Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Escalate Following Reported Ultimatum from President Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that ex-President Trump issued a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon office – and exit the nation – at once.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader 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 Caribbean coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you must exit the nation now," Trump allegedly said, offering assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he consented to resign right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to relinquish power immediately and is said to have presented a series of requests, including international legal immunity and the right to give up political control while keeping command of the military.
Latest Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Strain
This development constitutes the latest heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuelan crisis, though particulars of that gathering have not been revealed.
Key Details from the Alleged Conversation
- Ultimatum: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a fast exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing authority over the army.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released more information about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have taken place in late November.
