• Trump issued an ultimatum to Maduro, demanding his immediate departure from Venezuela.
• Maduro rejected U.S. terms, describing the peace offered as a “slave’s peace.”
• The U.S. has increased military presence in the Caribbean amid anti-drug operations.
• Bipartisan concerns arise over the U.S. strategy in Venezuela, with accusations of seeking regime change.

U.S. President Donald Trump delivered a stark ultimatum to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro during a recent phone call, insisting, “You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you must leave the country now.” Reports indicate that Trump offered safe passage for Maduro and his family, contingent on his immediate resignation. However, Venezuela's government rejected these conditions, leading to heightened tensions between the two nations, according to India Times and The Hill.

In a rally attended by thousands in Caracas, Maduro responded to the ultimatum by emphasizing his desire for peace characterized by "sovereignty, equality, freedom," declaring, “We do not want a slave’s peace.” His comments came amidst a significant U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean which the U.S. contends is aimed at combating drug trafficking, while Caracas accuses Washington of pursuing regime change to control its oil resources, reports India Times and Al Jazeera.

After the phone call, during which Trump made clear that U.S. military operations could begin “very soon," the Trump administration mobilized significant military assets near Venezuela, increasing concerns over potential military action. Trump confirmed that he issued strong warnings regarding Venezuelan airspace and raised suspicions about forthcoming air strikes, while asserting that “we consider Venezuela to be not a very friendly country,” according to The Hill and Al Jazeera.

Maduro's government claims that U.S. actions represent a campaign of “psychological terrorism” against Venezuela and has mobilized military units in response to the escalated tensions. The government asserts its readiness to resist impending pressure and military actions from the U.S., indicating a resolve to maintain its sovereignty, as highlighted by Al Jazeera and India Times.

The criticisms regarding the U.S. response to Venezuela's situation have garnered bipartisan attention, with many questioning the efficacy and motivations behind military actions deemed excessive for a drug-related operation. Venezuelan officials have asserted that U.S. designs on the country's resources may be driving the military buildup, leading to calls for accountability and further investigation into the strikes conducted, according to Al Jazeera and India Times.