Frictions with Venezuela Escalate After Alleged Demand from Donald Trump to Nicolás Maduro.

It is alleged that ex-President Donald Trump conveyed a unambiguous demand to Venezuelan leader Maduro: abandon power – and depart the nation – at once.

Per accounts, the American president supposedly conducted a telephone conversation with his South American counterpart, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has included a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's Caribbean coast.

"You can save yourself and your family, but you have to exit the nation immediately," the U.S. president allegedly said, offering assured transit for Maduro, his spouse and his son "only if he consented to step down without delay."

However, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to relinquish power immediately and reportedly made a series of conditions, including international amnesty and the right to cede political control while keeping command of the military.

Recent Ratchet-Up in Long-Running Bilateral Strain

This incident constitutes the most recent escalation of strains between the two nations. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior foreign policy team to deliberate on the Venezuelan issue, though particulars of that gathering have not been revealed.

Salient Details from the Alleged Exchange

• Demand: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Declination: Maduro supposedly turned down the offer for a rapid exit.
• Requests: Sought international immunity and ongoing authority over the armed forces.
• Wider Situation: This occurs amid a wider American diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan government.

Upon being asked about the conversation, Trump reportedly saying, "I can't say it went well or poorly, it was a telephone conversation." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have provided further details about the subjects talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which is believed to have taken place in the latter part of November.