Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Escalate After Alleged Ultimatum from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump delivered a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – and flee the nation – immediately.
As stated in reports, the American president allegedly conducted a phone call with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can protect yourself and your inner circle, but you must exit the nation right away," the U.S. president reportedly stated, providing safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to resign right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to step down immediately and is said to have presented a set of counter-demands, including international amnesty and being allowed to cede political control while keeping command of the armed forces.
New Increase in Ongoing Two-Nation Strain
This development constitutes the most recent heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior security officials to review the Venezuelan situation, though specifics of that meeting have not been revealed.
Key Details from the Reported Conversation
- Ultimatum: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro did not accept the terms for a rapid exit.
- Conditions: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued authority over the army.
- Wider Situation: This takes place amid a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as saying, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have provided more particulars about the topics talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which reportedly happened in late November.
