Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify Following Alleged Final Offer from Donald Trump to Nicolás Maduro.

Reports suggest that ex-President Trump conveyed a direct ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon the presidency – and depart the nation – without delay.

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

"You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you have to leave the country right away," Trump reportedly stated, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to resign immediately."

Nonetheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to resign right then and reportedly presented a list of conditions, such as international amnesty and being allowed to cede civilian authority while maintaining command of the armed forces.

New Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain

This incident represents the most recent heightening of tensions between the two nations. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior security officials to deliberate on the Venezuelan situation, though specifics of that meeting were not disclosed.

Salient Details from the Reported Conversation

• Demand: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a swift exit.
• Counter-Demands: Reportedly requested international immunity and continued authority over the army.
• Broader Context: This occurs amid a wider American diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan regime.

When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly stating, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan administrations have released additional information about the topics discussed during the remarkable exchange, which is thought to have occurred in late November.