Trump Issues Ultimatum to Maduro as US-Venezuela Tensions Escalate

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark ultimatum to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, urging him to leave the country immediately. A recent report by the Miami Herald revealed that during a phone call, Trump stated, “You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you must leave the country now.” The United States also proposed safe passage for Maduro and his immediate family if he agreed to depart quickly.

However, the Maduro administration rejected these terms, leading to a breakdown of the discussions. While speaking to reporters, Trump acknowledged the call with Maduro but provided little detail. He remarked, “I wouldn’t say it went well or badly,” following a warning about Venezuelan airspace being deemed “closed in its entirety.”

Escalating US-Venezuela Tensions

The phone call, which took place during the week of November 16, faltered when Maduro requested two key guarantees. He sought global amnesty for his actions and the right to maintain control over Venezuela’s armed forces, even if free elections were held. According to the Miami Herald, both demands were swiftly rejected by Washington, which insisted on Maduro’s immediate resignation.

The aftermath of the failed negotiations has seen Trump heightening pressure on Venezuela, hinting that US military operations “by land” may commence soon. Subsequently, he ordered aircraft to avoid Venezuelan airspace, which resulted in no international flights traversing the country. Major airlines altered routes, and some halted services altogether due to a Federal Aviation Administration warning of increased military activity.

Venezuela’s Response and Domestic Implications

In retaliation, the Venezuelan government revoked operating rights for several foreign carriers, accusing the US of “colonial aggression.” Experts in Venezuelan military affairs suggested that Maduro and his inner circle may now face unprecedented threats. The tension continues to rise as the US escalates its naval operations against suspected drug trafficking vessels in the Caribbean.

• Key Events:
  • Trump’s ultimatum to Maduro delivered in a phone call
  • US proposal for safe passage rejected by Venezuela
  • Maduro’s requests for amnesty and control of armed forces denied
  • Heightened military operations announced by the US
• Statistics:
  • Over 100,000 Americans died from drug overdoses last year, linked to fentanyl and cocaine.

US politicians defend the administration’s hardline approach, emphasizing the role of Venezuela in the ongoing drug crisis. Increased maritime operations against drug boats have been initiated, though critics label them as extrajudicial measures. Congressional inquiries are currently exploring the details of a specific military strike near Trinidad, which the Secretary of War has denied ordering.

The situation remains fluid, highlighting the deepening tensions between the US and Venezuela amid ongoing humanitarian and political crises.