Frictions with Venezuela Intensify Following Alleged Final Offer from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.
Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump issued a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish the presidency – and exit the nation – without delay.
According to reports, the U.S. leader allegedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a sustained diplomatic offensive that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and your family, but you have to exit the country immediately," Trump allegedly stated, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to resign without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to relinquish power immediately and is said to have presented a series of counter-demands, including global legal immunity and being allowed to cede civilian authority while retaining command of the military.
New Escalation in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions
This incident constitutes the latest increase of strains between the two countries. On Monday, Trump allegedly convened with his top national security advisers to review the Venezuelan crisis, though specifics of that meeting have not been made public.
Salient Elements from the Alleged Conversation
- Demand: Prompt resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro did not accept the offer for a swift exit.
- Conditions: Reportedly requested international immunity and ongoing control over the military.
- Broader Context: This occurs amid a broader U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan administration.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have offered further details about the topics discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which is thought to have happened in late November.
