Tensions with Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Reported Final Offer from President Trump to Maduro.
Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump conveyed a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and depart the country – at once.
Per reports, the U.S. leader allegedly conducted a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and your inner circle, but you need to exit the country now," Trump allegedly stated, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to resign without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to resign right then and is said to have presented a series of counter-demands, including worldwide legal immunity and being allowed to cede civilian authority while maintaining command of the military.
New Escalation in Long-Running Bilateral Strain
This development constitutes the latest increase of tensions between the Washington and Caracas. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly met with his leading security officials to review the Venezuela crisis, though details of that gathering were not revealed.
Key Points from the Reported Conversation
- Demand: Immediate resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and continued authority over the military.
- Broader Context: This occurs during a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have provided additional particulars about the subjects talked about during the remarkable exchange, which is thought to have taken place in late November.
