Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify After Reported Ultimatum from Trump to Maduro.

It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump issued a unambiguous message to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – and flee the nation – at once.

As stated in reports, the U.S. leader allegedly conducted a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a sustained pressure campaign that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You can save yourself and your family, but you have to leave the nation now," the U.S. president allegedly stated, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to step down without delay."

However, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to resign right then and reportedly made a series of requests, including international immunity from prosecution and the right to cede political control while maintaining control of the military.

New Escalation in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain

This incident constitutes the most recent heightening of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior security officials to deliberate on the Venezuela situation, though particulars of that gathering were not revealed.

Key Details from the Reported Conversation

• Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Rejection: Maduro did not accept the conditions for a rapid exit.
• Conditions: Reportedly requested global amnesty and ongoing authority over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This occurs amid a broader American pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan administration.

When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the American nor Venezuelan governments have released additional information about the subjects discussed during the highly unusual dialogue, which reportedly taken place in late November.