Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Rise Following Reported Demand from President Trump to Maduro.
It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump issued a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon power – and depart the nation – at once.
According to accounts, the American president allegedly conducted a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can save yourself and your inner circle, but you have to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president allegedly said, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to step down right then and reportedly made a series of counter-demands, such as worldwide legal immunity and being allowed to give up civilian authority while keeping command of the military.
Latest Escalation in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions
This exchange marks the most recent increase of strains between the two nations. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his senior foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuela issue, though particulars of that meeting have not been made public.
Central Points from the Reported Conversation
- Demand: Instant departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a rapid exit.
- Conditions: Sought global amnesty and continued authority over the military.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a broader U.S.-led pressure campaign aimed at ousting the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have offered further details about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which reportedly occurred in late November.
