The United States imposed sanctions Wednesday on five Iranian ship captains who delivered oil to Venezuela, as Washington ratcheted up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, whose government it considers illegitimate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-who-warns-possible-lack-of-oxygen-as-cases-near-10-million-308449" hreflang="en">COVID 19: WHO warns possible lack of oxygen as cases near 10 million</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the Iranian-flagged oil tankers, which delivered some 1.5 million barrels of gasoline and oil to Venezuela in recent weeks, had been placed on the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blacklist.

"Mariners who do business with Iran and Venezuela will face consequences from the United States of America," Pompeo said.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza responded on Twitter, calling the move "more proof of the hatred by (US President Donald) Trump's hawks against Venezuela".

"As a result of today's sanctions, these captains' assets will be blocked. Their careers and prospects will suffer from this designation," Pompeo said.

"The rogue regimes in Caracas and Tehran are unified by their penchant for repressing their people, corruption, self-enrichment, and gross mismanagement of their people's wealth," Pompeo added.

Iran said the latest sanctions showed the US campaign against it was failing.

"US desperate moves against Iranian individuals... just signal the miserable failure of the so-called 'max pressure'," foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi tweeted.

"Despite US pressure, #Iran &amp; #Venezuela remain steadfast in countering unlawful American sanctions," he added.

The move came as Venezuela accused the United States Wednesday of "an act of provocation" after a US warship steamed close to the South American country's territorial waters the previous day.

The vessel sailed in an area that "the illegitimate Maduro regime falsely claims to have control over," the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said in a statement.

The United States imposed sanctions Wednesday on five Iranian ship captains who delivered oil to Venezuela, as Washington ratcheted up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, whose government it considers illegitimate.

The United States imposed sanctions Wednesday on five Iranian ship captains who delivered oil to Venezuela, as Washington ratcheted up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro, whose government it considers illegitimate. Also read: COVID 19: WHO warns possible lack of oxygen as cases near 10 million US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the Iranian-flagged oil tankers, which delivered some 1.5 million barrels of gasoline and oil to Venezuela in recent weeks, had been placed on the US Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) blacklist. "Mariners who do business with Iran and Venezuela will face consequences from the United States of America," Pompeo said. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza responded on Twitter, calling the move "more proof of the hatred by (US President Donald) Trump's hawks against Venezuela". "As a result of today's sanctions, these captains' assets will be blocked. Their careers and prospects will suffer from this designation," Pompeo said. "The rogue regimes in Caracas and Tehran are unified by their penchant for repressing their people, corruption, self-enrichment, and gross mismanagement of their people's wealth," Pompeo added. Iran said the latest sanctions showed the US campaign against it was failing. "US desperate moves against Iranian individuals... just signal the miserable failure of the so-called 'max pressure'," foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi tweeted. "Despite US pressure, #Iran & #Venezuela remain steadfast in countering unlawful American sanctions," he added. The move came as Venezuela accused the United States Wednesday of "an act of provocation" after a US warship steamed close to the South American country's territorial waters the previous day. The vessel sailed in an area that "the illegitimate Maduro regime falsely claims to have control over," the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) said in a statement.

US sanctions five Iranian ship captains over Venezuela oil delivery

An Iranian oil tanker docked in a Venezuela port today after entering its waters on Saturday night, escorted by the Venezuelan navy.

A second tanker - the Forest is also being escorted by the Venezuelan Navy as authorities said five tankers were set to arrive in the country in the next few days.

The development is being keenly watched by US authorities amid growing Venezeula-Iran ties in South America as Maduro's regime battles US sanctions.

Venezuelan oil minister Tareck El Aissami had earlier said "The ships of the sister Islamic Republic of Iran are in our exclusive economic zone."

Reports said the tankers were carrying &nbsp;1.5 million barrels of gasoline. Iran had earlier warned of "consequences" if the Trump administration stopped the ships with Venezuela reeling with gasoline shortages.

"We're ready for whatever, whenever," President Nicolas Maduro told state-run media as he announced that the tankers would be escorted by the country's Navy and Air Force.

The National Security Council of the United States had earlier said that "the importation of Iranian gasoline is an act of desperation by the corrupt and illegitimate Maduro regime."

"It will not stop Venezuela’s chronic fuel shortages or alleviate the suffering that Maduro has inflicted on the once prosperous people of his country," it said.

An Iranian oil tanker docked in a Venezuela port today after entering its waters on Saturday night, escorted by the Venezuelan navy. A second tanker - the Forest is also being escorted by the Venezuelan Navy as authorities said five tankers were set to arrive in the country in the next few days.

An Iranian oil tanker docked in a Venezuela port today after entering its waters on Saturday night, escorted by the Venezuelan navy. A second tanker - the Forest is also being escorted by the Venezuelan Navy as authorities said five tankers were set to arrive in the country in the next few days. The development is being keenly watched by US authorities amid growing Venezeula-Iran ties in South America as Maduro's regime battles US sanctions. Venezuelan oil minister Tareck El Aissami had earlier said "The ships of the sister Islamic Republic of Iran are in our exclusive economic zone." Reports said the tankers were carrying 1.5 million barrels of gasoline. Iran had earlier warned of "consequences" if the Trump administration stopped the ships with Venezuela reeling with gasoline shortages. "We're ready for whatever, whenever," President Nicolas Maduro told state-run media as he announced that the tankers would be escorted by the country's Navy and Air Force. The National Security Council of the United States had earlier said that "the importation of Iranian gasoline is an act of desperation by the corrupt and illegitimate Maduro regime." "It will not stop Venezuela’s chronic fuel shortages or alleviate the suffering that Maduro has inflicted on the once prosperous people of his country," it said.

Iran oil tanker docks in Venezuela port as US monitors shipment

Venezuelan state television broadcast on Wednesday (May 6) a video of captured American Luke Denman, in which he said he was instructed to seize control of Caracas' airport and bring in a plane to fly President Nicolas Maduro to the United States.

Venezuela state TV airs confession video of alleged American mercenary

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido on Wednesday defended foreign sanctions against his country 24 hours after he was attacked at Caracas international airport by state airline employees calling him a fascist.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido on Wednesday defended foreign sanctions against his country 24 hours after he was attacked at Caracas international airport by state airline employees calling him a fascist. Guaido returned on Tuesday from a three-week international tour that took him to the US, Canada, Colombia and Europe. He was met by some angry Conviasa workers enraged that last Friday the US placed sanctions on the state airline company. The US action criminalizing transactions with the flag carrier is the latest of many sanctions by Washington aimed at toppling leftist President Nicolas Maduro's regime, particularly by cutting his government's oil revenue. One protester appeared to douse Guaido with a fizzy drink. But speaking to journalists after a legislative session held in a Caracas plaza, the National Assembly speaker defended the use of sanctions. Guaido's uncle Juan Marquez, who vanished after flying back with him, had been arrested, top Maduro ally Diosdado Cabello said, accusing him of smuggling explosives. Also Read: Venezuela's Guaido calls for more protests against Maduro On his state television programme, Cabello said Marquez was detained for allegedly carrying C-4 explosives hidden inside flashlights and perfume refills, and was wearing a bulletproof vest. Guaido had denounced the "disappearance" of his uncle at the airport and said he would hold Maduro responsible for whatever happened to him. More sanctions for criminals Maduro retains the support of Venezuela's powerful military and has resisted Guaido's challenge, even as the United States ramps up the pressure. For the second time in less than a year, Guaido flouted a travel ban imposed by Maduro's regime to meet with allies around the world, including US President Donald Trump. Guaido sprang to prominence in January 2019 when he declared himself the country's acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro. He derived such authority from his position as the speaker of the National Assembly after the legislature declared Maduro's 2018 re-election invalid following a poll widely denounced as rigged. Lawmakers called Maduro a "usurper" while more than 50 countries recognized Guaido as interim president. He retained his Assembly post last month despite a standoff in which troops stopped him from entering the legislature. Watch: Donald Trump calls Juan Guaido as true President of Venezuela Although it sits on the world's largest proven oil reserves, Venezuela's economy has collapsed under Maduro's leadership and the country has suffered five years of recession. The UN says more than 4.5 million people have left the country due to its crisis while inflation is the highest in the world, according to the International Monetary Fund. Maduro told supporters celebrating World Youth Day that "traitors go abroad to ask for sanctions against the people." Cabello, considered the second-most powerful person in the country, said the sanctions had affected Venezuela's ability to buy food and medicine. Last year, Guaido tried to force in humanitarian aid from Colombia, Brazil and Curacao but under Maduro's orders, the military blocked entry points to keep it out. Students rallied in Caracas on Wednesday in support of Guaido, who repeated his claim from Tuesday that his uncle had disappeared since returning with him to the Caracas international airport on the same flight he took from Portugal.

Sanctions against the Maduro regime defended by Venezuela's President Guaido

Nicolas Maduro has tightened his grip on power. The Venezuelan President has taken control of the National Assembly. Experts say the last democratic institution of the country has collapsed. Palki Sharma has the details. #Gravitas #Venezuela #Maduro

Gravitas: Crisis in Venezuela deepens, Maduro takes control of the National Assembly

Venezuela's parliament on January 5 swore in legislator Luis Parra as its new leader after government security forces blocked opposition leader Juan Guaido from entering parliament, in what Guaido's allies called a "parliamentary coup." Opposition leaders had expected to re-elect Guaido, recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's legitimate leader, to a second term as chief of the legislature to continue pushing for the ouster of unpopular President Nicolas Maduro. Guaido could be seen attempting to scale a fence outside parliament and being pushed back by security forces. #Venezuela #Guaido #Maduro #VenezuelaParliament

Scuffle Outside Venezuela Parliament, Guaido tries to scale fence

Venezuela has arrested eleven&nbsp;people in connection with a weekend raid of a remote military outpost in southern Bolivar state, but some suspects have fled across the border to Brazil with stolen weapons, President Nicolas Maduro said on Monday.

Authorities have accused Brazil, Colombia and Peru - all adversaries of socialist Maduro who recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido as the rightful president - of complicity with the attack, in which one Venezuelan soldier was killed. All three countries' governments have denied involvement.

In an evening address on state television, Maduro called on Brazilian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-believe-god-is-brazilian-made-me-president-jair-bolsonaro-268197">Jair Bolsonaro</a> to cooperate.

"Capture the assailants in Brazilian territory and return the weapons to the Venezuelan armed forces," Maduro said.

He said the eleven&nbsp;detainees included both military and civilian suspects, without providing details.

Authorities have blamed "extreme sectors of the opposition" for the raid. Venezuela, whose economy has collapsed under Maduro, has been locked in a deep political crisis since Guaido, the head of the opposition-held National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency in January.

Maduro dismisses <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-has-abandoned-the-negotiation-talks-venezuelas-juan-guaido-250055">Juan&nbsp;Guaido</a> as a US&nbsp;puppet seeking to oust him in a coup.

Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in an earlier address on Monday that Darwin Balaguera, a former National Guard member who deserted in February and fled to Colombia, was detained over the raid. The channel broadcast video of Balaguera answering authorities' questions in custody.

Balaguera was among hundreds of Venezuelan soldiers who defected to Colombia during a Guaido-led attempt to bring humanitarian aid into the country through Colombia and Brazil in February. Some have said they are prepared to take up arms to remove Maduro.

Olnar Ortiz, an attorney with nonprofit rights group Penal Forum, said at least seven members of the Pemon <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indigenous-people-are-forgotten-victims-of-the-ongoing-crisis-in-venezuela-215018">indigenous group</a> were arrested in connection with the incident. Ortiz said four other Pemon individuals were missing.

Ortiz said authorities raided homes in the Pemon village of Kumarakapay near Venezuela's border with Brazil on Sunday evening, searching for suspected participants in the raid.

"They are criminalizing everyone without concrete evidence, without respect for due process," Ortiz said.

There were deadly confrontations between indigenous Pemon and authorities during the February aid effort. Troops loyal to Maduro blocked the aid from entering.

Venezuela has arrested eleven people in connection with a weekend raid of a remote military outpost in southern Bolivar state, but some suspects have fled across the border to Brazil with stolen weapons, President Nicolas Maduro said on Monday.

Venezuela has arrested eleven people in connection with a weekend raid of a remote military outpost in southern Bolivar state, but some suspects have fled across the border to Brazil with stolen weapons, President Nicolas Maduro said on Monday. Authorities have accused Brazil, Colombia and Peru - all adversaries of socialist Maduro who recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido as the rightful president - of complicity with the attack, in which one Venezuelan soldier was killed. All three countries' governments have denied involvement. In an evening address on state television, Maduro called on Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro to cooperate. "Capture the assailants in Brazilian territory and return the weapons to the Venezuelan armed forces," Maduro said. He said the eleven detainees included both military and civilian suspects, without providing details. Authorities have blamed "extreme sectors of the opposition" for the raid. Venezuela, whose economy has collapsed under Maduro, has been locked in a deep political crisis since Guaido, the head of the opposition-held National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency in January. Maduro dismisses Juan Guaido as a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup. Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in an earlier address on Monday that Darwin Balaguera, a former National Guard member who deserted in February and fled to Colombia, was detained over the raid. The channel broadcast video of Balaguera answering authorities' questions in custody. Balaguera was among hundreds of Venezuelan soldiers who defected to Colombia during a Guaido-led attempt to bring humanitarian aid into the country through Colombia and Brazil in February. Some have said they are prepared to take up arms to remove Maduro. Olnar Ortiz, an attorney with nonprofit rights group Penal Forum, said at least seven members of the Pemon indigenous group were arrested in connection with the incident. Ortiz said four other Pemon individuals were missing. Ortiz said authorities raided homes in the Pemon village of Kumarakapay near Venezuela's border with Brazil on Sunday evening, searching for suspected participants in the raid. "They are criminalizing everyone without concrete evidence, without respect for due process," Ortiz said. There were deadly confrontations between indigenous Pemon and authorities during the February aid effort. Troops loyal to Maduro blocked the aid from entering.

Eleven arrested after weekend raid on military outpost: Maduro

Ecuador imposes curfew after protests push government out of capital

President Maduro to give a UNGA a miss, He said he will not attend the meeting of UNGA but that two of his envoys would attend to denounce US sanctions on the OPEC nation.

Mary Triny, Correspondent on Maduro to skip meeting of UNGA

The 74th session of the UN General Assembly will be held in New York from September 17-30.

“Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and the foreign minister will attend this year’s UN General Assembly. I visited New York last year, that is why this year I will not do that and will work here, in Venezuela,” Maduro said on late Thursday.

He added that Rodriguez would submit to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a letter, signed by millions of Venezuelan citizens, that condemns the US sanctions against Caracas.

Venezuela faces a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-national-security-advisor-restrained-him-on-venezuela-249294">US</a>-led effort to oust the government of President Maduro&nbsp;and replace him with opposition leader and self-proclaimed President Juan Guaido. The United States has also imposed comprehensive sanctions against Venezuela and frozen some of the country’s assets.

Watch video

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&nbsp;

The 74th session of the UN General Assembly will be held in New York from September 17-30. “Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and the foreign minister will attend this year’s UN General Assembly.

The 74th session of the UN General Assembly will be held in New York from September 17-30. “Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and the foreign minister will attend this year’s UN General Assembly. I visited New York last year, that is why this year I will not do that and will work here, in Venezuela,” Maduro said on late Thursday. He added that Rodriguez would submit to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a letter, signed by millions of Venezuelan citizens, that condemns the US sanctions against Caracas. Venezuela faces a US-led effort to oust the government of President Maduro and replace him with opposition leader and self-proclaimed President Juan Guaido. The United States has also imposed comprehensive sanctions against Venezuela and frozen some of the country’s assets. Watch video ×

Maduro says will not take part in 2019 session of UN General Assembly

The Colombian military is on alert in response to Venezuelan armed forces exercises along the two nations` border that Colombia considers an open threat, a senior military commander said on Wednesday.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ordered a series of military drills that began on Tuesday in response to what he called Colombia`s planned aggression against the OPEC nation.

"As for the exercises that the Venezuelan regime is carrying out ... we are on a special alert," General Luis Navarro told reporters. "We have been openly threatened."

Maduro accused Colombia of preparing an attack after President Ivan Duque said that the socialist leader was protecting members of the ELN guerilla group and dissident members of the FARC, some of who recently took up arms again.

Maduro has repeatedly warned of an invasion by Colombia coordinated by the US government.

Washington, which has levied several rounds of sanctions against Maduro`s government, says it wants a peaceful resolution to Venezuela`s crisis in which Maduro voluntarily resigns.

Most western nations consider Maduro illegitimate after he secured a second term last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. The United States instead says Venezuela`s rightful head of state is opposition leader Juan Guaido, who Maduro accuses of seeking a coup.

The Colombian military is on alert in response to Venezuelan armed forces exercises along the two nations` border that Colombia considers an open threat, a senior military commander said on Wednesday.

The Colombian military is on alert in response to Venezuelan armed forces exercises along the two nations` border that Colombia considers an open threat, a senior military commander said on Wednesday. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ordered a series of military drills that began on Tuesday in response to what he called Colombia`s planned aggression against the OPEC nation. "As for the exercises that the Venezuelan regime is carrying out ... we are on a special alert," General Luis Navarro told reporters. "We have been openly threatened." Maduro accused Colombia of preparing an attack after President Ivan Duque said that the socialist leader was protecting members of the ELN guerilla group and dissident members of the FARC, some of who recently took up arms again. Maduro has repeatedly warned of an invasion by Colombia coordinated by the US government. Washington, which has levied several rounds of sanctions against Maduro`s government, says it wants a peaceful resolution to Venezuela`s crisis in which Maduro voluntarily resigns. Most western nations consider Maduro illegitimate after he secured a second term last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. The United States instead says Venezuela`s rightful head of state is opposition leader Juan Guaido, who Maduro accuses of seeking a coup.

Colombia's armed forces on alert over Venezuela military exercises

The United States is not seeking a military intervention as a solution to the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, the US&nbsp;envoy to the troubled South American nation said in an interview published by a Venezuelan online news site on Sunday.

Washington this year disavowed Maduro, whose 2018 re-election was widely dismissed as a farce, and recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate president.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday opened a representative office called the Venezuela Affairs Unit (VAU), based in Colombia, to provide US&nbsp;diplomatic representation to Guaido`s interim government and to continue pressuring for a transition.

&nbsp;"What we want is not a military intervention by the international community, but rather a peaceful, political and democratic resolution (of the crisis) based on Venezuela`s constitution," said VAU Charge d`Affaires James Story, in an interview published on the website of Venezuelan newspaper 2001.

"How can you have a democracy when you can`t even choose through votes?"

Venezuela`s information ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Maduro, who has overseen an economic collapse that has fueled a humanitarian crisis, frequently accuses the United States of preparing to invade Venezuela to control its vast oil resources and remove the country`s socialist leadership.

Guaido, president of the opposition-run congress, in January invoked the constitution to assume a rival interim presidency and was quickly recognised by more than 50 countries.&nbsp;

The United States has thrown its support behind Guaido and levied broad sanctions against Maduro`s government to pressure for his exit.

Asked how he would respond to Venezuelans seeking a military intervention - a sentiment often expressed on the country`s virulent social media - Story said there had already been a military intervention by Maduro`s foreign allies.

"There are Russian military officers in the country ... and we know that there are a lot of Cuban military officers," he said. "Why? Because they want Maduro to stay."

Guaido allies and government representatives in May began a dialogue process mediated by Norway to seek a negotiated solution to the political standoff. Maduro`s delegation last month suspended its participation to protest new US sanctions.

Maduro said in an interview broadcast on Saturday that his government had resumed contact with both the opposition and the Norwegian government.&nbsp;

He promised "good news about the dialogue process" in the coming days, but did not say when it would start up again.

The United States is not seeking a military intervention as a solution to the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, the US envoy to the troubled South American nation said in an interview published by a Venezuelan online news site on Sunday.

The United States is not seeking a military intervention as a solution to the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, the US envoy to the troubled South American nation said in an interview published by a Venezuelan online news site on Sunday. Washington this year disavowed Maduro, whose 2018 re-election was widely dismissed as a farce, and recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate president. The United States on Wednesday opened a representative office called the Venezuela Affairs Unit (VAU), based in Colombia, to provide US diplomatic representation to Guaido`s interim government and to continue pressuring for a transition. "What we want is not a military intervention by the international community, but rather a peaceful, political and democratic resolution (of the crisis) based on Venezuela`s constitution," said VAU Charge d`Affaires James Story, in an interview published on the website of Venezuelan newspaper 2001. "How can you have a democracy when you can`t even choose through votes?" Venezuela`s information ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Maduro, who has overseen an economic collapse that has fueled a humanitarian crisis, frequently accuses the United States of preparing to invade Venezuela to control its vast oil resources and remove the country`s socialist leadership. Guaido, president of the opposition-run congress, in January invoked the constitution to assume a rival interim presidency and was quickly recognised by more than 50 countries. The United States has thrown its support behind Guaido and levied broad sanctions against Maduro`s government to pressure for his exit. Asked how he would respond to Venezuelans seeking a military intervention - a sentiment often expressed on the country`s virulent social media - Story said there had already been a military intervention by Maduro`s foreign allies. "There are Russian military officers in the country ... and we know that there are a lot of Cuban military officers," he said. "Why? Because they want Maduro to stay." Guaido allies and government representatives in May began a dialogue process mediated by Norway to seek a negotiated solution to the political standoff. Maduro`s delegation last month suspended its participation to protest new US sanctions. Maduro said in an interview broadcast on Saturday that his government had resumed contact with both the opposition and the Norwegian government. He promised "good news about the dialogue process" in the coming days, but did not say when it would start up again.

Diplomat says US does not want military intervention in Venezuela: Report

The UN rights chief on Thursday intensified criticism of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-imposes-sanctions-on-venezuelan-governments-assets-240952">US sanctions targeting Venezuela</a>, condemning the latest measures as "extremely broad" with the potential to exacerbate suffering among an already vulnerable population.&nbsp;

The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, has raised concern about previous sanctions imposed by Washington against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;

In the new measures, President Donald Trump's administration ordered a freeze on all Venezuelan government assets in the United States and barred transactions with its authorities.

Watch: 'Venezuela will win', says Maduro after new US sanctions

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"I am deeply worried about the potentially severe impact on the human rights of the people of Venezuela of the new set of unilateral sanctions imposed by the US this week," Bachelet said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The sanctions are extremely broad and fail to contain sufficient measures to mitigate their impact on the most vulnerable sectors of the population," she added.

Bachelet, a former president of Chile, noted that the latest sanctions included exceptions for transactions related to certain food, clothing and medicine.

"However, they are still likely to significantly exacerbate the crisis for millions of ordinary Venezuelans," she said.

Venezuela -- wracked by a devastating economic crisis despite vast oil wealth -- has been mired in a political impasse since January when Juan Guaido, speaker of the National Assembly, proclaimed himself acting president.&nbsp;

He is now recognised as Venezuela's leader by more than 50 countries, including the US.

Bachelet has criticised Maduro's government, notably over its violent crackdown on protests, but stressed that previous US sanctions imposed in 2017 and in January of this year had made the "dire crisis" in Venezuela even worse.

The UN rights chief on Thursday intensified criticism of US sanctions targeting Venezuela, condemning the latest measures as "extremely broad" with the potential to exacerbate suffering among an already vulnerable population.

The UN rights chief on Thursday intensified criticism of US sanctions targeting Venezuela, condemning the latest measures as "extremely broad" with the potential to exacerbate suffering among an already vulnerable population. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet, has raised concern about previous sanctions imposed by Washington against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. In the new measures, President Donald Trump's administration ordered a freeze on all Venezuelan government assets in the United States and barred transactions with its authorities. Watch: 'Venezuela will win', says Maduro after new US sanctions × "I am deeply worried about the potentially severe impact on the human rights of the people of Venezuela of the new set of unilateral sanctions imposed by the US this week," Bachelet said in a statement. "The sanctions are extremely broad and fail to contain sufficient measures to mitigate their impact on the most vulnerable sectors of the population," she added. Bachelet, a former president of Chile, noted that the latest sanctions included exceptions for transactions related to certain food, clothing and medicine. "However, they are still likely to significantly exacerbate the crisis for millions of ordinary Venezuelans," she said. Venezuela -- wracked by a devastating economic crisis despite vast oil wealth -- has been mired in a political impasse since January when Juan Guaido, speaker of the National Assembly, proclaimed himself acting president. He is now recognised as Venezuela's leader by more than 50 countries, including the US. Bachelet has criticised Maduro's government, notably over its violent crackdown on protests, but stressed that previous US sanctions imposed in 2017 and in January of this year had made the "dire crisis" in Venezuela even worse.

UN rights chief condemns latest US Venezuela sanctions

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro struck a defiant tone against new U.S. sanctions against Venezuela, telling supporters that the nation will win. Watch the full video to know more.

"Venezuela will win", says Maduro after new U.S. sanctions

US national security adviser John Bolton on Tuesday said Washington was ready to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-imposes-sanctions-on-venezuelan-governments-assets-240952">impose sanctions</a> on any international company doing business with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a sharp escalation of US pressure on the leftist leader.

Bolton, addressing a summit on Venezuela in the Peruvian capital Lima, emphasized that tougher international action was needed to speed up a transition of power in the country, where more than four million Venezuelans have fled economic collapse.

"We are sending a signal to third parties that want to do business with the Maduro regime: proceed with extreme caution," Bolton said.&nbsp;

His speech came a day after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that freezes the assets of the Venezuelan government and bans any transactions with it, an act that could ensnare its dealings with Russia and China as well as with Western companies.&nbsp;

Watch: Donald Trump freezes all Venezulean govt assests in US

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Bolton, one of the Trump administration`s most influential hawks on Venezuela, told reporters the move forces companies around the world to choose whether to risk access to the United States and its financial system for business with Maduro.

Asked by a reporter how Venezuela would respond to the executive order, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said, "I`m going to paraphrase Donald Trump ... All options are on the table."

Venezuela’s UN Ambassador Samuel Moncada asked UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the Security Council on Tuesday to intervene.

"This is an act of war by the United States," Moncada told reporters. "Venezuela is not a threat to anyone and the United States is fabricating this aggression just to take the oil."

The 15-member UN Security Council will be unable to take any action as the United States is one of the body’s five veto powers, along with Russia, China, Britain and France.&nbsp;

It was the first US asset freeze against an entire government in the Western Hemisphere in more than 30 years. But it was also a reminder that successive rounds of US sanctions have so far failed to peel away the crucial support of Venezuela`s military for Maduro, who took office in 2013 following the death of his political mentor President Hugo Chavez.

Continuing the state controls started under Chavez, Maduro has overseen one of the worst economic collapses in recent world history, leaving his nation of 30 million people with severe shortages of food and medicine despite sitting on the world`s largest oil reserves.

In private, Bolton had told Peruvian officials the measure would have the effect of about tripling current sanctions related to Venezuela, a Peruvian government source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. 
The executive order stopped short, however, of a full US trade embargo of the kind imposed on Cuba, experts said, by excluding Venezuela`s still sizeable private sector.

The order maintains some exemptions for companies that do business with state oil company PDVSA, and licenses published on Tuesday reiterated that companies like Chevron and Halliburton can continue to do business with PDVSA in Venezuela through October 25.

Some experts said the move could lead to pushback from other countries, and would require a lot of time and money to prove foreign companies are undermining sanctions.

"How much is the US&nbsp;government willing to spend in diplomatic capital in economic costs in the United States, in order to further its Venezuela policy? said David Murray of the Washington-based firm Financial Integrity Network, an expert on sanctions compliance.

Russia: 'Economic terror'

Most Western and Latin American democracies accuse Maduro of rigging elections last year and are calling for him to step down so the country can hold a fresh presidential ballot.

The summit, organised by Peru, a regional leader on demanding democratic reforms in Venezuela, had aimed to build support for new elections with Maduro`s allies. Yet Russia, China, Cuba, Turkey, Bolivia and Iran all boycotted the summit.&nbsp;

Russia`s foreign ministry said on Tuesday that Washington`s asset freeze was illegal and amounted to "economic terror", the RIA news agency reported.

The order also could inflame the US-China trade war if it hits Beijing hard, with Venezuela owing China oil deliveries as repayment for loans through 2021, said Fernando Cutz, a former top aide to Trump on the National Security Council.&nbsp;

Bolton warned Russia against doubling down on its support for Caracas, and urged China to recognise opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country`s legitimate leader if it wanted to recoup debt owed by Caracas, since a new government in Venezuela might not want to honour agreements made with countries that helped Maduro hang onto power.

Bolton said Washington had taken steps to ensure the sanctions did not hurt Guaido and his allies, nor prevent access to humanitarian goods.

Trump`s Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross also spoke to the Lima summit, promising US support and cooperation to help Venezuela rebuild its oil sector, institutions and economy once Maduro leaves office, without giving details.

The plan has a goal of reversing Venezuela`s decline in oil production within a year, and calls for a long-term deal with the International Monetary Fund, Ross said.

US national security adviser John Bolton on Tuesday said Washington was ready to impose sanctions on any international company doing business with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a sharp escalation of US pressure on the leftist leader.

US national security adviser John Bolton on Tuesday said Washington was ready to impose sanctions on any international company doing business with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a sharp escalation of US pressure on the leftist leader. Bolton, addressing a summit on Venezuela in the Peruvian capital Lima, emphasized that tougher international action was needed to speed up a transition of power in the country, where more than four million Venezuelans have fled economic collapse. "We are sending a signal to third parties that want to do business with the Maduro regime: proceed with extreme caution," Bolton said. His speech came a day after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that freezes the assets of the Venezuelan government and bans any transactions with it, an act that could ensnare its dealings with Russia and China as well as with Western companies. Watch: Donald Trump freezes all Venezulean govt assests in US × Bolton, one of the Trump administration`s most influential hawks on Venezuela, told reporters the move forces companies around the world to choose whether to risk access to the United States and its financial system for business with Maduro. Asked by a reporter how Venezuela would respond to the executive order, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said, "I`m going to paraphrase Donald Trump ... All options are on the table." Venezuela’s UN Ambassador Samuel Moncada asked UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the Security Council on Tuesday to intervene. "This is an act of war by the United States," Moncada told reporters. "Venezuela is not a threat to anyone and the United States is fabricating this aggression just to take the oil." The 15-member UN Security Council will be unable to take any action as the United States is one of the body’s five veto powers, along with Russia, China, Britain and France. It was the first US asset freeze against an entire government in the Western Hemisphere in more than 30 years. But it was also a reminder that successive rounds of US sanctions have so far failed to peel away the crucial support of Venezuela`s military for Maduro, who took office in 2013 following the death of his political mentor President Hugo Chavez. Continuing the state controls started under Chavez, Maduro has overseen one of the worst economic collapses in recent world history, leaving his nation of 30 million people with severe shortages of food and medicine despite sitting on the world`s largest oil reserves. In private, Bolton had told Peruvian officials the measure would have the effect of about tripling current sanctions related to Venezuela, a Peruvian government source said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The executive order stopped short, however, of a full US trade embargo of the kind imposed on Cuba, experts said, by excluding Venezuela`s still sizeable private sector. The order maintains some exemptions for companies that do business with state oil company PDVSA, and licenses published on Tuesday reiterated that companies like Chevron and Halliburton can continue to do business with PDVSA in Venezuela through October 25. Some experts said the move could lead to pushback from other countries, and would require a lot of time and money to prove foreign companies are undermining sanctions. "How much is the US government willing to spend in diplomatic capital in economic costs in the United States, in order to further its Venezuela policy? said David Murray of the Washington-based firm Financial Integrity Network, an expert on sanctions compliance. Russia: 'Economic terror' Most Western and Latin American democracies accuse Maduro of rigging elections last year and are calling for him to step down so the country can hold a fresh presidential ballot. The summit, organised by Peru, a regional leader on demanding democratic reforms in Venezuela, had aimed to build support for new elections with Maduro`s allies. Yet Russia, China, Cuba, Turkey, Bolivia and Iran all boycotted the summit. Russia`s foreign ministry said on Tuesday that Washington`s asset freeze was illegal and amounted to "economic terror", the RIA news agency reported. The order also could inflame the US-China trade war if it hits Beijing hard, with Venezuela owing China oil deliveries as repayment for loans through 2021, said Fernando Cutz, a former top aide to Trump on the National Security Council. Bolton warned Russia against doubling down on its support for Caracas, and urged China to recognise opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country`s legitimate leader if it wanted to recoup debt owed by Caracas, since a new government in Venezuela might not want to honour agreements made with countries that helped Maduro hang onto power. Bolton said Washington had taken steps to ensure the sanctions did not hurt Guaido and his allies, nor prevent access to humanitarian goods. Trump`s Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross also spoke to the Lima summit, promising US support and cooperation to help Venezuela rebuild its oil sector, institutions and economy once Maduro leaves office, without giving details. The plan has a goal of reversing Venezuela`s decline in oil production within a year, and calls for a long-term deal with the International Monetary Fund, Ross said.

US ready to target other countries for supporting Venezuela's Maduro

The Trump administration froze all Venezuelan government assets in US. Watch video to know more.

Donald Trump freezes all Venezulean govt assests in US

US President Donald Trump has<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-people-groups-linked-to-venezuelan-food-subsidy-scam-238480"> imposed sanctions</a> on assets of the Venezuelan government, according to an executive order published on Monday.

"All property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States ... are blocked and may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in," the executive order says.

The Trump administration has been ramping up <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-says-he-repudiates-trump-statement-on-possible-venezuela-blockade-240398">pressure on Caracas</a> in a bid to oust President Nicolas Maduro from power.

The United States and most Latin American countries and Western democracies have called for Maduro to step down and have recognised Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country`s president.

Watch: Venezuela plunges into darkness

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But China and Russia have continued to back Maduro, prompting US national security adviser John Bolton to warn the two countries on Monday against doubling down in their support for him.

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on assets of the Venezuelan government, according to an executive order published on Monday. "All property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States .

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on assets of the Venezuelan government, according to an executive order published on Monday. "All property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States ... are blocked and may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in," the executive order says. The Trump administration has been ramping up pressure on Caracas in a bid to oust President Nicolas Maduro from power. The United States and most Latin American countries and Western democracies have called for Maduro to step down and have recognised Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country`s president. Watch: Venezuela plunges into darkness × But China and Russia have continued to back Maduro, prompting US national security adviser John Bolton to warn the two countries on Monday against doubling down in their support for him.

Trump imposes sanctions on Venezuelan government's assets in US

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition are continuing to hold talks in Barbados in an effort to find ways to resolve the Latin American country's political crisis, the Foreign Ministry of mediator Norway said on Friday.

Friday`s statement, the first in three weeks, came a day after US President Donald Trump said he was considering a quarantine or blockade of Venezuela and ahead of a summit in Peru on the Venezuelan crisis, which US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross will attend.

"The representatives of the main political actors in Venezuela are continuing the negotiations ... the parties have reiterated their willingness to advance in the search for an agreed upon and constitutional solution," Norway`s Foreign Ministry said.

Maduro, who after saying the dialogue was progressing and that he would "meet even with the devil," alleged that the United States is timing new sanctions on Venezuelan officials to coincide with the new rounds of talks.&nbsp;

The Trump administration on Friday slapped sanctions on two security officials for alleged human rights violations.

"Every time there has been a dialogue session, the US government makes bad, perverse decisions like it took this week," Maduro said in a Friday evening state television broadcast. "Illegal, spurious decisions. Stupid decisions about supposed sanctions."

The opposition`s main negotiator, Stalin Gonzalez, thanked the government of Norway in a tweet shortly after the ministry`s statement, ratifying his party`s proposal for a constitutional solution.

Juan Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival interim presidency after declaring Maduro`s 2018 re-election a fraud. Maduro calls Guaido a puppet of the United States and blames Venezuela`s severe economic problems on U.S. sanctions meant to force him from office.

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition are continuing to hold talks in Barbados in an effort to find ways to resolve the Latin American country's political crisis, the Foreign Ministry of mediator Norway said on Friday.

The government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the opposition are continuing to hold talks in Barbados in an effort to find ways to resolve the Latin American country's political crisis, the Foreign Ministry of mediator Norway said on Friday. Friday`s statement, the first in three weeks, came a day after US President Donald Trump said he was considering a quarantine or blockade of Venezuela and ahead of a summit in Peru on the Venezuelan crisis, which US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross will attend. "The representatives of the main political actors in Venezuela are continuing the negotiations ... the parties have reiterated their willingness to advance in the search for an agreed upon and constitutional solution," Norway`s Foreign Ministry said. Maduro, who after saying the dialogue was progressing and that he would "meet even with the devil," alleged that the United States is timing new sanctions on Venezuelan officials to coincide with the new rounds of talks. The Trump administration on Friday slapped sanctions on two security officials for alleged human rights violations. "Every time there has been a dialogue session, the US government makes bad, perverse decisions like it took this week," Maduro said in a Friday evening state television broadcast. "Illegal, spurious decisions. Stupid decisions about supposed sanctions." The opposition`s main negotiator, Stalin Gonzalez, thanked the government of Norway in a tweet shortly after the ministry`s statement, ratifying his party`s proposal for a constitutional solution. Juan Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival interim presidency after declaring Maduro`s 2018 re-election a fraud. Maduro calls Guaido a puppet of the United States and blames Venezuela`s severe economic problems on U.S. sanctions meant to force him from office.

Venezuela government, opposition hold talks in Barbados as Maduro slams sanctions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-government-opposition-hold-talks-in-barbados-as-maduro-slams-sanctions-240348">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Friday said he rejected US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's statement about a possible blockade of the South American country, adding that its seas would remain "free and independent."&nbsp;

Maduro said he had asked Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations, Samuel Moncada, to denounce the "illegal" threat to the UN&nbsp;Security Council.&nbsp;

"All of Venezuela, in a civic-military union, repudiates and rejects the statements of Donald Trump about a supposed quarantine, of a supposed blockade," Maduro said in a state television broadcast. "A blockade, why would he announce that? It is clearly illegal."&nbsp;

The United States has applied sanctions and diplomatic pressure to try to get Maduro, whom it accuses of human rights violations and stealing the Venezuelan election last year, to step down.

On Thursday, when asked by a reporter whether he was considering such a measure given involvement by China and Iran in Venezuela, Trump said: "Yes, I am." He gave no details.

On Friday, a senior US&nbsp;official said Trump`s word on the issue should be taken "very seriously" but that the administration did not want to give away "the element of surprise."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he rejected US President Donald Trump's statement about a possible blockade of the South American country, adding that its seas would remain "free and independent.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he rejected US President Donald Trump's statement about a possible blockade of the South American country, adding that its seas would remain "free and independent." Maduro said he had asked Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations, Samuel Moncada, to denounce the "illegal" threat to the UN Security Council. "All of Venezuela, in a civic-military union, repudiates and rejects the statements of Donald Trump about a supposed quarantine, of a supposed blockade," Maduro said in a state television broadcast. "A blockade, why would he announce that? It is clearly illegal." The United States has applied sanctions and diplomatic pressure to try to get Maduro, whom it accuses of human rights violations and stealing the Venezuelan election last year, to step down. On Thursday, when asked by a reporter whether he was considering such a measure given involvement by China and Iran in Venezuela, Trump said: "Yes, I am." He gave no details. On Friday, a senior US official said Trump`s word on the issue should be taken "very seriously" but that the administration did not want to give away "the element of surprise."

Maduro says he 'repudiates' Trump statement on possible Venezuela blockade

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicolas-maduro-optimistic-after-opposition-talks-resume-in-barbados-234229">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Sunday said two former FARC commanders from neighbouring Colombia whose whereabouts are unknown were "welcome in Venezuela," a statement likely to fuel criticism that he is providing a safe haven for armed groups.

Speaking alongside Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel at the closing ceremony of the Sao Paulo Forum, a gathering of regional leftist politicians and activists, Maduro called Ivan Marquez and Jesus Santrich "leaders of peace."

Santrich and Marquez - the war aliases used by Seuxis Paucias Hernandez and Luciano Marin, respectively - both joined the FARC's political party after the leftist rebel group demobilized under a 2016 peace deal that ended decades of civil war.

But Marquez went missing last year after his nephew was arrested and taken to the United States to cooperate with drug-trafficking investigators. And earlier this month, Colombia's Supreme Court ordered Santrich's arrest after he failed to appear for questioning about US drug-trafficking charges.

Colombian President Ivan Duque later suggested Santrich may have fled to Venezuela. Maduro said he had learned of Santrich's possible presence in Venezuela from Duque's statement.

"They had announced that Ivan Marquez and Jesus Santrich were coming, and I was left waiting," Maduro said. "Ivan Marquez and Jesus Santrich are welcome in Venezuela and at the Sao Paulo Forum, the two of them are leaders of peace."

Colombian authorities believe dissident FARC rebels and fighters for leftist rebel National Liberation Army (ELN) are hiding in Venezuela and receiving protection from Maduro, according to a military intelligence report seen by Reuters. Maduro's government has denied protecting Colombian rebels.

Tensions between the neighboring countries have worsened since Duque joined the United States and most Latin American countries in recognizing Juan Guaido, president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, as the rightful leader, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate.

Maduro, who calls Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup, broke off diplomatic relations with Bogota in February after Guaido's failed attempt to bring humanitarian aid into Venezuela through the Colombian border.

Maduro also said that two other FARC leaders, Timochenko and Pablo Catatumbo, were welcome in Venezuela.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday said two former FARC commanders from neighbouring Colombia whose whereabouts are unknown were "welcome in Venezuela," a statement likely to fuel criticism that he is providing a safe haven for armed groups.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday said two former FARC commanders from neighbouring Colombia whose whereabouts are unknown were "welcome in Venezuela," a statement likely to fuel criticism that he is providing a safe haven for armed groups. Speaking alongside Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel at the closing ceremony of the Sao Paulo Forum, a gathering of regional leftist politicians and activists, Maduro called Ivan Marquez and Jesus Santrich "leaders of peace." Santrich and Marquez - the war aliases used by Seuxis Paucias Hernandez and Luciano Marin, respectively - both joined the FARC's political party after the leftist rebel group demobilized under a 2016 peace deal that ended decades of civil war. But Marquez went missing last year after his nephew was arrested and taken to the United States to cooperate with drug-trafficking investigators. And earlier this month, Colombia's Supreme Court ordered Santrich's arrest after he failed to appear for questioning about US drug-trafficking charges. Colombian President Ivan Duque later suggested Santrich may have fled to Venezuela. Maduro said he had learned of Santrich's possible presence in Venezuela from Duque's statement. "They had announced that Ivan Marquez and Jesus Santrich were coming, and I was left waiting," Maduro said. "Ivan Marquez and Jesus Santrich are welcome in Venezuela and at the Sao Paulo Forum, the two of them are leaders of peace." Colombian authorities believe dissident FARC rebels and fighters for leftist rebel National Liberation Army (ELN) are hiding in Venezuela and receiving protection from Maduro, according to a military intelligence report seen by Reuters. Maduro's government has denied protecting Colombian rebels. Tensions between the neighboring countries have worsened since Duque joined the United States and most Latin American countries in recognizing Juan Guaido, president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, as the rightful leader, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. Maduro, who calls Guaido a US puppet seeking to oust him in a coup, broke off diplomatic relations with Bogota in February after Guaido's failed attempt to bring humanitarian aid into Venezuela through the Colombian border. Maduro also said that two other FARC leaders, Timochenko and Pablo Catatumbo, were welcome in Venezuela.

Maduro says missing FARC leaders are 'welcome in Venezuela'

Venezuela's Supreme Court on Friday annulled a decision by the opposition-controlled legislature to re-join a regional defence treaty that could provide a legal framework for foreign military intervention.

Venezuela's top court, made up of judges loyal to President Nicolas Maduro, said the National Assembly's decision to rejoin the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR) on Tuesday had no legal basis.

Maduro's predecessor and mentor, late president Hugo Chavez, withdrew the country from the defence pact, which involves 17 countries including the United States, seven years ago.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Tuesday that re-joining the treaty would let Venezuela establish "international alliances" to "protect and defend the people and Venezuelan sovereignty."

The Supreme Court has annulled every decision taken by the National Assembly -- the only government institution in opposition hands -- since declaring it in "contempt" in 2016.

Venezuela was thrust into a political crisis in January when Guaido declared himself acting president, in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority. He is demanding Maduro step down so that new elections can be held.

The opposition has branded the socialist leader a "usurper" over his re-election last year in a poll widely viewed as rigged.

Guaido has since been backed by more than 50 countries, including many of those in the TIAR.

The TIAR was originally ratified by 23 countries at the start of the Cold War, but five of those -- at the time all under leftist governments -- left in 2012 while Mexico distanced itself in 2004.

Bolivia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Venezuela left over Washington's refusal to take Argentina's side in 1982 after it invaded the British-ruled Falkland Islands. It said US inaction meant the defence pact was meaningless.

Venezuela's Supreme Court on Friday annulled a decision by the opposition-controlled legislature to re-join a regional defence treaty that could provide a legal framework for foreign military intervention.

Venezuela's Supreme Court on Friday annulled a decision by the opposition-controlled legislature to re-join a regional defence treaty that could provide a legal framework for foreign military intervention. Venezuela's top court, made up of judges loyal to President Nicolas Maduro, said the National Assembly's decision to rejoin the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR) on Tuesday had no legal basis. Maduro's predecessor and mentor, late president Hugo Chavez, withdrew the country from the defence pact, which involves 17 countries including the United States, seven years ago. Opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Tuesday that re-joining the treaty would let Venezuela establish "international alliances" to "protect and defend the people and Venezuelan sovereignty." The Supreme Court has annulled every decision taken by the National Assembly -- the only government institution in opposition hands -- since declaring it in "contempt" in 2016. Venezuela was thrust into a political crisis in January when Guaido declared himself acting president, in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority. He is demanding Maduro step down so that new elections can be held. The opposition has branded the socialist leader a "usurper" over his re-election last year in a poll widely viewed as rigged. Guaido has since been backed by more than 50 countries, including many of those in the TIAR. The TIAR was originally ratified by 23 countries at the start of the Cold War, but five of those -- at the time all under leftist governments -- left in 2012 while Mexico distanced itself in 2004. Bolivia, Ecuador, Nicaragua and Venezuela left over Washington's refusal to take Argentina's side in 1982 after it invaded the British-ruled Falkland Islands. It said US inaction meant the defence pact was meaningless.

Venezuela's Supreme Court quashes Opposition's attempt to rejoin Rio Pact

The United States <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-plans-to-divert-40-million-in-aid-to-venezuelas-opposition-236654">imposed sanctions on Thursday </a>on 10 people and 13 groups in a Venezuelan food subsidy scheme that lined the pockets of President Nicolas Maduro, his stepsons and others while ordinary Venezuelans suffer food shortages, the US&nbsp;Treasury said.

The department said Colombian national Alex Nain Saab orchestrated a vast corruption network for food imports and distribution in Venezuela. He profited from overvalued contracts, including the government's food subsidy program.

Saab bribed Maduro's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-administration-targets-nicolas-maduros-son-nicolasito-with-sanctions-231342">three stepsons to win no-bid</a>, overvalued government contracts, said Sigal P. Mandelker, under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence.

"Alex Saab engaged with Maduro insiders to run a wide-scale corruption network they callously used to exploit Venezuela’s starving population," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.&nbsp;

"Treasury is targeting those behind Maduro's sophisticated corruption schemes, as well as the global network of shell companies that profit from" the country's military-controlled food distribution program, he said.

The department said Saab became involved with the food subsidy program in 2016, when he set up a corporate structure to acquire food outside the country and ship it to Venezuela.

Saab reaped profits and imported only a fraction of the food needed for the subsidy program, it said.

Treasury alleged the individuals hit by sanctions had enriched themselves through government contracts, including Maduro's stepsons Walter, Yosser and Yoswal Gavidia.

Saab also began in 2018 to help the Venezuelan government liquidate gold mined in Venezuela and convert it into foreign currency, Treasury said. The gold was then flown to destinations including Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, it said.

The United States imposed sanctions on the Venezuelan gold sector last year. U.S. envoy to Venezuela Elliott Abrams estimated on Wednesday that Maduro's government had sold roughly $1 billion in gold in 2019.

The United States imposed sanctions on Thursday on 10 people and 13 groups in a Venezuelan food subsidy scheme that lined the pockets of President Nicolas Maduro, his stepsons and others while ordinary Venezuelans suffer food shortages, the US Treasury said.

The United States imposed sanctions on Thursday on 10 people and 13 groups in a Venezuelan food subsidy scheme that lined the pockets of President Nicolas Maduro, his stepsons and others while ordinary Venezuelans suffer food shortages, the US Treasury said. The department said Colombian national Alex Nain Saab orchestrated a vast corruption network for food imports and distribution in Venezuela. He profited from overvalued contracts, including the government's food subsidy program. Saab bribed Maduro's three stepsons to win no-bid, overvalued government contracts, said Sigal P. Mandelker, under secretary for terrorism and financial intelligence. "Alex Saab engaged with Maduro insiders to run a wide-scale corruption network they callously used to exploit Venezuela’s starving population," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "Treasury is targeting those behind Maduro's sophisticated corruption schemes, as well as the global network of shell companies that profit from" the country's military-controlled food distribution program, he said. The department said Saab became involved with the food subsidy program in 2016, when he set up a corporate structure to acquire food outside the country and ship it to Venezuela. Saab reaped profits and imported only a fraction of the food needed for the subsidy program, it said. Treasury alleged the individuals hit by sanctions had enriched themselves through government contracts, including Maduro's stepsons Walter, Yosser and Yoswal Gavidia. Saab also began in 2018 to help the Venezuelan government liquidate gold mined in Venezuela and convert it into foreign currency, Treasury said. The gold was then flown to destinations including Turkey and the United Arab Emirates, it said. The United States imposed sanctions on the Venezuelan gold sector last year. U.S. envoy to Venezuela Elliott Abrams estimated on Wednesday that Maduro's government had sold roughly $1 billion in gold in 2019.

US imposes sanctions on people, groups linked to Venezuelan food subsidy scam

The lights have gone out across much of Venezuela, snarling traffic in the capital and reviving fears of the blackouts that plunged the country into chaos a few months ago. Nicolás Maduro blames electromagnetic attack for the recent darkness. Watch this video to know more.

Venezuela plunges into darkness, blames electromagnetic attack

Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chile-bars-entry-to-more-than-100-venezuelans-linked-to-maduro-government-president-233392">President Nicolas Maduro's government </a>will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out.

"In response to the mediation of the Kingdom of Norway (the opposition) will attend a meeting with representatives of the usurper regime in Barbados, to establish a negotiation on the end of the dictatorship," Guaido said in a statement, without giving a date for talks to resume.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-frees-judge-journalist-20-students-un-233370">Maduro's government </a>suggested talks would resume this week.

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 South American country's economic and political crises.

Oil-rich Venezuela has been ravaged by five years of recession marked by shortages of food, medicine and other basic necessities.

It plunged deeper into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority.

On Sunday Guaido also announced that he would push for Caracas to rejoin the Inter-American Defense Treaty, which Venezuela left in 2012.&nbsp;

Some opposition lawmakers believe the treaty, from which Bolivia, Ecuador and Nicaragua have also withdrawn, could legally allow foreign military intervention to overthrow Maduro.

"We have the legitimate right to build the international capacities and alliances necessary to protect and defend our people and our sovereignty," Guaido said on Twitter.

Guaido is recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries but has been unable to dislodge Maduro, who is backed by Cuba, Russia and China.

Last Tuesday Guaido had said there were no plans to re-open talks with the "murderous dictatorship" of Maduro, following the death of an officer in custody over an alleged coup plot.

The suspicious death of retired naval officer Rafael Acosta Arevalo sparked international condemnation.

Guaido said at that time, though, that if fresh talks aimed at "facilitating the cessation of the usurpation" of Maduro were announced, "we will officially communicate."

-- 'To move forward' -- 
In a tweet, Maduro's Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez implicitly corroborated Guaido's announcement by reproducing a Norwegian Foreign Ministry statement.

"The two parties will meet this week in Barbados to move forward in the search for a negotiated and constitutional solution," the statement said.

The Barbados talks will be the third round since May.

Guaido wants them to lead towards Maduro's departure from the presidency he has held since 2013, to a transitional government, and then "free elections with international observers."

Some in the opposition criticize dialogue as a way for Maduro to "buy time," but Guaido responds it is a means to "put an end to the suffering of Venezuelans."

Political scientist Jesus Castillo-Molleda told AFP "the opposition cannot defeat the government, neither alone nor with the help of the United States government."

This means it has to look for other ways to reach agreements in favor of elections, the analyst said.

Maduro has repeatedly said that the dialogue "will continue" with the opposition, "for peace in Venezuela."

During a parade last Friday celebrating the country's independence, Maduro said there would be "good news" this week about the negotiations.

Guaido calls Maduro a "usurper" for staying in power after a 2018 election widely dismissed as a sham.

Venezuela is suffering from hyperinflation in an economic crisis that has forced millions to flee. The UN estimates that more than seven million Venezuelans are in need of urgent humanitarian aid.

But Maduro has withstood a US-led pressure campaign that includes sanctions on Venezuela's crucial oil exports.

He has accused the opposition of working on behalf of Washington and called them "putchist."

Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out.

Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out. "In response to the mediation of the Kingdom of Norway (the opposition) will attend a meeting with representatives of the usurper regime in Barbados, to establish a negotiation on the end of the dictatorship," Guaido said in a statement, without giving a date for talks to resume. Maduro's government suggested talks would resume this week. 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 South American country's economic and political crises. Oil-rich Venezuela has been ravaged by five years of recession marked by shortages of food, medicine and other basic necessities. It plunged deeper into political turmoil in January when National Assembly speaker Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority. On Sunday Guaido also announced that he would push for Caracas to rejoin the Inter-American Defense Treaty, which Venezuela left in 2012. Some opposition lawmakers believe the treaty, from which Bolivia, Ecuador and Nicaragua have also withdrawn, could legally allow foreign military intervention to overthrow Maduro. "We have the legitimate right to build the international capacities and alliances necessary to protect and defend our people and our sovereignty," Guaido said on Twitter. Guaido is recognized by the United States and more than 50 other countries but has been unable to dislodge Maduro, who is backed by Cuba, Russia and China. Last Tuesday Guaido had said there were no plans to re-open talks with the "murderous dictatorship" of Maduro, following the death of an officer in custody over an alleged coup plot. The suspicious death of retired naval officer Rafael Acosta Arevalo sparked international condemnation. Guaido said at that time, though, that if fresh talks aimed at "facilitating the cessation of the usurpation" of Maduro were announced, "we will officially communicate." -- 'To move forward' -- In a tweet, Maduro's Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez implicitly corroborated Guaido's announcement by reproducing a Norwegian Foreign Ministry statement. "The two parties will meet this week in Barbados to move forward in the search for a negotiated and constitutional solution," the statement said. The Barbados talks will be the third round since May. Guaido wants them to lead towards Maduro's departure from the presidency he has held since 2013, to a transitional government, and then "free elections with international observers." Some in the opposition criticize dialogue as a way for Maduro to "buy time," but Guaido responds it is a means to "put an end to the suffering of Venezuelans." Political scientist Jesus Castillo-Molleda told AFP "the opposition cannot defeat the government, neither alone nor with the help of the United States government." This means it has to look for other ways to reach agreements in favor of elections, the analyst said. Maduro has repeatedly said that the dialogue "will continue" with the opposition, "for peace in Venezuela." During a parade last Friday celebrating the country's independence, Maduro said there would be "good news" this week about the negotiations. Guaido calls Maduro a "usurper" for staying in power after a 2018 election widely dismissed as a sham. Venezuela is suffering from hyperinflation in an economic crisis that has forced millions to flee. The UN estimates that more than seven million Venezuelans are in need of urgent humanitarian aid. But Maduro has withstood a US-led pressure campaign that includes sanctions on Venezuela's crucial oil exports. He has accused the opposition of working on behalf of Washington and called them "putchist."

In response to Norway mediation, will resume talks with Maduro government in Barbados: Guaido

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro`s government and opposition leader Juan Guaido`s team will restart negotiations to try to resolve the country`s crisis, three people familiar with the talks said on Saturday.

The three people told Reuters that both sides had not yet decided whether to hold the discussions in Oslo, where previous talks were held, or in Barbados.

Two of the people said the talks would begin next week.

Norway`s government encouraged both sides to meet in Oslo in May, but they were unable to reach any agreement to resolve the economic and political crisis that has driven more than 4 million Venezuelans to flee abroad.

Few details have been released about the contents of the talks between representatives of Maduro and Guaidó, who assumed a rival presidency in January and denounces Maduro as illegitimate for securing re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent.

Guaido said on Twitter on Friday that he had received backing from allies to "begin a new round of consultations with national and international leaders," without giving more details.&nbsp;

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro`s government and opposition leader Juan Guaido`s team will restart negotiations to try to resolve the country`s crisis, three people familiar with the talks said on Saturday.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro`s government and opposition leader Juan Guaido`s team will restart negotiations to try to resolve the country`s crisis, three people familiar with the talks said on Saturday. The three people told Reuters that both sides had not yet decided whether to hold the discussions in Oslo, where previous talks were held, or in Barbados. Two of the people said the talks would begin next week. Norway`s government encouraged both sides to meet in Oslo in May, but they were unable to reach any agreement to resolve the economic and political crisis that has driven more than 4 million Venezuelans to flee abroad. Few details have been released about the contents of the talks between representatives of Maduro and Guaidó, who assumed a rival presidency in January and denounces Maduro as illegitimate for securing re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Guaido said on Twitter on Friday that he had received backing from allies to "begin a new round of consultations with national and international leaders," without giving more details.

Venezuelan government and opposition to restart negotiations: Sources

The Venezuelan exodus may exceed eight million people by the end of next year, which would make it the largest migration crisis in the world, according to a special report issued by the Organisation of American States (OAS).

The group`s projection puts the exodus between 7.5 million and 8.2 million in 2020, far surpassing the 6.7 million people who in eight years have fled Syria, Al Jazeera reported.

"It`s not an economic or voluntary migration," said David Smolansky, an exiled Venezuelan politician who presented the final report with Harvard University economist Dany Bahar to the OAS assembly on Friday.

"It`s forced migration," he added.

The projections were previously released as part of the group`s preliminary report in March, but on Friday OAS representatives, pointing to the report, appealed to the international community for more support in addressing the growing number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees.

The UN estimates that four million people have already left Venezuela in recent years, fleeing hyperinflation, violence and scarcity of medicine and food as the country descends deeper into a catastrophic collapse.

The wave of displaced Venezuelans has already stoked tension and instability in South American countries, and the prospective doubling of the total exodus in the next 18 months raises grim prospects for the region`s future.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration on the same day announced sanctions on the son of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a move to increase pressure on family members of top officials backing the leader and suspected of corruption.

The action by the US Treasury Department freezes any US assets belonging to Maduro`s son, Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra, and prohibits US nationals or American institutions from doing business with him.

"Maduro`s regime was built on fraudulent elections, and his inner circle lives in luxury off the proceeds of corruption while the Venezuelan people suffer," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

"Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela. Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro`s corruption," he added.

Guerra is also a member of the constitutional assembly, a rubber-stamping rival of the opposition-controlled congress charged with rewriting the nation`s charter.

In 2017, he delivered a fiery speech from the assembly vowing to storm the White House in response to President Donald Trump`s threat of military force to remove his father from power.

A senior US administration official was further quoted as saying that Washington is considering expanding actions against family members of Maduro officials as part of its focus on corruption by the socialist leader`s top allies.

The Venezuelan exodus may exceed eight million people by the end of next year, which would make it the largest migration crisis in the world, according to a special report issued by the Organisation of American States (OAS).

The Venezuelan exodus may exceed eight million people by the end of next year, which would make it the largest migration crisis in the world, according to a special report issued by the Organisation of American States (OAS). The group`s projection puts the exodus between 7.5 million and 8.2 million in 2020, far surpassing the 6.7 million people who in eight years have fled Syria, Al Jazeera reported. "It`s not an economic or voluntary migration," said David Smolansky, an exiled Venezuelan politician who presented the final report with Harvard University economist Dany Bahar to the OAS assembly on Friday. "It`s forced migration," he added. The projections were previously released as part of the group`s preliminary report in March, but on Friday OAS representatives, pointing to the report, appealed to the international community for more support in addressing the growing number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees. The UN estimates that four million people have already left Venezuela in recent years, fleeing hyperinflation, violence and scarcity of medicine and food as the country descends deeper into a catastrophic collapse. The wave of displaced Venezuelans has already stoked tension and instability in South American countries, and the prospective doubling of the total exodus in the next 18 months raises grim prospects for the region`s future. Meanwhile, the Trump administration on the same day announced sanctions on the son of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in a move to increase pressure on family members of top officials backing the leader and suspected of corruption. The action by the US Treasury Department freezes any US assets belonging to Maduro`s son, Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra, and prohibits US nationals or American institutions from doing business with him. "Maduro`s regime was built on fraudulent elections, and his inner circle lives in luxury off the proceeds of corruption while the Venezuelan people suffer," said Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin. "Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela. Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro`s corruption," he added. Guerra is also a member of the constitutional assembly, a rubber-stamping rival of the opposition-controlled congress charged with rewriting the nation`s charter. In 2017, he delivered a fiery speech from the assembly vowing to storm the White House in response to President Donald Trump`s threat of military force to remove his father from power. A senior US administration official was further quoted as saying that Washington is considering expanding actions against family members of Maduro officials as part of its focus on corruption by the socialist leader`s top allies.

Venezuela migrant crisis to become world's largest by 2020: Report

Russia is withdrawing its military "technicians" from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-former-spy-chief-says-nicolas-maduro-could-yet-fall-230214">Venezuela, flying them</a> out to Moscow on Wednesday, the embassy in Caracas said.

"The Il-62 plane which is carrying Russian technicians who have been in Venezuela over the past months… is leaving Caracas for Moscow on June 26," the Russian embassy in Caracas said in a post on Facebook.

An embassy press attache told AFP "one plane" was departing for Moscow.

Russia had said earlier that military specialists were in Venezuela were "working on servicing equipment supplied earlier."

Trump had tweeted during a state visit to Britain that "Russia has informed us that they have removed most of their people from Venezuela." It was denied by Kremlin at the time.

However, this time the Russian embassy confirmed that they had pulled out its technicians from Venezuela.

Trump in March had called on Russia to "get out" of Venezuela after Moscow -- in a significant show of solidarity for Maduro's badly isolated government -- deployed around 100 soldiers to the country.

Russia's state defence contractor Rostec has played down any changes in deployment, dismissing a report in The Wall Street Journal saying that the overall Russian presence in Venezuela had been reduced from as many as 1,000 personnel to a few dozen.

Russia is withdrawing its military "technicians" from Venezuela, flying them out to Moscow on Wednesday, the embassy in Caracas said. "The Il-62 plane which is carrying Russian technicians who have been in Venezuela over the past months… is leaving Caracas for Moscow on June 26," the Russian embassy in Caracas said in a post on Facebook.

Russia is withdrawing its military "technicians" from Venezuela, flying them out to Moscow on Wednesday, the embassy in Caracas said. "The Il-62 plane which is carrying Russian technicians who have been in Venezuela over the past months… is leaving Caracas for Moscow on June 26," the Russian embassy in Caracas said in a post on Facebook. An embassy press attache told AFP "one plane" was departing for Moscow. Russia had said earlier that military specialists were in Venezuela were "working on servicing equipment supplied earlier." Trump had tweeted during a state visit to Britain that "Russia has informed us that they have removed most of their people from Venezuela." It was denied by Kremlin at the time. However, this time the Russian embassy confirmed that they had pulled out its technicians from Venezuela. Trump in March had called on Russia to "get out" of Venezuela after Moscow -- in a significant show of solidarity for Maduro's badly isolated government -- deployed around 100 soldiers to the country. Russia's state defence contractor Rostec has played down any changes in deployment, dismissing a report in The Wall Street Journal saying that the overall Russian presence in Venezuela had been reduced from as many as 1,000 personnel to a few dozen.

'Technicians' to fly out of Venezuela: Russian embassy

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Saturday called for an investigation into claims his representatives misappropriated funds intended to help defectors from the Venezuelan military living in Colombia.

More than 1,400 members of Venezuela`s armed forces have fled to Colombia this year, heeding Guaido`s call to disavow socialist President Nicolas Maduro. They began arriving in late February, as Maduro`s troops at the border with Colombia drove back convoys of humanitarian aid requested by Guaido.

Latin American news outlet PanAm Post on Friday reported that representatives of Guaido, the leader of Venezuela`s opposition-controlled National Assembly, used funds intended to pay for the cost of the troops` hotels in the Colombian border city of Cucuta for personal purchases.&nbsp;

"We will investigate this deeply," Guaido said during a speech to supporters in the mountainous Venezuelan state of Merida. "Every cent of public funds should be sacred, and that is something we have to learn as a society."

Guaido in January invoked Venezuela`s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro`s 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has since been recognized as the country`s legitimate leader by most Western and Latin American countries, including Colombia and the United States.

The opposition and its allies abroad say Maduro is a corrupt dictator who, along with other senior officials, has grown rich as Venezuela`s economy collapsed in recent years, prompting millions to emigrate. Maduro calls Guaido a US-backed puppet seeking to oust him in a coup.&nbsp;

"We request that the relevant jurisdiction investigate and clear up these serious charges," Luis Almagro, the Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States, wrote on Twitter on Friday, linking to the PanAm Post article. "Democratisation is not possible under the opacity of corrupt acts."

Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in a Friday tweet that the Maduro government had previously "denounced a gigantic corruption scheme of Guaido`s with money sent to Cucuta to recruit hitmen."

In a statement, Guaido`s office said he had requested Colombian authorities` help with the investigation.&nbsp;

"We condemn any possible act of corruption by Venezuelan citizens in the management of resources to pay for the lodging of troops who arrived in Colombia," Colombian Foreign Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo said on Twitter, calling on "relevant authorities" to investigate.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Saturday called for an investigation into claims his representatives misappropriated funds intended to help defectors from the Venezuelan military living in Colombia.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Saturday called for an investigation into claims his representatives misappropriated funds intended to help defectors from the Venezuelan military living in Colombia. More than 1,400 members of Venezuela`s armed forces have fled to Colombia this year, heeding Guaido`s call to disavow socialist President Nicolas Maduro. They began arriving in late February, as Maduro`s troops at the border with Colombia drove back convoys of humanitarian aid requested by Guaido. Latin American news outlet PanAm Post on Friday reported that representatives of Guaido, the leader of Venezuela`s opposition-controlled National Assembly, used funds intended to pay for the cost of the troops` hotels in the Colombian border city of Cucuta for personal purchases. "We will investigate this deeply," Guaido said during a speech to supporters in the mountainous Venezuelan state of Merida. "Every cent of public funds should be sacred, and that is something we have to learn as a society." Guaido in January invoked Venezuela`s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro`s 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has since been recognized as the country`s legitimate leader by most Western and Latin American countries, including Colombia and the United States. The opposition and its allies abroad say Maduro is a corrupt dictator who, along with other senior officials, has grown rich as Venezuela`s economy collapsed in recent years, prompting millions to emigrate. Maduro calls Guaido a US-backed puppet seeking to oust him in a coup. "We request that the relevant jurisdiction investigate and clear up these serious charges," Luis Almagro, the Secretary-General of the Organisation of American States, wrote on Twitter on Friday, linking to the PanAm Post article. "Democratisation is not possible under the opacity of corrupt acts." Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in a Friday tweet that the Maduro government had previously "denounced a gigantic corruption scheme of Guaido`s with money sent to Cucuta to recruit hitmen." In a statement, Guaido`s office said he had requested Colombian authorities` help with the investigation. "We condemn any possible act of corruption by Venezuelan citizens in the management of resources to pay for the lodging of troops who arrived in Colombia," Colombian Foreign Minister Carlos Holmes Trujillo said on Twitter, calling on "relevant authorities" to investigate.

Venezuela's Guaido calls for probe into funds for military defectors

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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - 2 July 2019

Talks are underway in Norway between Venezuela`s government and "democratic" opponents, an envoy said on Thursday, in a possible search for a mediated solution after the opposition`s failure to spark a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

"Yes, there are talks between the Bolivarian government and the democratic sectors of the opposition," Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Jorge Valero, told reporters, denouncing US&nbsp;interference.&nbsp;

Calling Maduro a dictator, US President Donald Trump has tightened sanctions against his government and spearheaded international recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaido who in January invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency.

Guaido, who denounces Maduro`s 2018 re-election as fraudulent, called for Venezuela`s military to rise up on April 30, but his push quickly petered out and the military`s top brass has since then sworn allegiance to Maduro.

Norway`s Foreign Ministry said its norm was not to comment on possible roles in ongoing or potential peace talks. "We strongly encourage the parties to find a political and peaceful solution in order to avoid further escalation," a ministry spokeswoman said.

When asked about Venezuelan talks in Norway, UN&nbsp;spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York: "We`re very much aware of what is going on and very much supportive of this process."

Guaido, in a speech on Thursday, confirmed opposition envoys were in Norway, which was mediating between both sides, but said they would not get involved in a "false negotiation that does not lead to the end of the usurpation."

Many Venezuelan opposition supporters are sceptical about mediation talks, given that past rounds have failed, divided the opposition and, in their view, merely bought time for Maduro to consolidate power and quell street protests.

Guaido said he would meet later on Thursday with participants in a diplomatic effort between European and Latin American countries, known as the International Contact Group on Venezuela (ICG), which aims to negotiate an end to the crisis.

European Union Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said the ICG had a sent a political mission to Venezuela to meet with "all national relevant actors."

"The objective of this mission is to express ICG`s political commitment to a peaceful and democratic solution and to discuss a possible way forward with a view to create the conditions for a negotiated electoral path," Kocijancic said in an email.

Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez and Miranda state governor Hector Rodriguez of the ruling Socialist Party both travelled to Oslo, according to opposition sources.

Opposition legislator Stalin Gonzalez, along with political advisers Gerardo Blyde and Fernando Martinez have also gone, they said. Norway has a tradition of conflict mediation, including assistance with Colombia`s 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels.

Guaido also said on Thursday that Venezuelan ex-police commissioner Ivan Simonovis had left his home despite being under house arrest, though he did not confirm his whereabouts. Simonovis` escape follows the surprise April 30 release of former mayor Leopoldo Lopez, who was under house arrest until agents of the Sebin intelligence service helped him get out.

Talks are underway in Norway between Venezuela`s government and "democratic" opponents, an envoy said on Thursday, in a possible search for a mediated solution after the opposition`s failure to spark a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

Talks are underway in Norway between Venezuela`s government and "democratic" opponents, an envoy said on Thursday, in a possible search for a mediated solution after the opposition`s failure to spark a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro. "Yes, there are talks between the Bolivarian government and the democratic sectors of the opposition," Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Jorge Valero, told reporters, denouncing US interference. Calling Maduro a dictator, US President Donald Trump has tightened sanctions against his government and spearheaded international recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaido who in January invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency. Guaido, who denounces Maduro`s 2018 re-election as fraudulent, called for Venezuela`s military to rise up on April 30, but his push quickly petered out and the military`s top brass has since then sworn allegiance to Maduro. Norway`s Foreign Ministry said its norm was not to comment on possible roles in ongoing or potential peace talks. "We strongly encourage the parties to find a political and peaceful solution in order to avoid further escalation," a ministry spokeswoman said. When asked about Venezuelan talks in Norway, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York: "We`re very much aware of what is going on and very much supportive of this process." Guaido, in a speech on Thursday, confirmed opposition envoys were in Norway, which was mediating between both sides, but said they would not get involved in a "false negotiation that does not lead to the end of the usurpation." Many Venezuelan opposition supporters are sceptical about mediation talks, given that past rounds have failed, divided the opposition and, in their view, merely bought time for Maduro to consolidate power and quell street protests. Guaido said he would meet later on Thursday with participants in a diplomatic effort between European and Latin American countries, known as the International Contact Group on Venezuela (ICG), which aims to negotiate an end to the crisis. European Union Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said the ICG had a sent a political mission to Venezuela to meet with "all national relevant actors." "The objective of this mission is to express ICG`s political commitment to a peaceful and democratic solution and to discuss a possible way forward with a view to create the conditions for a negotiated electoral path," Kocijancic said in an email. Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez and Miranda state governor Hector Rodriguez of the ruling Socialist Party both travelled to Oslo, according to opposition sources. Opposition legislator Stalin Gonzalez, along with political advisers Gerardo Blyde and Fernando Martinez have also gone, they said. Norway has a tradition of conflict mediation, including assistance with Colombia`s 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels. Guaido also said on Thursday that Venezuelan ex-police commissioner Ivan Simonovis had left his home despite being under house arrest, though he did not confirm his whereabouts. Simonovis` escape follows the surprise April 30 release of former mayor Leopoldo Lopez, who was under house arrest until agents of the Sebin intelligence service helped him get out.

Venezuela says talking with 'democratic' opposition in Norway

Venezuela`s top court accused four opposition lawmakers of treason on Tuesday, following similar accusations against 10 legislators this month, escalating a deep political crisis in the South American country.&nbsp;

Security forces had earlier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juan-guaido-blasts-venezuela-regime-after-security-forces-block-congress-218827">prevented lawmakers from entering the legislature</a> for Tuesday`s session, saying they were investigating the possible presence of an explosive device inside the building.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court in a statement posted on its Facebook page accused lawmakers Carlos Paparoni, Miguel Pizarro, Franco Casella and Winston Flores of treason and inciting rebellion. The accusations marked the latest step in a crackdown by President Nicolas Maduro on allies of opposition leader Juan Guaido following a failed effort to spur a military uprising in April.

"This simply gives us more strength," Flores told Reuters, calling the Supreme Court`s accusations "illegitimate orders from the dictator." "We know they will continue with this process of trying to destroy the National Assembly."

Last week, one opposition lawmaker was arrested and several took refuge in foreign embassies in Caracas or fled the country after similar accusations from the court.

Flores said he would make an "emergency" trip to Uruguay to denounce the wave of accusations against Venezuelan lawmakers to the parliament of the Mercosur trade bloc, where he is also a representative, in Montevideo.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Pizarro called the court ruling "an illegal sentence that seeks only to generate fear to shut us up."

Reuters was unable to obtain comment from the other legislators.

Opposition leaders in recent weeks have called such charges an effort by the ruling Socialist Party to shutter the legislature. The Trump administration strongly condemned this month`s detention of Edgar Zambrano, the vice president of the legislature.

Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled Assembly, in January invoked Venezuela`s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro`s 2018 re-election was illegitimate. More than 50 countries have recognised him as the country`s rightful leader, and say the assembly is its last remaining democratic institution.

"This is a dictatorship that goes after dissidents, and we are fighting for a political change," lawmaker Juan Pablo Guanipa told Reuters, referring to the blocking of congress.

Tuesday`s session was scheduled for 10 a.m. (1400 GMT), but never began. The lawmakers were set to discuss the charges against their colleagues and the arrest of Zambrano, an outspoken critic of Maduro.&nbsp;

Venezuela`s information ministry, which handles media inquiries on behalf of the government, did not respond to a request for comment on why security forces blocked the entrance to parliament. Maduro, a socialist, calls Guaido a puppet of the United States seeking to oust him in a coup.

The government stripped the assembly of most of its powers after the opposition won a majority in 2015 elections. Lawmakers loyal to Maduro generally do not attend the sessions, but go to meetings of the Constituent Assembly, a legislative body created in 2017 that meets in the same building.

The Constituent Assembly is controlled by the ruling Socialist Party and its powers supersede those of the National Assembly.

Opposition lawmaker Jorge Millan told reporters the report of "bombs" in the building was false.&nbsp;

"It is a trick to prevent the parliament from functioning today," he said. "If we do not have a session today, we will do it tomorrow."&nbsp;

Venezuela`s top court accused four opposition lawmakers of treason on Tuesday, following similar accusations against 10 legislators this month, escalating a deep political crisis in the South American country.

Venezuela`s top court accused four opposition lawmakers of treason on Tuesday, following similar accusations against 10 legislators this month, escalating a deep political crisis in the South American country. Security forces had earlier prevented lawmakers from entering the legislature for Tuesday`s session, saying they were investigating the possible presence of an explosive device inside the building. The Supreme Court in a statement posted on its Facebook page accused lawmakers Carlos Paparoni, Miguel Pizarro, Franco Casella and Winston Flores of treason and inciting rebellion. The accusations marked the latest step in a crackdown by President Nicolas Maduro on allies of opposition leader Juan Guaido following a failed effort to spur a military uprising in April. "This simply gives us more strength," Flores told Reuters, calling the Supreme Court`s accusations "illegitimate orders from the dictator." "We know they will continue with this process of trying to destroy the National Assembly." Last week, one opposition lawmaker was arrested and several took refuge in foreign embassies in Caracas or fled the country after similar accusations from the court. Flores said he would make an "emergency" trip to Uruguay to denounce the wave of accusations against Venezuelan lawmakers to the parliament of the Mercosur trade bloc, where he is also a representative, in Montevideo. In a tweet, Pizarro called the court ruling "an illegal sentence that seeks only to generate fear to shut us up." Reuters was unable to obtain comment from the other legislators. Opposition leaders in recent weeks have called such charges an effort by the ruling Socialist Party to shutter the legislature. The Trump administration strongly condemned this month`s detention of Edgar Zambrano, the vice president of the legislature. Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled Assembly, in January invoked Venezuela`s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro`s 2018 re-election was illegitimate. More than 50 countries have recognised him as the country`s rightful leader, and say the assembly is its last remaining democratic institution. "This is a dictatorship that goes after dissidents, and we are fighting for a political change," lawmaker Juan Pablo Guanipa told Reuters, referring to the blocking of congress. Tuesday`s session was scheduled for 10 a.m. (1400 GMT), but never began. The lawmakers were set to discuss the charges against their colleagues and the arrest of Zambrano, an outspoken critic of Maduro. Venezuela`s information ministry, which handles media inquiries on behalf of the government, did not respond to a request for comment on why security forces blocked the entrance to parliament. Maduro, a socialist, calls Guaido a puppet of the United States seeking to oust him in a coup. The government stripped the assembly of most of its powers after the opposition won a majority in 2015 elections. Lawmakers loyal to Maduro generally do not attend the sessions, but go to meetings of the Constituent Assembly, a legislative body created in 2017 that meets in the same building. The Constituent Assembly is controlled by the ruling Socialist Party and its powers supersede those of the National Assembly. Opposition lawmaker Jorge Millan told reporters the report of "bombs" in the building was false. "It is a trick to prevent the parliament from functioning today," he said. "If we do not have a session today, we will do it tomorrow."

Venezuela top court accuses more lawmakers of treason as congress building blocked

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