Frictions with Venezuela Rise After Reported Ultimatum from President Trump to Nicolás Maduro.

Sources indicate that ex-President Trump issued a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and exit the country – at once.

According to reports, the American president reportedly held a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You can secure your safety and those closest to you, but you must leave the country now," Trump reportedly said, offering assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."

Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to resign right then and is said to have made a list of conditions, such as international amnesty and being allowed to give up political control while keeping control of the armed forces.

New Escalation in Persistent Bilateral Tensions

This development marks the latest escalation of tensions between the two countries. Recently, Trump allegedly held talks with his senior foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuela situation, though particulars of that meeting have not been disclosed.

Salient Points from the Reported Conversation

• Demand: Immediate departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a fast exit.
• Conditions: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This occurs during a larger U.S.-led pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan government.

When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have released additional information about the subjects discussed during the highly unusual dialogue, which is thought to have taken place in the latter part of November.