Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Intensify After Alleged Ultimatum from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.

Reports suggest that ex-President Trump issued a blunt message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave the presidency – and depart the country – without delay.

Per accounts, the American president reportedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the focus of a sustained pressure campaign that has included a major naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You have the chance to secure your safety and your family, but you must leave the nation immediately," Trump allegedly stated, promising assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down without delay."

Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to step down on the spot and reportedly presented a set of conditions, such as worldwide amnesty and being allowed to give up political control while retaining control of the military.

Latest Escalation in Ongoing Bilateral Strain

This exchange represents the most recent escalation of frictions between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly met with his leading foreign policy team to review the Venezuelan crisis, though specifics of that gathering were not revealed.

Key Points from the Alleged Conversation

• Demand: Instant departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a rapid exit.
• Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested global amnesty and continued control over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This takes place within a larger American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan administration.

Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have released additional information about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have happened in the latter part of November.