Frictions with Venezuela Escalate After Reported Final Offer from Donald Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump delivered a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave power – and depart the country – without delay.

According to accounts, the American president allegedly conducted a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged diplomatic offensive that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You have the chance to protect yourself and those closest to you, but you have to exit the country now," the U.S. president allegedly stated, providing guaranteed security for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he agreed to resign right away."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to relinquish power on the spot and is said to have presented a list of conditions, including international legal immunity and being allowed to cede civilian authority while maintaining command of the military.

New Increase in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions

This exchange marks the latest increase of tensions between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly held talks with his leading security officials to deliberate on the Venezuela crisis, though particulars of that gathering have not been revealed.

Central Details from the Reported Exchange

• Demand: Immediate resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a swift exit.
• Conditions: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing authority over the army.
• Broader Context: This takes place within a broader U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to ousting the Venezuelan government.

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." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have offered further information about the matters talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have happened in the latter part of November.