US offer of 'Turkey' to Maduro days before the operation revealed

The New York Times, one of the leading newspapers in the US, claimed that the Trump administration made a remarkable move toward Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on December 23, 2025. The report stated that an ultimatum was delivered to Maduro to hand over power and go to Turkey.

Citing US and Venezuelan sources, the report stated that Maduro was offered a "comfortable and safe life abroad (in Turkey)," but that this offer was not accepted. It was stated that following the rejection, the Washington administration activated the military operation option on December 25, 2025.

WASHINGTON POST HAD ALSO BROUGHT IT TO THE AGENDA

On the other hand, similar allegations had previously appeared in the US press. In a report published at the end of November, The Washington Post wrote that if the pressure on Maduro increased, he might consider leaving his country, and that in such a case, the most likely destination would be Turkey.

Sources speaking to the newspaper who are known to be close to the White House assessed that, "Turkey is a perfect place for him. He trusts Erdoğan; and Erdoğan also has good relations with Trump."

News Source: 12punto