Tensions with Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Purported Ultimatum from Donald Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump issued a blunt message to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave office – and depart the nation – without delay.
Per accounts, the American president supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can protect yourself and your inner circle, but you need to depart from the country right away," the U.S. president allegedly said, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to resign right then and is said to have made a set of counter-demands, including global amnesty and being allowed to cede civilian authority while maintaining command of the armed forces.
Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This incident represents the most recent heightening of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump allegedly held talks with his top foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though specifics of that meeting were not disclosed.
Salient Points from the Reported Conversation
- Ultimatum: Prompt resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro did not accept the terms for a swift exit.
- Requests: Sought global amnesty and continued control over the army.
- Wider Situation: This occurs during a broader U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan government.
When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have offered additional information about the topics talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which reportedly taken place in the latter part of November.
