Tensions with Venezuela Escalate Following Alleged Demand from Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

Sources indicate that ex-President Trump conveyed a direct message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish the presidency – and exit the nation – without delay.

According to accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You can protect yourself and your family, but you must depart from the nation right away," the U.S. president reportedly said, promising safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign immediately."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to relinquish power right then and is said to have presented a set of conditions, including global immunity from prosecution and being allowed to cede civilian authority while maintaining control of the armed forces.

Recent Escalation in Long-Running Two-Nation Tensions

This exchange constitutes the latest increase of frictions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump allegedly convened with his leading national security advisers to deliberate on the Venezuelan situation, though specifics of that gathering have not been made public.

Central Elements from the Alleged Exchange

• Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro did not accept the terms for a rapid exit.
• Conditions: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This takes place during a larger American diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan government.

When questioned about the conversation, Trump was quoted as saying, "I can't say it was successful or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released additional information about the matters discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have occurred in late November.