Frictions involving Venezuela Rise After Alleged Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Trump conveyed a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the country – without delay.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader allegedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you need to depart from the country right away," Trump reportedly said, offering assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he agreed to resign without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to relinquish power immediately and reportedly presented a list of counter-demands, including global amnesty and the right to give up civilian authority while keeping control of the military.
Recent Increase in Long-Running Bilateral Strain
This development represents the latest escalation of tensions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly met with his senior national security advisers to discuss the Venezuela crisis, though details of that meeting were not disclosed.
Central Elements from the Reported Exchange
- Demand: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the offer for a rapid exit.
- Conditions: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the army.
- Wider Situation: This occurs during a broader American diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have released further particulars about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which reportedly taken place in late November.
