Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Rise After Reported Ultimatum from Trump to Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Trump issued a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon power – and depart the country – without delay.
Per reports, the U.S. leader supposedly conducted a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the nation immediately," Trump allegedly declared, offering assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to resign immediately."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to step down immediately and reportedly presented a set of requests, such as international amnesty and the right to give up civilian authority while retaining command of the armed forces.
Latest Escalation in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions
This exchange represents the most recent increase of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly met with his senior security officials to review the Venezuelan issue, though details of that discussion have not been disclosed.
Key Points from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro did not accept the terms for a fast exit.
- Conditions: Sought international immunity and ongoing authority over the army.
- Wider Situation: This occurs within a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan administration.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided more information about the topics talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in the latter part of November.
