President Donald Trump has delivered a stark ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, emphasizing that he could ensure the safety of Maduro and his family if he resigns and leaves Venezuela immediately. This high-stakes communication occurred during a phone call last month, as reported by the Telegraph, amidst escalating tensions between Washington and Caracas.
During the conversation, Maduro allegedly pleaded for terms that would guarantee full legal amnesty for himself and his inner circle. According to Reuters, Trump confirmed the call took place but described it as merely a “phone call,” without indicating whether it was productive. The ultimatum was supported by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who accompanied Trump during the exchange. They assured Maduro of safe passage out of the country, contingent on his immediate resignation.
Days prior to this conversation, the US State Department had classified the Cartel de los Soles, a group reportedly connected to Maduro, as a terrorist organization, further intensifying pressure on the Venezuelan regime.
Maduro’s bargaining attempts were met with swift rejections from Washington. Insiders disclosed to the Miami Herald that Maduro proposed a global amnesty for himself and his allies, a request that was quickly turned down. He also sought to retain control over Venezuela’s armed forces, referencing the political history of Nicaragua in the 1990s. This, too, was rejected by US officials. Ultimately, the negotiations stalled over Trump’s demand for Maduro to resign without delay, alongside his top allies, in order to restore democracy in Venezuela.
Despite assurances of safety for his wife, Cilia Flores, and their son, Maduro refused to accept the terms. As this standoff continues, Trump has scheduled a significant meeting with key Cabinet members for Monday to discuss Venezuela’s situation. Attendees will include Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine, Rubio, and senior advisors.
As tensions escalate, Trump has made alarming comments regarding military operations against Venezuelan drug traffickers. During his Thanksgiving address to US military personnel, he hinted at possible military strikes on Venezuelan territory. On Saturday, he declared Venezuelan airspace “closed in its entirety,” a move that raised concerns among airlines and added pressure on Maduro’s government.
In a combative post on Truth Social, Trump stated: “To all Airlines, Pilots, Drug Dealers, and Human Traffickers, please consider THE AIRSPACE ABOVE AND SURROUNDING VENEZUELA TO BE CLOSED IN ITS ENTIRETY.” This unilateral announcement sparked outrage from the Venezuelan government, which labeled it a “colonialist threat.”
Following Trump’s announcement regarding airspace, Maduro attempted to initiate a second phone call with the White House, but his efforts were met with silence. Venezuela officially condemned Trump’s directive, asserting it violated their sovereignty.
As the confrontation continues to unfold, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, uncertain whether Maduro will capitulate to increasing pressure or cling to power amid growing global dissent. The outcome of this standoff could significantly impact Venezuela’s political landscape and its relationship with the United States.
