Tensions with Venezuela Rise In the Wake of Purported Final Offer from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
Sources indicate that ex-President Trump delivered a unambiguous message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish the presidency – and depart the nation – at once.
According to accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the target of a sustained pressure campaign that has included a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.
"You can protect yourself and your family, but you need to exit the country immediately," the U.S. president allegedly declared, offering safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down immediately."
However, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to step down immediately and reportedly presented a list of conditions, including worldwide legal immunity and the right to cede civilian authority while keeping control of the military.
Latest Increase in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions
This exchange constitutes the latest heightening of frictions between the two countries. On Monday, Trump reportedly met with his leading national security advisers to deliberate on the Venezuelan crisis, though specifics of that gathering have not been revealed.
Key Elements from the Reported Conversation
- Final Offer: Immediate resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
- Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a rapid exit.
- Requests: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued control over the armed forces.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan government.
When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided additional details about the topics talked about during the remarkable exchange, which is believed to have occurred in late November.
