Frictions involving Venezuela Intensify After Alleged Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that ex-President Donald Trump issued a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave the presidency – and exit the country – at once.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to secure your safety and your inner circle, but you need to exit the nation immediately," Trump reportedly said, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to resign on the spot and reportedly presented a series of counter-demands, such as international legal immunity and the right to give up political control while keeping command of the armed forces.
New Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Bilateral Strain
This exchange constitutes the latest heightening of frictions between the two nations. On Monday, Trump allegedly met with his top foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuelan crisis, though details of that gathering have not been made public.
Central Points from the Reported Exchange
- Demand: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Sought international immunity and ongoing authority over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place during a wider American pressure campaign aimed at ousting the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan governments have offered additional information about the topics discussed during the remarkable dialogue, which reportedly taken place in the latter part of November.
