Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump delivered a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon the presidency – and exit the nation – without delay.
Per accounts, the U.S. leader supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long pressure campaign that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You can protect yourself and your inner circle, but you need to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president reportedly said, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he consented to resign without delay."
Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly refused to step down right then and reportedly made a list of requests, such as worldwide amnesty and the right to cede civilian authority while retaining command of the armed forces.
Recent Escalation in Long-Running Two-Nation Tensions
This incident constitutes the latest increase of frictions between the two nations. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his top foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuela issue, though particulars of that gathering were not disclosed.
Central Elements from the Alleged Conversation
- Final Offer: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the terms for a fast exit.
- Conditions: Sought global amnesty and continued control over the military.
- Wider Situation: This takes place within a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan regime.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I wouldn't say it was successful or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have provided more information about the subjects discussed during the remarkable dialogue, which reportedly happened in the latter part of November.
