Frictions involving Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Reported Demand from Donald Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the nation – at once.
According to accounts, the U.S. leader supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and your inner circle, but you have to leave the country now," the U.S. president allegedly stated, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to resign immediately."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to relinquish power right then and is said to have presented a series of conditions, such as worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to cede civilian authority while keeping control of the military.
Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This incident represents the latest increase of frictions between the two countries. Recently, Trump reportedly met with his leading foreign policy team to review the Venezuela situation, though details of that gathering were not made public.
Key Points from the Reported Exchange
- Ultimatum: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a swift exit.
- Counter-Demands: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a larger American pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided more details about the topics talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have happened in the latter part of November.
