Frictions with Venezuela Rise After Reported Demand from Donald Trump to Venezuela's Leader.
Sources indicate that ex-President Donald Trump conveyed a unambiguous message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon office – and flee the nation – immediately.
Per accounts, the American president allegedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.
"You have the chance to save yourself and those closest to you, but you need to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president allegedly said, providing safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign right away."
Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly refused to step down on the spot and reportedly made a list of conditions, such as international immunity from prosecution and the right to give up civilian authority while maintaining command of the armed forces.
Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain
This development marks the most recent heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly held talks with his senior foreign policy team to review the Venezuela situation, though details of that gathering were not revealed.
Salient Elements from the Alleged Exchange
- Demand: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
- Reported Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a fast exit.
- Conditions: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued authority over the armed forces.
- Broader Context: This occurs within a wider American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan government.
Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have released additional particulars about the matters discussed during the remarkable exchange, which reportedly occurred in late November.
