Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Escalate After Reported Demand from Donald Trump to Maduro.

Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump issued a direct message to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: relinquish office – and exit the country – at once.

As stated in accounts, the U.S. leader allegedly held a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a months-long pressure campaign that has included a significant naval deployment off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You can save yourself and your family, but you need to depart from the nation immediately," the U.S. president allegedly declared, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to resign right away."

Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly refused to step down immediately and reportedly presented a series of conditions, such as worldwide legal immunity and the right to give up political control while maintaining control of the military.

Latest Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Tensions

This exchange represents the latest heightening of strains between the Washington and Caracas. Recently, Trump allegedly convened with his leading national security advisers to review the Venezuela situation, though specifics of that gathering have not been made public.

Central Points from the Alleged Conversation

• Ultimatum: Prompt resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Rejection: Maduro did not accept the terms for a swift exit.
• Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued authority over the armed forces.
• Wider Situation: This takes place within a larger U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan administration.

Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided additional information about the subjects talked about during the highly unusual exchange, which is believed to have happened in late November.