Tensions with Venezuela Escalate In the Wake of Alleged Final Offer from Trump to Maduro.
Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump issued a blunt message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon the presidency – and exit the country – at once.
According to accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly held a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the focus of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you must leave the country immediately," the U.S. president allegedly declared, promising assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to resign right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to relinquish power right then and reportedly presented a list of requests, such as worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to cede political control while maintaining control of the armed forces.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This development constitutes the most recent heightening of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuela crisis, though details of that meeting were not disclosed.
Central Elements from the Reported Exchange
- Final Offer: Instant departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Sought global amnesty and continued authority over the army.
- Broader Context: This takes place during a larger American diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have offered additional particulars about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which reportedly occurred in the latter part of November.
