President Donald Trump has reportedly issued an ultimatum to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, urging him to leave the country immediately to avoid potential consequences as tensions escalate between the two leaders. According to the Miami Herald, Trump stated that he and Maduro had a conversation in late November, although he did not provide details about the tone or specifics of the exchange.
During a press briefing, Trump described the call as simply a phone conversation, saying, “I wouldn’t say it went well or badly, it was a phone call.” However, sources cited by the Herald disclosed that Trump delivered a direct message to Maduro: “Resign right away.” The U.S. President emphasized that the Venezuelan leader could “save yourself and those closest to you,” but that he needed to leave the country immediately for his safety.
Maduro, however, reportedly rejected this ultimatum. In a counteroffer, he sought “global amnesty” for himself and his associates, a request that was dismissed by Trump. Following this, Maduro allegedly expressed interest in further discussions with Trump, especially after the U.S. president announced a no-fly zone over Venezuela, but received no response from the U.S. administration.
The situation remains tense, with uncertainty surrounding Trump’s intentions regarding military intervention to dismantle Maduro’s government. Trump has previously accused the Venezuelan administration of exacerbating the opioid crisis in the United States by contributing to the influx of fentanyl. In October 2023, he declared a “non-international armed conflict” against drug cartels purportedly linked to Venezuela, resulting in extrajudicial missile strikes on vessels suspected of drug trafficking.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, the implications of Trump’s ultimatum and the U.S. stance on Venezuela could have significant ramifications for both nations and the region as a whole. The international community is closely monitoring developments, particularly in light of concerns raised by organizations such as the UN regarding the humanitarian impact of military actions and political instability in Venezuela.
The situation in Venezuela has drawn widespread attention, with many observers questioning how the U.S. approach will evolve in the coming weeks. As Trump navigates these complex issues, the ramifications of his ultimatum to Maduro will likely influence not only U.S.-Venezuelan relations but also broader regional dynamics.
