Frictions involving Venezuela Escalate In the Wake of Reported Demand from President Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish power – and depart the nation – immediately.
According to reports, the U.S. leader allegedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and your inner circle, but you have to depart from the nation immediately," Trump reportedly stated, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to step down right away."
However, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to step down immediately and is said to have presented a list of counter-demands, including international amnesty and being allowed to cede civilian authority while retaining command of the military.
Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions
This exchange marks the most recent increase of frictions between the two countries. Recently, Trump reportedly held talks with his top security officials to deliberate on the Venezuela situation, though particulars of that gathering were not made public.
Salient Points from the Reported Conversation
- Ultimatum: Immediate resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro supposedly turned down the terms for a rapid exit.
- Conditions: Sought international immunity and ongoing authority over the armed forces.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released further information about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which is believed to have occurred in late November.
