US President Donald Trump on Monday said it would be “smart” for Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to step down, issuing a blunt warning that continued defiance could carry severe and lasting consequences.
Trump made the remarks while speaking to reporters at his Florida residence, where he was asked whether Washington’s recent threats toward Caracas were aimed at bringing an end to Maduro’s 12-year rule.
“That’s up to him, what he wants to do. I think it would be smart for him to do that,” Trump said.
However, the US president cautioned that any attempt by Maduro to project strength or resistance would not be tolerated.
“If he wants to do something — if he plays tough, it’ll be the last time he’s ever able to play tough,” Trump added.
Trump’s comments come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Venezuela, with Washington maintaining pressure on the Maduro administration over governance and democratic concerns.
