Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Escalate Following Alleged Demand from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

Reports suggest that formerPresident Trump conveyed a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: relinquish office – and depart the country – immediately.

Per reports, the American president allegedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American opposite number, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a major naval deployment off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You have the chance to secure your safety and your family, but you need to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president reportedly declared, providing safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to resign immediately."

Nonetheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to step down immediately and is said to have made a set of requests, such as worldwide amnesty and being allowed to give up civilian authority while keeping command of the armed forces.

Recent Increase in Long-Running Two-Nation Strain

This exchange represents the most recent increase of frictions between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly held talks with his leading security officials to deliberate on the Venezuelan crisis, though particulars of that meeting have not been made public.

Salient Details from the Reported Conversation

• Demand: Instant resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a rapid exit.
• Conditions: Sought protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the military.
• Broader Context: This occurs during a wider American diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan administration.

Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as remarking, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided more information about the subjects talked about during the remarkable exchange, which reportedly occurred in late November.