Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify In the Wake of Alleged Demand from Trump to Maduro.

Reports suggest that ex-President Trump conveyed a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon power – and depart the nation – at once.

Per accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You can protect yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the nation now," the U.S. president allegedly said, promising guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he agreed to step down without delay."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president allegedly declined to step down right then and reportedly made a set of requests, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and being allowed to cede civilian authority while retaining control of the armed forces.

Recent Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Strain

This exchange marks the latest escalation of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his leading national security advisers to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though details of that meeting were not disclosed.

Central Elements from the Alleged Conversation

• Final Offer: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a fast exit.
• Requests: Reportedly requested global amnesty and continued authority over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This takes place amid a broader American pressure campaign aimed at removing the Venezuelan administration.

Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have released further particulars about the matters talked about during the highly unusual dialogue, which is believed to have happened in late November.