In a shocking development, US President Donald Trump has thrown down the gauntlet to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro during a contentious phone call, bluntly warning, “You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you must leave the country now,” as reported by the Miami Herald. This dramatic ultimatum showcases the escalating tensions between the two leaders over Venezuela's future.

The United States, in what can only be described as a controversial offer, reportedly laid out a plan for safe passage for Maduro, his wife Cilia Flores, and their son, provided they vacate the country immediately. Additional offers extended to Maduro’s allies were swiftly rebuffed by Caracas, leading to the collapse of these high-stakes talks.

Trump, ever the master of ambiguity, confirmed he had communicated with Maduro but declined to divulge specifics, enigmatically stating to the press, “I wouldn’t say it went well or badly.” This noncommittal response came on the heels of Trump's stern warning that Venezuelan airspace should be treated as “closed in its entirety,” reflecting the growing anxiety surrounding military deployments in the Caribbean region and intensifying the already fraught standoff.

The Miami Herald further revealed that negotiations hit a snag when Maduro demanded two sweeping guarantees: global amnesty for himself and his inner circle, and the ability to maintain command of Venezuela's armed forces while permitting free elections. A source privy to the conversation disclosed, “First, Maduro asked for global amnesty for any crimes he and his group had committed, and that was rejected. Second, they asked to retain control of the armed forces … In return, they would allow free elections.” However, Washington swiftly dismissed both demands, insisting that Maduro must resign immediately.

In the aftermath of these failed negotiations, a defense expert has warned that Maduro and his regime are now facing unprecedented peril. As Trump ramped up pressure on Venezuela, he ominously hinted at potential US military operations “by land” that could commence “very soon,” while instructing aircraft to steer clear of Venezuelan airspace.

The fallout was immediate. A FlightRadar24 map revealed a striking absence of international flights over Venezuela, with airlines rerouting to avoid the country and major carriers suspending services following a Federal Aviation Administration alert about “heightened military activity.” In a dramatic retaliation, Venezuela revoked the operating rights of several foreign carriers, accusing the US of “colonial aggression.” The situation continues to unfold, leaving many to question what bold moves might come next in this high-stakes geopolitical chess match.