Tensions with Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Alleged Final Offer from Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump issued a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – and flee the country – at once.
According to reports, the American president reportedly conducted a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can save yourself and your family, but you must depart from the nation immediately," Trump allegedly said, promising assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to resign on the spot and is said to have made a list of requests, including international amnesty and being allowed to give up civilian authority while maintaining command of the armed forces.
New Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Two-Nation Tensions
This development marks the latest heightening of tensions between the two countries. Recently, Trump allegedly met with his senior foreign policy team to review the Venezuela issue, though specifics of that gathering have not been revealed.
Central Elements from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Immediate departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Declination: Maduro did not accept the offer for a swift exit.
- Conditions: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the army.
- Broader Context: This occurs amid a larger U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as saying, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have provided more information about the topics discussed during the remarkable exchange, which is thought to have taken place in the latter part of November.
