Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify In the Wake of Alleged Demand from Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave office – and flee the nation – at once.
As stated in accounts, the American president allegedly conducted a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can secure your safety and your family, but you must leave the country immediately," the U.S. president reportedly said, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to resign immediately."
However, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to step down right then and reportedly made a series of conditions, such as global immunity from prosecution and being allowed to cede political control while retaining control of the armed forces.
Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions
This incident marks the latest heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump allegedly held talks with his top security officials to discuss the Venezuela situation, though particulars of that meeting have not been made public.
Central Points from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro did not accept the terms for a fast exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested global amnesty and ongoing control over the army.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a larger American pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as saying, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have offered more particulars about the topics talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which is believed to have occurred in late November.
