Frictions with Venezuela Escalate Following Alleged Demand from Donald Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Trump issued a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish office – and flee the country – at once.
As stated in accounts, the American president allegedly held a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and those closest to you, but you must leave the country now," Trump allegedly declared, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to resign right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to resign right then and reportedly made a list of requests, such as global immunity from prosecution and the right to cede political control while keeping control of the military.
New Escalation in Ongoing Bilateral Strain
This development marks the latest increase of strains between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly met with his top national security advisers to discuss the Venezuelan issue, though particulars of that gathering have not been made public.
Salient Points from the Reported Exchange
- Final Offer: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the terms for a fast exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This occurs within a broader American pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I can't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided further particulars about the matters talked about during the remarkable dialogue, which is thought to have occurred in late November.
