Frictions with Venezuela Escalate In the Wake of Alleged Ultimatum from Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump issued a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave office – and depart the country – at once.
According to reports, the American president supposedly held a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can secure your safety and your family, but you have to depart from the country now," Trump reportedly stated, providing safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to resign immediately."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to step down immediately and reportedly made a set of requests, including international amnesty and being allowed to cede political control while maintaining command of the armed forces.
New Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Strain
This incident constitutes the latest escalation of strains between the two countries. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior foreign policy team to review the Venezuelan issue, though particulars of that discussion were not revealed.
Key Points from the Alleged Conversation
- Ultimatum: Instant resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Sought international immunity and ongoing control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This occurs amid a broader American diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have released additional information about the topics talked about during the remarkable dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in late November.
