Tensions involving Venezuela Escalate Following Alleged Ultimatum from President Trump to Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Trump delivered a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave power – and flee the country – at once.
As stated in accounts, the U.S. leader allegedly held a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a major naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can save yourself and your inner circle, but you have to exit the country immediately," Trump reportedly said, providing assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to resign right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to relinquish power on the spot and is said to have presented a series of counter-demands, such as global legal immunity and being allowed to cede political control while retaining control of the armed forces.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions
This incident marks the latest heightening of tensions between the two nations. Recently, Trump allegedly met with his senior national security advisers to discuss the Venezuela situation, though specifics of that meeting have not been made public.
Key Elements from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Instant resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a swift exit.
- Counter-Demands: Sought international immunity and ongoing control over the army.
- Broader Context: This takes place amid a broader U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at ousting the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as saying, "I can't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided further information about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which is thought to have happened in the latter part of November.
