Tensions with Venezuela Escalate Following Purported Demand from Donald Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – and depart the nation – at once.
Per reports, the American president supposedly held a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a sustained pressure campaign that has included a substantial deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and your inner circle, but you have to depart from the country now," Trump allegedly said, offering assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down immediately."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to resign right then and reportedly presented a list of conditions, such as worldwide amnesty and being allowed to give up civilian authority while keeping control of the military.
New Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions
This exchange constitutes the latest heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump allegedly convened with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuelan crisis, though specifics of that discussion have not been revealed.
Salient Details from the Reported Exchange
- Ultimatum: Instant departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a fast exit.
- Requests: Sought global amnesty and continued control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a larger U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at ousting the Venezuelan regime.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have provided further information about the topics discussed during the highly unusual dialogue, which is thought to have occurred in late November.
