Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Purported Ultimatum from Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that ex-President Trump issued a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the country – at once.
Per reports, the American president allegedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can protect yourself and those closest to you, but you need to depart from the nation right away," the U.S. president allegedly declared, providing safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to step down immediately."
However, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to resign on the spot and reportedly presented a list of counter-demands, such as worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to give up political control while retaining control of the armed forces.
New Escalation in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This development constitutes the most recent escalation of tensions between the two nations. Recently, Trump allegedly held talks with his leading foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuelan crisis, though details of that discussion were not revealed.
Key Points from the Reported Conversation
- Demand: Instant departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have offered more details about the matters talked about during the highly unusual exchange, which is thought to have occurred in late November.
