Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Rise Following Purported Demand from Trump to Maduro.

Reports suggest that ex-President Donald Trump delivered a blunt message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – and flee the nation – at once.

Per reports, the American president supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has included a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You have the chance to protect yourself and your inner circle, but you need to depart from the nation now," the U.S. president reportedly stated, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to step down immediately."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to relinquish power on the spot and is said to have made a set of conditions, such as international amnesty and being allowed to give up civilian authority while retaining control of the military.

Latest Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions

This incident constitutes the latest escalation of frictions between the two countries. Recently, Trump reportedly convened with his senior foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though particulars of that gathering were not made public.

Salient Elements from the Alleged Exchange

• Ultimatum: Instant resignation and exile for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a swift exit.
• Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the military.
• Wider Situation: This occurs amid a broader American diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.

Upon being asked about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided further details about the topics discussed during the highly unusual exchange, which is believed to have occurred in late November.