Frictions with Venezuela Intensify After Alleged Ultimatum from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
It is alleged that ex-President Trump conveyed a unambiguous message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish the presidency – and depart the country – without delay.
According to reports, the American president allegedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a sustained diplomatic offensive that has included a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can save yourself and your inner circle, but you have to depart from the nation now," Trump allegedly said, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down immediately."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to resign on the spot and reportedly presented a series of counter-demands, including global immunity from prosecution and the right to give up civilian authority while maintaining control of the military.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Tensions
This incident constitutes the most recent increase of tensions between the two nations. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his senior security officials to discuss the Venezuelan situation, though details of that discussion have not been revealed.
Key Points from the Reported Exchange
- Demand: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a swift exit.
- Requests: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and continued authority over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This occurs during a wider American diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided additional particulars about the topics talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which reportedly happened in the latter part of November.
