A report in The Wall Street Journal says President Donald Trump and Venezuelan ruler Nicolás Maduro discussed last week the possibility of a general pardon for Maduro and several senior regime figures—but only if he agrees to step down from power.
According to the report, Trump made clear that Washington is prepared to offer a safe exit, but not continued protection for the dictatorship.
During the conversation, Trump warned Maduro that if he refuses to leave voluntarily, the US will consider additional measures, including the potential use of force.
The message reflects a rising sense within Washington that Maduro’s continued rule threatens regional stability, fuels mass migration, and strengthens anti-US alliances with Iran, Russia, and China.
