Diplomatic Strains involving Venezuela Rise After Reported Final Offer from President Trump to Maduro.

Sources indicate that formerPresident Trump delivered a blunt ultimatum to Venezuelan leader Maduro: leave the presidency – and flee the country – immediately.

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

"You can protect yourself and your family, but you have to depart from the nation right away," the U.S. president allegedly declared, offering assured transit for Maduro, his wife and his son "only if he agreed to resign without delay."

However, the Venezuelan leader allegedly declined to relinquish power right then and reportedly made a list of counter-demands, including worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to give up civilian authority while keeping command of the military.

Latest Ratchet-Up in Persistent Bilateral Tensions

This exchange constitutes the latest escalation of frictions between the two countries. On Monday, Trump reportedly met with his senior national security advisers to review the Venezuela issue, though specifics of that discussion were not disclosed.

Salient Points from the Alleged Exchange

• Final Offer: Prompt departure from power and departure from the country for Maduro and his immediate family.
• Alleged Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the offer for a rapid exit.
• Requests: Sought international immunity and continued control over the armed forces.
• Wider Situation: This takes place amid a wider U.S.-led diplomatic and military push aimed at removing the Venezuelan government.

Upon being asked about the call, Trump was quoted as stating, "I can't say it went well or badly, it was a phone call." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan administrations have released more information about the matters talked about during the extraordinary dialogue, which reportedly occurred in the latter part of November.