05.01.2026 08:41
Senator Lindsay Graham confirmed the claim regarding Maduro in Turkey that appeared in the U.S. press. Speaking alongside Trump, Graham stated, "Maduro could be in Turkey today, but he is in New York. He shouldn't blame anyone but himself. Trump had offered him an exit." Trump nodded in agreement with Graham's words.
The United States conducted a 2 hour and 20 minute operation to abduct President Nicolas Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, bringing them to New York.
While Maduro and his wife are expected to appear before a judge today, new details regarding the arrest process were brought to light by The New York Times.
CLAIM OF AN ULTIMATUM TO MADURO TO "GO TO TURKEY"
According to a report by The New York Times based on American and Venezuelan sources, the Washington administration issued an ultimatum to Maduro on December 23 to relinquish power and go to Turkey. The report stated that Maduro was offered a "comfortable and secure life" abroad, but the 63-year-old leader rejected this proposal. The newspaper suggested that after the rejection of the offer, President Trump initiated military operations on December 25.
US SENATOR CONFIRMED THE TURKEY CLAIM
While the claim in the US press made a big splash, Senator Lindsay Graham made a statement confirming the news.
"TRUMP HAD OFFERED HIM A WAY OUT"
The senator, who traveled on the same plane as Trump, said, "Maduro could have been in Turkey today, but he is in New York. He should not blame anyone but himself. Trump had offered him a way out."
TRUMP NODDED IN APPROVAL
It did not go unnoticed that Trump, who listened to Senator Graham's words while standing, nodded in agreement regarding the Maduro claim.