Frictions with Venezuela Rise Following Reported Ultimatum from Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that ex-President Donald Trump delivered a direct message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon office – and depart the nation – immediately.
Per reports, the American president allegedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and those closest to you, but you must depart from the country right away," the U.S. president allegedly declared, offering safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to resign right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to relinquish power immediately and is said to have made a series of requests, such as global amnesty and being allowed to cede political control while keeping command of the military.
New Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Two-Nation Tensions
This development marks the latest increase of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump allegedly held talks with his top foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuelan crisis, though particulars of that discussion have not been made public.
Salient Elements from the Alleged Exchange
- Ultimatum: Instant resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing authority over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This occurs during a larger American diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly stating, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided additional information about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have occurred in the latter part of November.
