Frictions with Venezuela Intensify After Purported Ultimatum from Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Trump conveyed a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon the presidency – and depart the country – immediately.
According to reports, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you need to depart from the nation immediately," the U.S. president allegedly said, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign right away."
However, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to resign on the spot and reportedly made a series of conditions, including global legal immunity and the right to cede political control while keeping command of the armed forces.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Persistent Two-Nation Tensions
This incident marks the most recent escalation of strains between the two nations. On Monday, Trump allegedly held talks with his top national security advisers to review the Venezuela issue, though specifics of that gathering have not been disclosed.
Key Points from the Reported Exchange
- Ultimatum: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro did not accept the terms for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested global amnesty and continued control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This occurs amid a wider U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.
When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have offered additional particulars about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in the latter part of November.