Frictions involving Venezuela Rise After Alleged Ultimatum from Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Trump conveyed a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the country – without delay.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader allegedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a sustained pressure campaign that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you must leave the nation immediately," Trump allegedly said, promising assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to resign right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to relinquish power immediately and reportedly presented a list of counter-demands, including global legal immunity and being allowed to give up civilian authority while retaining control of the military.
New Increase in Long-Running Bilateral Strain
This development marks the latest increase of tensions between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly convened with his senior foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though details of that discussion were not revealed.
Salient Elements from the Reported Exchange
- Demand: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro did not accept the conditions for a swift exit.
- Conditions: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the armed forces.
- Broader Context: This takes place within a wider American pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.
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 U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have offered additional details about the topics discussed during the highly unusual exchange, which is believed to have happened in the latter part of November.