Frictions involving Venezuela Intensify In the Wake of Alleged Final Offer from Trump to Nicolás Maduro.

It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump conveyed a direct message to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and exit the nation – without delay.

Per reports, the U.S. leader reportedly conducted a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a sustained diplomatic offensive that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You have the chance to protect yourself and your inner circle, but you have to leave the nation now," the U.S. president allegedly said, offering guaranteed security for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he consented to step down immediately."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to step down on the spot and reportedly made a series of requests, including global immunity from prosecution and being allowed to cede political control while retaining command of the military.

Latest Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Strain

This incident represents the latest increase of frictions between the two countries. On Monday, Trump allegedly convened with his top foreign policy team to discuss the Venezuelan situation, though details of that gathering have not been disclosed.

Salient Details from the Alleged Exchange

• Final Offer: Immediate resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro did not accept the terms for a rapid exit.
• Counter-Demands: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and continued control over the military.
• Broader Context: This occurs amid a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan government.

When questioned about the call, Trump reportedly remarking, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have provided more particulars about the subjects discussed during the extraordinary dialogue, which reportedly occurred in the latter part of November.