Tensions with Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Reported Final Offer from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump conveyed a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon the presidency – and depart the country – immediately.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader supposedly conducted a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can protect yourself and your inner circle, but you need to exit the nation now," the U.S. president allegedly said, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to relinquish power immediately and reportedly made a series of conditions, including global legal immunity and being allowed to cede political control while maintaining command of the military.
New Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Strain
This exchange represents the most recent escalation of tensions between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump allegedly met with his senior security officials to discuss the Venezuela crisis, though details of that discussion were not revealed.
Salient Elements from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Instant resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the terms for a swift exit.
- Conditions: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing authority over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This takes place amid a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have offered further particulars about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which is thought to have occurred in the latter part of November.
