Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro is facing rapidly diminishing options for a negotiated exit, after a brief phone call with former US President Donald Trump resulted in the rejection of nearly all his demands, according to multiple sources familiar with the discussion.
The call, made on November 21, followed months of escalating US pressure on Caracas. Washington had intensified operations against alleged drug-smuggling routes in the Caribbean, repeatedly warned of potential military action, and designated the Cartel de los Soles—a group the US claims involves Maduro—as a foreign terrorist organisation.
Maduro’s government has consistently denied the accusations, arguing that the US aims to force regime change to gain access to Venezuela’s extensive oil reserves.
Maduro’s Requests Denied
Sources say Maduro offered to step down and leave Venezuela, but only under substantial conditions. He sought full legal amnesty for himself and his family, removal of all US sanctions, and an end to the International Criminal Court case he faces.
He also pushed for over 100 government officials—many accused of corruption, drug trafficking, or human rights violations—to receive sanctions relief.
Another demand included allowing Vice President Delcy Rodríguez to oversee an interim government until new elections could be held.
Trump reportedly refused most of these requests during the call, which lasted fewer than 15 minutes. However, he did offer Maduro one week to depart Venezuela with his family under safe passage. That deadline expired on Friday, prompting Trump to announce the immediate closure of Venezuelan airspace, sources said.
Silence From Both Governments
While Trump confirmed on Sunday that the conversation took place, he disclosed no further details. The White House avoided additional comment, and Venezuela’s information ministry did not respond to inquiries.
The US continues to reject Maduro’s legitimacy, arguing that his 2023 re-election was fraudulent. Independent observers have maintained that the opposition won the vote decisively.
On Monday, at a public rally, Maduro vowed “absolute loyalty” to the Venezuelan people, showing no sign of stepping aside.
Next Steps Uncertain
Maduro may attempt to revive discussions about safe passage, though US officials say internal disagreements remain over what a negotiated exit could look like.
Washington has also raised the reward for information leading to Maduro’s arrest to US$50 million, alongside US$25 million rewards for several top Venezuelan officials facing US indictments.
Maduro’s administration has requested another call with Trump, according to sources, but it remains unclear whether negotiations will resume or if the window for a peaceful transition has closed.
