Tensions with Venezuela Rise After Reported Ultimatum from Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

Sources indicate that ex-President Trump issued a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon power – and exit the nation – without delay.

Per accounts, the American president supposedly held a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You have the chance to secure your safety and your family, but you need to leave the nation right away," Trump reportedly stated, promising safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to resign immediately."

Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to resign immediately and is said to have presented a series of requests, including international amnesty and the right to give up political control while keeping command of the military.

New Escalation in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions

This development represents the most recent escalation of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump reportedly met with his leading security officials to discuss the Venezuela crisis, though specifics of that meeting have not been made public.

Key Elements from the Alleged Exchange

• Ultimatum: Prompt resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro did not accept the conditions for a swift exit.
• Counter-Demands: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the military.
• Wider Situation: This takes place during a wider American diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan government.

When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly remarking, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have offered further details about the topics talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which reportedly occurred in late November.