Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Rise After Alleged Demand from Trump to Maduro.

It is alleged that ex-President Trump delivered a unambiguous ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish power – and exit the country – at once.

Per accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged diplomatic offensive that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You have the chance to secure your safety and those closest to you, but you must depart from the country now," the U.S. president reportedly said, offering assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."

However, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to resign immediately and is said to have presented a list of conditions, including international legal immunity and being allowed to give up civilian authority while keeping command of the armed forces.

Latest Ratchet-Up in Persistent Bilateral Tensions

This incident marks the most recent increase of strains between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly met with his top national security advisers to review the Venezuela crisis, though specifics of that meeting have not been revealed.

Salient Details from the Alleged Exchange

• Demand: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a swift exit.
• Counter-Demands: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the military.
• Wider Situation: This occurs within a wider American pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan regime.

When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly stating, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have provided further details about the matters talked about during the remarkable dialogue, which is thought to have happened in late November.