Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Intensify In the Wake of Purported Final Offer from Donald Trump to Maduro.

It is alleged that formerPresident Trump delivered a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave the presidency – and depart the country – immediately.

According to reports, the American president supposedly held a telephone conversation with his Venezuelan counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged diplomatic offensive that has featured a significant deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You can save yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the country immediately," Trump allegedly declared, offering safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."

However, the Venezuelan leader reportedly declined to resign on the spot and reportedly made a set of conditions, including worldwide legal immunity and the right to give up political control while retaining control of the armed forces.

Latest Ratchet-Up in Ongoing Bilateral Tensions

This exchange represents the most recent escalation of strains between the two countries. Recently, Trump allegedly met with his senior security officials to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though details of that discussion have not been revealed.

Key Elements from the Alleged Conversation

• Ultimatum: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro reportedly rejected the terms for a rapid exit.
• Requests: Sought international immunity and continued authority over the army.
• Broader Context: This takes place during a broader American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan government.

When questioned about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it was successful or poorly, it was a phone call." Not one of the American nor Venezuelan governments have provided more information about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary exchange, which is thought to have taken place in late November.