Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Escalate After Reported Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump issued a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and depart the nation – at once.
As stated in accounts, the American president reportedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a substantial deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and your family, but you must exit the country right away," the U.S. president reportedly stated, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to resign without delay."
However, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to resign right then and is said to have presented a set of conditions, including global amnesty and being allowed to cede civilian authority while keeping command of the armed forces.
New Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Two-Nation Tensions
This development marks the most recent heightening of frictions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly met with his senior security officials to review the Venezuela issue, though details of that meeting have not been revealed.
Central Elements from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a fast exit.
- Conditions: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the military.
- Wider Situation: This occurs amid a larger American diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump was quoted as stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have released further particulars about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have taken place in the latter part of November.
