Tensions with Venezuela Rise After Alleged Final Offer from Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump delivered a direct demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: abandon the presidency – and flee the nation – at once.

Per accounts, the U.S. leader allegedly conducted a phone call with his South American counterpart, who is the focus of a sustained pressure campaign that has featured a substantial deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You can save yourself and those closest to you, but you have to depart from the country now," the U.S. president reportedly said, providing safe passage for Maduro, his wife and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."

However, the Venezuelan president reportedly declined to relinquish power on the spot and is said to have presented a series of requests, including global immunity from prosecution and the right to give up political control while maintaining control of the armed forces.

New Escalation in Ongoing Two-Nation Strain

This incident constitutes the most recent escalation of strains between the two nations. On Monday, Trump reportedly convened with his leading security officials to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though details of that discussion were not disclosed.

Central Elements from the Reported Conversation

• Demand: Prompt resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a rapid exit.
• Counter-Demands: Sought global amnesty and continued authority over the armed forces.
• Broader Context: This takes place within a broader American pressure campaign designed to removing the Venezuelan regime.

When questioned about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I wouldn't say it went well or badly, it was a telephone conversation." Neither the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have released additional information about the subjects discussed during the remarkable dialogue, which reportedly happened in the latter part of November.