Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Intensify Following Reported Final Offer from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump conveyed a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish office – and flee the country – immediately.
Per reports, the American president allegedly held a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and those closest to you, but you must leave the country immediately," the U.S. president allegedly declared, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to relinquish power immediately and is said to have presented a series of requests, such as global amnesty and the right to give up civilian authority while keeping control of the armed forces.
New Ratchet-Up in Persistent Bilateral Tensions
This incident marks the latest escalation of tensions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump allegedly convened with his leading foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though specifics of that meeting have not been revealed.
Salient Points from the Alleged Conversation
- Ultimatum: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro did not accept the offer for a fast exit.
- Requests: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the military.
- Broader Context: This takes place within a broader American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan government.
When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided more details about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which is believed to have taken place in late November.