatum: Immediate departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a fast exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the army.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have offered additional details about the topics talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which reportedly taken place in late November.
