Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify After Alleged Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump issued a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish office – and flee the country – without delay.
According to reports, the U.S. leader supposedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a sustained pressure campaign that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can save yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the country immediately," the U.S. president allegedly said, promising assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down without delay."
However, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to resign on the spot and is said to have presented a set of requests, such as international legal immunity and being allowed to give up political control while retaining command of the armed forces.
Latest Escalation in Persistent Two-Nation Tensions
This incident constitutes the most recent heightening of frictions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly convened with his top national security advisers to review the Venezuelan issue, though particulars of that gathering were not made public.
Key Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a swift exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This takes place during a wider U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have offered further particulars about the subjects discussed during the remarkable exchange, which is believed to have occurred in the latter part of November.
