Trump explains why he posted about closing Venezuela's airspace
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump explained his post about closing the airspace over Venezuela, and it also became known that he spoke by phone with the country’s leader, Nicolás Maduro, according to CNN.
US President Donald Trump told reporters that his warning on social media about Venezuela’s airspace being considered closed should not be interpreted as a sign of an imminent airstrike. He emphasized that nothing extraordinary should be read into that message.
Trump also clarified that the warning was issued because Washington views Venezuela as an unfriendly state.
It additionally became known that Trump had a phone call with Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. Minutes after the US President confirmed the conversation, Maduro made his first public appearance in days, ending speculation in the country about his possible escape.
Tensions between Trump and Venezuela
Trump has repeatedly pledged to confront drug trafficking and cartels, including those operating from Venezuela. During the call with Maduro, he reportedly warned that force could be used if the Venezuelan leader refused to leave office voluntarily.
According to media reports, the two presidents discussed potential amnesty terms for Maduro, his aides, and their families - all of whom are under US sanctions and face criminal proceedings inside Venezuela.
The call came shortly after Trump posted an angry message on social media directed at Maduro.
