&nbsp;Venezuelan lawmakers from small opposition parties on Friday said Juan Guaido should continue as head of Congress in 2020, waiving their option to lead the legislature under an informal agreement to rotate leadership between parties.

The announcement ended speculation of an opposition rift over the 2020 legislative term, which under a 2016 agreement within the opposition would have fallen to a group of 17 small parties.

Guaido in January declared President Nicolas Maduro a usurper and assumed a rival interim presidency that has been recognized by more than 50 countries, and the opposition is keen for him to remain in the post.

"The national interest comes first," Carlos Berrizbeitia, a lawmaker from the small Venezuela Project party, told reporters. "Until the usurpation ends, the president of the National Assembly will be Juan Guaido."

Venezuela's constitution says that in the event of a presidential vacancy, the presidency falls to the head of the National Assembly until a new election is held.

Maduro calls Guaido a US&nbsp;puppet seeking to oust him through a coup and has suggested he may be arrested for treason.

Venezuela's political stalemate comes against the backdrop of a hyperinflationary economic collapse that has fuelled an economic crisis.

More than 4 million citizens have left the country, fleeing shortages of food and medicine, according to the United Nations.

Venezuelan lawmakers from small opposition parties on Friday said Juan Guaido should continue as head of Congress in 2020, waiving their option to lead the legislature under an informal agreement to rotate leadership between parties.

Venezuelan lawmakers from small opposition parties on Friday said Juan Guaido should continue as head of Congress in 2020, waiving their option to lead the legislature under an informal agreement to rotate leadership between parties. The announcement ended speculation of an opposition rift over the 2020 legislative term, which under a 2016 agreement within the opposition would have fallen to a group of 17 small parties. Guaido in January declared President Nicolas Maduro a usurper and assumed a rival interim presidency that has been recognized by more than 50 countries, and the opposition is keen for him to remain in the post. "The national interest comes first," Carlos Berrizbeitia, a lawmaker from the small Venezuela Project party, told reporters. "Until the usurpation ends, the president of the National Assembly will be Juan Guaido." Venezuela's constitution says that in the event of a presidential vacancy, the presidency falls to the head of the National Assembly until a new election is held. Maduro calls Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him through a coup and has suggested he may be arrested for treason. Venezuela's political stalemate comes against the backdrop of a hyperinflationary economic collapse that has fuelled an economic crisis. More than 4 million citizens have left the country, fleeing shortages of food and medicine, according to the United Nations.

Venezuela opposition parties back Guaido as congress chief in 2020

Edgar Fernandez keeps a mariachi suit in a rusty wardrobe at the public hospital in Caracas where he works as a nurse, donning it for performances that augment his meagre salary.

Given that he earns just $10 a month, the money from these shows has been his salvation in crisis-wracked Venezuela, where nurses have been forced to reinvent themselves as home entrepreneurs, security guards or builders just to survive.

Being a nurse in Venezuela is an almost impossible job these days: the country has seen an exodus of the profession, leaving those who remain short of colleagues and contending with problems such as major shortages of medical supplies and devastating electricity blackouts.

"A nurse's salary is worth nothing," Fernandez told AFP, saying the money he earns from a 12-hour shift "can't buy anything."

When a show clashes with his work shift, he has to pay a colleague to cover for him, meaning that his earnings -- which are not always money -- shrink.

"Sometimes they pay me... with flour, lentils... I prefer this to going home empty-handed," said the 40-year-old, who practically lives in the Perez Carreno hospital, sleeping on a dirty mattress since he cannot afford rent.

Decked out in his silver-lined outfit, Fernandez sings in bars and homes, and is even sometimes hired by former patients.

He saved up to record an album, which he peddles to radio stations. His hope is to one day find fame.

Home-made hairspray

Francis Guillen makes hairspray that she sells in Caracas's busy Catia market as she battles, like most Venezuelans, to make ends meet in a country whose inflation will reach a staggering one million per cent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund.

"If I didn't have another job, I don't know what would have become of me," said the 30-year-old nurse, who in a single day selling hairspray can earn the equivalent of her monthly salary.

Sometimes her father, also a nurse, helps her mix the chemicals in a bucket in her front room.

Her husband, who gave up his job as a fireman, also helps out with the business.

Guillen is tempted to resign from her job, but says the desire "to serve" her compatriots is keeping her from joining the 3.3 million people the United Nations estimates have left Venezuela since the start of 2016.

But since June 2018, 15,000 members of her profession -- or around 40 per cent -- quit and many of those emigrated, according to Ana Rosario Contreras, president of the Nurses College of Caracas, which has called for salaries to be paid in dollars to halt the exodus.

'In love' with nursing&nbsp;

By day, Carlos Ruiz works as a security guard for a metallurgy company and also does odd jobs.

The 42-year-old says he does "what's needed to survive."

But despite saving up as much as he can, he hasn't been able to buy a new nurse uniform for the last four years: he needs 10 months of salary for that.

He also has to deal with the scarcity of hospital supplies -- up to 80 per cent in some sectors, according to NGOs -- which President Nicolas Maduro blames on an economic war waged by the United States at the invitation of the opposition.

"There's no lack of those who accuse us of stealing medicines," according to Ruiz, who said he is "in love" with a job that allowed him to be present at the births of his four children.

In some hospitals, a single nurse has to look after up to four patients, something those in the profession decry as "labour persecution."

Working to save lives

Repeated major electricity blackouts have also taken their toll on the medical sector, knocking out power to hospitals -- many of which do not have working generators -- with potentially deadly consequences for patients.

Camilo Torres sells pastries and ice cream in his home in the southern state of Bolivar and goes to work at the local hospital on foot because of the lack of public transport. It takes him two hours.

Facebook photos attest to the toll his struggles have taken on his body: three years ago, he weighed 120 kilograms (264 pounds), but now weighs just 65 (143 pounds).

"I'm skinny and that's due to hunger," said the father of three, who wears broken shoes.

A neighbour helped him sew them up because a new pair costs three times his salary.

He can't even afford socks and his once white uniform looks yellow -- for Torres, detergent is a luxury.

But he won't give up.

"My job is to save lives. If there's no one in the hospital then I'm sure that if today 10 people die, tomorrow it will be 50 and that pain would never leave me," he said.

Edgar Fernandez keeps a mariachi suit in a rusty wardrobe at the public hospital in Caracas where he works as a nurse, donning it for performances that augment his meagre salary.

Edgar Fernandez keeps a mariachi suit in a rusty wardrobe at the public hospital in Caracas where he works as a nurse, donning it for performances that augment his meagre salary. Given that he earns just $10 a month, the money from these shows has been his salvation in crisis-wracked Venezuela, where nurses have been forced to reinvent themselves as home entrepreneurs, security guards or builders just to survive. Being a nurse in Venezuela is an almost impossible job these days: the country has seen an exodus of the profession, leaving those who remain short of colleagues and contending with problems such as major shortages of medical supplies and devastating electricity blackouts. "A nurse's salary is worth nothing," Fernandez told AFP, saying the money he earns from a 12-hour shift "can't buy anything." When a show clashes with his work shift, he has to pay a colleague to cover for him, meaning that his earnings -- which are not always money -- shrink. "Sometimes they pay me... with flour, lentils... I prefer this to going home empty-handed," said the 40-year-old, who practically lives in the Perez Carreno hospital, sleeping on a dirty mattress since he cannot afford rent. Decked out in his silver-lined outfit, Fernandez sings in bars and homes, and is even sometimes hired by former patients. He saved up to record an album, which he peddles to radio stations. His hope is to one day find fame. Home-made hairspray Francis Guillen makes hairspray that she sells in Caracas's busy Catia market as she battles, like most Venezuelans, to make ends meet in a country whose inflation will reach a staggering one million per cent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. "If I didn't have another job, I don't know what would have become of me," said the 30-year-old nurse, who in a single day selling hairspray can earn the equivalent of her monthly salary. Sometimes her father, also a nurse, helps her mix the chemicals in a bucket in her front room. Her husband, who gave up his job as a fireman, also helps out with the business. Guillen is tempted to resign from her job, but says the desire "to serve" her compatriots is keeping her from joining the 3.3 million people the United Nations estimates have left Venezuela since the start of 2016. But since June 2018, 15,000 members of her profession -- or around 40 per cent -- quit and many of those emigrated, according to Ana Rosario Contreras, president of the Nurses College of Caracas, which has called for salaries to be paid in dollars to halt the exodus. 'In love' with nursing By day, Carlos Ruiz works as a security guard for a metallurgy company and also does odd jobs. The 42-year-old says he does "what's needed to survive." But despite saving up as much as he can, he hasn't been able to buy a new nurse uniform for the last four years: he needs 10 months of salary for that. He also has to deal with the scarcity of hospital supplies -- up to 80 per cent in some sectors, according to NGOs -- which President Nicolas Maduro blames on an economic war waged by the United States at the invitation of the opposition. "There's no lack of those who accuse us of stealing medicines," according to Ruiz, who said he is "in love" with a job that allowed him to be present at the births of his four children. In some hospitals, a single nurse has to look after up to four patients, something those in the profession decry as "labour persecution." Working to save lives Repeated major electricity blackouts have also taken their toll on the medical sector, knocking out power to hospitals -- many of which do not have working generators -- with potentially deadly consequences for patients. Camilo Torres sells pastries and ice cream in his home in the southern state of Bolivar and goes to work at the local hospital on foot because of the lack of public transport. It takes him two hours. Facebook photos attest to the toll his struggles have taken on his body: three years ago, he weighed 120 kilograms (264 pounds), but now weighs just 65 (143 pounds). "I'm skinny and that's due to hunger," said the father of three, who wears broken shoes. A neighbour helped him sew them up because a new pair costs three times his salary. He can't even afford socks and his once white uniform looks yellow -- for Torres, detergent is a luxury. But he won't give up. "My job is to save lives. If there's no one in the hospital then I'm sure that if today 10 people die, tomorrow it will be 50 and that pain would never leave me," he said.

Venezuela nurses turn to side jobs to survive economic crisis

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif attended a meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement in Caracas on Saturday (July 20) where he told gathered media that "the government of the United States is isolated." Tensions between Iran and the West ratcheted up on Saturday as Britain denounced the Iranian seizure of a British-flagged oil tanker, rejecting Tehran's explanation that it had seized the vessel on Friday (July 19) because it had been involved in an accident. The event in the global oil trade's most important waterway has been viewed in the West as a major escalation after three months of confrontation that has already taken Iran and the United States to the brink of war. Prior to his travel to Venezuela, Zarif attended a meeting of the U.N. Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) in New York. After Venezuela, he will also travel to Bolivia and Nicaragua. The Non-Aligned Movement is a Cold War-era bloc of some 120 nations that was formed a half-century ago by nations wanting to avoid aligning with the United States or the Soviet Union and which has dwindled in relevance over the years.

"The United States is isolated" - Iran's Zarif at Non-Aligned Movement meeting

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicolas-maduro-optimistic-after-opposition-talks-resume-in-barbados-234229">Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro</a> met with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-set-for-trade-talks-with-us-on-march-6-amid-concern-over-tariffs-201134">European Union's representative</a> to the OPEC nation Enrique Iglesias on Tuesday (July 09) as part of an intensification of diplomatic efforts to seek new elections in the divided nation.

The EU, which leads an international crisis group with South American nations, hopes Iglesias can help find a way to convince Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to allow all political groups in the country to contest a free and fair vote.

The meeting comes after a UN report that accused Maduro's government of pursuing a strategy aimed at "neutralising, repressing and criminalising political opponents and people critical of the government".

President Nicolas Maduro has called for continued Norway-backed talks with the opposition to resolve differences. Guaido has been hesitant to resume talks, lambasting the Venezuelan leader as a "dictator".

Iglesias, a former Uruguayan foreign minister and a former president of the Inter-American Development Bank, is seen by diplomats as having the contacts and know-how to talk to both Maduro and Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, as well as other political groups.

Having met Maduro and Guaido this month, the EU's crisis group that includes Britain, France and Germany also hopes to convince the United States to back a peaceful diplomatic process out of the crisis.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro met with the European Union's representative to the OPEC nation Enrique Iglesias on Tuesday (July 09) as part of an intensification of diplomatic efforts to seek new elections in the divided nation.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro met with the European Union's representative to the OPEC nation Enrique Iglesias on Tuesday (July 09) as part of an intensification of diplomatic efforts to seek new elections in the divided nation. The EU, which leads an international crisis group with South American nations, hopes Iglesias can help find a way to convince Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to allow all political groups in the country to contest a free and fair vote. The meeting comes after a UN report that accused Maduro's government of pursuing a strategy aimed at "neutralising, repressing and criminalising political opponents and people critical of the government". President Nicolas Maduro has called for continued Norway-backed talks with the opposition to resolve differences. Guaido has been hesitant to resume talks, lambasting the Venezuelan leader as a "dictator". Iglesias, a former Uruguayan foreign minister and a former president of the Inter-American Development Bank, is seen by diplomats as having the contacts and know-how to talk to both Maduro and Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, as well as other political groups. Having met Maduro and Guaido this month, the EU's crisis group that includes Britain, France and Germany also hopes to convince the United States to back a peaceful diplomatic process out of the crisis.

Nicolas Maduro meets European Union's special envoy ahead of opposition talks

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-norway-mediation-will-resume-talks-with-maduro-government-in-barbados-guaido-233875">Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro</a> said Monday he was "optimistic" after dialogue between his government and the opposition resumed in Barbados.

The South American nation was plunged into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/news-brief-big-stories-of-the-day-233881">Juan Guaido</a> declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority.

The opposition leader is recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries but has been unable to dislodge Venezuela's socialist leader, who is backed by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-is-behind-georgias-anti-russia-protests-233898">Russia</a>, China, and Cuba.

Delegations from both sides arrived in Barbados Monday morning to revive discussions after a previous round in Norway petered out.

"I am very optimistic... Today they had a five-hour session, and I think that step by step, with strategic patience, we can find a path to peace," Maduro said in a broadcast on the state television channel VTV.

Without giving details, he said that a six-point agenda was being discussed with "the whole country in mind."

"If you work with goodwill and there is no American interventionism, I am sure that we will reach an agreement," said Maduro, who blames the United States for fanning the crisis.

The Barbados talks will be the third round since the Oslo talks in May, although Guaido had originally said last Tuesday there were no plans to re-open talks with Maduro's "murderous dictatorship" following the death of an officer in custody over an alleged coup plot.

The suspicious death of retired naval officer Rafael Acosta Arevalo had sparked international condemnation.

Guido said Sunday he wants the talks to lead them towards Maduro's departure from the presidency he has held since 2013 to a transitional government, and then "free elections with international observers".

Ravaged by crises

Some members of the opposition oppose the Barbados talks, fearing they may reinvigorate Maduro, but Enrique Marquez, vice president of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rule-of-law-in-venezuela-eroded-un-rights-chief-233251">Venezuela</a>'s opposition-controlled National Assembly, said they are the best option.

"A violent solution... could generate a loss of governance even for a new government," he told AFP.

Along with the negotiations in Barbados, Guaido had a closed-door meeting on Monday in the capital Caracas with Enrique Iglesias, the European Union's special advisor for Venezuela.

Afterwards, Iglesias met with Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez.

"Iglesias has confirmed his commitment to the dialogue process," Rodriguez said on Twitter.

Oil-rich Venezuela has been ravaged by five years of recession marked by shortages of food, medicine, and other necessities, and the economic woes have been exacerbated by the political crisis.

Delegations representing the Venezuelan rivals met face-to-face in Oslo for the first time in late May, in a process begun two weeks earlier under Norwegian auspices to find a solution to the nation's multiple crises.

Maduro has repeatedly said that the dialogue will continue with the opposition "for peace in Venezuela."

Guido has called Maduro a "usurper" for staying in power after a 2018 election widely dismissed as a sham.

Meanwhile, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo stressed in a TV interview that military intervention is not the solution to the Venezuelan crisis, and offered his country's assistance in reaching a negotiated solution.

Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro said Monday he was "optimistic" after dialogue between his government and the opposition resumed in Barbados. The South American nation was plunged into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority.

Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro said Monday he was "optimistic" after dialogue between his government and the opposition resumed in Barbados. The South American nation was plunged into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority. The opposition leader is recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries but has been unable to dislodge Venezuela's socialist leader, who is backed by Russia, China, and Cuba. Delegations from both sides arrived in Barbados Monday morning to revive discussions after a previous round in Norway petered out. "I am very optimistic... Today they had a five-hour session, and I think that step by step, with strategic patience, we can find a path to peace," Maduro said in a broadcast on the state television channel VTV. Without giving details, he said that a six-point agenda was being discussed with "the whole country in mind." "If you work with goodwill and there is no American interventionism, I am sure that we will reach an agreement," said Maduro, who blames the United States for fanning the crisis. The Barbados talks will be the third round since the Oslo talks in May, although Guaido had originally said last Tuesday there were no plans to re-open talks with Maduro's "murderous dictatorship" following the death of an officer in custody over an alleged coup plot. The suspicious death of retired naval officer Rafael Acosta Arevalo had sparked international condemnation. Guido said Sunday he wants the talks to lead them towards Maduro's departure from the presidency he has held since 2013 to a transitional government, and then "free elections with international observers". Ravaged by crises Some members of the opposition oppose the Barbados talks, fearing they may reinvigorate Maduro, but Enrique Marquez, vice president of Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly, said they are the best option. "A violent solution... could generate a loss of governance even for a new government," he told AFP. Along with the negotiations in Barbados, Guaido had a closed-door meeting on Monday in the capital Caracas with Enrique Iglesias, the European Union's special advisor for Venezuela. Afterwards, Iglesias met with Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. "Iglesias has confirmed his commitment to the dialogue process," Rodriguez said on Twitter. Oil-rich Venezuela has been ravaged by five years of recession marked by shortages of food, medicine, and other necessities, and the economic woes have been exacerbated by the political crisis. Delegations representing the Venezuelan rivals met face-to-face in Oslo for the first time in late May, in a process begun two weeks earlier under Norwegian auspices to find a solution to the nation's multiple crises. Maduro has repeatedly said that the dialogue will continue with the opposition "for peace in Venezuela." Guido has called Maduro a "usurper" for staying in power after a 2018 election widely dismissed as a sham. Meanwhile, Panamanian President Laurentino Cortizo stressed in a TV interview that military intervention is not the solution to the Venezuelan crisis, and offered his country's assistance in reaching a negotiated solution.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro 'optimistic' after opposition talks resume in Barbados

Venezuela has reopened its border with Brazil and restored maritime and air connections with the island of Aruba after barring entry from those countries for more than two months, Vice President Tareck El Aissami said.

"The borders with Brazil and Aruba have been re-established, but not those with the rest of the countries surrounding our territory, until they end the positions of hostility, of siege, of facilitation of paramilitary groups," he told reporters.

In February, leftist President Nicolas Maduro ordered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-says-intelligence-agents-have-detained-his-deputy-217135">closure of Venezuela's borders</a> with Colombia and Brazil and cut off sea and air links with the nearby Dutch islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao.

The move was aimed at thwarting attempts by supporters of self-proclaimed acting head of state<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-blasts-maduro-over-opposition-crackdown-217494"> Juan Guaido to bring in US</a> aid stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and the ABC Islands.

Guaido, who is backed by Washington, said the aid was needed to address a pressing humanitarian crisis in oil-rich Venezuela.

But Maduro, whose government has accepted help from the International Red Cross and from allies such as a Cuba, China and Russia, denounced the aid initiative as a Trojan horse for a US-led military intervention.

El Aissami, accompanied by Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, said that while Maduro's government has "received from the authorities of Aruba a commitment of respect, of solidarity, of working together," such commitments have not been forthcoming from other countries.

The governor of the northwestern state of Falcon, Victor Clark, has been ordered to "initiate the working committees for the gradual re-establishment of all communication, trade and commercial channels with Aruba," the vice president said.

Before the travel ban, there were 48 flights a week between Aruba and Venezuela, El Aissami said, adding that Caracas would like to see the number of flights surpass the previous level.

"We want to establish fair-trade mechanisms. We want to increase our oil and fuel investments in the Caribbean. We hope that the authorities in the other islands come to their senses and avoid being instruments for aggression against the territory of Venezuela," he said.

Regarding Brazil, Venezuela plans to resume the normal trade in goods and services with the Brazilian border state of Roraima, the vice president said.

El Aissami also extended to Venezuela's neighbours an invitation to "sincere dialogue."

"We won't meddle in the affairs of other countries, but we demand that they leave the Venezuelan people alone. We will solve our problems, as President Maduro has said," the vice president said.

Venezuela has reopened its border with Brazil and restored maritime and air connections with the island of Aruba after barring entry from those countries for more than two months, Vice President Tareck El Aissami said.

Venezuela has reopened its border with Brazil and restored maritime and air connections with the island of Aruba after barring entry from those countries for more than two months, Vice President Tareck El Aissami said. "The borders with Brazil and Aruba have been re-established, but not those with the rest of the countries surrounding our territory, until they end the positions of hostility, of siege, of facilitation of paramilitary groups," he told reporters. In February, leftist President Nicolas Maduro ordered the closure of Venezuela's borders with Colombia and Brazil and cut off sea and air links with the nearby Dutch islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. The move was aimed at thwarting attempts by supporters of self-proclaimed acting head of state Juan Guaido to bring in US aid stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and the ABC Islands. Guaido, who is backed by Washington, said the aid was needed to address a pressing humanitarian crisis in oil-rich Venezuela. But Maduro, whose government has accepted help from the International Red Cross and from allies such as a Cuba, China and Russia, denounced the aid initiative as a Trojan horse for a US-led military intervention. El Aissami, accompanied by Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, said that while Maduro's government has "received from the authorities of Aruba a commitment of respect, of solidarity, of working together," such commitments have not been forthcoming from other countries. The governor of the northwestern state of Falcon, Victor Clark, has been ordered to "initiate the working committees for the gradual re-establishment of all communication, trade and commercial channels with Aruba," the vice president said. Before the travel ban, there were 48 flights a week between Aruba and Venezuela, El Aissami said, adding that Caracas would like to see the number of flights surpass the previous level. "We want to establish fair-trade mechanisms. We want to increase our oil and fuel investments in the Caribbean. We hope that the authorities in the other islands come to their senses and avoid being instruments for aggression against the territory of Venezuela," he said. Regarding Brazil, Venezuela plans to resume the normal trade in goods and services with the Brazilian border state of Roraima, the vice president said. El Aissami also extended to Venezuela's neighbours an invitation to "sincere dialogue." "We won't meddle in the affairs of other countries, but we demand that they leave the Venezuelan people alone. We will solve our problems, as President Maduro has said," the vice president said.

Venezuela re-opens border with Brazil, renews travel links to Aruba

People in Venezuelan capital Caracas expressed anger on Thursday at the arrest of Edgar Zambrano, deputy leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly. Watch this video to know more.

Row over arrest of Guaido's aide

A Venezuelan military helicopter crashed close to Caracas on Saturday morning, killing all seven people on board, the Defense Ministry said in a statement.

The helicopter was to fly from Caracas, the capital, to the west-central state of Cojedes when it "went to ground," the Defence Ministry said, adding that authorities were investigating the cause of the crash.

President Nicolas Maduro was in Cojedes on Saturday to watch a series of army drills, which, in televised speeches, he said demonstrated Venezuela's military readiness against what he called the threat posed by the United States.

Maduro accuses the US government of trying to foment a coup against him by backing opposition leader Juan Guaido, who denounces Maduro as illegitimate and has assumed a rival presidency.

"I profoundly regret this incident and express my heartfelt condolences to their relatives and friends," Maduro said later on Twitter.

A Venezuelan military helicopter crashed close to Caracas on Saturday morning, killing all seven people on board, the Defense Ministry said in a statement. The helicopter was to fly from Caracas, the capital, to the west-central state of Cojedes when it "went to ground," the Defence Ministry said, adding that authorities were investigating the cause of the crash.

A Venezuelan military helicopter crashed close to Caracas on Saturday morning, killing all seven people on board, the Defense Ministry said in a statement. The helicopter was to fly from Caracas, the capital, to the west-central state of Cojedes when it "went to ground," the Defence Ministry said, adding that authorities were investigating the cause of the crash. President Nicolas Maduro was in Cojedes on Saturday to watch a series of army drills, which, in televised speeches, he said demonstrated Venezuela's military readiness against what he called the threat posed by the United States. Maduro accuses the US government of trying to foment a coup against him by backing opposition leader Juan Guaido, who denounces Maduro as illegitimate and has assumed a rival presidency. "I profoundly regret this incident and express my heartfelt condolences to their relatives and friends," Maduro said later on Twitter.

Venezuelan army helicopter crashes near Caracas, killing seven

Security forces used tear gas and water cannon against demonstrators in Caracas amid fresh protests against President Nicolás Maduro. Watch full video to know more.

Venezuela Power Struggle: Protesters clash with security forces

Opposition leader Juan Guaido hailed a victory as the first shipment of humanitarian aid from the Red Cross arrived in the once-prosperous, oil-rich country on Tuesday.

The delivery came after an about-face by President Nicolas Maduro, who last week said his socialist government had reached an agreement with the Red Cross to bring aid. Maduro had blocked previous efforts to deliver assistance and has denied the existence of a humanitarian crisis.

There was little hope that the shipment - intended to help hospitals cope with shortages of equipment and frequent power outages - would be anything more than a palliative measure for Venezuela, where over three million people have fled the chaos of hyperinflation and chronic shortages of food and medicine.

Venezuela was plunged into a political deadlock in January, when Juan Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly invoked the country's constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido hailed a victory as the first shipment of humanitarian aid from the Red Cross arrived in the once-prosperous, oil-rich country on Tuesday.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido hailed a victory as the first shipment of humanitarian aid from the Red Cross arrived in the once-prosperous, oil-rich country on Tuesday. The delivery came after an about-face by President Nicolas Maduro, who last week said his socialist government had reached an agreement with the Red Cross to bring aid. Maduro had blocked previous efforts to deliver assistance and has denied the existence of a humanitarian crisis. There was little hope that the shipment - intended to help hospitals cope with shortages of equipment and frequent power outages - would be anything more than a palliative measure for Venezuela, where over three million people have fled the chaos of hyperinflation and chronic shortages of food and medicine. Venezuela was plunged into a political deadlock in January, when Juan Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly invoked the country's constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate.

Guaido says 'regime has run out of rhetoric' as Red Cross aid arrives in Venezuela

President Nicolas Maduro and his supporters on Saturday celebrated the 10th anniversary of the founding of Venezuela's National Bolivarian Militia by his predecessor, Hugo Chavez.

Maduro celebrates 10th anniversary of militia

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-cuts-workday-extends-school-cancelation-over-blackouts-207070">Nicolas Maduro government</a> on Friday released its schedule for electricity rationing for Venezuela, with the exception of Caracas and three other states, according to which the general public will be without electric power for at least 18 hours per week.

The Electric Energy Ministry and the state-run Corpoelec electricity company designed a schedule dividing 20 of the country's 23 states into five sectors with different rationing schemes with the idea of implementing daily three-hour blackouts six days per week.

According to this plan, on one day per week, each sector will have electricity for the full 24 hours.

The rationing measure specifically excludes the state of Vargas near Caracas where Venezuela's main airport is located, along with the southern state of Amazonas and the northeastern state of Delta Amacuro, border regions far from the capital.

Last Sunday, Maduro announced the launching of the rationing plan slated to last for 30 days but as of Friday, the details of the schedule had not been made public.

The programmed power outages are the government's response to the electricity crisis that has beset the country since March 7, when a series of massive blackouts paralyzed Venezuela for at least 11 days.

The power failures have persisted this past week, particularly in the west, where whole communities have been without electricity for more than 100 hours.

Maduro's leftist government has blamed the United States and Venezuelan opposition for "sabotaging" the power grid claiming that "electromagnetic" attacks and a "long-range" sniper attack have been staged on the main hydroelectric plant and elsewhere.

After the blackouts, the government announced the modernization, intervention in and restructuring of the electric system, which has been managed by the military since 2013, with an eye toward "confronting these attacks" in the future.

The Venezuelan opposition, on the other hand, blames the government for the system's failures, pointing to ineptitude and poor management of the electric sector's resources as the real causes of the outages.

In 2010, the government for the first time decreed a state of emergency in the electric sector and imposed the first electricity rationing, from which it exempted Caracas, which lasted for four months and included cutting power to each citizen for 24 hours per week.

Since then, blackouts have been becoming more frequent, especially in regions like the western state of Zulia, where over the last decade several rationing plans, not to mention unannounced cuts in service, have been implemented.

The Nicolas Maduro government on Friday released its schedule for electricity rationing for Venezuela, with the exception of Caracas and three other states, according to which the general public will be without electric power for at least 18 hours per week.

The Nicolas Maduro government on Friday released its schedule for electricity rationing for Venezuela, with the exception of Caracas and three other states, according to which the general public will be without electric power for at least 18 hours per week. The Electric Energy Ministry and the state-run Corpoelec electricity company designed a schedule dividing 20 of the country's 23 states into five sectors with different rationing schemes with the idea of implementing daily three-hour blackouts six days per week. According to this plan, on one day per week, each sector will have electricity for the full 24 hours. The rationing measure specifically excludes the state of Vargas near Caracas where Venezuela's main airport is located, along with the southern state of Amazonas and the northeastern state of Delta Amacuro, border regions far from the capital. Last Sunday, Maduro announced the launching of the rationing plan slated to last for 30 days but as of Friday, the details of the schedule had not been made public. The programmed power outages are the government's response to the electricity crisis that has beset the country since March 7, when a series of massive blackouts paralyzed Venezuela for at least 11 days. The power failures have persisted this past week, particularly in the west, where whole communities have been without electricity for more than 100 hours. Maduro's leftist government has blamed the United States and Venezuelan opposition for "sabotaging" the power grid claiming that "electromagnetic" attacks and a "long-range" sniper attack have been staged on the main hydroelectric plant and elsewhere. After the blackouts, the government announced the modernization, intervention in and restructuring of the electric system, which has been managed by the military since 2013, with an eye toward "confronting these attacks" in the future. The Venezuelan opposition, on the other hand, blames the government for the system's failures, pointing to ineptitude and poor management of the electric sector's resources as the real causes of the outages. In 2010, the government for the first time decreed a state of emergency in the electric sector and imposed the first electricity rationing, from which it exempted Caracas, which lasted for four months and included cutting power to each citizen for 24 hours per week. Since then, blackouts have been becoming more frequent, especially in regions like the western state of Zulia, where over the last decade several rationing plans, not to mention unannounced cuts in service, have been implemented.

Venezuelan government to cut electricity 18 hours per week

The lines in front of the water spigots are the same for the government-supporting Chavistas and the opposition non-Chavistas.

In the residential districts of Caracas, the tired faces show irritation when people start to talk about who's to blame for the situation that for weeks has mired Venezuela amid a series of power blackouts.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-venezuela-court-calls-to-strip-guaidos-immunity-207309">Also read:&nbsp;Top Venezuela court calls to strip opposition leader Guaido's immunity</a>

Residents of the shantytowns strewn over the hills of the capital look for water from pipes, fountains and abandoned cisterns without regard for their political affiliation, patiently filling containers, decanters or big bottles to take the precious liquid back home with them.

"As far as I'm concerned, we're in resistance because if we were just an agricultural country, none of this would be happening," said Orlando Iturbe, a 47-year-old businessman, standing before some pipes out of which water is running at an abandoned construction site in the capital's downtown.

He repeats the theory that the opposition and the United States are to blame for sabotaging the electricity grid, the story that the Nicolas Maduro regime has pushed to explain why - since March 7 - the country has been experiencing repeated power outages, each lasting several days, that have prevented the electric pumps from sending water through the pipes.

"It's unconventional warfare, which is our modern war if we were a country that didn't have any more crops ... Because we have all kinds of wealth, what happens? The United States wants the whole pie," he said.

Behind him, Pascual Escalona is watching the man with an amazed look on his face until Iturbe starts criticizing the opposition and then he can't contain himself any longer.

"What opposition? The one who has the power here is the government!" he says angrily, sparking an argument in which they wind up berating each other.

Escalona is a retiree from the Graphic Arts who, like Iturbe, lives in La Pastora. He's tired, he says, confirming that these days he only received 18,000 bolivares (about $5) a month from his pension, and that's not enough to buy even a carton of eggs.

"We were happy here. We had a few beers, we messed around, we screwed around and now we're hungry. Look, no light, no telephone, we don't have a damn thing," he said.

"Now, brother? We're looking for water like a bunch of a-holes. This is a real humiliation. They've got us humiliated!" he added.

He said that last night at his house with his two little girls some tear gas drifted in and they inhaled it, evidently fired by the police at protesters somewhere nearby.

Iturbe, who is now the one looking irritated, replies: "OK, so weren't they blocking the streets with barricades?"

And Escalona responds: "Sure, but you have to block (them), you have to protest!"

Not far away, dozens of vehicles are parked along Avenida Baralt, which circles Avila Hill, while hundreds of people scour around tirelessly for water in the streams and drains.

Alexander, a 45-year-old peddler, says that over the past five days he climbed up and down to one of the streams to bring 50 buckets of water home for washing, drinking and cooking.

"What are we going to do? You boil it and you drink it. We're not going to die, man. The homeless drink dirty water and nothing happen to them," he says.

He says that he normally works as a peddler at one of the metro exits, but the metro hasn't had electricity for days and so nobody's riding it and he can't work there. But, nevertheless, he's got to get by.

"Hell, man, I don't know how much more these people can take of this because the truth is that it's a nuisance, it's tough ... Another month? Weren't there protests all over the place yesterday?" he said.

Virgilio Rodriguez, a 62-year-old businessman, lives in a nearby neighbourhood. He began by saying that he's apolitical but he had only been talking for a few seconds when his indignation betrayed him.

"I don't know. I don't get involved in politics. But there's got to be a change here because we can't go on like this," he remarked.

"The people are in need. (The well-off) aren't having any problems and they have everything in their homes. Do you see (former Vice President) Elias Jaua standing in line to look for water or to buy food?" he said.

Nearby, standing in the stream, a man is washing his little daughter with soap. When your reporter identifies himself and asks him why he's here, the man says he doesn't want to talk.

"I don't know whether you guys are with the CIA," he adds.

The lines in front of the water spigots are the same for the government-supporting Chavistas and the opposition non-Chavistas. In the residential districts of Caracas, the tired faces show irritation when people start to talk about who's to blame for the situation that for weeks has mired Venezuela amid a series of power blackouts.

The lines in front of the water spigots are the same for the government-supporting Chavistas and the opposition non-Chavistas. In the residential districts of Caracas, the tired faces show irritation when people start to talk about who's to blame for the situation that for weeks has mired Venezuela amid a series of power blackouts. Also read: Top Venezuela court calls to strip opposition leader Guaido's immunity Residents of the shantytowns strewn over the hills of the capital look for water from pipes, fountains and abandoned cisterns without regard for their political affiliation, patiently filling containers, decanters or big bottles to take the precious liquid back home with them. "As far as I'm concerned, we're in resistance because if we were just an agricultural country, none of this would be happening," said Orlando Iturbe, a 47-year-old businessman, standing before some pipes out of which water is running at an abandoned construction site in the capital's downtown. He repeats the theory that the opposition and the United States are to blame for sabotaging the electricity grid, the story that the Nicolas Maduro regime has pushed to explain why - since March 7 - the country has been experiencing repeated power outages, each lasting several days, that have prevented the electric pumps from sending water through the pipes. "It's unconventional warfare, which is our modern war if we were a country that didn't have any more crops ... Because we have all kinds of wealth, what happens? The United States wants the whole pie," he said. Behind him, Pascual Escalona is watching the man with an amazed look on his face until Iturbe starts criticizing the opposition and then he can't contain himself any longer. "What opposition? The one who has the power here is the government!" he says angrily, sparking an argument in which they wind up berating each other. Escalona is a retiree from the Graphic Arts who, like Iturbe, lives in La Pastora. He's tired, he says, confirming that these days he only received 18,000 bolivares (about $5) a month from his pension, and that's not enough to buy even a carton of eggs. "We were happy here. We had a few beers, we messed around, we screwed around and now we're hungry. Look, no light, no telephone, we don't have a damn thing," he said. "Now, brother? We're looking for water like a bunch of a-holes. This is a real humiliation. They've got us humiliated!" he added. He said that last night at his house with his two little girls some tear gas drifted in and they inhaled it, evidently fired by the police at protesters somewhere nearby. Iturbe, who is now the one looking irritated, replies: "OK, so weren't they blocking the streets with barricades?" And Escalona responds: "Sure, but you have to block (them), you have to protest!" Not far away, dozens of vehicles are parked along Avenida Baralt, which circles Avila Hill, while hundreds of people scour around tirelessly for water in the streams and drains. Alexander, a 45-year-old peddler, says that over the past five days he climbed up and down to one of the streams to bring 50 buckets of water home for washing, drinking and cooking. "What are we going to do? You boil it and you drink it. We're not going to die, man. The homeless drink dirty water and nothing happen to them," he says. He says that he normally works as a peddler at one of the metro exits, but the metro hasn't had electricity for days and so nobody's riding it and he can't work there. But, nevertheless, he's got to get by. "Hell, man, I don't know how much more these people can take of this because the truth is that it's a nuisance, it's tough ... Another month? Weren't there protests all over the place yesterday?" he said. Virgilio Rodriguez, a 62-year-old businessman, lives in a nearby neighbourhood. He began by saying that he's apolitical but he had only been talking for a few seconds when his indignation betrayed him. "I don't know. I don't get involved in politics. But there's got to be a change here because we can't go on like this," he remarked. "The people are in need. (The well-off) aren't having any problems and they have everything in their homes. Do you see (former Vice President) Elias Jaua standing in line to look for water or to buy food?" he said. Nearby, standing in the stream, a man is washing his little daughter with soap. When your reporter identifies himself and asks him why he's here, the man says he doesn't want to talk. "I don't know whether you guys are with the CIA," he adds.

Venezuela: With no water, Caracas residents' patience is drying up

Many regions in Venezuela including some areas in Caracas was hit by new blackout on Monday.

The power cut occurred at 1:28 pm in the capital and the entire city centre was out of electricity.

Shops were closed fearing looters, cellphone signals were also disrupted and television was blanked out.

This comes after weeks of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-government-shuts-schools-suspends-working-day-as-blackout-enters-second-day-202053">previous blackout which started around March 1</a>&nbsp;and lasted for a week. Many were affected during that time, several patients died, public transport came to a halt, water supplies were interrupted, forcing citizens to turn to sewage outflows and polluted water sources.

Few Venezuelans took to Twitter complaining about the blackout.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I had to make a decision today: I could either go to the supermarket to buy food, or wait to see if there was another blackout. I ate something while I was out reporting ... the fridge is still empty ... good call, very bad way of living. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Venezuela?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Venezuela</a>
— Ana Vanessa Herrero (@AnaVHerrero) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnaVHerrero/status/1110363071577575425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Another <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/blackout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#blackout</a> in Venezuela. This is beyond nightmare. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/apagon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#apagon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/valencia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#valencia</a>
— J. Carolina MQ (@jekac_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/jekac_7/status/1110361929812455425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Another countrwide black out. 
 
I'm logging off to conserve battery. Plus who knows how long we'll have a connection.
— Joaco in Venezuela (@JoacoMachado) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoacoMachado/status/1110363903584657408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A Venezuelan newspaper reported that the power was out at Venezuela's main international airport outside Caracas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-accuses-us-of-financing-mercenary-plot-against-him-205158">President Nicolas Maduro</a>'s government blamed the power outage on an ''attack'' which targeted main hydroelectric plant Guri. It supplies power to 80 per cent of Venezuelans.

Many regions in Venezuela including some areas in Caracas was hit by new blackout on Monday. The power cut occurred at 1:28 pm in the capital and the entire city centre was out of electricity.

Many regions in Venezuela including some areas in Caracas was hit by new blackout on Monday. The power cut occurred at 1:28 pm in the capital and the entire city centre was out of electricity. Shops were closed fearing looters, cellphone signals were also disrupted and television was blanked out. This comes after weeks of the previous blackout which started around March 1 and lasted for a week. Many were affected during that time, several patients died, public transport came to a halt, water supplies were interrupted, forcing citizens to turn to sewage outflows and polluted water sources. Few Venezuelans took to Twitter complaining about the blackout. I had to make a decision today: I could either go to the supermarket to buy food, or wait to see if there was another blackout. I ate something while I was out reporting ... the fridge is still empty ... good call, very bad way of living. #Venezuela — Ana Vanessa Herrero (@AnaVHerrero) March 26, 2019 × Another #blackout in Venezuela. This is beyond nightmare. #apagon #valencia — J. Carolina MQ (@jekac_7) March 26, 2019 × Another countrwide black out. I'm logging off to conserve battery. Plus who knows how long we'll have a connection. — Joaco in Venezuela (@JoacoMachado) March 26, 2019 × A Venezuelan newspaper reported that the power was out at Venezuela's main international airport outside Caracas. President Nicolas Maduro's government blamed the power outage on an ''attack'' which targeted main hydroelectric plant Guri. It supplies power to 80 per cent of Venezuelans.

Several regions in Venezuela face new blackout

Vienna waltzes to quality of living win for 10th year

Amid the massive outgoing political and financial <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-not-involved-in-withdrawing-diplomats-from-venezuela-202985">crisis in Venezuela</a>, a highway in the country's capital Caracas, recently turned into one of the most visited sites after it&nbsp;showed the slightest cellphone signal.

Civilians from all around the region moved to the place to connect to their families and friends after days of separation, The Associated Press reported on Wednesday.

Venezuela which is undergoing a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-congress-declares-state-of-alarm-over-blackout-202729">massive blackout</a> in the history of the country has been running out of electricity for many days.

After years of hyperinflation and economic crisis, the country is now living under dark due to the absence of&nbsp;electricity.

The crippling power blackout has also blocked the flow of running water in the country and forced the people to live without any internet or cellphone connectivity.

The crisis has led many people to seek water from places they would never want to take from.&nbsp;

Maduro has blamed a devastating multi-day blackout plaguing Venezuela on Washington and declared "victory" in what he called an "electricity war" triggered by the Pentagon.

He also called for support from allies including Russia and China as well as the United Nations in investigating the US "cyber attack" he said was responsible for the blackout.

While Maduro pointed the finger at Washington, critics have long blamed the government for failing to maintain the power grid.

Guaido, 35, is seeking to capitalise on public anger over the blackout, which has piled misery on a population suffering years of economic crisis and shortages of food and medicine under Maduro.

The youthful opposition chief -- locked in a power struggle with Maduro since declaring himself interim president on January 23 -- has branded the socialist leader a "usurper" over his re-election in May, widely dismissed as neither free nor fair.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the massive outgoing political and financial crisis in Venezuela, a highway in the country's capital Caracas, recently turned into one of the most visited sites after it showed the slightest cellphone signal.

Amid the massive outgoing political and financial crisis in Venezuela, a highway in the country's capital Caracas, recently turned into one of the most visited sites after it showed the slightest cellphone signal. Civilians from all around the region moved to the place to connect to their families and friends after days of separation, The Associated Press reported on Wednesday. Venezuela which is undergoing a massive blackout in the history of the country has been running out of electricity for many days. After years of hyperinflation and economic crisis, the country is now living under dark due to the absence of electricity. The crippling power blackout has also blocked the flow of running water in the country and forced the people to live without any internet or cellphone connectivity. The crisis has led many people to seek water from places they would never want to take from. Maduro has blamed a devastating multi-day blackout plaguing Venezuela on Washington and declared "victory" in what he called an "electricity war" triggered by the Pentagon. He also called for support from allies including Russia and China as well as the United Nations in investigating the US "cyber attack" he said was responsible for the blackout. While Maduro pointed the finger at Washington, critics have long blamed the government for failing to maintain the power grid. Guaido, 35, is seeking to capitalise on public anger over the blackout, which has piled misery on a population suffering years of economic crisis and shortages of food and medicine under Maduro. The youthful opposition chief -- locked in a power struggle with Maduro since declaring himself interim president on January 23 -- has branded the socialist leader a "usurper" over his re-election in May, widely dismissed as neither free nor fair. (With inputs from agencies)

Venezuela blackout: Civilians gather at highway for cellphone signal

Electrical service once again has been restored in parts of Caracas after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-15-dialysis-patients-die-in-venezuelas-blackout-ngo-202260">blackout that began last week</a> affecting more than half the country's states, according to reports from local residents.

Caracas Mayor Erika Farias told Venezuela's Telesur television that electric power has been "progressively" restored starting early Sunday after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-blames-us-weapons-for-massive-blackout-202264">blackout last Thursday</a> - more than 72 hours ago - affected much of the country.

She said that there could still be "fluctuations" in electric power, as have been registered over the past 48 hours in some parts of Venezuela.

However, in the states of Zulia, Aragua, Carabobo, Tachira and at least 11 more of the country's 23 states, residents are still in the dark.

Last Thursday, after the blackout first hit, Electric Energy Minister Luis Motta Dominguez said publicly that the country's main hydroelectric facility - the Guri plant - had been "sabotaged."

In the areas still without electricity, local residents have been reporting on the social networks that their food has begun to spoil.

Venezuela on March 7 experienced a power interruption across most of the national territory starting about 5 pm, although since then there have been intermittent restorations - and subsequent losses - of electricity here and there.

"The National Electricity System has been the target of multiple cybernetic attacks that caused it to go down and have hindered attempts (to establish) ... reconnection. However, we're making great efforts to be able, in the coming hours, to restore stable and definite supply," President Nicolas Maduro said on Twitter.

Meanwhile, Miranda state Gov. Hector Rodriguez told the private Union Radio that workers at the state-run Corpoelec electric power company have been working to reestablish stable service.

Because of the blackout, the water supply has been affected, although potable water has been in scarce supply for years in Venezuela, while communications are still problematic across much of the national territory, including in Caracas.

Many businesses remain closed and the few that are open are requiring customers to pay in cash, which is in short supply in Venezuela.

Long lines have been reported at some gas stations given that the great majority are not functioning due to the lack of electricity for the pumps, and the state-run PDVSA oil company has called on the public to remain "calm," saying that "supply will continue at all stations."

Although this is the largest and longest power blackout Venezuela has experienced, the country has been having electricity interruptions lasting more than 24 hours for the past five years, especially in the western state of Zulia.

Electrical service once again has been restored in parts of Caracas after the blackout that began last week affecting more than half the country's states, according to reports from local residents.

Electrical service once again has been restored in parts of Caracas after the blackout that began last week affecting more than half the country's states, according to reports from local residents. Caracas Mayor Erika Farias told Venezuela's Telesur television that electric power has been "progressively" restored starting early Sunday after the blackout last Thursday - more than 72 hours ago - affected much of the country. She said that there could still be "fluctuations" in electric power, as have been registered over the past 48 hours in some parts of Venezuela. However, in the states of Zulia, Aragua, Carabobo, Tachira and at least 11 more of the country's 23 states, residents are still in the dark. Last Thursday, after the blackout first hit, Electric Energy Minister Luis Motta Dominguez said publicly that the country's main hydroelectric facility - the Guri plant - had been "sabotaged." In the areas still without electricity, local residents have been reporting on the social networks that their food has begun to spoil. Venezuela on March 7 experienced a power interruption across most of the national territory starting about 5 pm, although since then there have been intermittent restorations - and subsequent losses - of electricity here and there. "The National Electricity System has been the target of multiple cybernetic attacks that caused it to go down and have hindered attempts (to establish) ... reconnection. However, we're making great efforts to be able, in the coming hours, to restore stable and definite supply," President Nicolas Maduro said on Twitter. Meanwhile, Miranda state Gov. Hector Rodriguez told the private Union Radio that workers at the state-run Corpoelec electric power company have been working to reestablish stable service. Because of the blackout, the water supply has been affected, although potable water has been in scarce supply for years in Venezuela, while communications are still problematic across much of the national territory, including in Caracas. Many businesses remain closed and the few that are open are requiring customers to pay in cash, which is in short supply in Venezuela. Long lines have been reported at some gas stations given that the great majority are not functioning due to the lack of electricity for the pumps, and the state-run PDVSA oil company has called on the public to remain "calm," saying that "supply will continue at all stations." Although this is the largest and longest power blackout Venezuela has experienced, the country has been having electricity interruptions lasting more than 24 hours for the past five years, especially in the western state of Zulia.

Venezuela: Electricity restored in parts of Caracas after 3-day blackout

An American and his wife held nearly two years in a Venezuelan jail arrived home in the United States Saturday after their release in what Venezuela's leftist government said was a gesture aimed at fostering dialogue with Washington to avert US "aggressions."

"We're home," tweeted United States Senator Bob Corker, whose meeting in Caracas Friday with President Nicolas Maduro paved the way for the release of Joshua Holt and Thamara Caleno.

Utah Senator Orrin Hatch, who led a two-year effort to win the couple's freedom, posted a video of their airport reunion with Holt's parents in Washington.&nbsp

US President Donald Trump said Holt would be received with his family at the White House on Saturday evening.

Hatch praised the "pivotal efforts" of Corker, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations committee, to win Holt and Caleno's freedom.

"Good news about the release of the American hostage from Venezuela," Trump tweeted. "The great people of Utah will be very happy!"

Maduro ordered the couple's release as a "gesture" aimed at promoting dialogue between Caracas and Washington, Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez told reporters in Caracas.

He said it was part of "efforts to maintain a respectful dialogue, diplomatic relations of respect, that permit gates to be opened to avoid the aggressions to which (Venezuela) has been subjected."

He apparently was referring to US sanctions, which Washington has tightened since Maduro was reelected earlier this month in elections that the US rejected as a "sham."

But Vice President Mike pence immediately squelched any suggestion that the sanctions -- which aim to deprive the cash-starved regime of revenue -- would be eased.

"Very glad that Josh Holt is now back home with his family – where he has always belonged. Sanctions continue until democracy returns to Venezuela," Pence said in a tweet.

Marriage, then arrest

Holt, a 26-year-old Mormon missionary from Utah, had traveled to Venezuela in June 2016 to marry Thamara, whom he had met on the internet.

Shortly after they married, however, the couple was arrested by the Venezuelan intelligence service Sebin, and accused of possessing weapons and plotting to destabilize the Maduro government.

Top officials in the Socialist regime labeled Holt a US spy. In December, the Justice Ministry decided to bring the couple to trial, and rejected a petition for his conditional release.

Holt and his wife were being held at a prison in Caracas known as the Helicoide where the Sebin keeps political prisoners.

Earlier this month, he surfaced during a protest by opposition activists jailed in the massive hilltop structure, and appealed for US help in a video posted on Twitter.

"I'm calling on the people of America. I need your help to get me out of this place," Holt said in the video.

He also appeared in a photo taken of a group of prisoners inside the detention center.

A family statement issued by Holt's lawyer in Venezuela, Carlos Trujillo, expressed thanks for "your collaboration during this time of anguish we have been through."

The statement expressed gratitude "to everyone who participated in this miracle."

Sanctions bite

Holt's release comes as Maduro moves to ease tensions that have spiked since the May 20 elections, which were boycotted by most opposition parties and denounced as illegitimate by the US, EU, Canada and at least a dozen Latin American countries.&nbsp

The Trump administration tightened financial sanctions on cash-strapped Venezuela after the vote.

The Venezuelan president then retaliated by giving the two top US diplomats in the country 48 hours to leave, accusing them of conspiring against his government.

On Friday, however, human rights monitors reported the release of 20 activists who had been jailed in the western state of Zulia for protesting against the government.

In taking the oath of office on Thursday, Maduro acknowledged that the sanctions are biting.

"I can't deceive anybody, they are going to create grave difficulties, painful difficulties," he said.

"A profound rectification is needed, things have to be done anew and better. We are not doing things well and we have to change this country."

The Venezuelan economy is in shambles. Hyperinflation is expected to hit 13,000 percent this year and dire shortages of food that have driven hundreds of thousands of citizens to pour into neighboring Colombia and Brazil.

Maduro has blamed the US for his country's woes, but most economists point to years of destructive policies and corruption as well as a period of plunging oil prices.

Venezuela -- once one of Latin America's most prosperous countries -- has the world's largest oil reserves but oil production has fallen sharply in recent years as corruption, disinvestment and the loss of skilled workers take their toll.

An American and his wife held nearly two years in a Venezuelan jail arrived home in the United States Saturday after their release

An American and his wife held nearly two years in a Venezuelan jail arrived home in the United States Saturday after their release in what Venezuela's leftist government said was a gesture aimed at fostering dialogue with Washington to avert US "aggressions." "We're home," tweeted United States Senator Bob Corker, whose meeting in Caracas Friday with President Nicolas Maduro paved the way for the release of Joshua Holt and Thamara Caleno. Utah Senator Orrin Hatch, who led a two-year effort to win the couple's freedom, posted a video of their airport reunion with Holt's parents in Washington. US President Donald Trump said Holt would be received with his family at the White House on Saturday evening. Hatch praised the "pivotal efforts" of Corker, chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations committee, to win Holt and Caleno's freedom. "Good news about the release of the American hostage from Venezuela," Trump tweeted. "The great people of Utah will be very happy!" Maduro ordered the couple's release as a "gesture" aimed at promoting dialogue between Caracas and Washington, Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez told reporters in Caracas. He said it was part of "efforts to maintain a respectful dialogue, diplomatic relations of respect, that permit gates to be opened to avoid the aggressions to which (Venezuela) has been subjected." He apparently was referring to US sanctions, which Washington has tightened since Maduro was reelected earlier this month in elections that the US rejected as a "sham." But Vice President Mike pence immediately squelched any suggestion that the sanctions -- which aim to deprive the cash-starved regime of revenue -- would be eased. "Very glad that Josh Holt is now back home with his family – where he has always belonged. Sanctions continue until democracy returns to Venezuela," Pence said in a tweet. Marriage, then arrest Holt, a 26-year-old Mormon missionary from Utah, had traveled to Venezuela in June 2016 to marry Thamara, whom he had met on the internet. Shortly after they married, however, the couple was arrested by the Venezuelan intelligence service Sebin, and accused of possessing weapons and plotting to destabilize the Maduro government. Top officials in the Socialist regime labeled Holt a US spy. In December, the Justice Ministry decided to bring the couple to trial, and rejected a petition for his conditional release. Holt and his wife were being held at a prison in Caracas known as the Helicoide where the Sebin keeps political prisoners. Earlier this month, he surfaced during a protest by opposition activists jailed in the massive hilltop structure, and appealed for US help in a video posted on Twitter. "I'm calling on the people of America. I need your help to get me out of this place," Holt said in the video. He also appeared in a photo taken of a group of prisoners inside the detention center. A family statement issued by Holt's lawyer in Venezuela, Carlos Trujillo, expressed thanks for "your collaboration during this time of anguish we have been through." The statement expressed gratitude "to everyone who participated in this miracle." Sanctions bite Holt's release comes as Maduro moves to ease tensions that have spiked since the May 20 elections, which were boycotted by most opposition parties and denounced as illegitimate by the US, EU, Canada and at least a dozen Latin American countries. The Trump administration tightened financial sanctions on cash-strapped Venezuela after the vote. The Venezuelan president then retaliated by giving the two top US diplomats in the country 48 hours to leave, accusing them of conspiring against his government. On Friday, however, human rights monitors reported the release of 20 activists who had been jailed in the western state of Zulia for protesting against the government. In taking the oath of office on Thursday, Maduro acknowledged that the sanctions are biting. "I can't deceive anybody, they are going to create grave difficulties, painful difficulties," he said. "A profound rectification is needed, things have to be done anew and better. We are not doing things well and we have to change this country." The Venezuelan economy is in shambles. Hyperinflation is expected to hit 13,000 percent this year and dire shortages of food that have driven hundreds of thousands of citizens to pour into neighboring Colombia and Brazil. Maduro has blamed the US for his country's woes, but most economists point to years of destructive policies and corruption as well as a period of plunging oil prices. Venezuela -- once one of Latin America's most prosperous countries -- has the world's largest oil reserves but oil production has fallen sharply in recent years as corruption, disinvestment and the loss of skilled workers take their toll.

American, wife freed from Venezuela jail arrive in US: Senator

Panama on Thursday ordered Venezuela's ambassador out and recalled its own envoy to the country as Caracas imposed sanctions on senior Panamanian officials and suspended flights in an escalating diplomatic row.

At issue is Panama's alignment with other Latin American countries as well as the European Union, Canada and the United States that have taken measures against President Nicolas Maduro's and his government on the grounds that he is undemocratically tightening his hold on power.

"Panama's government has decided to withdraw its ambassador to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Miguel Mejia, and asks the Venezuelan government to withdraw its ambassador accredited to Panama, Jorge Duran Centeno," the Panamanian foreign ministry said in a statement.

The communique came hours after Venezuela's government news agency AVN announced sanctions on Panama's president and other officials, and on a number of Panamanian companies including its main airline Copa.

Venezuelan aviation authorities also announced that all Copa flights "to and from the country are suspended as of April 6, 2018 as a measure to protect the Venezuelan financial system."

The Venezuelan announcements followed a declaration by Panama this week that it had added President Nicolas Maduro to a list of individuals deemed a "high risk" in terms of money laundering.

Peru meanwhile told Maduro he is not welcome to attend a summit of leaders from across the Americas to be held in Lima next week.&nbsp

That gathering will include US President Donald Trump, who has branded Maduro a "dictator" and taken steps to reduce Venezuela's access to international credit.

Crisis gripping Venezuela

Venezuela is teetering on the brink of default despite sitting atop the biggest oil reserves in the world.&nbsp

Hyperinflation, scarcities of basic food and medicine, and skyrocketing violence are gripping the country, prompting a swelling exodus of its citizens that is increasingly concerning the United Nations.

According to AVN, the sanctions against the Panamanian individuals and companies will result in a suspension "for 90 days (of) economic and financial relations."

In terms of Copa, that could signal significant problems for Venezuela itself.

Panama is the nearest major airline hub to Venezuela, and Copa is the main airline used by passengers in and out of Caracas. Departures from the Venezuelan capital are often booked up weeks or months in advance.

A succession of international airlines have in the past couple of years ended their flights to Venezuela, including Delta, United, Aerolineas Argentinas and Avianca.

The few left flying include Air France, Spain's Iberia, American Airlines and Swiftair from the US, Cubana and Turkish Airlines.

Humberto Figuera, head of the Airlines Association of Venezuela, old AFP ahead of the Copa suspension announcement that such a moved would be "really serious."

"Copa has 35 weekly flights. Venezuela would find itself more isolated, as Copa is an airline with the most connections to destinations on the American continent," he said.

Tit-for-tat sanctions

According to AVN, among the individuals singled out for the Venezuelan sanctions were Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, his vice president, Isabel de Saint Malo, and the minister for the presidency and the minister for the government.

The state news agency said Venezuelan prosecutors called for the sanctions were because of the alleged "recurrent use of the Panamanian financial system by Venezuelan nationals to move money and assets derived from crime against the nation's wealth."

It said such transactions were made possible by the "obscurity" of Panama's financial system.&nbsp

The ability for wealthy people to stash assets through Panamanian companies and law firms has been highlighted in the past couple of years through the "Panama Papers" and "Paradise Papers" scandals.

Under intense international pressure, Panama has recently made moves to bring improved transparency to its financial sector.

The Central American country has at the same time faced pressure from the United States and other Latin American nations to take measures against Maduro and his government.

On Tuesday, De Saint Malo, who is also Panama's foreign minister, announced that the Venezuelan president had been added to a national list of individuals seen as being a "high risk" for money laundering.

She said the move brought the country into line with the European Union, Canada and the United States, which also have hit Maduro and his officials with sanctions.

Venezuela's Supreme Court has called those lists "grotesque" and an assault on the South American country's sovereignty.

Other Venezuelan officials put on Panama's "high risk" list last week include the head of Maduro's Socialist Party, the chief justice of Venezuela's Supreme Court, the head of the electoral council, the chief national prosecutor, and the ministers for education and for culture.

Panama on Thursday ordered Venezuela's ambassador out and recalled its own envoy to the country as Caracas imposed sanctions on senior Panamanian officials and suspended flights in an escalating diplomatic row

Panama on Thursday ordered Venezuela's ambassador out and recalled its own envoy to the country as Caracas imposed sanctions on senior Panamanian officials and suspended flights in an escalating diplomatic row. At issue is Panama's alignment with other Latin American countries as well as the European Union, Canada and the United States that have taken measures against President Nicolas Maduro's and his government on the grounds that he is undemocratically tightening his hold on power. "Panama's government has decided to withdraw its ambassador to the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, Miguel Mejia, and asks the Venezuelan government to withdraw its ambassador accredited to Panama, Jorge Duran Centeno," the Panamanian foreign ministry said in a statement. The communique came hours after Venezuela's government news agency AVN announced sanctions on Panama's president and other officials, and on a number of Panamanian companies including its main airline Copa. Venezuelan aviation authorities also announced that all Copa flights "to and from the country are suspended as of April 6, 2018 as a measure to protect the Venezuelan financial system." The Venezuelan announcements followed a declaration by Panama this week that it had added President Nicolas Maduro to a list of individuals deemed a "high risk" in terms of money laundering. Peru meanwhile told Maduro he is not welcome to attend a summit of leaders from across the Americas to be held in Lima next week. That gathering will include US President Donald Trump, who has branded Maduro a "dictator" and taken steps to reduce Venezuela's access to international credit. Crisis gripping Venezuela Venezuela is teetering on the brink of default despite sitting atop the biggest oil reserves in the world. Hyperinflation, scarcities of basic food and medicine, and skyrocketing violence are gripping the country, prompting a swelling exodus of its citizens that is increasingly concerning the United Nations. According to AVN, the sanctions against the Panamanian individuals and companies will result in a suspension "for 90 days (of) economic and financial relations." In terms of Copa, that could signal significant problems for Venezuela itself. Panama is the nearest major airline hub to Venezuela, and Copa is the main airline used by passengers in and out of Caracas. Departures from the Venezuelan capital are often booked up weeks or months in advance. A succession of international airlines have in the past couple of years ended their flights to Venezuela, including Delta, United, Aerolineas Argentinas and Avianca. The few left flying include Air France, Spain's Iberia, American Airlines and Swiftair from the US, Cubana and Turkish Airlines. Humberto Figuera, head of the Airlines Association of Venezuela, old AFP ahead of the Copa suspension announcement that such a moved would be "really serious." "Copa has 35 weekly flights. Venezuela would find itself more isolated, as Copa is an airline with the most connections to destinations on the American continent," he said. Tit-for-tat sanctions According to AVN, among the individuals singled out for the Venezuelan sanctions were Panamanian President Juan Carlos Varela, his vice president, Isabel de Saint Malo, and the minister for the presidency and the minister for the government. The state news agency said Venezuelan prosecutors called for the sanctions were because of the alleged "recurrent use of the Panamanian financial system by Venezuelan nationals to move money and assets derived from crime against the nation's wealth." It said such transactions were made possible by the "obscurity" of Panama's financial system. The ability for wealthy people to stash assets through Panamanian companies and law firms has been highlighted in the past couple of years through the "Panama Papers" and "Paradise Papers" scandals. Under intense international pressure, Panama has recently made moves to bring improved transparency to its financial sector. The Central American country has at the same time faced pressure from the United States and other Latin American nations to take measures against Maduro and his government. On Tuesday, De Saint Malo, who is also Panama's foreign minister, announced that the Venezuelan president had been added to a national list of individuals seen as being a "high risk" for money laundering. She said the move brought the country into line with the European Union, Canada and the United States, which also have hit Maduro and his officials with sanctions. Venezuela's Supreme Court has called those lists "grotesque" and an assault on the South American country's sovereignty. Other Venezuelan officials put on Panama's "high risk" list last week include the head of Maduro's Socialist Party, the chief justice of Venezuela's Supreme Court, the head of the electoral council, the chief national prosecutor, and the ministers for education and for culture.

Panama orders Venezuela envoy out, Caracas suspends flights

A wave of bloodshed swept Venezuela Sunday as troops cracked down on violent protests against elections to choose the members of a powerful assembly that President Nicolas Maduro has tasked with writing a new constitution.

At least 10 people were killed as protesters attacked polling stations and barricaded streets around the country -- drawing a bloody response from security forces, who opened fire with live ammunition in some cases.

&quot;This is war!&quot; Caracas resident Conchita Ramirez exclaimed on television as she described troops firing at people and buildings in the capital.

The unrest confirmed fears over the vote for a new &quot;Constituent Assembly&quot; called by Maduro in defiance of months of demonstrations and fierce international criticism.

The socialist president is gambling his four-year rule on the 545-member citizens&#39; body that will be empowered to dissolve the opposition-controlled congress and rewrite the constitution.

Nine people were killed overnight and into Sunday, according to prosecutors, bringing the death toll in four months of violence to some 120 people.&nbsp;

Among those killed was a 39-year-old lawyer in the southeastern town of Ciudad Bolivar who was a candidate for the new assembly. He was shot by assailants in his home late Saturday. Prosecutors said the motive was unknown.

Shootings at protests on Sunday killed a 13-year-old and a 17-year-old in the western state of Tachira. A soldier was also shot dead there.

The death toll also included a 30-year-old regional leader of a youth opposition party in the northeast town of Cumana and two protesters in the western state of Merida.

In eastern Caraca, seven police were wounded when an improvised explosive targeted their motorcycle convoy.

National guard troops used armored vehicles, rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse protesters blocking roads in the west of the city.

Soldiers also violently moved against protesters in the second city of Maracaibo, in the west, and Puerto Ordaz in the east.

The opposition had called for a boycott and mass demonstrations against the election, which it called a bid by Maduro to install a dictatorship.

&quot;This constituent assembly is being born in a bloodbath. It is born illegitimate,&quot; said Nicmer Evans, a prominent socialist turned Maduro critic, alleging widespread irregularities.

&nbsp;Maduro vote glitch

Maduro kicked off voting by casting his ballot in a west Caracas polling station.

&quot;I&#39;m the first voter in the country. I ask God for his blessings so the people can freely exercise their democratic right to vote,&quot; the president said. He was accompanied by his wife, Cilia Flores, a candidate for the new assembly.

He got a technological snub when he scanned his ID card at the polling station and the screen spit out the words, &quot;This person does not exist or the ID was cancelled.&quot;

Turnout will be key to determining the legitimacy of the election.&nbsp;

But that will be difficult to ascertain as most voters will be able to vote twice: once by region and once by social or industrial sector.

Voting was extended by an hour, to 7:00 pm (2300 GMT), to accommodate what officials described as long lines, despite reports to the contrary.

According to polling firm Datanalisis, more than 70 percent of Venezuelans opposed the idea of the new assembly -- and 80 percent reject Maduro&#39;s leadership.

Maduro decreed a ban on protests during and after the vote, threatening prison terms of up to 10 years.

But protesters flooded the streets in defiance.

&quot;The people are not going to give up the streets until this awful government goes,&quot; protester Carlos Zambrano, 54, told AFP in western Caracas.

&nbsp;&#39;A sham&#39;&nbsp;

Fear of the violence worsening has rippled across the region, and beyond.&nbsp;

The US, the EU and Latin American powers, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico, have condemned the election.

&quot;Maduro&#39;s sham election is another step toward dictatorship,&quot; tweeted US envoy to the United Nations Nikki Haley.

Britain&#39;s junior foreign minister Alan Duncan also described the vote as a &quot;sham,&quot; as did many experts.

&quot;The vote means the end of any trace of democratic rule. Maduro&#39;s blatant power grab removes any ambiguity about whether Venezuela is a democracy,&quot; said Michael Shifter, head of the Inter-American Dialogue research center.

Several foreign airlines, including Air France, Delta, Avianca and Iberia have suspended flights to Venezuela over security concerns.

The US has ordered the families of its diplomats to leave after imposing sanctions on 13 current and former Venezuela officials.

Maduro, whose term is meant to end in 2019, describes the election as the most important in Venezuelan history.

&quot;I have come to vote to tell the gringos and the opposition that we want peace, not war, and that we support Maduro,&quot; said voter Ana Contreras.

Regional rejection

Colombia, Panama and Peru -- refugees for tens of thousands of Venezuelans fleeing the chaos at home -- have said they will not recognize the results of the election.

The US has suggested further sanctions could follow.

The vote was held to choose members of a powerful assembly that President Maduro has tasked with writing a new constitution

A wave of bloodshed swept Venezuela Sunday as troops cracked down on violent protests against elections to choose the members of a powerful assembly that President Nicolas Maduro has tasked with writing a new constitution. At least 10 people were killed as protesters attacked polling stations and barricaded streets around the country -- drawing a bloody response from security forces, who opened fire with live ammunition in some cases. "This is war!" Caracas resident Conchita Ramirez exclaimed on television as she described troops firing at people and buildings in the capital. The unrest confirmed fears over the vote for a new "Constituent Assembly" called by Maduro in defiance of months of demonstrations and fierce international criticism. The socialist president is gambling his four-year rule on the 545-member citizens' body that will be empowered to dissolve the opposition-controlled congress and rewrite the constitution. Nine people were killed overnight and into Sunday, according to prosecutors, bringing the death toll in four months of violence to some 120 people. Among those killed was a 39-year-old lawyer in the southeastern town of Ciudad Bolivar who was a candidate for the new assembly. He was shot by assailants in his home late Saturday. Prosecutors said the motive was unknown. Shootings at protests on Sunday killed a 13-year-old and a 17-year-old in the western state of Tachira. A soldier was also shot dead there. The death toll also included a 30-year-old regional leader of a youth opposition party in the northeast town of Cumana and two protesters in the western state of Merida. In eastern Caraca, seven police were wounded when an improvised explosive targeted their motorcycle convoy. National guard troops used armored vehicles, rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse protesters blocking roads in the west of the city. Soldiers also violently moved against protesters in the second city of Maracaibo, in the west, and Puerto Ordaz in the east. The opposition had called for a boycott and mass demonstrations against the election, which it called a bid by Maduro to install a dictatorship. "This constituent assembly is being born in a bloodbath. It is born illegitimate," said Nicmer Evans, a prominent socialist turned Maduro critic, alleging widespread irregularities. Maduro vote glitch Maduro kicked off voting by casting his ballot in a west Caracas polling station. "I'm the first voter in the country. I ask God for his blessings so the people can freely exercise their democratic right to vote," the president said. He was accompanied by his wife, Cilia Flores, a candidate for the new assembly. He got a technological snub when he scanned his ID card at the polling station and the screen spit out the words, "This person does not exist or the ID was cancelled." Turnout will be key to determining the legitimacy of the election. But that will be difficult to ascertain as most voters will be able to vote twice: once by region and once by social or industrial sector. Voting was extended by an hour, to 7:00 pm (2300 GMT), to accommodate what officials described as long lines, despite reports to the contrary. According to polling firm Datanalisis, more than 70 percent of Venezuelans opposed the idea of the new assembly -- and 80 percent reject Maduro's leadership. Maduro decreed a ban on protests during and after the vote, threatening prison terms of up to 10 years. But protesters flooded the streets in defiance. "The people are not going to give up the streets until this awful government goes," protester Carlos Zambrano, 54, told AFP in western Caracas. 'A sham' Fear of the violence worsening has rippled across the region, and beyond. The US, the EU and Latin American powers, including Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico, have condemned the election. "Maduro's sham election is another step toward dictatorship," tweeted US envoy to the United Nations Nikki Haley. Britain's junior foreign minister Alan Duncan also described the vote as a "sham," as did many experts. "The vote means the end of any trace of democratic rule. Maduro's blatant power grab removes any ambiguity about whether Venezuela is a democracy," said Michael Shifter, head of the Inter-American Dialogue research center. Several foreign airlines, including Air France, Delta, Avianca and Iberia have suspended flights to Venezuela over security concerns. The US has ordered the families of its diplomats to leave after imposing sanctions on 13 current and former Venezuela officials. Maduro, whose term is meant to end in 2019, describes the election as the most important in Venezuelan history. "I have come to vote to tell the gringos and the opposition that we want peace, not war, and that we support Maduro," said voter Ana Contreras. Regional rejection Colombia, Panama and Peru -- refugees for tens of thousands of Venezuelans fleeing the chaos at home -- have said they will not recognize the results of the election. The US has suggested further sanctions could follow.

Wave of bloodshed sweeps Venezuela after vote

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