Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Escalate In the Wake of Purported Ultimatum from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump conveyed a direct message to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and exit the country – at once.
Per reports, the U.S. leader reportedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can secure your safety and your family, but you need to leave the country now," the U.S. president reportedly declared, promising assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to resign on the spot and is said to have presented a set of requests, including worldwide amnesty and being allowed to cede civilian authority while retaining control of the military.
Recent Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions
This exchange marks the latest heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his top foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuelan issue, though details of that discussion were not made public.
Salient Points from the Reported Conversation
- Ultimatum: Instant departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro did not accept the terms for a swift exit.
- Requests: Sought international immunity and ongoing control over the military.
- Broader Context: This occurs during a larger American pressure campaign aimed at ousting the Venezuelan government.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly stating, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided further particulars about the topics discussed during the remarkable exchange, which reportedly occurred in late November.
