Tensions with Venezuela Intensify In the Wake of Reported Ultimatum from President Trump to Maduro.

It is alleged that ex-President Trump delivered a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave office – and exit the country – without delay.

Per accounts, the American president reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a sustained diplomatic offensive that has featured a substantial naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You can secure your safety and your inner circle, but you need to leave the nation right away," Trump allegedly said, promising safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down right away."

However, the Venezuelan leader allegedly refused to resign right then and is said to have presented a set of conditions, including international legal immunity and being allowed to cede political control while retaining control of the armed forces.

New Escalation in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain

This exchange marks the latest escalation of tensions between the two nations. On Monday, Trump allegedly held talks with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuela crisis, though details of that meeting have not been revealed.

Salient Details from the Reported Exchange

• Ultimatum: Instant resignation and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a swift exit.
• Counter-Demands: Sought global amnesty and continued authority over the military.
• Broader Context: This takes place during a wider U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan administration.

When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have offered additional information about the matters discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have occurred in late November.