Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify After Reported Final Offer from President Trump to Maduro.
Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump issued a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish office – and flee the country – immediately.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader supposedly held a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and your family, but you need to leave the country now," the U.S. president reportedly said, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to resign without delay."
However, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to resign on the spot and reportedly made a set of conditions, including global amnesty and being allowed to give up civilian authority while maintaining control of the armed forces.
Recent Increase in Persistent Two-Nation Strain
This incident constitutes the most recent escalation of tensions between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly held talks with his leading security officials to deliberate on the Venezuela issue, though details of that gathering were not revealed.
Key Points from the Alleged Exchange
- Final Offer: Instant resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Alleged Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a swift exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested international immunity and ongoing control over the military.
- Broader Context: This takes place within a broader U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump was quoted as stating, "I wouldn't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have offered more information about the subjects discussed during the remarkable exchange, which is thought to have happened in the latter part of November.
