Frictions involving Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Alleged Final Offer from Donald Trump to Maduro.
Reports suggest that ex-President Trump conveyed a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon the presidency – and exit the country – without delay.
As stated in accounts, the American president reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a prolonged diplomatic offensive that has featured a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You have the chance to protect yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the country right away," Trump allegedly said, promising safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to resign right away."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to step down on the spot and is said to have presented a series of counter-demands, including worldwide amnesty and the right to cede civilian authority while maintaining control of the military.
Latest Ratchet-Up in Persistent Bilateral Tensions
This development marks the latest escalation of strains between the two countries. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his leading security officials to discuss the Venezuelan crisis, though particulars of that gathering were not revealed.
Salient Details from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Alleged Refusal: Maduro supposedly turned down the terms for a rapid exit.
- Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This occurs amid a broader American pressure campaign aimed at ousting the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly stating, "I can't say it was successful or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have released further details about the topics discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which reportedly happened in late November.
