Venezuela Rejects ‘Slave-Like Peace’ Amid Rising U.S. Military Pressure, Maduro Challenges Trump

Caracas: In the midst of escalating tensions with the United States, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro delivered a defiant message to thousands of supporters in the capital, condemning Washington’s military presence near Venezuelan waters. Maduro asserted that his country will not bow to U.S. pressure and rejected any “slave-like peace.”

Addressing the crowd, Maduro said, “We want peace, but peace with sovereignty, equality, and freedom! We do not want the peace of slaves, nor the peace of occupied colonies.” He pledged unwavering loyalty to the Venezuelan people, reinforcing his stance against foreign attempts to impose political change.

Trump Demands Resignation, Maduro Refuses

According to reports by the Miami Herald, former U.S. President Donald Trump had issued a clear ultimatum to Maduro during a phone call, demanding his immediate resignation in exchange for safety guarantees for him and his family. Maduro reportedly refused the assurances, instead seeking a global pardon, lifting of U.S. sanctions, closure of cases against him in the International Criminal Court, and the ability to retain control over the military even if he steps down. He also requested relief for over 100 Venezuelan officials.

U.S. Tightens Military Pressure

In response, Trump declared Venezuelan airspace fully restricted, and tensions have escalated with no further direct communications between the two leaders. U.S. naval forces in the Caribbean Sea are reportedly preparing for significant operations, targeting suspected drug-carrying vessels—over 80 people have been killed in these actions.

White House Press Secretary Caroline Levin confirmed that Trump would consult national security officials on Venezuela. While she did not rule out a potential ground operation, she emphasized that all options remain on the table.

Maduro described U.S. military maneuvers as part of a larger campaign aimed at removing him from power and seizing Venezuela’s oil reserves. In a letter to OPEC, he accused Washington of attempting to control the country’s vast petroleum resources through military force.