Frictions with Venezuela Intensify Following Alleged Ultimatum from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Trump delivered a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon office – and exit the country – without delay.
According to reports, the American president allegedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and your family, but you have to exit the nation now," the U.S. president allegedly declared, offering assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign without delay."
However, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to step down right then and is said to have made a series of requests, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and being allowed to give up political control while maintaining command of the armed forces.
Latest Escalation in Persistent Two-Nation Tensions
This development represents the latest increase of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump allegedly convened with his leading foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuela situation, though details of that discussion were not disclosed.
Key Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Immediate departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Refusal: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a fast exit.
- Conditions: Reportedly requested international immunity and ongoing control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place amid a wider U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided additional details about the topics talked about during the remarkable dialogue, which is believed to have happened in the latter part of November.
