Frictions with Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Alleged Final Offer from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump delivered a blunt message to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the nation – immediately.
Per accounts, the American president allegedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can secure your safety and your family, but you have to leave the country now," the U.S. president allegedly declared, providing assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign immediately."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to relinquish power right then and is said to have presented a list of counter-demands, including international legal immunity and the right to give up civilian authority while keeping control of the armed forces.
Recent Increase in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions
This incident represents the most recent heightening of tensions between the two countries. Recently, Trump reportedly held talks with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuelan crisis, though details of that gathering were not disclosed.
Salient Elements from the Reported Exchange
- Ultimatum: Immediate departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Rejection: Maduro did not accept the offer for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the army.
- Broader Context: This occurs during a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.
When questioned about the conversation, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have offered more details about the topics discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have taken place in late November.
