Diplomatic Strains with Venezuela Escalate Following Purported Demand from Donald Trump to Nicolás Maduro.

It is alleged that formerPresident Donald Trump issued a blunt demand to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro: leave office – and flee the country – at once.

Per accounts, the U.S. leader reportedly held a phone call with his South American opposite number, who is the focus of a months-long diplomatic offensive that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You have the chance to secure your safety and those closest to you, but you must exit the nation right away," the U.S. president reportedly said, offering safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down right away."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan leader reportedly refused to step down immediately and reportedly presented a set of requests, including global legal immunity and being allowed to cede civilian authority while keeping control of the armed forces.

Latest Increase in Long-Running Two-Nation Tensions

This development constitutes the most recent heightening of strains between the two countries. Earlier this week, Trump reportedly convened with his top national security advisers to deliberate on the Venezuela crisis, though specifics of that meeting have not been disclosed.

Salient Points from the Alleged Conversation

• Ultimatum: Instant resignation and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro supposedly turned down the conditions for a swift exit.
• Requests: Reportedly requested protection from prosecution worldwide and ongoing control over the army.
• Wider Situation: This takes place amid a wider American diplomatic and military push aimed at ousting the Venezuelan government.

Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as saying, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Neither the American nor Venezuelan administrations have offered more information about the matters discussed during the extraordinary exchange, which is believed to have occurred in the latter part of November.