Tensions with Venezuela Rise Following Purported Ultimatum from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

It is alleged that ex-President Trump issued a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave the presidency – and depart the nation – without delay.

According to reports, the American president supposedly held a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You can protect yourself and your family, but you must depart from the country now," the U.S. president allegedly said, promising safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down without delay."

However, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to resign on the spot and reportedly made a set of counter-demands, including international amnesty and the right to cede civilian authority while maintaining control of the military.

New Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Two-Nation Strain

This incident constitutes the most recent heightening of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump allegedly held talks with his top security officials to review the Venezuelan situation, though details of that gathering were not disclosed.

Salient Details from the Alleged Conversation

• Final Offer: Immediate resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Refusal: Maduro did not accept the conditions for a swift exit.
• Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested global amnesty and continued control over the military.
• Broader Context: This takes place amid a wider American pressure campaign designed to ousting the Venezuelan regime.

Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it was successful or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided further particulars about the subjects discussed during the remarkable dialogue, which is thought to have happened in the latter part of November.