Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday accused Washington of ordering a coup against his government and called for a "total revision" of ties with the US.

The latest claims by Caracas of a US coup plot came the day before a mass street protest announced by the opposition, and one day after a mutiny by some soldiers.

Maduro was specifically reacting to comments by US Vice President Mike Pence, who posted a video on Twitter branding Maduro "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hola-im-mike-pence-us-vp-delivers-message-of-support-to-venezuelans-192101">a dictator with no legitimate claim to power</a>."

Referring to Wednesday's planned opposition rally, Pence added: "As the good people of Venezuela make your voices heard tomorrow, on behalf of the American people, we say: estamos con ustedes. We are with you."

Maduro responded during a radio and TV broadcast that "what the government of the United States did through Vice President Mike Pence, was to give orders to carry out a coup from the fascist state... which is unparalleled in the history of relations between the United States and Venezuela in 200 years."

He ordered Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza to begin "a total revision of relations" with Washington, which has already sanctioned top Venezuelan regime figures.

'Reconsider the plan' 
With Maduro's government ominously predicting there would be violence against opposition protesters, US Senator Marco Rubio warned Venezuela's intelligence service to "reconsider the plan they have for tomorrow before it's too late."

"You are about to cross a line &amp; trigger a response that believe me you are not prepared to face," the Florida Republican said on Twitter.

Rubio urged prayers for "the thousands of Venezuelans who will face danger &amp; difficulty in the hours ahead. May God give them strength. And may he change the hearts of military leaders so that they protect not repress their fellow countrymen."

The Venezuelan government's rhetoric intensified the day after a group of soldiers rose up against Maduro at a command post in the north of Caracas. They published a video on social media calling for the public to come out and support them.

But they surrendered after police and military units surrounded the post, and the 27 soldiers were arrested.

Their voices were heard, though, according to the non-governmental Social Conflict Observatory, which said on Tuesday that anti-Maduro protests were recorded in at least 30 different locations around the capital.

The Organization of American States, which has declared Maduro's new term illegitimate, plans to hold an extraordinary session on Thursday to discuss "recent events in Venezuela."

"Yankee go home! We won't let them interfere in the affairs of the homeland," Maduro's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said in televised remarks, while Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez accused Pence of having ordered "terrorists" to carry out acts of violence during Wednesday's protest.

'It was awful' 
Demonstrators are set to mobilize behind the National Assembly's new president Juan Guaido, who has branded Maduro a "usurper" and wants to establish a transitional government leading to elections.

Maduro's administration stripped the Assembly of its power but Guaido has risen to the challenge of taking him on. The movement has gained traction since Maduro was sworn in for a second term as president on January 10 after he won controversial elections.

Unrest triggered by Monday's troop uprising lasted in some places until Tuesday morning.

"Maduro out! That's what the people were shouting. It was awful," 60-year-old Dinora de Longa told AFP.

"The police were shooting and there was tear gas everywhere. I had to put my grandchildren in the bathroom. This won't solve anything."

One protest, in which people pelted cars with stones, took place on the motorway linking Caracas to the neighboring port of La Guaira, where the capital's airport is located.

The opposition accuses Maduro of running an authoritarian regime and acting unconstitutionally.

Counter demonstration 
Wednesday's protest date of January 23 is significant because it marks 61 years since the fall of Marcos Perez Jimenez's dictatorship.

The regime has responded by announcing its own demonstration in support of Maduro.

It will be the first major street movement since 125 people were killed during civil unrest between April and July 2017.

Venezuela is suffering the worst economic crisis in its modern history. Food and medicine have been in short supply, while spiraling inflation -- predicted to reach a mind-boggling 10 million percent this year -- has crippled the currency.

The crisis was sparked by a fall in global oil prices in 2014, a commodity Venezuela is almost entirely reliant upon. Its crude production has dropped to barely a third of the level of a decade ago.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday accused Washington of ordering a coup against his government and called for a "total revision" of ties with the US.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday accused Washington of ordering a coup against his government and called for a "total revision" of ties with the US. The latest claims by Caracas of a US coup plot came the day before a mass street protest announced by the opposition, and one day after a mutiny by some soldiers. Maduro was specifically reacting to comments by US Vice President Mike Pence, who posted a video on Twitter branding Maduro "a dictator with no legitimate claim to power." Referring to Wednesday's planned opposition rally, Pence added: "As the good people of Venezuela make your voices heard tomorrow, on behalf of the American people, we say: estamos con ustedes. We are with you." Maduro responded during a radio and TV broadcast that "what the government of the United States did through Vice President Mike Pence, was to give orders to carry out a coup from the fascist state... which is unparalleled in the history of relations between the United States and Venezuela in 200 years." He ordered Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza to begin "a total revision of relations" with Washington, which has already sanctioned top Venezuelan regime figures. 'Reconsider the plan' With Maduro's government ominously predicting there would be violence against opposition protesters, US Senator Marco Rubio warned Venezuela's intelligence service to "reconsider the plan they have for tomorrow before it's too late." "You are about to cross a line & trigger a response that believe me you are not prepared to face," the Florida Republican said on Twitter. Rubio urged prayers for "the thousands of Venezuelans who will face danger & difficulty in the hours ahead. May God give them strength. And may he change the hearts of military leaders so that they protect not repress their fellow countrymen." The Venezuelan government's rhetoric intensified the day after a group of soldiers rose up against Maduro at a command post in the north of Caracas. They published a video on social media calling for the public to come out and support them. But they surrendered after police and military units surrounded the post, and the 27 soldiers were arrested. Their voices were heard, though, according to the non-governmental Social Conflict Observatory, which said on Tuesday that anti-Maduro protests were recorded in at least 30 different locations around the capital. The Organization of American States, which has declared Maduro's new term illegitimate, plans to hold an extraordinary session on Thursday to discuss "recent events in Venezuela." "Yankee go home! We won't let them interfere in the affairs of the homeland," Maduro's Vice President Delcy Rodriguez said in televised remarks, while Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez accused Pence of having ordered "terrorists" to carry out acts of violence during Wednesday's protest. 'It was awful' Demonstrators are set to mobilize behind the National Assembly's new president Juan Guaido, who has branded Maduro a "usurper" and wants to establish a transitional government leading to elections. Maduro's administration stripped the Assembly of its power but Guaido has risen to the challenge of taking him on. The movement has gained traction since Maduro was sworn in for a second term as president on January 10 after he won controversial elections. Unrest triggered by Monday's troop uprising lasted in some places until Tuesday morning. "Maduro out! That's what the people were shouting. It was awful," 60-year-old Dinora de Longa told AFP. "The police were shooting and there was tear gas everywhere. I had to put my grandchildren in the bathroom. This won't solve anything." One protest, in which people pelted cars with stones, took place on the motorway linking Caracas to the neighboring port of La Guaira, where the capital's airport is located. The opposition accuses Maduro of running an authoritarian regime and acting unconstitutionally. Counter demonstration Wednesday's protest date of January 23 is significant because it marks 61 years since the fall of Marcos Perez Jimenez's dictatorship. The regime has responded by announcing its own demonstration in support of Maduro. It will be the first major street movement since 125 people were killed during civil unrest between April and July 2017. Venezuela is suffering the worst economic crisis in its modern history. Food and medicine have been in short supply, while spiraling inflation -- predicted to reach a mind-boggling 10 million percent this year -- has crippled the currency. The crisis was sparked by a fall in global oil prices in 2014, a commodity Venezuela is almost entirely reliant upon. Its crude production has dropped to barely a third of the level of a decade ago.

Venezuela accuses US of ordering coup, calls for 'total revision' of ties

US Vice President Mike Pence issued a video message of support to Venezuelans on Tuesday to encourage <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-group-rises-against-maduro-arrested-191964">those who are protesting against President Nicolas Maduro</a> and underline US backing for opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Venezuela's opposition on Wednesday plans to hold marches nationwide as part of an annual event that marks the fall of a military government in 1958. Government critics are increasingly comparing Maduro to dictator Marcos Perez, who was pushed from power that year.

In a taped video message in English with a few Spanish words and phrases mixed in, Pence, who has lashed out at Maduro before, declared him a "dictator" who has no rightful claim to power.

"On behalf of President Donald Trump and all the American people, let me express the unwavering support of the United States as you, the people of Venezuela, raise your voices in a call for freedom," Pence said after offering a greeting of "hola," which means "hello" in Spanish.

"Nicolas Maduro is a dictator with no legitimate claim to power. He has never won the presidency in a free and fair election, and has maintained his grip of power by imprisoning anyone who dares to oppose him."

Pence declared US support again for Guaido, with whom he spoke by phone earlier this month, and the National Assembly, which he leads, as the "last vestige of democracy." Pence said Washington supported Guaido's decision to assert the body's powers, declare Maduro a "usurper" and push for a transitional government to be established.

"As you make your voices heard tomorrow, on behalf of the American people, we say to all the good people of Venezuela: estamos con ustedes," Pence said, following up with the translation in English: "We are with you, we stand with you, and we will stay with you until democracy is restored and you reclaim your birthright of libertad."

Maduro was inaugurated on January 10 amid worldwide criticism that his leadership was illegitimate after a 2018 election that was widely viewed as fraudulent.

In response to Pence's comments, Maduro accused him of trying to force a coup and said he had ordered a revision of Venezuela's diplomatic relations with the United States.

"Never before has a high-level official said that the opposition should overthrow the government," Maduro told a news conference. The US embassy in Caracas did not respond to a request to comment.

Pence has largely taken the lead within the Trump administration in condemning Maduro. He called the inauguration a sham and made clear the United States did not recognise the election result.

US Vice President Mike Pence issued a video message of support to Venezuelans on Tuesday to encourage those who are protesting against President Nicolas Maduro and underline US backing for opposition leader Juan Guaido.

US Vice President Mike Pence issued a video message of support to Venezuelans on Tuesday to encourage those who are protesting against President Nicolas Maduro and underline US backing for opposition leader Juan Guaido. Venezuela's opposition on Wednesday plans to hold marches nationwide as part of an annual event that marks the fall of a military government in 1958. Government critics are increasingly comparing Maduro to dictator Marcos Perez, who was pushed from power that year. In a taped video message in English with a few Spanish words and phrases mixed in, Pence, who has lashed out at Maduro before, declared him a "dictator" who has no rightful claim to power. "On behalf of President Donald Trump and all the American people, let me express the unwavering support of the United States as you, the people of Venezuela, raise your voices in a call for freedom," Pence said after offering a greeting of "hola," which means "hello" in Spanish. "Nicolas Maduro is a dictator with no legitimate claim to power. He has never won the presidency in a free and fair election, and has maintained his grip of power by imprisoning anyone who dares to oppose him." Pence declared US support again for Guaido, with whom he spoke by phone earlier this month, and the National Assembly, which he leads, as the "last vestige of democracy." Pence said Washington supported Guaido's decision to assert the body's powers, declare Maduro a "usurper" and push for a transitional government to be established. "As you make your voices heard tomorrow, on behalf of the American people, we say to all the good people of Venezuela: estamos con ustedes," Pence said, following up with the translation in English: "We are with you, we stand with you, and we will stay with you until democracy is restored and you reclaim your birthright of libertad." Maduro was inaugurated on January 10 amid worldwide criticism that his leadership was illegitimate after a 2018 election that was widely viewed as fraudulent. In response to Pence's comments, Maduro accused him of trying to force a coup and said he had ordered a revision of Venezuela's diplomatic relations with the United States. "Never before has a high-level official said that the opposition should overthrow the government," Maduro told a news conference. The US embassy in Caracas did not respond to a request to comment. Pence has largely taken the lead within the Trump administration in condemning Maduro. He called the inauguration a sham and made clear the United States did not recognise the election result.

Hola, I'm Mike Pence: US VP encourages Venezuelans to protest against President Maduro

A group of 27 soldiers rose up against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-vows-to-pressure-venezuelas-illegitimate-president-maduro-189470">Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro</a> at a command post in Caracas on Monday, but they were quickly arrested after posting an appeal for public support in a video.

"We are the professional troop of the National Guard against the regime, which we completely repudiate. I need your help, take to the streets," a man who identified himself as the group's leader said in a video circulated on social media.

Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino issued a statement saying the soldiers had been arrested.

Before the attack on a National Guard command centre in northern Caracas where they were captured, the men had assaulted another security post, taking four prisoners and making off with "weapons of war," the statement said.&nbsp;

"During the arrest, stolen weapons were recovered and (the mutineers) are providing useful information to intelligence services and the military justice system," added Padrino, who said the rebels would "face the full force of the law."

The small, short-lived rebellion triggered outbreaks of protest in support of it.

In the districts of Cotiza, Los Mecedores and elsewhere in northern Caracas, people threw rocks and bottles at riot police, who responded with tear gas and rubber bullets. Several demonstrators were reported injured.

As night fell, in several areas of Caracas people banged pots and pans -- a traditional method of grassroots protest in Latin America. A major avenue in downtown Caracas was blocked and protesters shouted: "this government is going to fall." Riot police dispersed the crowds with tear gas.

Maduro's right-hand man and head of the Constituent Assembly, Diosdado Cabello, said 25 soldiers were arrested at the site, and two more were detained elsewhere.

Cabello identified the rebel leader as Sergeant Major Luis Bandres Figueroa.

The Supreme Court, which is dominated by regime loyalists, later took aim at the opposition-controlled National Assembly, declaring its leadership illegitimate and its decisions invalid.

Last week, the assembly had declared Maduro a "usurper," and offered members of the military and the government amnesty if they broke with Maduro.

It also called for a day of protests against the president on Wednesday.

'Neutralized, surrendered, captured'&nbsp;

The mutiny unfolded in the early hours of the day and culminated at the National Guard's Cotiza command, which was later surrounded by police and troops.

"They were neutralized, surrendered and captured in record time," Cabello tweeted.

"They are already confessing details and the first thing they said is that they were offered villas and castles but were left alone, they were tricked. We will win," he added, without specifying who allegedly made the offer.

The armed forces fired tear gas to disperse protesters who gathered outside the command post, banging pots and blocking roads with burning garbage in support of the uprising.

"If they unite with our country, we're with them, we're going to stay in the streets. Freedom!" shouted one woman, who declined to be identified.

"We want Maduro to go, we're fed up," added a man.

National Assembly president Juan Guaido, who has engaged Maduro in a power struggle since being elected to lead the legislature earlier this month, spoke out in support of the mutinous soldiers.

"What is happening in the National Guard in Cotiza is a demonstration of the general feeling that reigns within" the armed forces, Guaido said on Twitter.

"Our military knows that the chain of command has been broken by the usurpation of the presidential office.

"The National Assembly is committed to offering all the necessary guarantees to members of the armed forces that actively contribute to the restoration of the constitution."

But the Supreme Court responded by declaring Guaido, who has quickly become the central figure in the Maduro opposition, a usurper himself.

Parliament "does not have a legitimate board of directors," the court's president Juan Jose Mendoza said in a statement he read to the press, adding that the National Assembly was "usurping its authority, and therefore all its decisions are void."

The top court also said it was annulling the legislature's decision to officially declare Maduro a usurper and promising an amnesty law to protect military personnel that turn against the president.

Maduro retains military backing&nbsp;

Maduro, who has presided over the virtual collapse of the economy and a mass exodus of Venezuelans fleeing unemployment and shortages of food and medicine, has so far retained the support of the military high command despite growing domestic discontent.

He won controversial snap elections in May that were boycotted by the opposition and branded fraudulent by the United States, the European Union and a dozen Latin American countries.

The National Assembly has long been held in check by the Supreme Court, which stripped it of its powers after the opposition gained control of the legislature in 2016 elections.

Guaido, though, has shown a determination to challenge Maduro's authority.

He previously urged the general population and armed forces to support a transitional government that would oust Maduro and organize elections.

He has also called for a mass protest on Wednesday to support his demands, while the regime has announced its own counter-demonstration in support of Maduro.

It will be the first such mass street action since 2017 when more than four months of street protests claimed the lives of 125 people.

A group of 27 soldiers rose up against Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro at a command post in Caracas on Monday, but they were quickly arrested after posting an appeal for public support in a video.

A group of 27 soldiers rose up against Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro at a command post in Caracas on Monday, but they were quickly arrested after posting an appeal for public support in a video. "We are the professional troop of the National Guard against the regime, which we completely repudiate. I need your help, take to the streets," a man who identified himself as the group's leader said in a video circulated on social media. Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino issued a statement saying the soldiers had been arrested. Before the attack on a National Guard command centre in northern Caracas where they were captured, the men had assaulted another security post, taking four prisoners and making off with "weapons of war," the statement said. "During the arrest, stolen weapons were recovered and (the mutineers) are providing useful information to intelligence services and the military justice system," added Padrino, who said the rebels would "face the full force of the law." The small, short-lived rebellion triggered outbreaks of protest in support of it. In the districts of Cotiza, Los Mecedores and elsewhere in northern Caracas, people threw rocks and bottles at riot police, who responded with tear gas and rubber bullets. Several demonstrators were reported injured. As night fell, in several areas of Caracas people banged pots and pans -- a traditional method of grassroots protest in Latin America. A major avenue in downtown Caracas was blocked and protesters shouted: "this government is going to fall." Riot police dispersed the crowds with tear gas. Maduro's right-hand man and head of the Constituent Assembly, Diosdado Cabello, said 25 soldiers were arrested at the site, and two more were detained elsewhere. Cabello identified the rebel leader as Sergeant Major Luis Bandres Figueroa. The Supreme Court, which is dominated by regime loyalists, later took aim at the opposition-controlled National Assembly, declaring its leadership illegitimate and its decisions invalid. Last week, the assembly had declared Maduro a "usurper," and offered members of the military and the government amnesty if they broke with Maduro. It also called for a day of protests against the president on Wednesday. 'Neutralized, surrendered, captured' The mutiny unfolded in the early hours of the day and culminated at the National Guard's Cotiza command, which was later surrounded by police and troops. "They were neutralized, surrendered and captured in record time," Cabello tweeted. "They are already confessing details and the first thing they said is that they were offered villas and castles but were left alone, they were tricked. We will win," he added, without specifying who allegedly made the offer. The armed forces fired tear gas to disperse protesters who gathered outside the command post, banging pots and blocking roads with burning garbage in support of the uprising. "If they unite with our country, we're with them, we're going to stay in the streets. Freedom!" shouted one woman, who declined to be identified. "We want Maduro to go, we're fed up," added a man. National Assembly president Juan Guaido, who has engaged Maduro in a power struggle since being elected to lead the legislature earlier this month, spoke out in support of the mutinous soldiers. "What is happening in the National Guard in Cotiza is a demonstration of the general feeling that reigns within" the armed forces, Guaido said on Twitter. "Our military knows that the chain of command has been broken by the usurpation of the presidential office. "The National Assembly is committed to offering all the necessary guarantees to members of the armed forces that actively contribute to the restoration of the constitution." But the Supreme Court responded by declaring Guaido, who has quickly become the central figure in the Maduro opposition, a usurper himself. Parliament "does not have a legitimate board of directors," the court's president Juan Jose Mendoza said in a statement he read to the press, adding that the National Assembly was "usurping its authority, and therefore all its decisions are void." The top court also said it was annulling the legislature's decision to officially declare Maduro a usurper and promising an amnesty law to protect military personnel that turn against the president. Maduro retains military backing Maduro, who has presided over the virtual collapse of the economy and a mass exodus of Venezuelans fleeing unemployment and shortages of food and medicine, has so far retained the support of the military high command despite growing domestic discontent. He won controversial snap elections in May that were boycotted by the opposition and branded fraudulent by the United States, the European Union and a dozen Latin American countries. The National Assembly has long been held in check by the Supreme Court, which stripped it of its powers after the opposition gained control of the legislature in 2016 elections. Guaido, though, has shown a determination to challenge Maduro's authority. He previously urged the general population and armed forces to support a transitional government that would oust Maduro and organize elections. He has also called for a mass protest on Wednesday to support his demands, while the regime has announced its own counter-demonstration in support of Maduro. It will be the first such mass street action since 2017 when more than four months of street protests claimed the lives of 125 people.

Venezuela military group rises against Maduro, arrested

A dozen intelligence service agents were sent to prison by a Venezuelan court Wednesday over the brief detention of parliamentary president Juan Guaido, a judicial source said.

The Caracas court remanded the agents in pre-trial detention after they were accused of "abuse of functions, illegitimate deprivation of liberty and association to commit a crime."

Guaido was heading to a political rally outside the Venezuelan capital on Sunday when his car was stopped on a highway and he was briefly detained by the SEBIN agents.

President Nicolas Maduro's government denied any knowledge of the operation and initially claimed that four agents involved had been dismissed.

Maduro branded the whole incident a "media circus" and accused the agents of conspiring with Venezuela's opposition.

Guaido, meanwhile, responded by mocking Maduro and questioning his control over the state's security agencies.

"So Maduro no longer controls the armed forces because the chain of command was broken," said Guaido.

"Who is commanding the regime now? If they're already admitting that they don't control the state's security agencies, there's a serious problem at Miraflores," he added, referring to the presidential palace.

Guaido has been trying to attract support from the military as he leads the opposition bid to remove Maduro from power and set up a transitional government.

But Maduro retains the backing of the military's high command, which last week pledged "absolute loyalty."&nbsp;

Guaido has promised an "amnesty" for any military that disavow Maduro and has called for a people's protest next week.

The opposition-controlled National Assembly, which he leads, has been left ineffective since the Maduro loyalist-filled Supreme stripped it of all its powers in 2017.

A dozen intelligence service agents were sent to prison by a Venezuelan court Wednesday over the brief detention of parliamentary president Juan Guaido, a judicial source said.

A dozen intelligence service agents were sent to prison by a Venezuelan court Wednesday over the brief detention of parliamentary president Juan Guaido, a judicial source said. The Caracas court remanded the agents in pre-trial detention after they were accused of "abuse of functions, illegitimate deprivation of liberty and association to commit a crime." Guaido was heading to a political rally outside the Venezuelan capital on Sunday when his car was stopped on a highway and he was briefly detained by the SEBIN agents. President Nicolas Maduro's government denied any knowledge of the operation and initially claimed that four agents involved had been dismissed. Maduro branded the whole incident a "media circus" and accused the agents of conspiring with Venezuela's opposition. Guaido, meanwhile, responded by mocking Maduro and questioning his control over the state's security agencies. "So Maduro no longer controls the armed forces because the chain of command was broken," said Guaido. "Who is commanding the regime now? If they're already admitting that they don't control the state's security agencies, there's a serious problem at Miraflores," he added, referring to the presidential palace. Guaido has been trying to attract support from the military as he leads the opposition bid to remove Maduro from power and set up a transitional government. But Maduro retains the backing of the military's high command, which last week pledged "absolute loyalty." Guaido has promised an "amnesty" for any military that disavow Maduro and has called for a people's protest next week. The opposition-controlled National Assembly, which he leads, has been left ineffective since the Maduro loyalist-filled Supreme stripped it of all its powers in 2017.

Venezuelan court jails intelligence service agents over detained parliament president

The week that was, in pictures

The leader of Venezuela's opposition-led Congress said on Friday he was prepared to assume the country's presidency on an interim basis and call elections, just one day after leftist <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-president-maduro-starts-new-term-shrugs-off-criticism-189465">President Nicolas Maduro was sworn in </a>for a disputed second term.

Juan Guaido, a lawmaker from the hard-line Popular Will opposition party who was elected to head the National Assembly on January 5, said he would only take office with the support of the armed forces. He also called for protests on January 23, the anniversary of the fall of a military dictatorship in 1958.

"It should be the people of Venezuela, the armed forces, and the international community that give us a clear mandate to assume" the presidency, Guaido said in a speech to supporters outside the United Nations (UN) programme office in Caracas.

Maduro was re-elected last year in a vote that was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-parliament-rejects-legitimacy-of-maduro-second-term-188466">widely dismissed as fraudulent</a>, and countries around the world have called his continued leadership illegitimate. Ruling Socialist Party leaders have described the criticism as colonialist interference led by the United States.

The Supreme Court and an all-powerful legislature called the Constituent Assembly have stripped Congress of its powers, meaning it does not have the capacity to remove the president as would a legislature in many countries.

Guaido's comments, however, caused some confusion.

Luis Almagro, head of regional diplomatic group the Organisation of American States, tweeted that Guaido had assumed the interim presidency of Venezuela. Guaido did not respond to a message seeking clarification.

The country's perennially fractured opposition has made numerous failed attempts over the past 20 years to remove the ruling socialists. Now, opposition leaders have disavowed Maduro's second term as illegitimate, and have called for the National Assembly to declare the presidency vacant.

The country's constitution says a presidential vacancy can be filled by the head of the legislature, and some opposition activists have called on Guaido to assume the presidency.

Maduro's allies were quick to denounce Guaido. Prisons Minister Iris Varela appeared to threaten to jail him, although she has previously threatened other opposition members who remain free. "Guaido, I already got your cell ready, with your uniform," Varela wrote on Twitter.

The opposition has promised to keep up the pressure. Some 2,000 people gathered outside the UN site listening to opposition lawmakers and civil society leaders denounce Maduro as a "usurper."

"[Congress] is the only legitimate power that we have," said Servando Valecillos, a 67-year-old salesman and one of the protesters.

Maduro's critics accuse him of creating a dictatorship and destroying the OPEC nation's economy.

Venezuela is experiencing the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-in-crisis-health-situation-worst-in-history-189027">worst economic crisis in its history</a>, with inflation headed towards 2 million per cent. Some three million people have left the country amid chronic shortages of food and medicine.

Maduro says the country is victim of an "economic war" led by his political adversaries with the help of Washington.

The leader of Venezuela's opposition-led Congress said on Friday he was prepared to assume the country's presidency on an interim basis and call elections, just one day after leftist President Nicolas Maduro was sworn in for a disputed second term.

The leader of Venezuela's opposition-led Congress said on Friday he was prepared to assume the country's presidency on an interim basis and call elections, just one day after leftist President Nicolas Maduro was sworn in for a disputed second term. Juan Guaido, a lawmaker from the hard-line Popular Will opposition party who was elected to head the National Assembly on January 5, said he would only take office with the support of the armed forces. He also called for protests on January 23, the anniversary of the fall of a military dictatorship in 1958. "It should be the people of Venezuela, the armed forces, and the international community that give us a clear mandate to assume" the presidency, Guaido said in a speech to supporters outside the United Nations (UN) programme office in Caracas. Maduro was re-elected last year in a vote that was widely dismissed as fraudulent, and countries around the world have called his continued leadership illegitimate. Ruling Socialist Party leaders have described the criticism as colonialist interference led by the United States. The Supreme Court and an all-powerful legislature called the Constituent Assembly have stripped Congress of its powers, meaning it does not have the capacity to remove the president as would a legislature in many countries. Guaido's comments, however, caused some confusion. Luis Almagro, head of regional diplomatic group the Organisation of American States, tweeted that Guaido had assumed the interim presidency of Venezuela. Guaido did not respond to a message seeking clarification. The country's perennially fractured opposition has made numerous failed attempts over the past 20 years to remove the ruling socialists. Now, opposition leaders have disavowed Maduro's second term as illegitimate, and have called for the National Assembly to declare the presidency vacant. The country's constitution says a presidential vacancy can be filled by the head of the legislature, and some opposition activists have called on Guaido to assume the presidency. Maduro's allies were quick to denounce Guaido. Prisons Minister Iris Varela appeared to threaten to jail him, although she has previously threatened other opposition members who remain free. "Guaido, I already got your cell ready, with your uniform," Varela wrote on Twitter. The opposition has promised to keep up the pressure. Some 2,000 people gathered outside the UN site listening to opposition lawmakers and civil society leaders denounce Maduro as a "usurper." "[Congress] is the only legitimate power that we have," said Servando Valecillos, a 67-year-old salesman and one of the protesters. Maduro's critics accuse him of creating a dictatorship and destroying the OPEC nation's economy. Venezuela is experiencing the worst economic crisis in its history, with inflation headed towards 2 million per cent. Some three million people have left the country amid chronic shortages of food and medicine. Maduro says the country is victim of an "economic war" led by his political adversaries with the help of Washington.

Prepared to assume presidency on interim basis: Leader of Venezuela Congress

Venezuelan President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/president-maduro-to-start-new-term-as-venezuela-isolation-grows-189445">Nicolas Maduro</a> started a second term on Thursday, defying critics in the United States and Latin America who called him an illegitimate usurper of a nation where economic chaos has wrought a humanitarian crisis.

The country's pro-government Supreme Court, which has largely supplanted the opposition-run Congress, swore him in following a welcome with a symphony orchestra and cheering supporters waving miniature Venezuelan flags.

The ceremony contrasted with the harsh realities that face the former bus driver turned socialist leader, including hyperinflation, severe food and medicine shortages and an exodus of millions of citizens seeking to escape the hardship.

Before he had even completed his inaugural speech, the United States accused him of "usurping power," and Paraguay announced it was cutting diplomatic ties - a symbol of the growing diplomatic isolation that he will face in the new term.

"A new world has risen up that refuses to be controlled by the imperial and hegemonic orders of a single nation or its satellite countries," Maduro said following his swearing-in.

"That's the rallying cry of our revolution to the peoples and governments of the world."

Supreme Court Chief Maikel Moreno dedicated nearly 20 minutes to explaining why Maduro was not being sworn in by Congress, which the ruling Socialist Party has systematically ignored since the opposition took control of the body in 2016.

Opposition leaders have portrayed the inauguration as the moment at which Maduro will be internationally branded a dictator following a widely boycotted 2018 election that many foreign governments described as a farce.

But continued support from the military, a fractured opposition and a relentless crackdown on opposition critics means that Maduro appears to face few serious challenges at home, despite the international outcry.

Maduro's first agenda item for his second term is a ceremony at Venezuela's military academy, a telling symbol of the importance of armed forces.

Diplomatic isolation

Supporters, many of whom were public servants identified by t-shirts of state agencies, rallied in the centre of Caracas to celebrate the new term. Some said Maduro should do more to crack down on business leaders for raising prices.

"Sometimes its hard to find food because businesses hide it and then say its the president's fault, even though we all know that's a lie," said Graciela Laya, 43, a homemaker, at a rally near the Supreme Court.

He won re-election last year despite hyperinflation, chronic food shortages and a severe economic contraction. He blames an "economic war" led by the United States and local opposition adversaries for the country's woes.

The vast majority of the opposition boycotted last year's vote on the grounds that it was rigged in favour of Maduro, noting a host of irregularities including Socialist Party tents in which activists offered monetary payments to voters.

The United States and many Latin American and European countries condemned the vote, leaving Maduro backed by just a handful of stalwart allies from leftist governments.

"It is time for Venezuela to begin a transitional process that can restore the constitutional, democratic order by holding free and fair elections that respect the will of the Venezuelan people," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo wrote in statement.

Paraguay's President Mario Abdo said his country was shutting its embassy and pulling out all diplomatic personnel due to what it called a "rupture of constitutional order" caused by the inauguration.

Most other countries plan to maintain their embassies and diplomatic relations with Venezuela, according to sources consulted by Reuters, but most European and Latin American countries did not send diplomats to the inauguration.

Opposition activists have called for protests on Thursday. Authorities have responded by filling streets with police checkpoints and rifle-toting troops.

"This inauguration is illegal," said Jose Navarro, 17, a student at a small anti-government protest in the restive western city of San Cristobal. "And this military deployment is also an offense to the constitution."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro started a second term on Thursday, defying critics in the United States and Latin America who called him an illegitimate usurper of a nation where economic chaos has wrought a humanitarian crisis.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro started a second term on Thursday, defying critics in the United States and Latin America who called him an illegitimate usurper of a nation where economic chaos has wrought a humanitarian crisis. The country's pro-government Supreme Court, which has largely supplanted the opposition-run Congress, swore him in following a welcome with a symphony orchestra and cheering supporters waving miniature Venezuelan flags. The ceremony contrasted with the harsh realities that face the former bus driver turned socialist leader, including hyperinflation, severe food and medicine shortages and an exodus of millions of citizens seeking to escape the hardship. Before he had even completed his inaugural speech, the United States accused him of "usurping power," and Paraguay announced it was cutting diplomatic ties - a symbol of the growing diplomatic isolation that he will face in the new term. "A new world has risen up that refuses to be controlled by the imperial and hegemonic orders of a single nation or its satellite countries," Maduro said following his swearing-in. "That's the rallying cry of our revolution to the peoples and governments of the world." Supreme Court Chief Maikel Moreno dedicated nearly 20 minutes to explaining why Maduro was not being sworn in by Congress, which the ruling Socialist Party has systematically ignored since the opposition took control of the body in 2016. Opposition leaders have portrayed the inauguration as the moment at which Maduro will be internationally branded a dictator following a widely boycotted 2018 election that many foreign governments described as a farce. But continued support from the military, a fractured opposition and a relentless crackdown on opposition critics means that Maduro appears to face few serious challenges at home, despite the international outcry. Maduro's first agenda item for his second term is a ceremony at Venezuela's military academy, a telling symbol of the importance of armed forces. Diplomatic isolation Supporters, many of whom were public servants identified by t-shirts of state agencies, rallied in the centre of Caracas to celebrate the new term. Some said Maduro should do more to crack down on business leaders for raising prices. "Sometimes its hard to find food because businesses hide it and then say its the president's fault, even though we all know that's a lie," said Graciela Laya, 43, a homemaker, at a rally near the Supreme Court. He won re-election last year despite hyperinflation, chronic food shortages and a severe economic contraction. He blames an "economic war" led by the United States and local opposition adversaries for the country's woes. The vast majority of the opposition boycotted last year's vote on the grounds that it was rigged in favour of Maduro, noting a host of irregularities including Socialist Party tents in which activists offered monetary payments to voters. The United States and many Latin American and European countries condemned the vote, leaving Maduro backed by just a handful of stalwart allies from leftist governments. "It is time for Venezuela to begin a transitional process that can restore the constitutional, democratic order by holding free and fair elections that respect the will of the Venezuelan people," U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo wrote in statement. Paraguay's President Mario Abdo said his country was shutting its embassy and pulling out all diplomatic personnel due to what it called a "rupture of constitutional order" caused by the inauguration. Most other countries plan to maintain their embassies and diplomatic relations with Venezuela, according to sources consulted by Reuters, but most European and Latin American countries did not send diplomats to the inauguration. Opposition activists have called for protests on Thursday. Authorities have responded by filling streets with police checkpoints and rifle-toting troops. "This inauguration is illegal," said Jose Navarro, 17, a student at a small anti-government protest in the restive western city of San Cristobal. "And this military deployment is also an offense to the constitution."

Venezuela's President Maduro starts new term, shrugs off criticism

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro begins a second term in office on Thursday, shrugging off international criticism that his reelection last year was illegitimate but facing further isolation as an economic crisis fuels a humanitarian emergency.

Leaders from the ruling Socialist Party have disavowed criticism of Maduro's inauguration, which will keep him at the helm of the OPEC member until 2025, and called for rallies in his support.

Opposition leaders, however, have portrayed the inauguration as the moment at which Maduro will be internationally branded a dictator following a widely boycotted 2018 election that many foreign governments described as a farce.

But continued support from the military, a fractured opposition and a relentless crackdown on opposition critics means that Maduro appears to face few serious challenges at home, despite the international outcry.

"They've tried to turn a constitutional swearing-in ceremony into a world war," Maduro said during a news conference on Wednesday. "But whether there's rain, thunder or lightning, we're going to triumph."

He will be sworn in by the Supreme Court rather than the opposition-run congress, which has been stripped of its powers since the Socialist Party lost control of it in 2016 - a move that underpins opposition criticism that Maduro has consolidated a dictatorship.

Maduro will then head to a ceremony at Venezuela's military academy, signaling the importance of the armed forces in his governing coalition.

His triumphalist discourse echoes that of his predecessor, late socialist leader Hugo Chavez, who used abundant oil revenues to flood Venezuela with consumer goods while providing heavily subsidized food and medicine.

That contrasts sharply with the Venezuela of today.

Inflation is fast approaching 2 million per cent. Some three million people have emigrated since 2015 - many on foot - to escape malnutrition and disease, according to the United Nations.

Bank notes that once paid for months' worth of groceries are now tossed in trash cans or even woven into multi-coloured women's handbags sold by street merchants.

Maduro last year won reelection despite the economic chaos in large part because the opposition boycotted the vote. He blames an "economic war" led by the United States and the domestic opposition to try to undermine socialism as the cause for the country's woes.

"I agree with the measures that Venezuela is taking," said Francisco Rivas, 53, a state employee wearing a red shirt who joined a crowd outside the Miraflores presidential palace in support of Maduro. "[Maduro] is looking out for the wellbeing of the Venezuelan people, but many have betrayed him."

Losing Patience

The United States and many Latin American and European countries condemned the vote, leaving Maduro backed by just a handful of stalwart allies from leftist governments.

There are few signs that countries will shutter embassies or sever ties with Venezuela, according to diplomatic sources, but most will not send diplomats to the inauguration.

Opposition activists have called for protests on Thursday. Authorities have responded by filling streets with police checkpoints and rifle-toting troops.

"They're trying to scare us so that we don't protest," said Henry Ramirez, 39, a computer engineer in the western city of San Cristobal, attempting to cut into a line for gasoline, the type of queue that has become increasingly frequent during the crisis. "Tomorrow the dictatorship continues."

While politically motivated demonstrations have faded, protests take place nearly every day to demand salary improvements, access to food and medicine, or improvements to erratic power and water services. Even supporters of Chavez's "Bolivarian revolution" were losing patience with the economy.

"I ask that the president focus on increasing wages," said Daveli Valecillos, a 29-year-old homemaker who travelled to Caracas from the eastern state of Monagas to witness the inauguration. "Every time prices go up it's a blow to this country, and we don't know how much longer we can last."

But many had lost hope that Maduro's inauguration could change anything.

"I'm just trying to get a few more documents together so I can leave the country," said Angela Perez, 26, who works the cash register at a fast-food restaurant in the city of Valencia. "There's no future here. It's sad but true."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro begins a second term in office on Thursday, shrugging off international criticism that his reelection last year was illegitimate but facing further isolation as an economic crisis fuels a humanitarian emergency.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro begins a second term in office on Thursday, shrugging off international criticism that his reelection last year was illegitimate but facing further isolation as an economic crisis fuels a humanitarian emergency. Leaders from the ruling Socialist Party have disavowed criticism of Maduro's inauguration, which will keep him at the helm of the OPEC member until 2025, and called for rallies in his support. Opposition leaders, however, have portrayed the inauguration as the moment at which Maduro will be internationally branded a dictator following a widely boycotted 2018 election that many foreign governments described as a farce. But continued support from the military, a fractured opposition and a relentless crackdown on opposition critics means that Maduro appears to face few serious challenges at home, despite the international outcry. "They've tried to turn a constitutional swearing-in ceremony into a world war," Maduro said during a news conference on Wednesday. "But whether there's rain, thunder or lightning, we're going to triumph." He will be sworn in by the Supreme Court rather than the opposition-run congress, which has been stripped of its powers since the Socialist Party lost control of it in 2016 - a move that underpins opposition criticism that Maduro has consolidated a dictatorship. Maduro will then head to a ceremony at Venezuela's military academy, signaling the importance of the armed forces in his governing coalition. His triumphalist discourse echoes that of his predecessor, late socialist leader Hugo Chavez, who used abundant oil revenues to flood Venezuela with consumer goods while providing heavily subsidized food and medicine. That contrasts sharply with the Venezuela of today. Inflation is fast approaching 2 million per cent. Some three million people have emigrated since 2015 - many on foot - to escape malnutrition and disease, according to the United Nations. Bank notes that once paid for months' worth of groceries are now tossed in trash cans or even woven into multi-coloured women's handbags sold by street merchants. Maduro last year won reelection despite the economic chaos in large part because the opposition boycotted the vote. He blames an "economic war" led by the United States and the domestic opposition to try to undermine socialism as the cause for the country's woes. "I agree with the measures that Venezuela is taking," said Francisco Rivas, 53, a state employee wearing a red shirt who joined a crowd outside the Miraflores presidential palace in support of Maduro. "[Maduro] is looking out for the wellbeing of the Venezuelan people, but many have betrayed him." Losing Patience The United States and many Latin American and European countries condemned the vote, leaving Maduro backed by just a handful of stalwart allies from leftist governments. There are few signs that countries will shutter embassies or sever ties with Venezuela, according to diplomatic sources, but most will not send diplomats to the inauguration. Opposition activists have called for protests on Thursday. Authorities have responded by filling streets with police checkpoints and rifle-toting troops. "They're trying to scare us so that we don't protest," said Henry Ramirez, 39, a computer engineer in the western city of San Cristobal, attempting to cut into a line for gasoline, the type of queue that has become increasingly frequent during the crisis. "Tomorrow the dictatorship continues." While politically motivated demonstrations have faded, protests take place nearly every day to demand salary improvements, access to food and medicine, or improvements to erratic power and water services. Even supporters of Chavez's "Bolivarian revolution" were losing patience with the economy. "I ask that the president focus on increasing wages," said Daveli Valecillos, a 29-year-old homemaker who travelled to Caracas from the eastern state of Monagas to witness the inauguration. "Every time prices go up it's a blow to this country, and we don't know how much longer we can last." But many had lost hope that Maduro's inauguration could change anything. "I'm just trying to get a few more documents together so I can leave the country," said Angela Perez, 26, who works the cash register at a fast-food restaurant in the city of Valencia. "There's no future here. It's sad but true."

President Maduro to start new term as Venezuela isolation grows

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro defended his government's legitimacy Sunday as his bid for a second six-year term has come under growing fire internationally and by the country's opposition-controlled National Assembly.

But in another sign of turmoil around Maduro, who is to be sworn in Thursday, a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-venezuela-supreme-court-judge-flees-to-us-raps-president-maduro-188658"> Supreme Court judge</a> and former ally appeared on US television to denounce last year's election, having fled the country.

"I have decided to leave Venezuela ... to disavow the government of Nicolas Maduro," Christian Zerpa, who sat on a panel that deals with electoral issues, told EVTV Miami.

"It was not a free election, it was not a competitive election," he said of last year's vote, going on to accuse Maduro of manipulating the court.

News of the Zerpa's defection came a day after the opposition-controlled National Assembly declared Maduro's presidency to be illegitimate and called for a transitional government to organize democratic elections.

Responding on Twitter, Maduro declared: "Legitimacy has been given us by the people with their vote. To those who hope to break our will, make no mistake. Venezuela will be respected!"

Maduro was re-elected May 20 in presidential elections called by a regime-backed Constituent Assembly and boycotted by the opposition, many of whose best-known leaders were under house arrest or barred from running.

The United States, the European Union and a grouping of countries from the Western Hemisphere called the Lima Group have refused to recognize the election.

On Friday, Canada and 12 other Lima Group countries joined in calling for Maduro to step down and open the way for a transitional government formed by leaders of the National Assembly.

The US State Department issued a statement Saturday saying the United States stands with the National Assembly as "the only legitimate and last remaining democratically elected institution that truly represents the will of the Venezuelan people."

On Sunday, the Venezuelan foreign ministry accused Washington of attempting "to consummate a coup d'etat ... in promoting the repudiation of legitimate and democratic institutions."

Harassment allegations

The Supreme Court, meanwhile, said it has opened an investigation into Zerpa, over allegations he sexually harassed women who worked in his office.

The Supreme Court said the investigation dates back to November 2018, but it was only made public after the reports that the justice had fled to Florida.

Venezuelan journalists based in the US linked the defection to Maduro's controversial attempt to remain in office for another six years.

Journalist Carla Angola, who said she interviewed Zerpa, reported he was in Florida and was prepared to cooperate with US prosecutors investigating Venezuelan corruption and human rights violations.

Supreme Court president Maikel Moreno charged that Zerpa was the subject of numerous allegations of "indecorous and immoral conduct to the detriment of a group of women."

The Supreme Court statement said he was being investigated for "sexual harassment, lascivious acts and psychological violence" against women in his office.

Moreno denied that the case exposes divisions within the court, which has acted consistently in line with the government.

"Far from separating us, it unites us," he said. &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

Zerpa was a member of the ruling United Socialist Party (PSUV) and was appointed to the high court in 2015 just days before the opposition assumed the majority in the National Assembly.

He was among a group of Venezuelan officials hit with financial sanctions by Canada, as it moved to put pressure on the Maduro government. 
&nbsp;

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro defended his government's legitimacy Sunday as his bid for a second six-year term has come under growing fire internationally and by the country's opposition-controlled National Assembly.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro defended his government's legitimacy Sunday as his bid for a second six-year term has come under growing fire internationally and by the country's opposition-controlled National Assembly. But in another sign of turmoil around Maduro, who is to be sworn in Thursday, a Supreme Court judge and former ally appeared on US television to denounce last year's election, having fled the country. "I have decided to leave Venezuela ... to disavow the government of Nicolas Maduro," Christian Zerpa, who sat on a panel that deals with electoral issues, told EVTV Miami. "It was not a free election, it was not a competitive election," he said of last year's vote, going on to accuse Maduro of manipulating the court. News of the Zerpa's defection came a day after the opposition-controlled National Assembly declared Maduro's presidency to be illegitimate and called for a transitional government to organize democratic elections. Responding on Twitter, Maduro declared: "Legitimacy has been given us by the people with their vote. To those who hope to break our will, make no mistake. Venezuela will be respected!" Maduro was re-elected May 20 in presidential elections called by a regime-backed Constituent Assembly and boycotted by the opposition, many of whose best-known leaders were under house arrest or barred from running. The United States, the European Union and a grouping of countries from the Western Hemisphere called the Lima Group have refused to recognize the election. On Friday, Canada and 12 other Lima Group countries joined in calling for Maduro to step down and open the way for a transitional government formed by leaders of the National Assembly. The US State Department issued a statement Saturday saying the United States stands with the National Assembly as "the only legitimate and last remaining democratically elected institution that truly represents the will of the Venezuelan people." On Sunday, the Venezuelan foreign ministry accused Washington of attempting "to consummate a coup d'etat ... in promoting the repudiation of legitimate and democratic institutions." Harassment allegations The Supreme Court, meanwhile, said it has opened an investigation into Zerpa, over allegations he sexually harassed women who worked in his office. The Supreme Court said the investigation dates back to November 2018, but it was only made public after the reports that the justice had fled to Florida. Venezuelan journalists based in the US linked the defection to Maduro's controversial attempt to remain in office for another six years. Journalist Carla Angola, who said she interviewed Zerpa, reported he was in Florida and was prepared to cooperate with US prosecutors investigating Venezuelan corruption and human rights violations. Supreme Court president Maikel Moreno charged that Zerpa was the subject of numerous allegations of "indecorous and immoral conduct to the detriment of a group of women." The Supreme Court statement said he was being investigated for "sexual harassment, lascivious acts and psychological violence" against women in his office. Moreno denied that the case exposes divisions within the court, which has acted consistently in line with the government. "Far from separating us, it unites us," he said. Zerpa was a member of the ruling United Socialist Party (PSUV) and was appointed to the high court in 2015 just days before the opposition assumed the majority in the National Assembly. He was among a group of Venezuelan officials hit with financial sanctions by Canada, as it moved to put pressure on the Maduro government.

'Venezuela will be respected,' tweets Maduro defending his rule as legitimate

<a href="Golden Globes 2019, Live: Christian Bale wins best actor for 'Vice'">Golden Globes 2019, Live: Christian Bale wins best actor for 'Vice'</a>

The big night is here. Golden Globes is set to honour the best of the best from the world of cinema and television in a glittering ceremony in California. Organised by Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the award ceremony serves as a precursor to the Oscars which will take polace in the February 2019.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/england-football-star-wayne-rooney-arrested-in-us-for-public-intoxication-188610">England football star Wayne Rooney arrested in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/england-football-star-wayne-rooney-arrested-in-us-for-public-intoxication-188610">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/england-football-star-wayne-rooney-arrested-in-us-for-public-intoxication-188610"> for public intoxication</a>

English football star Wayne Rooney was arrested in December at Dulles Airport outside Washington, DC&nbsp;for public intoxication, according to local police.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-venezuela-supreme-court-judge-flees-to-us-raps-president-maduro-188658">Ex-Venezuela Supreme Court judge flees to </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-venezuela-supreme-court-judge-flees-to-us-raps-president-maduro-188658">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ex-venezuela-supreme-court-judge-flees-to-us-raps-president-maduro-188658">; raps President Maduro</a>

Former Venezuelan Supreme Court Justice Christian Zerpa has fled to the United States to protest President Nicolas Maduro’s second term that will begin with his inauguration this week, the one-time Maduro backer told a Miami broadcaster on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/meghalaya-2-dead-after-coal-mine-collapses-188652">Meghalaya: 2 dead after coal mine collapses</a>

In yet another mine-related mishap, two people lost their lives after a coal mine collapsed in Mooknor village on Sunday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-woman-held-at-bangkok-airport-fears-she-will-be-killed-if-repatriated-188650">Saudi woman held at Bangkok airport fears she will be killed if repatriated</a>

A Saudi woman held at Bangkok airport said she would be killed if she was repatriated by Thai immigration officials, who confirmed the 18-year-old was denied entry to the country on Sunday.

&nbsp;

Golden Globes 2019, Live: Christian Bale wins best actor for 'Vice' The big night is here. Golden Globes is set to honour the best of the best from the world of cinema and television in a glittering ceremony in California.

Golden Globes 2019, Live: Christian Bale wins best actor for 'Vice' The big night is here. Golden Globes is set to honour the best of the best from the world of cinema and television in a glittering ceremony in California. Organised by Hollywood Foreign Press Association, the award ceremony serves as a precursor to the Oscars which will take polace in the February 2019. England football star Wayne Rooney arrested in US for public intoxication English football star Wayne Rooney was arrested in December at Dulles Airport outside Washington, DC for public intoxication, according to local police. Ex-Venezuela Supreme Court judge flees to US; raps President Maduro Former Venezuelan Supreme Court Justice Christian Zerpa has fled to the United States to protest President Nicolas Maduro’s second term that will begin with his inauguration this week, the one-time Maduro backer told a Miami broadcaster on Sunday. Meghalaya: 2 dead after coal mine collapses In yet another mine-related mishap, two people lost their lives after a coal mine collapsed in Mooknor village on Sunday. Saudi woman held at Bangkok airport fears she will be killed if repatriated A Saudi woman held at Bangkok airport said she would be killed if she was repatriated by Thai immigration officials, who confirmed the 18-year-old was denied entry to the country on Sunday.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly declared Nicolas Maduro's presidency illegitimate Saturday, calling on the military to support efforts to "restore democracy."

"We reaffirm the illegitimacy of Nicolas Maduro," the assembly's new president Juan Guaido said as he was sworn in at the start of a new legislative session.

"As of January 10, he will be usurping the presidency and consequently this National Assembly is the only legitimate representative of the people."

Maduro is set to be sworn in on Thursday for a second six-year term after holding controversial early elections May 20.&nbsp;

The elections were boycotted by most of the opposition and widely condemned by the international community.

On Friday, foreign ministers from 12 Latin American countries and Canada announced in Lima that their governments would not recognize Maduro as president if he attempts to remain in office and urged him to turn over power to the National Assembly.

Guaido, in a speech attended by lawmakers and members of the diplomatic corps, declared that the military's chain of command had been "broken or usurped," but called on the armed forces to support efforts "to restore democracy."

He committed to "generate conditions for a government of transition and to call free elections."

Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly declared Nicolas Maduro's presidency illegitimate Saturday, calling on the military to support efforts to "restore democracy.

Venezuela's opposition-controlled National Assembly declared Nicolas Maduro's presidency illegitimate Saturday, calling on the military to support efforts to "restore democracy." "We reaffirm the illegitimacy of Nicolas Maduro," the assembly's new president Juan Guaido said as he was sworn in at the start of a new legislative session. "As of January 10, he will be usurping the presidency and consequently this National Assembly is the only legitimate representative of the people." Maduro is set to be sworn in on Thursday for a second six-year term after holding controversial early elections May 20. The elections were boycotted by most of the opposition and widely condemned by the international community. On Friday, foreign ministers from 12 Latin American countries and Canada announced in Lima that their governments would not recognize Maduro as president if he attempts to remain in office and urged him to turn over power to the National Assembly. Guaido, in a speech attended by lawmakers and members of the diplomatic corps, declared that the military's chain of command had been "broken or usurped," but called on the armed forces to support efforts "to restore democracy." He committed to "generate conditions for a government of transition and to call free elections."

Venezuela's parliament rejects legitimacy of Maduro second term

Mexico on Friday called on its peers to refrain from interfering in Venezuela`s internal affairs, declining to back a regional declaration that urged Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro not to take office on January 10.

Mexico was the sole country in the 14-member Lima Group that opted not to sign a statement critical of Maduro, the first time Mexico has not backed a declaration by the group since it was created in 2017 to push for democratic reforms in Venezuela.

Mexico was once among the most outspoken critics of Maduro. But ties with Venezuela have warmed under leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who invited Maduro to his inauguration last month.

Maximiliano Reyes, Mexico`s deputy foreign minister responsible for Latin America, said Mexico was concerned about the "situation regarding human rights" in Venezuela but would not comment on the legitimacy of its government.

Instead, he asked the Lima Group to rethink its approach.

"We call for reflection in the Lima Group about the consequences for Venezuelans of measures that seek to interfere in internal affairs," Reyes said in a statement following a Lima Group meeting in Peru.

"Mexico believes the most effective way to achieve the objectives for which this group was created is through mediation and dialogue, not isolation," he added.

The comments were a blow to regional efforts to ramp up pressure on Maduro ahead of his inauguration, which Venezuela`s opposition hoped would be a watershed moment to highlight how he has undermined democracy and mismanaged the country’s once-booming economy.

But diplomatic measures from neighbouring countries remain timid, and Friday`s communique added little to previous statements that urged Maduro to step down but offered few concrete mechanisms to make this happen.

Peru said last month that it would propose ending diplomatic relations with Venezuela to Lima Group members. But no country has yet announced it would sever ties with Caracas.

The 13 remaining countries in the Lima Group that signed Friday`s statement, which include Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Colombia, called Maduro`s new term "illegitimate" and urged him to hand power over to the National Assembly until democratic elections can be held.

They also said they would seek to bar high-ranking Venezuelan officials from entering their territory or accessing their financial systems.

"What`s happening January 10 is a turning point," Peruvian Foreign Minister Nestor Popolizio told journalists.

Venezuela`s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Mexico on Friday called on its peers to refrain from interfering in Venezuela`s internal affairs, declining to back a regional declaration that urged Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro not to take office on January 10.

Mexico on Friday called on its peers to refrain from interfering in Venezuela`s internal affairs, declining to back a regional declaration that urged Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro not to take office on January 10. Mexico was the sole country in the 14-member Lima Group that opted not to sign a statement critical of Maduro, the first time Mexico has not backed a declaration by the group since it was created in 2017 to push for democratic reforms in Venezuela. Mexico was once among the most outspoken critics of Maduro. But ties with Venezuela have warmed under leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, who invited Maduro to his inauguration last month. Maximiliano Reyes, Mexico`s deputy foreign minister responsible for Latin America, said Mexico was concerned about the "situation regarding human rights" in Venezuela but would not comment on the legitimacy of its government. Instead, he asked the Lima Group to rethink its approach. "We call for reflection in the Lima Group about the consequences for Venezuelans of measures that seek to interfere in internal affairs," Reyes said in a statement following a Lima Group meeting in Peru. "Mexico believes the most effective way to achieve the objectives for which this group was created is through mediation and dialogue, not isolation," he added. The comments were a blow to regional efforts to ramp up pressure on Maduro ahead of his inauguration, which Venezuela`s opposition hoped would be a watershed moment to highlight how he has undermined democracy and mismanaged the country’s once-booming economy. But diplomatic measures from neighbouring countries remain timid, and Friday`s communique added little to previous statements that urged Maduro to step down but offered few concrete mechanisms to make this happen. Peru said last month that it would propose ending diplomatic relations with Venezuela to Lima Group members. But no country has yet announced it would sever ties with Caracas. The 13 remaining countries in the Lima Group that signed Friday`s statement, which include Canada, Argentina, Brazil, Chile and Colombia, called Maduro`s new term "illegitimate" and urged him to hand power over to the National Assembly until democratic elections can be held. They also said they would seek to bar high-ranking Venezuelan officials from entering their territory or accessing their financial systems. "What`s happening January 10 is a turning point," Peruvian Foreign Minister Nestor Popolizio told journalists. Venezuela`s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Mexico urges regional bloc not to meddle in Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday that White House National Security Adviser John Bolton is heading a US plan to assassinate him and put an end to the so-called Bolivarian Revolution under way in the South American country since 1999.

"Today, I come once again to denounce the plot being prepared by the White House to violate Venezuelan democracy, to assassinate me and to impose a dictatorial government in Venezuela," the head of state said at a press conference.

Maduro said that the alleged conspirators "recently" designated Bolton to head the plot "to fill Venezuela with violence and to seek foreign military intervention, a coup d'etat, to assassinate President Maduro and to impose what they call a transitory government council."

According to the Venezuelan leader, Bolton has been assigning missions to Brazilian President-elect Jair Bolsonaro "for military provocations in southern Venezuela, on the border" shared by the two nations.

Brazilian Vice President-elect "Hamilton Mourao ... every day establishes the pattern for what the policy of that government will be ... every day says he's going to invade Venezuela, that Brazil is going to use its military forces," Maduro claimed.

The Chavista leader said that, on the other hand, "one almost never hears a word" from Bolsonaro and he predicted that "there will be peace and cooperation" between the two countries despite the fact that the Brazilian vice president, he said, is a "crazy coward."

However, Maduro reiterated that Bolton's plan to kill him "is already under development" and, to accomplish it, "he's preparing several places where mercenary and paramilitary forces are being trained together with Colombia."

"The Colombian government of Ivan Duque ... does not want diplomatic or political relations, or communication with Venezuela's legitimate government. It's complicit in John Bolton's plan to bring violence to our country and thus I denounce it, and our armed forces had to be more and more prepared," Maduro stressed.

He said that a paramilitary group called G8 is training in Colombia's Norte de Santander province, and that a total of 734 Colombian and Venezuelan mercenaries are being trained to undertake "false positive" activities, that is making attacks on military units along the border and engaging in escalating violence to confuse public opinion and justify other military actions against Venezuela.

He also said that forces are being trained at Eglin Air Force Base in the US with the mission conducting of a "surgical attack" on Venezuelan air and military bases.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday that White House National Security Adviser John Bolton is heading a US plan to assassinate him and put an end to the so-called Bolivarian Revolution under way in the South American country since 1999.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday that White House National Security Adviser John Bolton is heading a US plan to assassinate him and put an end to the so-called Bolivarian Revolution under way in the South American country since 1999. "Today, I come once again to denounce the plot being prepared by the White House to violate Venezuelan democracy, to assassinate me and to impose a dictatorial government in Venezuela," the head of state said at a press conference. Maduro said that the alleged conspirators "recently" designated Bolton to head the plot "to fill Venezuela with violence and to seek foreign military intervention, a coup d'etat, to assassinate President Maduro and to impose what they call a transitory government council." According to the Venezuelan leader, Bolton has been assigning missions to Brazilian President-elect Jair Bolsonaro "for military provocations in southern Venezuela, on the border" shared by the two nations. Brazilian Vice President-elect "Hamilton Mourao ... every day establishes the pattern for what the policy of that government will be ... every day says he's going to invade Venezuela, that Brazil is going to use its military forces," Maduro claimed. The Chavista leader said that, on the other hand, "one almost never hears a word" from Bolsonaro and he predicted that "there will be peace and cooperation" between the two countries despite the fact that the Brazilian vice president, he said, is a "crazy coward." However, Maduro reiterated that Bolton's plan to kill him "is already under development" and, to accomplish it, "he's preparing several places where mercenary and paramilitary forces are being trained together with Colombia." "The Colombian government of Ivan Duque ... does not want diplomatic or political relations, or communication with Venezuela's legitimate government. It's complicit in John Bolton's plan to bring violence to our country and thus I denounce it, and our armed forces had to be more and more prepared," Maduro stressed. He said that a paramilitary group called G8 is training in Colombia's Norte de Santander province, and that a total of 734 Colombian and Venezuelan mercenaries are being trained to undertake "false positive" activities, that is making attacks on military units along the border and engaging in escalating violence to confuse public opinion and justify other military actions against Venezuela. He also said that forces are being trained at Eglin Air Force Base in the US with the mission conducting of a "surgical attack" on Venezuelan air and military bases.

US adviser John Bolton heading plan to assassinate me: Maduro

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-deploys-two-bombers-to-venezuela-for-exercises-183019">Former Venezuelan</a> oil minister Nelson Martinez, imprisoned over corruption allegations, died Wednesday of health complications, the prosecutor's office said.

Martinez, who also served as president of state oil firm PDVSA, was arrested on November 30 last year, four days after President Nicolas Maduro removed him from his position.

"Nelson Martinez was suffering from a serious chronic illness whose progression aggravated his condition and led to his death. Until the last moment ... he received the required treatment and medical attention in a health centre," the prosecutor's office said, denying that Martinez died in prison.&nbsp;

Rafael Ramirez, a former state oil firm chief and opponent of the country's president, had earlier announced Martinez's death and blamed Maduro.

"Nelson Martinez just died... kidnapped and abused for a year under the orders of Maduro, who knew of his chronic illness. They humiliated him and denied him his right to defence and to life. Maduro, YOU are responsible," Ramirez wrote on Twitter.

Prosecutors accused both Martinez and another former oil minister and PDVSA chief of being part of a corruption network in the country's oil sector, with Ramirez at the helm.

Ramirez was PDVSA president for a decade from 2004, a member of Hugo Chavez's intimate inner circle. Until a falling out with Maduro last year, Ramirez had not been investigated and served as Venezuela's ambassador to the UN.

Martinez is the latest in a series of people to die in Venezuelan custody.

In August, opposition councillor Fernando Alban died after falling from the 10th floor of Venezuela's intelligence services headquarters in Caracas.

The government maintains it was a suicide, but Maduro's critics claim he was tortured during interrogation and thrown from a window.

Another opposition leader, Carlos Andres Garcia, also died last September while in the custody of intelligence services.

According to human rights organization Foro Penal, there are 288 "political prisoners" in Venezuela.

Former Venezuelan oil minister Nelson Martinez, imprisoned over corruption allegations, died Wednesday of health complications, the prosecutor's office said. Martinez, who also served as president of state oil firm PDVSA, was arrested on November 30 last year, four days after President Nicolas Maduro removed him from his position.

Former Venezuelan oil minister Nelson Martinez, imprisoned over corruption allegations, died Wednesday of health complications, the prosecutor's office said. Martinez, who also served as president of state oil firm PDVSA, was arrested on November 30 last year, four days after President Nicolas Maduro removed him from his position. "Nelson Martinez was suffering from a serious chronic illness whose progression aggravated his condition and led to his death. Until the last moment ... he received the required treatment and medical attention in a health centre," the prosecutor's office said, denying that Martinez died in prison. Rafael Ramirez, a former state oil firm chief and opponent of the country's president, had earlier announced Martinez's death and blamed Maduro. "Nelson Martinez just died... kidnapped and abused for a year under the orders of Maduro, who knew of his chronic illness. They humiliated him and denied him his right to defence and to life. Maduro, YOU are responsible," Ramirez wrote on Twitter. Prosecutors accused both Martinez and another former oil minister and PDVSA chief of being part of a corruption network in the country's oil sector, with Ramirez at the helm. Ramirez was PDVSA president for a decade from 2004, a member of Hugo Chavez's intimate inner circle. Until a falling out with Maduro last year, Ramirez had not been investigated and served as Venezuela's ambassador to the UN. Martinez is the latest in a series of people to die in Venezuelan custody. In August, opposition councillor Fernando Alban died after falling from the 10th floor of Venezuela's intelligence services headquarters in Caracas. The government maintains it was a suicide, but Maduro's critics claim he was tortured during interrogation and thrown from a window. Another opposition leader, Carlos Andres Garcia, also died last September while in the custody of intelligence services. According to human rights organization Foro Penal, there are 288 "political prisoners" in Venezuela.

Imprisoned former Venezuela oil minister Nelson Martinez dies

Two Russian long-range strategic bombers <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/weary-venezuelans-in-low-turnout-win-for-ruling-party-182811">landed in Venezuela</a> Monday for what the government said were air force exercises aimed at strengthening the defence of the leftist-ruled South American country.

General Vladimir Padrino, the Venezuelan defence minister, welcomed about 100 Russian pilots and other personnel after the two TU-160s and two other aircraft landed at the international airport that serves Caracas.

Padrino said the deployment showed "we also are preparing to defend Venezuela to the last inch when necessary."

"This we are going to do with our friends because we have friends in the world who defend respectful balanced, relations," he said.

The commander of the Russian Airforce's long-range aircraft, General Sergei Ivanovich Kobulash, said the exercises would provide "a profound exchange of experience between pilots and technical staff" from both countries.

Kremlin visit&nbsp;

The development follows hot on the heels of a visit to Moscow last week by President Nicolas Maduro during which he had talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who expressed support for his beleaguered socialist government.

Maduro often accuses the United States of plotting against his government, which has overseen the plunge of a once-rich petrol state into a severe economic crisis.&nbsp;

Besides the two bombers, the deployment included an An-124 transport plane and an Il-62 passenger plane, according to a Russian military announcement in Moscow.

Padrino noted that Russian aircraft had visited before in 2013, but said their current deployment was part of a "new experience."

He said exercises would be held to "raise the level of interoperability of the aerospace defence systems" of both countries.

It was unclear how long the Russian deployment would last, and Padrino did not provide details about the exercises planned.

In recent years, Venezuela has purchased millions of dollars in military equipment from Russia, he said.&nbsp;

Venezuela acquired 24 Sukhoi-30 Russian fighters and signed a deal to purchase 53 MI-24 helicopter gunships and 100,000 Kalashnikov rifles in 2016.&nbsp;

'Psychological warfare'&nbsp;

Former defence minister Raul Salazar said the exercises with Russia "are part of what is called psychological warfare."

"The purpose is to increase the perception that Venezuela is supported by Russia, China and Belarus, that it has the support of a power, in case another power tries to invade," Salazar told AFP.

Maduro on Sunday said Washington had set in motion a plan to overthrow him, with the support of neighbouring Colombia.

"Underway today is an attempt to disrupt the democratic life of Venezuela, coordinated directly from the White House," said Maduro, who claims he was the target of an August 4 drone attack hatched by Venezuela's opposition with the support of the US and Colombian governments.

Caracas' defence minister said "nobody in the world should fear the presence of these strategic fighter-bombers. We are builders of peace and not of war."&nbsp;

Padrino added however that other countries in the region had created "political and military imbalances" against which the Venezuelan government could not stand idly by -- an apparent reference to Bogota, which Caracas has accused of harbouring US military bases.

Two Russian long-range strategic bombers landed in Venezuela Monday for what the government said were air force exercises aimed at strengthening the defence of the leftist-ruled South American country.

Two Russian long-range strategic bombers landed in Venezuela Monday for what the government said were air force exercises aimed at strengthening the defence of the leftist-ruled South American country. General Vladimir Padrino, the Venezuelan defence minister, welcomed about 100 Russian pilots and other personnel after the two TU-160s and two other aircraft landed at the international airport that serves Caracas. Padrino said the deployment showed "we also are preparing to defend Venezuela to the last inch when necessary." "This we are going to do with our friends because we have friends in the world who defend respectful balanced, relations," he said. The commander of the Russian Airforce's long-range aircraft, General Sergei Ivanovich Kobulash, said the exercises would provide "a profound exchange of experience between pilots and technical staff" from both countries. Kremlin visit The development follows hot on the heels of a visit to Moscow last week by President Nicolas Maduro during which he had talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who expressed support for his beleaguered socialist government. Maduro often accuses the United States of plotting against his government, which has overseen the plunge of a once-rich petrol state into a severe economic crisis. Besides the two bombers, the deployment included an An-124 transport plane and an Il-62 passenger plane, according to a Russian military announcement in Moscow. Padrino noted that Russian aircraft had visited before in 2013, but said their current deployment was part of a "new experience." He said exercises would be held to "raise the level of interoperability of the aerospace defence systems" of both countries. It was unclear how long the Russian deployment would last, and Padrino did not provide details about the exercises planned. In recent years, Venezuela has purchased millions of dollars in military equipment from Russia, he said. Venezuela acquired 24 Sukhoi-30 Russian fighters and signed a deal to purchase 53 MI-24 helicopter gunships and 100,000 Kalashnikov rifles in 2016. 'Psychological warfare' Former defence minister Raul Salazar said the exercises with Russia "are part of what is called psychological warfare." "The purpose is to increase the perception that Venezuela is supported by Russia, China and Belarus, that it has the support of a power, in case another power tries to invade," Salazar told AFP. Maduro on Sunday said Washington had set in motion a plan to overthrow him, with the support of neighbouring Colombia. "Underway today is an attempt to disrupt the democratic life of Venezuela, coordinated directly from the White House," said Maduro, who claims he was the target of an August 4 drone attack hatched by Venezuela's opposition with the support of the US and Colombian governments. Caracas' defence minister said "nobody in the world should fear the presence of these strategic fighter-bombers. We are builders of peace and not of war." Padrino added however that other countries in the region had created "political and military imbalances" against which the Venezuelan government could not stand idly by -- an apparent reference to Bogota, which Caracas has accused of harbouring US military bases.

Russia deploys two bombers to Venezuela for exercises

Venezuelans stayed away in droves from municipal elections, handing a victory to the ruling party - but with just 27 per cent turnout.

National Electoral Council chair Tibisay Lucena put the rate of abstention at 72.6 per cent. As such, the ruling party won 142 of 156 jurisdictions in play, she said. Some 20.7 million Venezuelans were eligible to vote.

Lucena called it "a calm day of civic and democratic action."

The results were hardly a surprise: analysts had predicted record low turnout, citing mistrust in the process, the banning of opposition parties and widespread exhaustion amid the ongoing socioeconomic crisis.

The elections come one month before President Nicolas Maduro begins his second six-year term after winning an election in May termed illegitimate by political opponents, the European Union, the United States and most of Latin America.

Maduro said Venezuelans "were exercising their right to vote freely." But Beatriz Pallares, 56, told AFP at a mostly empty polling station in the opposition bastion Chacao that "it's a sad day because people decided not to vote." But "I will not exercise my right," she added.

Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said 150,000 police and military personnel had been deployed to provide security at polling centres.

Maduro had wanted to strengthen institutional control as Venezuelans choose 2,459 members for 335 city councils. The opposition until now controlled a quarter of those councils.

Felix Seijas, head of the Delphos polling firm, predicted that pro-government candidates would "capture the majority of the municipal chambers, with a historic level of voter abstention." Maduro's path appeared clear after the main opposition parties were disqualified by the Electoral Council.

The governing Socialist Party urged people to vote.

Yet "Why to vote if they've already won it all?" asked hairdresser Leidy Sivira, 30, a Caracas resident.

The opposition has accused Maduro of bending the electoral and judicial authorities to his will, even as top military leaders regularly declare their "loyalty."

On the eve of the election, the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference said the government's actions "in different public domains do not guarantee impartiality or truth."

Sunday's was the last in a series of votes called by the governing Constituent Assembly, which effectively displaced the National Assembly, the only power in opposition hands.

The pro-government Constituent Assembly was created last year at a time when months of opposition protests, often harshly put down, left 125 people dead.

After the four major opposition parties refused to take part in the presidential elections of May 20 - calling them fraudulent - the Electoral Council banned them from this Sunday's election.

The abstention rate then reached a 60-year high of 54 per cent.

The election took place as Venezuela's economy spirals out of control, with severe food and medicine shortages and an eye-popping 1.35 million per cent inflation rate, according to the International Monetary Fund.

Since 2015 at least 2.3 million Venezuelans have fled the country, according to United Nations figures.

Efforts to isolate the Maduro regime have grown. Peru has said it will ask the 12 members of the pro-democracy Lima Group to break relations with Venezuela from January 10, when Maduro takes office.

Venezuelans stayed away in droves from municipal elections, handing a victory to the ruling party - but with just 27 per cent turnout. National Electoral Council chair Tibisay Lucena put the rate of abstention at 72.

Venezuelans stayed away in droves from municipal elections, handing a victory to the ruling party - but with just 27 per cent turnout. National Electoral Council chair Tibisay Lucena put the rate of abstention at 72.6 per cent. As such, the ruling party won 142 of 156 jurisdictions in play, she said. Some 20.7 million Venezuelans were eligible to vote. Lucena called it "a calm day of civic and democratic action." The results were hardly a surprise: analysts had predicted record low turnout, citing mistrust in the process, the banning of opposition parties and widespread exhaustion amid the ongoing socioeconomic crisis. The elections come one month before President Nicolas Maduro begins his second six-year term after winning an election in May termed illegitimate by political opponents, the European Union, the United States and most of Latin America. Maduro said Venezuelans "were exercising their right to vote freely." But Beatriz Pallares, 56, told AFP at a mostly empty polling station in the opposition bastion Chacao that "it's a sad day because people decided not to vote." But "I will not exercise my right," she added. Interior Minister Nestor Reverol said 150,000 police and military personnel had been deployed to provide security at polling centres. Maduro had wanted to strengthen institutional control as Venezuelans choose 2,459 members for 335 city councils. The opposition until now controlled a quarter of those councils. Felix Seijas, head of the Delphos polling firm, predicted that pro-government candidates would "capture the majority of the municipal chambers, with a historic level of voter abstention." Maduro's path appeared clear after the main opposition parties were disqualified by the Electoral Council. The governing Socialist Party urged people to vote. Yet "Why to vote if they've already won it all?" asked hairdresser Leidy Sivira, 30, a Caracas resident. The opposition has accused Maduro of bending the electoral and judicial authorities to his will, even as top military leaders regularly declare their "loyalty." On the eve of the election, the Venezuelan Episcopal Conference said the government's actions "in different public domains do not guarantee impartiality or truth." Sunday's was the last in a series of votes called by the governing Constituent Assembly, which effectively displaced the National Assembly, the only power in opposition hands. The pro-government Constituent Assembly was created last year at a time when months of opposition protests, often harshly put down, left 125 people dead. After the four major opposition parties refused to take part in the presidential elections of May 20 - calling them fraudulent - the Electoral Council banned them from this Sunday's election. The abstention rate then reached a 60-year high of 54 per cent. The election took place as Venezuela's economy spirals out of control, with severe food and medicine shortages and an eye-popping 1.35 million per cent inflation rate, according to the International Monetary Fund. Since 2015 at least 2.3 million Venezuelans have fled the country, according to United Nations figures. Efforts to isolate the Maduro regime have grown. Peru has said it will ask the 12 members of the pro-democracy Lima Group to break relations with Venezuela from January 10, when Maduro takes office.

Weary Venezuelans in low-turnout win for ruling party

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-signs-oil-gold-investment-deals-with-russia-maduro-182013">President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Sunday cast his vote in Caracas for local elections in Venezuela for more than 2,000 councillors, using the event to accuse the US of disrupting democracy in the country.

The main opposition parties did not attend the election on Sunday, as they abstained in the May elections in which President Nicolas Maduro won a questioned re-election.

In different parts of Caracas and other cities in the country, some tables were empty and without voters, according to Reuters witnesses. Maduro accused the US of being behind moves to disrupt the vote.

According to the National Electoral Council (CNE), on Sunday the 2,459 councillors of the 335 municipalities of the country will be elected.

Maduro also criticised a move to have the rescheduled Copa Libertadores final in Madrid, after violence in previous host city Buenos Aires saw the Boca Juniors team bus attacked before the match.

President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday cast his vote in Caracas for local elections in Venezuela for more than 2,000 councillors, using the event to accuse the US of disrupting democracy in the country.

President Nicolas Maduro on Sunday cast his vote in Caracas for local elections in Venezuela for more than 2,000 councillors, using the event to accuse the US of disrupting democracy in the country. The main opposition parties did not attend the election on Sunday, as they abstained in the May elections in which President Nicolas Maduro won a questioned re-election. In different parts of Caracas and other cities in the country, some tables were empty and without voters, according to Reuters witnesses. Maduro accused the US of being behind moves to disrupt the vote. According to the National Electoral Council (CNE), on Sunday the 2,459 councillors of the 335 municipalities of the country will be elected. Maduro also criticised a move to have the rescheduled Copa Libertadores final in Madrid, after violence in previous host city Buenos Aires saw the Boca Juniors team bus attacked before the match.

Maduro accuses US of disrupting democracy, seeking coup in Venezuela

Venezuela has signed deals securing investment from Russia in the South American country's oil and gold sectors, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday at the end of a three-day trip to Moscow.

"We have signed contracts to guarantee investments of more than $5 billion with our Russian partners in joint ventures to raise oil production," Maduro said in a video posted on his Twitter account.

"We are also guaranteeing an investment of $1 billion for mining, mostly in gold."

Maduro did not provide specifics about where the investments would be made or how much money Russian companies would contribute. Venezuela's Information and Oil Ministries did not immediately respond to requests for additional details.

With Venezuela's oil output collapsing amid hyperinflation and the fifth year of economic contraction, Maduro flew to Moscow on Monday to meet with his counterpart, Vladimir Putin. The two planned to discuss financial help for Caracas and cooperation on oil and gas, a Kremlin aide said.

Russia has become a key lender of last resort for cash-strapped Venezuela in recent years, but Maduro's government has struggled to pay its debts. The head of Russian oil company Rosneft flew to Caracas last month to press Maduro over delayed oil shipments aimed at repaying loans.

"Russia and Venezuela are more united than ever," Maduro said.

Maduro has also sought to boost the country's gold output as an alternative source of hard currency as revenue from oil, which makes up over 90 per cent of exports, dries up.

The United States has sought to restrict Venezuela's gold trade through sanctions.

Venezuela has signed deals securing investment from Russia in the South American country's oil and gold sectors, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday at the end of a three-day trip to Moscow.

Venezuela has signed deals securing investment from Russia in the South American country's oil and gold sectors, President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday at the end of a three-day trip to Moscow. "We have signed contracts to guarantee investments of more than $5 billion with our Russian partners in joint ventures to raise oil production," Maduro said in a video posted on his Twitter account. "We are also guaranteeing an investment of $1 billion for mining, mostly in gold." Maduro did not provide specifics about where the investments would be made or how much money Russian companies would contribute. Venezuela's Information and Oil Ministries did not immediately respond to requests for additional details. With Venezuela's oil output collapsing amid hyperinflation and the fifth year of economic contraction, Maduro flew to Moscow on Monday to meet with his counterpart, Vladimir Putin. The two planned to discuss financial help for Caracas and cooperation on oil and gas, a Kremlin aide said. Russia has become a key lender of last resort for cash-strapped Venezuela in recent years, but Maduro's government has struggled to pay its debts. The head of Russian oil company Rosneft flew to Caracas last month to press Maduro over delayed oil shipments aimed at repaying loans. "Russia and Venezuela are more united than ever," Maduro said. Maduro has also sought to boost the country's gold output as an alternative source of hard currency as revenue from oil, which makes up over 90 per cent of exports, dries up. The United States has sought to restrict Venezuela's gold trade through sanctions.

Venezuela signs oil, gold investment deals with Russia: Maduro

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Saturday condemned Venezuela's socialist President Nicolas Maduro as a despot leading his oil-rich nation to ruin, adding "ultimately this regime is going to have to go" for the situation to improve.

However, Mattis did not suggest any US role in such a process and told a security forum in California: "It's up to the Venezuelan people, it's up to the regional states in that area to help expedite that and bring that country back to a more prosperous and positive future."

More than 3 million Venezuelans have fled the ailing oil-rich nation in recent years, driven out by brutal food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and violent crime.

Washington has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, denouncing Maduro for quashing human rights and triggering an economic meltdown.

"This is what happens when you have an irresponsible despot leading a country to ruin. And I think what we should do is work by, with and through our Latin American allies as we stabilize this situation," Mattis told the Reagan National Defense Forum.

He noted that the Comfort, a US Navy hospital ship, was treating Venezuelan refugees on a Latin American tour that included stops in neighbouring Colombia.

"We’re doing our best diplomatically and through humanitarian aid. But ultimately this regime is going to have to go," he said.

The United Nations on Monday pledged $9.2 million in aid for Venezuela, where hunger and preventable disease are soaring due to food and medicine shortages. Maduro blames the country's problems on U.S. sanctions and an "economic war" led by political adversaries.

Government critics celebrated the UN pledge as a recognition by Venezuelan authorities that the country faces a humanitarian crisis - something Maduro has denied in the past - and a step toward treating a population starved of basic services.

But some worry the funds could fuel the corruption of the ruling Socialist Party, which was put on display earlier this month when a former Venezuelan treasurer told U.S. prosecutors he took $1 billion in bribes.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Saturday condemned Venezuela's socialist President Nicolas Maduro as a despot leading his oil-rich nation to ruin, adding "ultimately this regime is going to have to go" for the situation to improve.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis on Saturday condemned Venezuela's socialist President Nicolas Maduro as a despot leading his oil-rich nation to ruin, adding "ultimately this regime is going to have to go" for the situation to improve. However, Mattis did not suggest any US role in such a process and told a security forum in California: "It's up to the Venezuelan people, it's up to the regional states in that area to help expedite that and bring that country back to a more prosperous and positive future." More than 3 million Venezuelans have fled the ailing oil-rich nation in recent years, driven out by brutal food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and violent crime. Washington has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, denouncing Maduro for quashing human rights and triggering an economic meltdown. "This is what happens when you have an irresponsible despot leading a country to ruin. And I think what we should do is work by, with and through our Latin American allies as we stabilize this situation," Mattis told the Reagan National Defense Forum. He noted that the Comfort, a US Navy hospital ship, was treating Venezuelan refugees on a Latin American tour that included stops in neighbouring Colombia. "We’re doing our best diplomatically and through humanitarian aid. But ultimately this regime is going to have to go," he said. The United Nations on Monday pledged $9.2 million in aid for Venezuela, where hunger and preventable disease are soaring due to food and medicine shortages. Maduro blames the country's problems on U.S. sanctions and an "economic war" led by political adversaries. Government critics celebrated the UN pledge as a recognition by Venezuelan authorities that the country faces a humanitarian crisis - something Maduro has denied in the past - and a step toward treating a population starved of basic services. But some worry the funds could fuel the corruption of the ruling Socialist Party, which was put on display earlier this month when a former Venezuelan treasurer told U.S. prosecutors he took $1 billion in bribes.

Mattis condemns Venezuela's Maduro as a 'despot' who has to go

The Trump administration is preparing to add Venezuela to a US list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that would escalate Washington's diplomatic struggle with the government of President Nicolas Maduro, The Washington Post said on Monday.

The Post said the US State Department had been asking for feedback on the proposed move from various agencies in recent days, but it said US officials declined to say whether a final decision had been made about the designation.

Earlier, Maduro accused the Trump administration of seeking to assassinate him, as relations strain between the ideologically opposed nations. Asked about the remarks, the White House did not immediately provide a comment.

Almost 2 million Venezuelans have fled the ailing oil-rich nation since 2015, driven out by brutal food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and violent crime. Washington has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, denouncing Maduro as a dictator who has quashed human rights and triggered an economic meltdown.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The Trump administration is preparing to add Venezuela to a US list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that would escalate Washington's diplomatic struggle with the government of President Nicolas Maduro, The Washington Post said on Monday.

The Trump administration is preparing to add Venezuela to a US list of state sponsors of terrorism, a move that would escalate Washington's diplomatic struggle with the government of President Nicolas Maduro, The Washington Post said on Monday. The Post said the US State Department had been asking for feedback on the proposed move from various agencies in recent days, but it said US officials declined to say whether a final decision had been made about the designation. Earlier, Maduro accused the Trump administration of seeking to assassinate him, as relations strain between the ideologically opposed nations. Asked about the remarks, the White House did not immediately provide a comment. Almost 2 million Venezuelans have fled the ailing oil-rich nation since 2015, driven out by brutal food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and violent crime. Washington has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, denouncing Maduro as a dictator who has quashed human rights and triggered an economic meltdown. (With inputs from Reuters)

US preparing to add Venezuela to terrorism sponsors list: Report

Colombian President Ivan Duque is stressing the need for international action to halt Nicolas Maduro's "dictatorship" in Venezuela, which he blames for a "massive humanitarian crisis" and a migration wave.

"The real cause of this migration shock is the dictatorship," the right-wing leader told AFP. "We must use all the diplomatic mechanisms, all the multilateral mechanisms available to allow this dictatorship to end."

During an official visit to France from November 11-13, Duque, who has been in power since August 7, will take part in Sunday's Forum for Peace organized by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Prior to his departure he urged the need for countries worldwide to fight drug trafficking, in a wide-ranging interview with AFP that also touched on peace talks with Colombia's last active guerrilla group and the election of an extreme-right leader in Brazil.

'Shared struggle'

Duque accused Maduro -- leader of Venezuela, where economic woes began in 2014 with the crash in the price of crude -- of "clinging to power and exacerbating patriotic feelings in his favour."

Maduro's government has been slapped with a range of sanctions over its crackdown on the opposition and civil society critics.

The Colombian president said its neighbours "huge humanitarian crisis" is leaking over the border: "We have received nearly a million migrants in less than two years."

"Colombia is facing a difficult situation," he said, calling on the international community to help with "significant means to face this challenge."

He echoed the need for international cooperation on the issue of drug trafficking: "All countries of the world must strengthen their policies to prevent consumption," he said."

"The fight against drugs must be a shared struggle."

Illegal coca plantations in Colombia reached record levels last year following a 17 per cent increase from 2016 to around 423,000 acres (171,000 hectares), according to the United Nations.

Threat of 'offensive' action

Colombia, the world's leading producer of cocaine, is just emerging from over a half century of civil war waged by guerrillas, paramilitaries, armed forces and drug traffickers.&nbsp;

Asked about 2016's peace agreement between the ex-rebel Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), now a political party, and the government, Duque emphasized that he "never campaigned saying that we are going to destroy the agreements."

Duque has vowed to fix "flaws" in the agreement negotiated by his predecessor, Nobel Peace Prize winner Juan Manuel Santos.

He has in particular criticized the FARC deal as being too lenient in allowing former rebels accused of atrocities to serve as lawmakers.

Duque said the "most important issue is... to ensure that those holding political representation mandates, tried by transitional justice and whose human rights violations are upheld, receive proportionate sentences and leave political office."

Concerning Colombia's last active guerrilla rebels, the National Liberation Army (ELN), Duque reiterated his position that he is "ready to sit down and speak with them if, and only if, they release all the hostages" and halt all criminal activities."

"If that does not happen, we will have to act... firmly" he continued. "In a dissuasive and offensive way."

Private development

Peace talks have been suspended since the beginning of August when Santos admitted defeat in his bid to reach a conclusion before handing over power to Duque.&nbsp;

The ELN has insisted that they will not suspend their insurgency until Duque names a new team of peace negotiators to restart the Cuban-hosted talks.

Concerning Brazil's new far-right president Jair Bolsonaro, Duque said "my interest is to continue to strengthen relations with Brazil."

"Brazil is an important country for Colombia, not only because it shares a border, but for the market it represents; for its weight in regional geopolitics."

"If in Brazil, conditions are met for a government favorable to the development of the private sector, interregional trade, cross-border investments -- I think it will be a great success."

"I hope this will be President Bolsonaro's line of work."

Colombian President Ivan Duque is stressing the need for international action to halt Nicolas Maduro's "dictatorship" in Venezuela, which he blames for a "massive humanitarian crisis" and a migration wave.

Colombian President Ivan Duque is stressing the need for international action to halt Nicolas Maduro's "dictatorship" in Venezuela, which he blames for a "massive humanitarian crisis" and a migration wave. "The real cause of this migration shock is the dictatorship," the right-wing leader told AFP. "We must use all the diplomatic mechanisms, all the multilateral mechanisms available to allow this dictatorship to end." During an official visit to France from November 11-13, Duque, who has been in power since August 7, will take part in Sunday's Forum for Peace organized by French President Emmanuel Macron. Prior to his departure he urged the need for countries worldwide to fight drug trafficking, in a wide-ranging interview with AFP that also touched on peace talks with Colombia's last active guerrilla group and the election of an extreme-right leader in Brazil. 'Shared struggle' Duque accused Maduro -- leader of Venezuela, where economic woes began in 2014 with the crash in the price of crude -- of "clinging to power and exacerbating patriotic feelings in his favour." Maduro's government has been slapped with a range of sanctions over its crackdown on the opposition and civil society critics. The Colombian president said its neighbours "huge humanitarian crisis" is leaking over the border: "We have received nearly a million migrants in less than two years." "Colombia is facing a difficult situation," he said, calling on the international community to help with "significant means to face this challenge." He echoed the need for international cooperation on the issue of drug trafficking: "All countries of the world must strengthen their policies to prevent consumption," he said." "The fight against drugs must be a shared struggle." Illegal coca plantations in Colombia reached record levels last year following a 17 per cent increase from 2016 to around 423,000 acres (171,000 hectares), according to the United Nations. Threat of 'offensive' action Colombia, the world's leading producer of cocaine, is just emerging from over a half century of civil war waged by guerrillas, paramilitaries, armed forces and drug traffickers. Asked about 2016's peace agreement between the ex-rebel Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), now a political party, and the government, Duque emphasized that he "never campaigned saying that we are going to destroy the agreements." Duque has vowed to fix "flaws" in the agreement negotiated by his predecessor, Nobel Peace Prize winner Juan Manuel Santos. He has in particular criticized the FARC deal as being too lenient in allowing former rebels accused of atrocities to serve as lawmakers. Duque said the "most important issue is... to ensure that those holding political representation mandates, tried by transitional justice and whose human rights violations are upheld, receive proportionate sentences and leave political office." Concerning Colombia's last active guerrilla rebels, the National Liberation Army (ELN), Duque reiterated his position that he is "ready to sit down and speak with them if, and only if, they release all the hostages" and halt all criminal activities." "If that does not happen, we will have to act... firmly" he continued. "In a dissuasive and offensive way." Private development Peace talks have been suspended since the beginning of August when Santos admitted defeat in his bid to reach a conclusion before handing over power to Duque. The ELN has insisted that they will not suspend their insurgency until Duque names a new team of peace negotiators to restart the Cuban-hosted talks. Concerning Brazil's new far-right president Jair Bolsonaro, Duque said "my interest is to continue to strengthen relations with Brazil." "Brazil is an important country for Colombia, not only because it shares a border, but for the market it represents; for its weight in regional geopolitics." "If in Brazil, conditions are met for a government favorable to the development of the private sector, interregional trade, cross-border investments -- I think it will be a great success." "I hope this will be President Bolsonaro's line of work."

Colombia's Duque calls for action against Venezuelan 'dictatorship'

Venezuelan Socialist President Nicolas Maduro on Thursday accused the Trump administration of seeking to assassinate him, as relations strain between the ideologically opposed nations. Asked about the remarks, the White House did not immediately provide a comment.

Venezuela's opposition says Maduro lobs ludicrous accusations at enemies to deflect from his own incompetence.

Almost 2 million Venezuelans have fled the ailing oil-rich nation since 2015, driven out by brutal food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and violent crime. Washington has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, denouncing Maduro as a dictator who has quashed human rights and triggered an economic meltdown.

On Wednesday, the White House accused Maduro's government of involvement in the death of a jailed Venezuelan politician whom authorities say killed himself but whom opposition parties say was murdered.

In a televised broadcast on Thursday night, Maduro, a former bus driver and union leader, said the United States had asked the government in neighbouring Colombia to kill him.&nbsp;

"They have given the order from the White House that Maduro be killed," said Maduro, flanked by workers. He vowed that "they will not even touch a single hair of mine." Maduro did not give an explanation for his accusations and did not provide any evidence.&nbsp;

Venezuela's Information Ministry did not respond to a request for further information. Maduro contends that he is the victim of an "economic war" led by US-backed adversaries.&nbsp;

He denies limiting political freedoms, insisting that Washington-supported opposition leaders have plotted assassination attempts and sought to overthrow him through violent street protests.

Venezuelan Socialist President Nicolas Maduro on Thursday accused the Trump administration of seeking to assassinate him, as relations strain between the ideologically opposed nations.

Venezuelan Socialist President Nicolas Maduro on Thursday accused the Trump administration of seeking to assassinate him, as relations strain between the ideologically opposed nations. Asked about the remarks, the White House did not immediately provide a comment. Venezuela's opposition says Maduro lobs ludicrous accusations at enemies to deflect from his own incompetence. Almost 2 million Venezuelans have fled the ailing oil-rich nation since 2015, driven out by brutal food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation, and violent crime. Washington has imposed sanctions on Venezuela, denouncing Maduro as a dictator who has quashed human rights and triggered an economic meltdown. On Wednesday, the White House accused Maduro's government of involvement in the death of a jailed Venezuelan politician whom authorities say killed himself but whom opposition parties say was murdered. In a televised broadcast on Thursday night, Maduro, a former bus driver and union leader, said the United States had asked the government in neighbouring Colombia to kill him. "They have given the order from the White House that Maduro be killed," said Maduro, flanked by workers. He vowed that "they will not even touch a single hair of mine." Maduro did not give an explanation for his accusations and did not provide any evidence. Venezuela's Information Ministry did not respond to a request for further information. Maduro contends that he is the victim of an "economic war" led by US-backed adversaries. He denies limiting political freedoms, insisting that Washington-supported opposition leaders have plotted assassination attempts and sought to overthrow him through violent street protests.

Trump administration trying to kill me: Venezuela President Maduro

Venezuela's embattled President Nicolas Maduro said Friday that he would not pass up a chance to meet with his US counterpart Donald Trump, if that meant ironing out the countries' many disagreements.

Just back from his UN General Assembly trip, Maduro was speaking in response to remarks made by the US leader at the meeting that Venezuela was a "mess" that had to be "cleaned up".

"I'm told that the United States president once again mentioned me. My response is that I am brave enough, decisive enough and forceful enough to meet President Trump, greet him with respect and establish a high-ranking dialogue... If such an opportunity were to arise, I would not miss it," said the socialist leader, whose country is in an economic mega-crisis.

"I would be ready to meet any time, any place, extend my hand, speak, see him face to face and look in his eyes. And I know that if that were to happen, a lot of things would change," Maduro said at the international airport in Maiquetia, near Caracas.

While at the UN General Assembly, Trump also remarked that all options were on the table in the case of Venezuela. Thousands have fled hunger and economic collapse in the state-led economy.&nbsp;

On whether he would meet Maduro, Trump kept his cards close to his vest, saying only that he'd see what happens.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, the US Treasury announced new sanctions against Venezuelan first lady Cilia Adela Flores de Maduro, an attorney and the president's wife, as one of the figures who has helped Maduro retain his grip on power, along with Vice President Delcy Rodriguez.

He said Maduro's socialism "has bankrupted the oil-rich nation and driven its people into abject poverty."

Venezuela's embattled President Nicolas Maduro said Friday that he would not pass up a chance to meet with his US counterpart Donald Trump, if that meant ironing out the countries' many disagreements.

Venezuela's embattled President Nicolas Maduro said Friday that he would not pass up a chance to meet with his US counterpart Donald Trump, if that meant ironing out the countries' many disagreements. Just back from his UN General Assembly trip, Maduro was speaking in response to remarks made by the US leader at the meeting that Venezuela was a "mess" that had to be "cleaned up". "I'm told that the United States president once again mentioned me. My response is that I am brave enough, decisive enough and forceful enough to meet President Trump, greet him with respect and establish a high-ranking dialogue... If such an opportunity were to arise, I would not miss it," said the socialist leader, whose country is in an economic mega-crisis. "I would be ready to meet any time, any place, extend my hand, speak, see him face to face and look in his eyes. And I know that if that were to happen, a lot of things would change," Maduro said at the international airport in Maiquetia, near Caracas. While at the UN General Assembly, Trump also remarked that all options were on the table in the case of Venezuela. Thousands have fled hunger and economic collapse in the state-led economy. On whether he would meet Maduro, Trump kept his cards close to his vest, saying only that he'd see what happens. On Tuesday, the US Treasury announced new sanctions against Venezuelan first lady Cilia Adela Flores de Maduro, an attorney and the president's wife, as one of the figures who has helped Maduro retain his grip on power, along with Vice President Delcy Rodriguez. He said Maduro's socialism "has bankrupted the oil-rich nation and driven its people into abject poverty."

Venezuela's Maduro says he wouldn't miss 'chance' to meet Trump

If you want, attack me, but don't go after my wife: Nicolas Maduro to US

Peru rejects a military solution to the crisis in Venezuela but further options are under discussion to increase pressure on the Maduro government to restore democracy, including a human rights complaint, Peru's president said in an interview.

Venezuela, which has suffered an economic collapse and mass emigration under Nicolas Maduro, is likely to be a focal point of the latest UN General Assembly in New York this week.

To that end, Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra said that fresh economic and diplomatic measures were under consideration against Venezuela, including a "human rights" complaint. But there could be no question of military action, he added.

"As a country, we must be clear to say we reject a warlike, military solution," Vizcarra told Reuters in New York.

"What we need to do is find a way to sanction the regime without affecting the population," he added.

Vizcarra did not elaborate on the rights initiative, though shortly after he spoke, Colombia`s president Ivan Duque, also in New York, told an event that he and other heads of state would this week sign a declaration to denounce Maduro`s government with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

In May, the Organization of American States (OAS) accused the Maduro administration of committing "crimes against humanity", and vowed to present evidence to the ICC.

Peru and Colombia both belong to the so-called Lima Group of nations formed last year to address the crisis in Venezuela.

Venezuela has rejected criticism of the Maduro government as hostile propaganda and attempts to set the stage for an intervention by foreign powers in the country. 
Pressure is steadily growing, however.

Last week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States was preparing a "series of actions" to raise pressure on Maduro, whom Washington and its allies accuse of stifling democracy by jailing opposition leaders.

Domestic reform

Separately, Vizcarra, who last week won a confidence vote in Congress over his planned political and judicial reforms that seek to combat corruption in Peru, said he expected the remaining measures to pass before an October 4 deadline.

Because of that, he saw no need to consider dissolving Congress - which could have occurred if he had lost the vote.

"Given the events of the past week, we can say that the problem is en route to being resolved," he said.

Vizcarra, who became president in March after his predecessor Pedro Pablo Kuczynski stood down when facing near-certain impeachment over a graft scandal, vowed to respect rulings made by the judiciary in pending probes of politicians.

To fail to do so would be to undermine the very confidence in the political system that he was trying to restore, he said.

Turning to trade, Vizcarra said that the Pacific Alliance - a bloc comprising Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Peru - could admit its four associate members Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and Canada as soon as this November. 
&nbsp;

Peru rejects a military solution to the crisis in Venezuela but further options are under discussion to increase pressure on the Maduro government to restore democracy, including a human rights complaint, Peru's president said in an interview.

Peru rejects a military solution to the crisis in Venezuela but further options are under discussion to increase pressure on the Maduro government to restore democracy, including a human rights complaint, Peru's president said in an interview. Venezuela, which has suffered an economic collapse and mass emigration under Nicolas Maduro, is likely to be a focal point of the latest UN General Assembly in New York this week. To that end, Peruvian President Martin Vizcarra said that fresh economic and diplomatic measures were under consideration against Venezuela, including a "human rights" complaint. But there could be no question of military action, he added. "As a country, we must be clear to say we reject a warlike, military solution," Vizcarra told Reuters in New York. "What we need to do is find a way to sanction the regime without affecting the population," he added. Vizcarra did not elaborate on the rights initiative, though shortly after he spoke, Colombia`s president Ivan Duque, also in New York, told an event that he and other heads of state would this week sign a declaration to denounce Maduro`s government with the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague. In May, the Organization of American States (OAS) accused the Maduro administration of committing "crimes against humanity", and vowed to present evidence to the ICC. Peru and Colombia both belong to the so-called Lima Group of nations formed last year to address the crisis in Venezuela. Venezuela has rejected criticism of the Maduro government as hostile propaganda and attempts to set the stage for an intervention by foreign powers in the country. Pressure is steadily growing, however. Last week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States was preparing a "series of actions" to raise pressure on Maduro, whom Washington and its allies accuse of stifling democracy by jailing opposition leaders. Domestic reform Separately, Vizcarra, who last week won a confidence vote in Congress over his planned political and judicial reforms that seek to combat corruption in Peru, said he expected the remaining measures to pass before an October 4 deadline. Because of that, he saw no need to consider dissolving Congress - which could have occurred if he had lost the vote. "Given the events of the past week, we can say that the problem is en route to being resolved," he said. Vizcarra, who became president in March after his predecessor Pedro Pablo Kuczynski stood down when facing near-certain impeachment over a graft scandal, vowed to respect rulings made by the judiciary in pending probes of politicians. To fail to do so would be to undermine the very confidence in the political system that he was trying to restore, he said. Turning to trade, Vizcarra said that the Pacific Alliance - a bloc comprising Colombia, Chile, Mexico and Peru - could admit its four associate members Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and Canada as soon as this November.

Peru wants no military solution on Venezuela: President

United States sanctions on Venezuela will continue, Vice President Mike Pence said on Saturday, despite the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/american-wife-freed-from-venezuela-jail-arrive-in-us-senator-140044">release of an American and his wife from a Venezuelan jail</a>.

"Very glad that Josh Holt is now back home with his family – where he has always belonged. Sanctions continue until democracy returns to Venezuela," Pence said in a tweet.

He was commenting after Holt, 26, and his wife Thamara Caleno, landed in Washington after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ordered their release after two years.

It was a "gesture" aimed at promoting dialogue between Caracas and Washington, Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez told reporters in Caracas.

Holt, a 26-year-old Mormon missionary from Utah, had traveled to Venezuela in June 2016 to marry Thamara, whom he had met on the internet.

Shortly after they wed, however, the couple was arrested by the Venezuelan intelligence service Sebin, and accused of possessing weapons and plotting to destabilize the Maduro government.

After a May 20 election which Washington rejected as a "sham," US President Donald Trump tightened pre-existing sanctions against Maduro's regime.

The White House action would complicate Venezuela's efforts to sell off financial IOUs known as "accounts receivable." Senior US administration officials said the instruments had been used to garner much-needed revenue for the cash-starved regime.

Washington has previously imposed sanctions on Maduro and his senior aides, and banned US entities from buying any more debt from Caracas or state oil company PDVSA.

Maduro has insisted Venezuela is the victim of an "economic war" waged by the conservative opposition and external powers including the United States aimed at toppling him.

Most economists attribute the oil-rich country's economic collapse to years of mismanagement, corruption and a period of sharply lower oil prices.

United States sanctions on Venezuela will continue, Vice President Mike Pence said on Saturday, despite the release of an American and his wife from a Venezuelan jail

United States sanctions on Venezuela will continue, Vice President Mike Pence said on Saturday, despite the release of an American and his wife from a Venezuelan jail. "Very glad that Josh Holt is now back home with his family – where he has always belonged. Sanctions continue until democracy returns to Venezuela," Pence said in a tweet. He was commenting after Holt, 26, and his wife Thamara Caleno, landed in Washington after Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ordered their release after two years. It was a "gesture" aimed at promoting dialogue between Caracas and Washington, Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez told reporters in Caracas. Holt, a 26-year-old Mormon missionary from Utah, had traveled to Venezuela in June 2016 to marry Thamara, whom he had met on the internet. Shortly after they wed, however, the couple was arrested by the Venezuelan intelligence service Sebin, and accused of possessing weapons and plotting to destabilize the Maduro government. After a May 20 election which Washington rejected as a "sham," US President Donald Trump tightened pre-existing sanctions against Maduro's regime. The White House action would complicate Venezuela's efforts to sell off financial IOUs known as "accounts receivable." Senior US administration officials said the instruments had been used to garner much-needed revenue for the cash-starved regime. Washington has previously imposed sanctions on Maduro and his senior aides, and banned US entities from buying any more debt from Caracas or state oil company PDVSA. Maduro has insisted Venezuela is the victim of an "economic war" waged by the conservative opposition and external powers including the United States aimed at toppling him. Most economists attribute the oil-rich country's economic collapse to years of mismanagement, corruption and a period of sharply lower oil prices.

US sanctions on Venezuela to continue: Pence

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

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

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

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

Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro was sworn in Thursday for a second term as president of the crisis-wracked Latin American country.

Maduro swore "to respect and enforce the Constitution and lead all revolutionary changes" in a ceremony at the Constituent Assembly, which he set up himself last year and stacked with his supporters.

The 55-year-old former bus driver was re-elected Sunday in a vote boycotted by the main opposition and widely condemned by the international community, including the United States, which denounced it as a "sham."

Maduro swore 'to respect and enforce the Constitution and lead all revolutionary changes' in a ceremony at the Constituent Assembly, which he set up himself last year and stacked with his supporters

Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro was sworn in Thursday for a second term as president of the crisis-wracked Latin American country. Maduro swore "to respect and enforce the Constitution and lead all revolutionary changes" in a ceremony at the Constituent Assembly, which he set up himself last year and stacked with his supporters. The 55-year-old former bus driver was re-elected Sunday in a vote boycotted by the main opposition and widely condemned by the international community, including the United States, which denounced it as a "sham."

Nicolas Maduro sworn in for second term in Venezuela

Oil&nbsp;rose&nbsp;towards&nbsp;$80 a barrel on Tuesday, supported by concern that falling Venezuelan crude output and a potential drop in Iranian exports could further tighten global supply.

Crude is trading at the highest since late 2014, underpinned by a&nbsp;supply-cutting deal among the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus Russia and other non-members, and strong global demand.

Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose 54 cents to $79.76 a barrel by 1221 GMT. Last week, it topped $80 for the first time since November 2014.

US&nbsp;crude was up 31 cents at $72.55, having earlier traded at $72.72, its highest since November 2014.

"The solid global economy, selected&nbsp;supply&nbsp;disruptions and the upbeat market mood in particular in&nbsp;oil&nbsp;frame a positive environment," said Norbert Ruecker, head of commodities and macro research at Julius Baer.

The US&nbsp;government imposed new sanctions on Venezuela following Sunday's re-election of President Nicolas Maduro, a move that analysts say could further curb the country's&nbsp;oil&nbsp;output already at its lowest in decades.

"We can expect continued falling Venezuelan production," said Tony Nunan,&nbsp;oil&nbsp;risk manager at Mitsubishi Corporation in Tokyo.

Concern about a potential drop in Iranian&nbsp;oil&nbsp;exports following Washington's exit from a nuclear deal with Tehran and the threat of US&nbsp;sanctions is also supporting prices. On Monday, the United States hardened its approach to Iran.

Venezuela and Iran are members of OPEC, which with its allies has curbed production since January 2017 to get rid of a&nbsp;supply&nbsp;glut that in mid-2014 led to a price collapse.

Due in part to the involuntary drop in Venezuela's output, OPEC is over-delivering on the agreement. Saudi Arabia and other major OPEC producers could, in theory, add more&nbsp;supply, but have yet to do so.

The OPEC-led&nbsp;supply&nbsp;curbs have largely cleared an inventory surplus in industrialised countries based on the deal's original goals, and stocks continue to decline.

US&nbsp;crude stockpiles are forecast to have declined by 2.8 million barrels last week, a third straight weekly fall. The American Petroleum Institute's inventory report for the period is due at 2030 GMT.

Limiting the upward pressure on prices is rising&nbsp;supply&nbsp;in the United States, where shale production is forecast to hit a record high in June.

Crude oil is trading at the highest since late 2014, underpinned by a supply-cutting deal among the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus Russia and other non-members, and strong global demand

Oil rose towards $80 a barrel on Tuesday, supported by concern that falling Venezuelan crude output and a potential drop in Iranian exports could further tighten global supply. Crude is trading at the highest since late 2014, underpinned by a supply-cutting deal among the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries plus Russia and other non-members, and strong global demand. Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose 54 cents to $79.76 a barrel by 1221 GMT. Last week, it topped $80 for the first time since November 2014. US crude was up 31 cents at $72.55, having earlier traded at $72.72, its highest since November 2014. "The solid global economy, selected supply disruptions and the upbeat market mood in particular in oil frame a positive environment," said Norbert Ruecker, head of commodities and macro research at Julius Baer. The US government imposed new sanctions on Venezuela following Sunday's re-election of President Nicolas Maduro, a move that analysts say could further curb the country's oil output already at its lowest in decades. "We can expect continued falling Venezuelan production," said Tony Nunan, oil risk manager at Mitsubishi Corporation in Tokyo. Concern about a potential drop in Iranian oil exports following Washington's exit from a nuclear deal with Tehran and the threat of US sanctions is also supporting prices. On Monday, the United States hardened its approach to Iran. Venezuela and Iran are members of OPEC, which with its allies has curbed production since January 2017 to get rid of a supply glut that in mid-2014 led to a price collapse. Due in part to the involuntary drop in Venezuela's output, OPEC is over-delivering on the agreement. Saudi Arabia and other major OPEC producers could, in theory, add more supply, but have yet to do so. The OPEC-led supply curbs have largely cleared an inventory surplus in industrialised countries based on the deal's original goals, and stocks continue to decline. US crude stockpiles are forecast to have declined by 2.8 million barrels last week, a third straight weekly fall. The American Petroleum Institute's inventory report for the period is due at 2030 GMT. Limiting the upward pressure on prices is rising supply in the United States, where shale production is forecast to hit a record high in June.

Oil rises towards $80 as supply concerns mount

US Vice President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-wins-presidential-vote-138497">Mike Pence today called the Venezuela</a> election a &nbsp;"sham" threating new sanctions against Venezuela where President Nicolas Maduro won a second term.

"Venezuela's election was a sham - neither free nor fair. The illegitimate result of this fake process is a further blow to the proud democratic tradition of Venezuela," Pence said.

&nbsp;Maduro principal rival declared the elections "illegitimate" due to alleged irregularities. Maduro bagged 5.8 million votes against 1.8 million won by his rival Henri Falcon.&nbsp;

"The United States will not sit idly by as Venezuela crumbles and the misery of their brave people continues," the US vice president added.

Reports said the White House is set to announce sanctions against Venezuela which is already hit after oil prices crashed last year. People have been unable to procure basic needs namely food and medicine with inflation skyrocketing.

Election officials said Maduro had won 68 per cent votes in the presidential poll trouncing Falcon who reportedly won 21 per cent of the votes.

The Opposition coalition which boycotted the polls said the elections was a "farce".

The Opposition coalition which boycotted the polls said the elections was a "farce."

US Vice President Mike Pence today called the Venezuela election a "sham" threating new sanctions against Venezuela where President Nicolas Maduro won a second term. "Venezuela's election was a sham - neither free nor fair. The illegitimate result of this fake process is a further blow to the proud democratic tradition of Venezuela," Pence said. Maduro principal rival declared the elections "illegitimate" due to alleged irregularities. Maduro bagged 5.8 million votes against 1.8 million won by his rival Henri Falcon. "The United States will not sit idly by as Venezuela crumbles and the misery of their brave people continues," the US vice president added. Reports said the White House is set to announce sanctions against Venezuela which is already hit after oil prices crashed last year. People have been unable to procure basic needs namely food and medicine with inflation skyrocketing. Election officials said Maduro had won 68 per cent votes in the presidential poll trouncing Falcon who reportedly won 21 per cent of the votes. The Opposition coalition which boycotted the polls said the elections was a "farce".

US calls Venezuela election a 'sham', mulls sanctions

Despite Venezuelans suffering through the world's highest inflation rate and a devastating economic and political crisis that has triggered a massive refugee crisis, President Nicolas Maduro is expected to win re-election in the controversial presidential vote on Sunday (May 20).

There is widespread discontent with the burly and mustachioed Maduro who lacks the magnetism of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, for whom many still proclaim a near-religious devotion. Chavez, who died in March 2013, named Maduro, his-then vice president, as his successor.

Two months later, the former bus driver was elected by a margin of less than 2% over opposition candidate Henrique Capriles, who along with Leopoldo Lopez and other major rivals, is barred from running during this election.

The price of oil plummeted in 2014, challenging the new administration of the OPEC nation that soon had annual inflation of over 50%.

Maduro asked Congress to grant him special powers for a year, which he used to institute greater state control over institutions including economic measures and price controls. He has extended his rule by decree throughout the majority of his presidency.

Despite the rocky start, Venezuelans voted in socialist allies in local elections in November 2013, chiefly because of the enduring loyalty many of the country's poor feel toward Chavez. Chavez's 1999-2013 government was, for much of country's poor majority, the first administration that had their interests at heart after decades of elites alternating power.

Widespread discontent, rising crime and a sinking economy that included food and medicine shortages led to protests in February of 2014, in which dozens were killed.

The opposition won control of the National Assembly in December 2015 and became a leading voice in dissent against the government.

In July of 2017, Maduro installed a new Constituent Assembly in which all candidates belonged to the Socialist Party. The controversial assembly has ushered in pro-Maduro votes, in efforts to counteract the National Assembly.

Talks between the opposition and Maduro's administration have failed and protests have weakened as many opposition figures have fled the country.

Refugees have flooded South America and Spain but Maduro has continued to build on his base of one-fifth of the population that identifies as the bedrock of "Chavismo" as he runs his campaign.

Critics say a government-provided food-box or rations and occasional bonuses keep needy Venezuelans dependent on the state, and fearful of voting against the hand that feeds them, but the opposition is torn by internal rivalries.

But despite approval levels that hover around 20-25 percent in the last few years, 55-year-old Maduro is expected to usher in a win, defying U.S. and EU criticism and bringing the nation closer to allies like China and Russia.

Maduro asked Congress to grant him special powers for a year, which he used to institute greater state control over institutions including economic measures and price controls

Despite Venezuelans suffering through the world's highest inflation rate and a devastating economic and political crisis that has triggered a massive refugee crisis, President Nicolas Maduro is expected to win re-election in the controversial presidential vote on Sunday (May 20). There is widespread discontent with the burly and mustachioed Maduro who lacks the magnetism of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, for whom many still proclaim a near-religious devotion. Chavez, who died in March 2013, named Maduro, his-then vice president, as his successor. Two months later, the former bus driver was elected by a margin of less than 2% over opposition candidate Henrique Capriles, who along with Leopoldo Lopez and other major rivals, is barred from running during this election. The price of oil plummeted in 2014, challenging the new administration of the OPEC nation that soon had annual inflation of over 50%. Maduro asked Congress to grant him special powers for a year, which he used to institute greater state control over institutions including economic measures and price controls. He has extended his rule by decree throughout the majority of his presidency. Despite the rocky start, Venezuelans voted in socialist allies in local elections in November 2013, chiefly because of the enduring loyalty many of the country's poor feel toward Chavez. Chavez's 1999-2013 government was, for much of country's poor majority, the first administration that had their interests at heart after decades of elites alternating power. Widespread discontent, rising crime and a sinking economy that included food and medicine shortages led to protests in February of 2014, in which dozens were killed. The opposition won control of the National Assembly in December 2015 and became a leading voice in dissent against the government. In July of 2017, Maduro installed a new Constituent Assembly in which all candidates belonged to the Socialist Party. The controversial assembly has ushered in pro-Maduro votes, in efforts to counteract the National Assembly. Talks between the opposition and Maduro's administration have failed and protests have weakened as many opposition figures have fled the country. Refugees have flooded South America and Spain but Maduro has continued to build on his base of one-fifth of the population that identifies as the bedrock of "Chavismo" as he runs his campaign. Critics say a government-provided food-box or rations and occasional bonuses keep needy Venezuelans dependent on the state, and fearful of voting against the hand that feeds them, but the opposition is torn by internal rivalries. But despite approval levels that hover around 20-25 percent in the last few years, 55-year-old Maduro is expected to usher in a win, defying U.S. and EU criticism and bringing the nation closer to allies like China and Russia.

A look at Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro ahead of presidential election

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