Tensions with Venezuela Intensify In the Wake of Alleged Demand from Trump to Maduro.

Sources indicate that formerPresident Donald Trump issued a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish office – and depart the nation – without delay.

Per reports, the American president allegedly conducted a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a sustained pressure campaign that has included a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You have the chance to save yourself and those closest to you, but you have to exit the nation right away," the U.S. president reportedly declared, promising assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to resign without delay."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to relinquish power right then and is said to have presented a set of requests, including global amnesty and being allowed to give up political control while retaining control of the military.

Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions

This development constitutes the most recent escalation of frictions between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly met with his top foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuela crisis, though particulars of that meeting were not revealed.

Central Details from the Alleged Conversation

• Demand: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Refusal: Maduro supposedly turned down the terms for a rapid exit.
• Requests: Reportedly requested global amnesty and continued authority over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This takes place amid a larger U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.

When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the American nor Venezuelan governments have released more particulars about the subjects discussed during the remarkable dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in late November.