Frictions involving Venezuela Escalate After Alleged Final Offer from President Trump to Venezuela's Leader.

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

As stated in accounts, the U.S. leader supposedly held a phone call with his Venezuelan opposite number, who is the target of a prolonged pressure campaign that has featured a major deployment of warships off Venezuela's northern coast.

"You can secure your safety and those closest to you, but you must exit the country now," the U.S. president allegedly stated, promising safe passage for Maduro, his spouse and his son "conditional on he consented to step down without delay."

Nevertheless, the Venezuelan president reportedly refused to resign on the spot and reportedly presented a list of requests, such as worldwide immunity from prosecution and the right to cede civilian authority while retaining command of the armed forces.

Latest Ratchet-Up in Persistent Bilateral Tensions

This exchange marks the latest increase of frictions between the Washington and Caracas. On Monday, Trump reportedly held talks with his senior national security advisers to discuss the Venezuelan crisis, though details of that discussion have not been disclosed.

Central Points from the Alleged Exchange

• Final Offer: Instant resignation and exile for Maduro and his closest relatives.
• Reported Refusal: Maduro reportedly rejected the conditions for a rapid exit.
• Counter-Demands: Sought international immunity and ongoing control over the armed forces.
• Wider Situation: This takes place within a wider U.S.-led diplomatic and military push designed to removing the Venezuelan government.

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." Not one of the U.S. nor Venezuelan governments have released additional particulars about the topics discussed during the remarkable exchange, which is thought to have occurred in the latter part of November.