Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Rise Following Alleged Final Offer from Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump issued a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and depart the country – at once.
According to accounts, the American president allegedly conducted a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and your inner circle, but you must depart from the nation right away," the U.S. president reportedly stated, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to step down without delay."
However, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to relinquish power immediately and reportedly presented a series of counter-demands, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to cede civilian authority while retaining control of the military.
Latest Increase in Ongoing Two-Nation Tensions
This incident represents the latest heightening of tensions between the two nations. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuelan issue, though specifics of that discussion have not been made public.
Central Elements from the Reported Conversation
- Demand: Immediate resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Rejection: Maduro did not accept the terms for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued control over the military.
- Broader Context: This occurs within a broader American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have provided further details about the matters discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have taken place in the latter part of November.
