U.S. Ultimatum to Maduro Amid Rising Tensions

Just before declaring Venezuela’s airspace closed, President Trump reportedly issued a stern ultimatum to President Nicolás Maduro: he needed to leave the country. According to officials, this warning was part of a phone conversation with Caracas, which included an offer for Maduro, his wife, and their son to be evacuated—if he resigned immediately.

The discussions hit a standstill, and soon after, U.S. officials ramped up their rhetoric. A key point of contention was Maduro’s demand for a global amnesty regarding alleged crimes committed by himself and his associates, which was turned down. This led to further tensions as the U.S. insisted on Maduro’s swift resignation, a condition Caracas refused to accept.

As the situation escalated, Trump announced that Venezuela’s airspace would be considered “totally closed.” Reports also indicated that Maduro’s administration attempted to arrange another call with Washington but received no feedback.

Experts believe Maduro and his close advisors may soon face significant threats. Vanessa Newman, a former Venezuelan diplomat, suggested that the operation against Maduro could begin “soon.” She elaborated that closing the airspace is a strong indication that military action might be forthcoming, targeting control and retaliatory infrastructures.

“This isn’t just a random act; the targets have been identified over years of covert operations,” Newman said. While cautioning about the limitations in executing strikes on multiple targets, she noted that Maduro remains at the top of the list.

Despite Trump’s assertion aboard Air Force One that people shouldn’t overinterpret the airspace closure declaration, the warning indicates that the situation is quite precarious for Maduro.

In addition, Newman pointed out that Venezuela’s military has been considerably weakened due to corruption, sanctions, and neglect. Many military assets are outdated, unmaintained, and lack the necessary support.

Before the airspace declaration, the U.S. also labeled the Cartel de los Soles, believed to be tied to the Venezuelan government, as a foreign terrorist group. Newman explained that this cartel has transformed major Venezuelan companies into drug-trafficking operations, using military jets to transport cocaine from Colombia to various destinations, including Europe.

Furthermore, the European Parliament has also voted on a similar designation for the cartel. It is noted that the Cartel de los Soles has connections to Hezbollah and allegedly supports terrorist activities that have harmed American citizens.

Recently, attacks targeting drug smuggling vessels associated with Venezuela have increased in response to the country’s high-profile drug trafficking networks. Newman stressed that the decisions lie primarily with President Trump, who is “mobilizing so many assets” but has been criticized for being “behind the times.”

Her analysis pointed out that even Maduro’s typical backers, such as Russia and Iran, seem to be facing their own issues and may not be able to support him as strongly anymore. Thus, the time may be ripe for change amidst the shifting dynamics in international support.

Finally, Newman identified potential additional targets within Maduro’s inner circle, indicating a serious appetite for action against high-ranking officials involved in governance and military operations.

Widespread discontent aroused by various democratic efforts to remove Maduro suggests the population is eager for a different leadership. Many have voiced their frustrations through peaceful protests and calls for external support, highlighting a stark desire for change.