Frictions with Venezuela Rise Following Reported Ultimatum from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Sources indicate that ex-President Trump delivered a blunt message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – 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 featured a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and your family, but you need to depart from the country now," Trump reportedly declared, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to resign right away."
However, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to relinquish power on the spot and reportedly made a series of requests, such as international legal immunity and the right to give up civilian authority while maintaining control of the military.
Recent Increase in Persistent Bilateral Tensions
This exchange constitutes the latest increase of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly convened with his leading national security advisers to discuss the Venezuelan situation, though details of that meeting were not disclosed.
Key Points from the Reported Conversation
- Ultimatum: Instant departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Sought global amnesty and continued control over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This occurs during a larger U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have released more information about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have taken place in late November.
