Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Escalate Following Purported Final Offer from Donald Trump to Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Donald Trump issued a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish office – and depart the nation – at once.
According to accounts, the American president supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, 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 secure your safety and your inner circle, but you have to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president allegedly said, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down immediately."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly refused to resign immediately and is said to have presented a list of requests, including worldwide legal immunity and the right to give up political control while keeping control of the armed forces.
Recent Ratchet-Up in Persistent Bilateral Tensions
This development marks the latest heightening of frictions between the two countries. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuela situation, though particulars of that meeting were not made public.
Central Elements from the Reported Exchange
- Final Offer: Instant resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a fast exit.
- Conditions: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued authority over the army.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a wider American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released further details about the matters discussed during the highly unusual exchange, which is thought to have taken place in late November.
