Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Intensify Following Purported Ultimatum from President Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the country – at once.
As stated in reports, the U.S. leader reportedly held a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can secure your safety and your inner circle, but you must depart from the country right away," Trump allegedly declared, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he consented to resign immediately."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly refused to relinquish power right then and is said to have made a series of counter-demands, such as global legal immunity and being allowed to cede political control while maintaining command of the military.
New Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Strain
This incident represents the most recent escalation of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump allegedly met with his senior security officials to deliberate on the Venezuela crisis, though details of that gathering were not made public.
Central Details from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a swift exit.
- Requests: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the army.
- Broader Context: This occurs during a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan governments have released further information about the topics discussed during the highly unusual exchange, which is thought to have happened in late November.
