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

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

Venezuela's opposition-run congress on Tuesday (December 17) approved a measure allowing lawmakers to vote on legislation without being present, a response to a government crackdown that has left dozens of legislators in hiding or in exile.

Venezuela congress allows remote voting to thwart government pressure on opposition

The Venezuelan opposition will hold nationwide protests on Saturday in the hope of reviving a stalled movement to oust President Nicolas Maduro, who has held on to power despite an economic crisis and aggressive US sanctions.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido kick-started a groundswell protest movement in January by invoking the constitution to assume an interim presidency after declaring Maduro's 2018 re-election a fraud.

But the energy has waned and frustration is mounting as Maduro remains in control and the economic meltdown continues to push Venezuelan migrants across the country's borders.

"The dictatorship has underestimated the Venezuelan people. They have not been able to make us grow accustomed to living in misery," Guaido tweeted on Friday night.

Masked men on Friday forced their way into the offices of opposition party Popular Will, to which Guaido belongs. Opposition leaders called the incident an intimidation effort in the run-up to the demonstrations.

The opposition has been inspired by the resignation of Bolivian President Evo Morales, a Maduro ally who was accused of manipulating the results of an election in October but later resigned after the violent street protest.

But the change in Venezuela continues to hinge on a shift in the allegiance of the armed forces, which remain loyal to Maduro and the ruling Socialist Party. That contrasts with Bolivia's military leaders, who urged Morales to step down.

Demonstrators in cities around the country plan to stage rallies during the morning and are expected to hold marches in the afternoon.

The Caracas metro, the capital's principal form of public transport, said it was closing a group of stations in the area of the protests for maintenance. Critics said it was an attempt to weaken the demonstrations.

The Socialist party has called a separate rally in Caracas in support of Bolivia's Morales.

Venezuela has for years suffered under hyperinflation and a collapsing economy, spurring an exodus of more than 4 million seeking better access to food and medicine.

More than 50 countries have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate president and the United States has implemented a sanctions program that has crippled Venezuela's oil exports.

Maduro dismisses Guaido as a puppet of the United States, and blames the economic problems on U.S. sanctions.

The Venezuelan opposition will hold nationwide protests on Saturday in the hope of reviving a stalled movement to oust President Nicolas Maduro, who has held on to power despite an economic crisis and aggressive US sanctions.

The Venezuelan opposition will hold nationwide protests on Saturday in the hope of reviving a stalled movement to oust President Nicolas Maduro, who has held on to power despite an economic crisis and aggressive US sanctions. Opposition leader Juan Guaido kick-started a groundswell protest movement in January by invoking the constitution to assume an interim presidency after declaring Maduro's 2018 re-election a fraud. But the energy has waned and frustration is mounting as Maduro remains in control and the economic meltdown continues to push Venezuelan migrants across the country's borders. "The dictatorship has underestimated the Venezuelan people. They have not been able to make us grow accustomed to living in misery," Guaido tweeted on Friday night. Masked men on Friday forced their way into the offices of opposition party Popular Will, to which Guaido belongs. Opposition leaders called the incident an intimidation effort in the run-up to the demonstrations. The opposition has been inspired by the resignation of Bolivian President Evo Morales, a Maduro ally who was accused of manipulating the results of an election in October but later resigned after the violent street protest. But the change in Venezuela continues to hinge on a shift in the allegiance of the armed forces, which remain loyal to Maduro and the ruling Socialist Party. That contrasts with Bolivia's military leaders, who urged Morales to step down. Demonstrators in cities around the country plan to stage rallies during the morning and are expected to hold marches in the afternoon. The Caracas metro, the capital's principal form of public transport, said it was closing a group of stations in the area of the protests for maintenance. Critics said it was an attempt to weaken the demonstrations. The Socialist party has called a separate rally in Caracas in support of Bolivia's Morales. Venezuela has for years suffered under hyperinflation and a collapsing economy, spurring an exodus of more than 4 million seeking better access to food and medicine. More than 50 countries have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate president and the United States has implemented a sanctions program that has crippled Venezuela's oil exports. Maduro dismisses Guaido as a puppet of the United States, and blames the economic problems on U.S. sanctions.

Venezuela opposition rallies to revive stalled effort to oust Maduro

Backers of Venezuela's opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-has-abandoned-the-negotiation-talks-venezuelas-juan-guaido-250055">Juan Guaido</a> left the country's embassy in Brasilia on Wednesday, after a tense 11-hour standoff that created a diplomatic embarrassment for Brazil's right-wing government.

Brazil's foreign ministry said a diplomat it sent to mediate a peaceful end to the dispute managed to convince the group of 10 people to leave the mission.

Representatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro later regained access to the building, creating a tricky situation for Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro, who has recognised Guaido as the legitimate leader of Venezuela.

The incident caused scuffles outside the embassy in an embarrassment for Brazil's government as it hosts the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brics-summit-2019-pm-modi-meets-russian-president-putin-261934">BRICS summit</a> of major emerging economies in the capital on Wednesday and Thursday. Leaders Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia, who support Maduro, attended the event.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said on Twitter the "violent" occupation had ended peacefully, thanks to the intervention of the Brazilian authorities.

Members of the Guaido group said embassy staff had allowed them to enter the embassy in the morning and that they did so peacefully.

Guaido's envoy in Brazil, Maria Teresa Belandria, has not been able to access the embassy since she arrived 10 months ago and has been living and working out of a Brasilia hotel.

Crowds of Brazilians who gathered outside the embassy to support the rival claims of Maduro and Guaido traded insults and some came to blows before police could separate them.

"The Brazilian government ordered us to leave our country's embassy and we were escorted out by the back door like delinquents," Venezuelan Army Mayor Jose Gregorio, who deserted to Brazil this year, said by telephone after leaving the embassy.

Venezuelan embassies around the world have become flash points for the competing claims of Guaido, the head of country's National Assembly, and Maduro, a socialist who took over from late President Hugo Chavez in 2013.

Earlier this year, Guaido invoked constitutional provisions to assume an interim presidency, arguing that Maduro's re-election last year was fraudulent. He has since been recognised by most Western nations as the rightful leader of Venezuela.

An occupation by protesters at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington in May resulted in arrests before the building was returned to Guaido's representatives, who are recognised by the United States.

Backers of Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido left the country's embassy in Brasilia on Wednesday, after a tense 11-hour standoff that created a diplomatic embarrassment for Brazil's right-wing government.

Backers of Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido left the country's embassy in Brasilia on Wednesday, after a tense 11-hour standoff that created a diplomatic embarrassment for Brazil's right-wing government. Brazil's foreign ministry said a diplomat it sent to mediate a peaceful end to the dispute managed to convince the group of 10 people to leave the mission. Representatives of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro later regained access to the building, creating a tricky situation for Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro, who has recognised Guaido as the legitimate leader of Venezuela. The incident caused scuffles outside the embassy in an embarrassment for Brazil's government as it hosts the BRICS summit of major emerging economies in the capital on Wednesday and Thursday. Leaders Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia, who support Maduro, attended the event. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said on Twitter the "violent" occupation had ended peacefully, thanks to the intervention of the Brazilian authorities. Members of the Guaido group said embassy staff had allowed them to enter the embassy in the morning and that they did so peacefully. Guaido's envoy in Brazil, Maria Teresa Belandria, has not been able to access the embassy since she arrived 10 months ago and has been living and working out of a Brasilia hotel. Crowds of Brazilians who gathered outside the embassy to support the rival claims of Maduro and Guaido traded insults and some came to blows before police could separate them. "The Brazilian government ordered us to leave our country's embassy and we were escorted out by the back door like delinquents," Venezuelan Army Mayor Jose Gregorio, who deserted to Brazil this year, said by telephone after leaving the embassy. Venezuelan embassies around the world have become flash points for the competing claims of Guaido, the head of country's National Assembly, and Maduro, a socialist who took over from late President Hugo Chavez in 2013. Earlier this year, Guaido invoked constitutional provisions to assume an interim presidency, arguing that Maduro's re-election last year was fraudulent. He has since been recognised by most Western nations as the rightful leader of Venezuela. An occupation by protesters at the Venezuelan embassy in Washington in May resulted in arrests before the building was returned to Guaido's representatives, who are recognised by the United States.

Venezuelan opposition group ends occupation of embassy in Brazil

Nicolas Maduro has promised a revival of Industry. To know more watch the video

Industrial Facilities abandoned in Valencia

Thousands of teachers took a strike in Venezuela to demand better working conditions from the government of President Nicolás Maduro.

WION Wallet: Teachers continue protest in Venezuela for better working conditions

Exxon Mobil Corp this week banned the use of vessels linked to oil flows from Venezuela in the last year, according to four people familiar with the matter, putting new pressure on the US sanctioned country and on global crude freight rates.

Washington has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Venezuela this year to oust socialist President Nicolas Maduro, whose 2018 re-election has been dismissed by the United States and dozens of other countries as a sham. Some measures have led tanker operators to stop carrying oil for Venezuela's state-run PDVSA oil firm.

The decision by the world's largest publicly-traded oil producer to ban the Venezuela-linked tankers should affect about 250 vessels, two of the people familiar with the matter estimated.

Exxon declined to comment. PDVSA did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Over 25 foreign vessels reach Venezuelan ports per month, according to PDVSA and Refinitiv Eikon data. Some are known to turn their transponders off to avoid detection amid the tough US sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil industry.

Average freight earnings for supertankers on the closely-watched US-China route jumped over $20,000 on Friday to $87,625 a day, the highest level since rates for the route were first published in March, Baltic Exchange data showed.

"The VLCC pool here (in the Caribbean) has been very thin for some while, and this week rates pushed to levels not seen for many a year - $12 million now to the Far East and it's almost 'name your price,'" E.A. Gibson Shipbrokers Ltd said in a report on Friday.

Another shipbroker who declined to be identified to avoid upsetting clients said Exxon's directive may have a limited impact on freight rates. But he said those rates could go higher "if it spreads to other charterers beyond Exxon."

A lack of vessels willing to carry Venezuelan oil exports is hurting Cuba, the crisis-torn country's main political ally, which imposed fresh austerity measures last month due to power cuts and an acute shortage of fuel.

Exxon Mobil Corp this week banned the use of vessels linked to oil flows from Venezuela in the last year, according to four people familiar with the matter, putting new pressure on the US sanctioned country and on global crude freight rates.

Exxon Mobil Corp this week banned the use of vessels linked to oil flows from Venezuela in the last year, according to four people familiar with the matter, putting new pressure on the US sanctioned country and on global crude freight rates. Washington has imposed several rounds of sanctions on Venezuela this year to oust socialist President Nicolas Maduro, whose 2018 re-election has been dismissed by the United States and dozens of other countries as a sham. Some measures have led tanker operators to stop carrying oil for Venezuela's state-run PDVSA oil firm. The decision by the world's largest publicly-traded oil producer to ban the Venezuela-linked tankers should affect about 250 vessels, two of the people familiar with the matter estimated. Exxon declined to comment. PDVSA did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Over 25 foreign vessels reach Venezuelan ports per month, according to PDVSA and Refinitiv Eikon data. Some are known to turn their transponders off to avoid detection amid the tough US sanctions targeting Venezuela's oil industry. Average freight earnings for supertankers on the closely-watched US-China route jumped over $20,000 on Friday to $87,625 a day, the highest level since rates for the route were first published in March, Baltic Exchange data showed. "The VLCC pool here (in the Caribbean) has been very thin for some while, and this week rates pushed to levels not seen for many a year - $12 million now to the Far East and it's almost 'name your price,'" E.A. Gibson Shipbrokers Ltd said in a report on Friday. Another shipbroker who declined to be identified to avoid upsetting clients said Exxon's directive may have a limited impact on freight rates. But he said those rates could go higher "if it spreads to other charterers beyond Exxon." A lack of vessels willing to carry Venezuelan oil exports is hurting Cuba, the crisis-torn country's main political ally, which imposed fresh austerity measures last month due to power cuts and an acute shortage of fuel.

Exxon Mobil bars use of oil tankers linked to Venezuela: Report

The U.N. Human Rights Council on Friday voted to send a team of investigators to probe alleged violations, including extrajudicial executions and torture, in crisis-wracked Venezuela.

A resolution tabled by more than a dozen countries from Latin America and elsewhere was adopted by the 47-member council with 19 votes in favour, seven opposed and 21 abstaining.

It called for the U.N.'s top rights body to "dispatch urgently an independent international fact-finding mission" to Venezuela.

The mission, the text said, should "investigate extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, and torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment".

"Venezuelans, men and women, cannot wait any longer" for justice, said the representative of Peru, on behalf of the sponsoring nations, who also included Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada and Israel.

The one-year mission should carry out its investigation "with a view to ensuring full accountability for perpetrators and justice for victims," said the text, which also received the backing of the European Union.

Venezuelan Ambassador Jorge Valero slammed the resolution as a "hostile initiative", and said his country had no intention of cooperating with the new probe.

"The imposition of an additional monitoring mechanism will never receive the consent of my country," he told the council.

Even when they are not granted access to a country, U.N. investigators can nonetheless carry out probes from abroad, as has been the case with investigations into abuses in Syria and Myanmar.

'Systematic abuse'&nbsp;

The investigative team will be expected to present a report to the council in a year.

Venezuela is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between President Nicolas Maduro's government and National Assembly leader Juan Guaido.

The oil-rich country suffers from hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods from food to medicine, a crisis that has forced some 3.6 million people to flee since 2016.

Friday's resolution deplored "the systematic abuse of state institutions accelerating the erosion of the rule of law and of democratic institutions" in Venezuela.

It also urged Caracas to release all "political prisoners" and voiced "grave concern" over UN rights office findings in July suggesting that many of the more than 6,000 killings in alleged confrontations with state forces since early 2018 may, in fact, have been "executions".

"It must be clear to all at this Council that when violations of this gravity and scale are reported to us, we must respond in an equally serious manner," British Ambassador Julian Braithwaite, whose country backed the resolution, told the council.

The U.N. Human Rights Council on Friday voted to send a team of investigators to probe alleged violations, including extrajudicial executions and torture, in crisis-wracked Venezuela.

The U.N. Human Rights Council on Friday voted to send a team of investigators to probe alleged violations, including extrajudicial executions and torture, in crisis-wracked Venezuela. A resolution tabled by more than a dozen countries from Latin America and elsewhere was adopted by the 47-member council with 19 votes in favour, seven opposed and 21 abstaining. It called for the U.N.'s top rights body to "dispatch urgently an independent international fact-finding mission" to Venezuela. The mission, the text said, should "investigate extrajudicial executions, enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, and torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment". "Venezuelans, men and women, cannot wait any longer" for justice, said the representative of Peru, on behalf of the sponsoring nations, who also included Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada and Israel. The one-year mission should carry out its investigation "with a view to ensuring full accountability for perpetrators and justice for victims," said the text, which also received the backing of the European Union. Venezuelan Ambassador Jorge Valero slammed the resolution as a "hostile initiative", and said his country had no intention of cooperating with the new probe. "The imposition of an additional monitoring mechanism will never receive the consent of my country," he told the council. Even when they are not granted access to a country, U.N. investigators can nonetheless carry out probes from abroad, as has been the case with investigations into abuses in Syria and Myanmar. 'Systematic abuse' The investigative team will be expected to present a report to the council in a year. Venezuela is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between President Nicolas Maduro's government and National Assembly leader Juan Guaido. The oil-rich country suffers from hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods from food to medicine, a crisis that has forced some 3.6 million people to flee since 2016. Friday's resolution deplored "the systematic abuse of state institutions accelerating the erosion of the rule of law and of democratic institutions" in Venezuela. It also urged Caracas to release all "political prisoners" and voiced "grave concern" over UN rights office findings in July suggesting that many of the more than 6,000 killings in alleged confrontations with state forces since early 2018 may, in fact, have been "executions". "It must be clear to all at this Council that when violations of this gravity and scale are reported to us, we must respond in an equally serious manner," British Ambassador Julian Braithwaite, whose country backed the resolution, told the council.

United Nations launches probe into Venezuela rights abuses

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States.

In a meeting on the sidelines of the annual United Nations gathering of world leaders, Trump told Latin American presidents who recognise Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president that they were part of a "historic coalition."

For more than eight months they have been trying to oust Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic economic collapse and is accused of corruption, human rights violations and rigging the 2018 presidential election.

The New York meeting was part of the administration's efforts to keep Venezuela "high on the international agenda," a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Monday, pushing back on perceptions that the US commitment to Venezuela was waning.

But it was not clear what further options Washington had left. The opposition delegation came to the UN General Assembly in search of a breakthrough in its eight-month power struggle with Maduro, but is more focused on getting the European Union to sanction Maduro officials with assets stashed in European countries.

The State Department said it would provide $36 million in humanitarian aid in Venezuela to go toward an underfunded UN program aiming at raising $223 million to serve 2.6 million people. Previous aid efforts within Venezuela have been marked by concerns Maduro would interfere with distribution.

"We're giving millions and millions of dollars in aid, not that we want to, from the Maduro standpoint, but we have to," Trump said during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. "People are dying, they have no food, they (have) no water, they have no nothing."

It is also providing Guaido with $52 million to fund his parallel government's operations - much of which was diverted from money previously destined for Central American countries, US Agency for International Development (USAID) director Mark Green said on Wednesday.

Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January when Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency, arguing Maduro was illegitimate. He has been recognised as president by dozens of countries, including the United States and neighbouring Colombia.

Guaido and his Latin American allies are increasingly seeking to portray Maduro as a threat to regional stability to galvanize countries into stepping up the pressure. During his speech to the General Assembly on Wednesday, Colombian President Ivan Duque said he would provide the United Nations with a dossier proving Maduro was harbouring armed Colombian rebels.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who is expected to address the assembly on Thursday, called Duque's speech "shameful." Maduro calls Guaido a coup-mongering puppet of the United States and retains the support of allies such as Cuba, Russia and China.

Pressure on Europe

Washington's travel ban applied to government officials with the rank of vice minister or above, military members with a rank of colonel or above, and members of a pro-government legislature called the Constituent Assembly.

It also banned anyone who acts "on behalf of or in support of" Maduro and those deriving "financial benefit" from the government, and their immediate family members. US officials have previously said such measures were effective because "these people's wives can't shop in the US"

That move was likely to raise even more pressure on Europe. While the EU has sanctioned several individual members of Maduro's government, the opposition, the United States and other Latin American countries have called on it to do more.

A group of European and Latin American countries met to discuss Venezuela on the sidelines of the United Nations on Wednesday afternoon, but participants declined to take questions on the way out and did not immediately issue a joint statement.

Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, the incoming top diplomat for the EU, said during the meeting that the "end of Venezuela's crisis should result from a peaceful and negotiated path" leading to free elections, according to an EU statement. The statement did not mention any new European sanctions.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States. In a meeting on the sidelines of the annual United Nations gathering of world leaders, Trump told Latin American presidents who recognise Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president that they were part of a "historic coalition." For more than eight months they have been trying to oust Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic economic collapse and is accused of corruption, human rights violations and rigging the 2018 presidential election. The New York meeting was part of the administration's efforts to keep Venezuela "high on the international agenda," a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Monday, pushing back on perceptions that the US commitment to Venezuela was waning. But it was not clear what further options Washington had left. The opposition delegation came to the UN General Assembly in search of a breakthrough in its eight-month power struggle with Maduro, but is more focused on getting the European Union to sanction Maduro officials with assets stashed in European countries. The State Department said it would provide $36 million in humanitarian aid in Venezuela to go toward an underfunded UN program aiming at raising $223 million to serve 2.6 million people. Previous aid efforts within Venezuela have been marked by concerns Maduro would interfere with distribution. "We're giving millions and millions of dollars in aid, not that we want to, from the Maduro standpoint, but we have to," Trump said during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. "People are dying, they have no food, they (have) no water, they have no nothing." It is also providing Guaido with $52 million to fund his parallel government's operations - much of which was diverted from money previously destined for Central American countries, US Agency for International Development (USAID) director Mark Green said on Wednesday. Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January when Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency, arguing Maduro was illegitimate. He has been recognised as president by dozens of countries, including the United States and neighbouring Colombia. Guaido and his Latin American allies are increasingly seeking to portray Maduro as a threat to regional stability to galvanize countries into stepping up the pressure. During his speech to the General Assembly on Wednesday, Colombian President Ivan Duque said he would provide the United Nations with a dossier proving Maduro was harbouring armed Colombian rebels. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who is expected to address the assembly on Thursday, called Duque's speech "shameful." Maduro calls Guaido a coup-mongering puppet of the United States and retains the support of allies such as Cuba, Russia and China. Pressure on Europe Washington's travel ban applied to government officials with the rank of vice minister or above, military members with a rank of colonel or above, and members of a pro-government legislature called the Constituent Assembly. It also banned anyone who acts "on behalf of or in support of" Maduro and those deriving "financial benefit" from the government, and their immediate family members. US officials have previously said such measures were effective because "these people's wives can't shop in the US" That move was likely to raise even more pressure on Europe. While the EU has sanctioned several individual members of Maduro's government, the opposition, the United States and other Latin American countries have called on it to do more. A group of European and Latin American countries met to discuss Venezuela on the sidelines of the United Nations on Wednesday afternoon, but participants declined to take questions on the way out and did not immediately issue a joint statement. Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, the incoming top diplomat for the EU, said during the meeting that the "end of Venezuela's crisis should result from a peaceful and negotiated path" leading to free elections, according to an EU statement. The statement did not mention any new European sanctions.

Trump bans Venezuelan officials from US, boosts aid in support of opposition

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido said talks aimed at resolving the country's political crisis have ended, more than a month after President Nicolas Maduro broke off the Norwegian-mediated dialogue.

Maduro called off the talks, which were initially held in Oslo and them moved to Barbados, on August 7 in response to US sanctions against his government.

"Maduro has abandoned the negotiation process with misleading excuses," Guaido said in a statement Sunday evening. "After more than 40 days during which he refused to continue, we can confirm that the Barbados (dialogue) mechanism has ended."

Guaido, who heads the opposition-controlled National Assembly and declared himself acting president in January, has demanded that Maduro step down to clear the way for elections.

Maduro has refused to budge, insisting sanctions be lifted and blaming the country's spiral into an economic and political chaos on a US-directed conspiracy.&nbsp;

Alluding to Maduro, Guaido said, "Those who usurp power have prevented a peaceful exit, refusing to discuss and accept a sensible proposal made by our delegation to put an end to this conflict."

Guaido's team said it is in favour of "any solution" that "would end the suffering of Venezuelans."

Guaido has the political backing of the United States and more than 50 countries, but Maduro has so far weathered a failed military rebellion, street protests and a severe economic recession that has driven millions of Venezuelans to leave the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Maduro, who succeeded the late leftist firebrand Hugo Chavez, was elected in 2013 and re-elected last year in a vote that was widely denounced as rigged.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido said talks aimed at resolving the country's political crisis have ended, more than a month after President Nicolas Maduro broke off the Norwegian-mediated dialogue.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido said talks aimed at resolving the country's political crisis have ended, more than a month after President Nicolas Maduro broke off the Norwegian-mediated dialogue. Maduro called off the talks, which were initially held in Oslo and them moved to Barbados, on August 7 in response to US sanctions against his government. "Maduro has abandoned the negotiation process with misleading excuses," Guaido said in a statement Sunday evening. "After more than 40 days during which he refused to continue, we can confirm that the Barbados (dialogue) mechanism has ended." Guaido, who heads the opposition-controlled National Assembly and declared himself acting president in January, has demanded that Maduro step down to clear the way for elections. Maduro has refused to budge, insisting sanctions be lifted and blaming the country's spiral into an economic and political chaos on a US-directed conspiracy. Alluding to Maduro, Guaido said, "Those who usurp power have prevented a peaceful exit, refusing to discuss and accept a sensible proposal made by our delegation to put an end to this conflict." Guaido's team said it is in favour of "any solution" that "would end the suffering of Venezuelans." Guaido has the political backing of the United States and more than 50 countries, but Maduro has so far weathered a failed military rebellion, street protests and a severe economic recession that has driven millions of Venezuelans to leave the country. Maduro, who succeeded the late leftist firebrand Hugo Chavez, was elected in 2013 and re-elected last year in a vote that was widely denounced as rigged.

Maduro has abandoned the negotiation talks: Venezuela's Juan Guaido

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-national-security-advisor-restrained-him-on-venezuela-249294">Venezuela</a> is "ready" to defend itself, Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said Friday, after Washington invoked a regional defence pact that might justify such a move.

"We are ready to protect ourselves, we are ready to react," Arreaza told a news conference after meeting in Geneva with UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet.

"We will let no one trample sacred Venezuelan soil, we will respond and hope that never happens," the minister said.

On Wednesday, the US invoked a regional defence pact with 10 other countries and Venezuela's opposition in response to "bellicose" moves by President Nicolas Maduro's regime.

A request to invoke the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR) came from the Venezuelan opposition, according to a statement by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that was retweeted by President Donald Trump.

"Recent bellicose moves by the Venezuelan military to deploy along the border with Colombia as well as the presence of illegal armed groups and terrorist organizations in Venezuelan territory demonstrate that Nicolas Maduro not only poses a threat to the Venezuelan people, his actions threaten the peace and security of Venezuela’s neighbors," Pompeo said.

Trump said Thursday that former national security advisor John Bolton "was holding me back" on Venezuela, where Washington has recognised <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-opposition-parties-back-guaido-as-congress-chief-in-2020-248230">opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> as the legitimate president.

The US invoked the TIAR in response to large-scale movements by Venezuelan troops near the border with Colombia, which Maduro has accused of trying to "trigger a conflict."

In Geneva, Arreaza insisted that "we will never attack a brother country, our people will never trample the ground of a brother country, under any circumstance, except to defend our people and territorial integrity".

Venezuela is gripped by a deep political and economic crisis and has begun to deploy 150,000 troops along its long border with Colombia.

Colombian President Ivan Duque has also ruled out an invasion of Venezuela, but recognises Guaido as the legitimate president.

Arreaza dismissed the opposition's invoking of the TIAR as "illegal" and "dangerous" because "it suggests they have activated a mechanism to attack Venezuela". 
&nbsp;

Venezuela is "ready" to defend itself, Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said Friday, after Washington invoked a regional defence pact that might justify such a move.

Venezuela is "ready" to defend itself, Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said Friday, after Washington invoked a regional defence pact that might justify such a move. "We are ready to protect ourselves, we are ready to react," Arreaza told a news conference after meeting in Geneva with UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet. "We will let no one trample sacred Venezuelan soil, we will respond and hope that never happens," the minister said. On Wednesday, the US invoked a regional defence pact with 10 other countries and Venezuela's opposition in response to "bellicose" moves by President Nicolas Maduro's regime. A request to invoke the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR) came from the Venezuelan opposition, according to a statement by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo that was retweeted by President Donald Trump. "Recent bellicose moves by the Venezuelan military to deploy along the border with Colombia as well as the presence of illegal armed groups and terrorist organizations in Venezuelan territory demonstrate that Nicolas Maduro not only poses a threat to the Venezuelan people, his actions threaten the peace and security of Venezuela’s neighbors," Pompeo said. Trump said Thursday that former national security advisor John Bolton "was holding me back" on Venezuela, where Washington has recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate president. The US invoked the TIAR in response to large-scale movements by Venezuelan troops near the border with Colombia, which Maduro has accused of trying to "trigger a conflict." In Geneva, Arreaza insisted that "we will never attack a brother country, our people will never trample the ground of a brother country, under any circumstance, except to defend our people and territorial integrity". Venezuela is gripped by a deep political and economic crisis and has begun to deploy 150,000 troops along its long border with Colombia. Colombian President Ivan Duque has also ruled out an invasion of Venezuela, but recognises Guaido as the legitimate president. Arreaza dismissed the opposition's invoking of the TIAR as "illegal" and "dangerous" because "it suggests they have activated a mechanism to attack Venezuela".

Venezuela 'ready' to defend itself after US invokes defence pact: Foreign minister

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday (September 12) he will not travel to New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but that two of his envoys would attend to denounce U.S. sanctions on the OPEC(Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) nation.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to skip United Nations General Assembly

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday he will not travel to New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but that two of his envoys would attend to denounce US sanctions on the OPEC nation.

Maduro said Executive Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza would attend the meeting and present the UN secretary-general with a petition signed by 12 million Venezuelans criticizing the sanctions, part of the Trump administration's effort to pressure Maduro to leave the office.

"Here is the immense majority of the Venezuelan people saying no more blockade, no more sanctions," Maduro said in a speech to the youth wing of the ruling socialist party.

"This year I will stay with you all working in Venezuela, safely and calmly."

Maduro, who Washington accuses of corruption and human rights violations, travelled at the last minute to New York last year after saying he may not because of an alleged assassination plot.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday he will not travel to New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but that two of his envoys would attend to denounce US sanctions on the OPEC nation.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Thursday he will not travel to New York for the annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly later this month, but that two of his envoys would attend to denounce US sanctions on the OPEC nation. Maduro said Executive Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza would attend the meeting and present the UN secretary-general with a petition signed by 12 million Venezuelans criticizing the sanctions, part of the Trump administration's effort to pressure Maduro to leave the office. "Here is the immense majority of the Venezuelan people saying no more blockade, no more sanctions," Maduro said in a speech to the youth wing of the ruling socialist party. "This year I will stay with you all working in Venezuela, safely and calmly." Maduro, who Washington accuses of corruption and human rights violations, travelled at the last minute to New York last year after saying he may not because of an alleged assassination plot.

Venezuela's Maduro says he will skip UN, but envoys will slam US sanctions

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

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

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

Colombia's armed forces on alert over Venezuela military exercises

A US envoy suggested Thursday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-says-there-has-been-contact-with-us-officials-for-months-244530">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> will be safe from US prosecution if he quits but acknowledged that his departure remained elusive despite a half-year pressure campaign by Washington.

Elliott Abrams, the US pointman on Venezuela, renewed demands that Maduro cede power to opposition chief Juan Guaido but said there was no "personal edge" to the position.

"We are not trying to go after him," Abrams told reporters.&nbsp;

"We are not after punishment or vengeance; we are after political change," he said.

The United States blames Maduro for the economic collapse of Venezuela, from which millions have fled due to basic shortages, and considers him illegitimate after wide reports of irregularities in last year's election.

"Our goal here is a recovery of democracy and prosperity in Venezuela. We believe this cannot be achieved under Nicolas Maduro," Abrams said.

But he acknowledged that there was no sign that Maduro was planning to leave.

"I would have to say I have not yet seen any sign of willingness to negotiate that kind of compromise, which of course is very unfortunate, because that's the way out for Venezuela," he said.

Abrams also said that there were no negotiations between the United States and Maduro, although he said that Washington has spoken to his regime on practical issues such as the status of US government facilities in Venezuela.

More than 50 countries recognize Guaido as the interim president and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-halts-talks-with-opposition-after-us-sanctions-241432">United States has slapped sanctions</a> against Venezuela's oil, by far its top export.

The United States has also imposed personal sanctions on Maduro and his family, and US prosecutors frequently take legal action against former officials over allegations of corruption or human rights abuses.

But Maduro still enjoys support from Russia, China and Cuba.

A US envoy suggested Thursday that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro will be safe from US prosecution if he quits but acknowledged that his departure remained elusive despite a half-year pressure campaign by Washington.

A US envoy suggested Thursday that Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro will be safe from US prosecution if he quits but acknowledged that his departure remained elusive despite a half-year pressure campaign by Washington. Elliott Abrams, the US pointman on Venezuela, renewed demands that Maduro cede power to opposition chief Juan Guaido but said there was no "personal edge" to the position. "We are not trying to go after him," Abrams told reporters. "We are not after punishment or vengeance; we are after political change," he said. The United States blames Maduro for the economic collapse of Venezuela, from which millions have fled due to basic shortages, and considers him illegitimate after wide reports of irregularities in last year's election. "Our goal here is a recovery of democracy and prosperity in Venezuela. We believe this cannot be achieved under Nicolas Maduro," Abrams said. But he acknowledged that there was no sign that Maduro was planning to leave. "I would have to say I have not yet seen any sign of willingness to negotiate that kind of compromise, which of course is very unfortunate, because that's the way out for Venezuela," he said. Abrams also said that there were no negotiations between the United States and Maduro, although he said that Washington has spoken to his regime on practical issues such as the status of US government facilities in Venezuela. More than 50 countries recognize Guaido as the interim president and the United States has slapped sanctions against Venezuela's oil, by far its top export. The United States has also imposed personal sanctions on Maduro and his family, and US prosecutors frequently take legal action against former officials over allegations of corruption or human rights abuses. But Maduro still enjoys support from Russia, China and Cuba.

US suggests won't prosecute Venezuela's Maduro if he quits

The head of US Southern Command says military officials are focusing on preparing for "the day after" Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro leaves power. Navy Adm. Craig Faller warned Monday against Venezuela's "formidable weapon system" and criticised Cuba, Russia and China for assisting Maduro.

Joint military exercises between Brazil and the US

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Tuesday he had authorised contact with the administration of US President Donald Trump "for months," in an effort to repair relations with Washington.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Tuesday he had authorised contact with the administration of US President Donald Trump "for months," in an effort to repair relations with Washington. In January, Maduro broke diplomatic relations with the United States. Washington imposed sanctions on high-level officials and Venezuelan state entities to increase pressure on Maduro and remove him as leader of the OPEC nation. Officials from the two countries had not previously confirmed contact until earlier Tuesday, when Trump told journalists at the White House his administration had been in talks "at a very high level" with various representatives from Venezuela but declined to give details. Maduro said he could not reveal details about which officials had been in contact with the Trump administration or what they had discussed, but that the goal of the discussions was to "normalize and resolve this conflict" between the two countries. "I can confirm that for months we have had contact," Maduro said during an appearance on state television. "Just as I have sought dialogue in Venezuela, I have sought a way for President Donald Trump to really listen to Venezuela," he added. Maduro and a delegation representing opposition leader Juan Guaido have been meeting in Barbados as part of talks to resolve a political stalemate in nation that is suffering from a hyperinflationary economic collapse. This week opposition politicians are travelling to Washington to speak to U.S. officials, four sources told Reuters.

Venezuela's Maduro says there has been contact with US officials 'for months'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-will-win-says-maduro-after-new-us-sanctions-241548">Venezuela</a>'s opposition leader Juan Guaido warned President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday that any attempts to bring forward parliamentary elections would end in "disaster" for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-people-protests-against-imposed-sanctions-241437">government</a>.

Elections to renew the National Assembly, the only branch of government under opposition control, are set for December 2020.

But the Constituent Assembly, a rival body created by the Maduro regime and given extraordinary powers superseding the National Assembly, has hinted at the possibility of ordering early elections.

Such a maneuver could threaten the opposition's hold on the National Assembly and with it Guaido's claim as head of the legislature to be the country's legitimate president.

But <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-pro-government-legislature-holds-session-may-disband-congress-242540">Guaido</a> insisted it would backfire, further isolating Maduro, who has so far withstood opposition challenges to his presidency with the support of the military.

"What would happen if the regime dared to -- and it could -- bring forward an irregular convocation for elections without any conditions?" said Guaido.

"They will drown in contradictions, in isolation -- they will drown in disaster."

Constituent Assembly president Diosdado Cabello, the most powerful regime figure after Maduro, admitted on Monday the move was a "counter-attack" after the United States increased its sanctions on the government.

Venezuela has been locked in a political crisis since the legislature branded Maduro a "usurper" in January over his controversial re-election last year in a poll widely denounced as rigged.

As the head of the National Assembly, Guaido demanded Maduro step down and declared himself acting president in a move recognized by more than 50 countries.

The government and the opposition have engaged in Norwegian-mediated talks but those negotiations appear blocked over the opposition's demand that Maduro step down so new elections can be held.

In the meantime, the regime has stepped up pressure on opposition legislators by stripping 25 of them of their parliamentary immunity over their alleged support for a failed April uprising instigated by Guaido.

The European Union's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini's spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said these moves were "another direct attack on the only democratically elected body in Venezuela."

US President Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the "international community to hold the tyrant Maduro accountable." 
&nbsp;

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido warned President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday that any attempts to bring forward parliamentary elections would end in "disaster" for the government.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido warned President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday that any attempts to bring forward parliamentary elections would end in "disaster" for the government. Elections to renew the National Assembly, the only branch of government under opposition control, are set for December 2020. But the Constituent Assembly, a rival body created by the Maduro regime and given extraordinary powers superseding the National Assembly, has hinted at the possibility of ordering early elections. Such a maneuver could threaten the opposition's hold on the National Assembly and with it Guaido's claim as head of the legislature to be the country's legitimate president. But Guaido insisted it would backfire, further isolating Maduro, who has so far withstood opposition challenges to his presidency with the support of the military. "What would happen if the regime dared to -- and it could -- bring forward an irregular convocation for elections without any conditions?" said Guaido. "They will drown in contradictions, in isolation -- they will drown in disaster." Constituent Assembly president Diosdado Cabello, the most powerful regime figure after Maduro, admitted on Monday the move was a "counter-attack" after the United States increased its sanctions on the government. Venezuela has been locked in a political crisis since the legislature branded Maduro a "usurper" in January over his controversial re-election last year in a poll widely denounced as rigged. As the head of the National Assembly, Guaido demanded Maduro step down and declared himself acting president in a move recognized by more than 50 countries. The government and the opposition have engaged in Norwegian-mediated talks but those negotiations appear blocked over the opposition's demand that Maduro step down so new elections can be held. In the meantime, the regime has stepped up pressure on opposition legislators by stripping 25 of them of their parliamentary immunity over their alleged support for a failed April uprising instigated by Guaido. The European Union's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini's spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said these moves were "another direct attack on the only democratically elected body in Venezuela." US President Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton urged the "international community to hold the tyrant Maduro accountable."

Juan Guaido warns Venezuela's Maduro over moves to advance legislative elections

U.S.-Venezuela tensions: Nicolas Maduro's 'No more Trump' rally. Watch this video to know more.

U.S.-Venezuela tensions: Nicolas Maduro's 'No more Trump' rally

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

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

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

UN rights chief condemns latest US Venezuela sanctions

Venezuela’s government will skip a round of Norway-brokered talks on Thursday and Friday to protest a new set of U.S. sanctions meant to force President Nicolas Maduro from power, the Venezuelan information ministry said on Wednesday.

Venezuela: People protests against imposed sanctions

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-ready-to-target-other-countries-for-supporting-venezuelas-maduro-241275">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> blamed Washington on Wednesday in cancelling scheduled talks with the political opposition, as his embattle regime struggles under the weight of US sanctions.

The oil-rich leftist regime has been hurt especially hard since US President Donald Trump on Monday ordered a freeze on all Venezuelan government assets in the United States and barred transactions with its authorities.

Maduro "has decided to not send the Venezuelan delegation" for talks Thursday and Friday mediated by Norway in Barbados with representatives of opposition leader Juan Guaido, a government statement read.

Maduro attributed the cancellation to "the grave and brutal aggression" being "continuously... carried out by the Trump administration against Venezuela, which includes the illegal blocking of our economic, commercial and financial activities," the statement read.

Trump's measures were just the latest in a string of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-imposes-sanctions-on-venezuelan-governments-assets-240952">sanctions imposed on the Maduro regime</a> in a bid to force the socialist leader from power.

The crisis-wracked country has been mired in a political impasse since January when Guaido, speaker of the National Assembly, proclaimed himself acting president. He is now recognized as Venezuela's leader by more than 50 countries.

In the talks, Guaido has called for new elections, while Maduro, who retains support from Venezuela's military, is calling for a "democratic cohabitation" and refuses to leave the office.

'Yankee go home!'

In Caracas, thousands of government supporters dressed in red and waving Venezuelan flags marched against the US sanctions.

Washington has threatened to "use every appropriate tool" to oust Maduro and warned Venezuelan allies Russia and China on Tuesday against doing business with the regime.

China responded to the sanctions by telling the US to stop "bullying" other countries.

Made up mostly of civilian militia and public sector employees, the crowd chanted: "Yankee go home!" and "Hands off Venezuela!"

"We're struggling against this war that's making life impossible," Elena Flores, a 62-year-old government worker, told AFP.

Trump "is nervous, he's anxious, he's power-hungry, he wants to get his hands on Venezuela," she added.

Speaking at a small meeting in the east of Caracas, Guaido insisted the US sanctions would affect only top regime officials and not the general population.

"They're against the regime, against Maduro, the product of arrogance," he said as he called for the release of opposition legislator Juan Requesens, who was arrested a year ago and is accused of being behind an alleged drone attack against Maduro.

Venezuela's opposition considers Maduro a usurper over his re-election last year in a poll widely viewed as rigged.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro blamed Washington on Wednesday in cancelling scheduled talks with the political opposition, as his embattle regime struggles under the weight of US sanctions.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro blamed Washington on Wednesday in cancelling scheduled talks with the political opposition, as his embattle regime struggles under the weight of US sanctions. The oil-rich leftist regime has been hurt especially hard since US President Donald Trump on Monday ordered a freeze on all Venezuelan government assets in the United States and barred transactions with its authorities. Maduro "has decided to not send the Venezuelan delegation" for talks Thursday and Friday mediated by Norway in Barbados with representatives of opposition leader Juan Guaido, a government statement read. Maduro attributed the cancellation to "the grave and brutal aggression" being "continuously... carried out by the Trump administration against Venezuela, which includes the illegal blocking of our economic, commercial and financial activities," the statement read. Trump's measures were just the latest in a string of sanctions imposed on the Maduro regime in a bid to force the socialist leader from power. The crisis-wracked country has been mired in a political impasse since January when Guaido, speaker of the National Assembly, proclaimed himself acting president. He is now recognized as Venezuela's leader by more than 50 countries. In the talks, Guaido has called for new elections, while Maduro, who retains support from Venezuela's military, is calling for a "democratic cohabitation" and refuses to leave the office. 'Yankee go home!' In Caracas, thousands of government supporters dressed in red and waving Venezuelan flags marched against the US sanctions. Washington has threatened to "use every appropriate tool" to oust Maduro and warned Venezuelan allies Russia and China on Tuesday against doing business with the regime. China responded to the sanctions by telling the US to stop "bullying" other countries. Made up mostly of civilian militia and public sector employees, the crowd chanted: "Yankee go home!" and "Hands off Venezuela!" "We're struggling against this war that's making life impossible," Elena Flores, a 62-year-old government worker, told AFP. Trump "is nervous, he's anxious, he's power-hungry, he wants to get his hands on Venezuela," she added. Speaking at a small meeting in the east of Caracas, Guaido insisted the US sanctions would affect only top regime officials and not the general population. "They're against the regime, against Maduro, the product of arrogance," he said as he called for the release of opposition legislator Juan Requesens, who was arrested a year ago and is accused of being behind an alleged drone attack against Maduro. Venezuela's opposition considers Maduro a usurper over his re-election last year in a poll widely viewed as rigged.

Venezuela's Maduro halts talks with opposition after US sanctions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armed-man-dead-after-attacking-united-states-immigration-jail-235787">United States immigration</a> officials have added Venezuelan government minister Tareck El Aissami, a suspected drug smuggler, to their list of most wanted fugitives, they said Wednesday.

"Have you seen this #mostwanted #fugitive?," Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) posted on its Twitter account, alongside a picture of the industry minister and former deputy to President Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;

"He's wanted for international narcotics trafficking."

US federal authorities in March charged El Aissami with drug trafficking and dodging sanctions imposed by Washington.&nbsp;

If he is arrested and extradited, El Aissami could face up to 30 years in prison.&nbsp;

The US designated El Aissami in February 2017 as having played "a significant role in international narcotics trafficking."

"In his previous positions, he oversaw or partially owned narcotics shipments of more than 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) from Venezuela on multiple occasions, including those with the final destinations of Mexico and the United States," ICE said on its website.

El Aissami denounced the move as "a dirty trick" and declared himself steadfast and loyal to Maduro's government.

"Accuse us of whatever you want... we will win," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/technicians-to-fly-out-of-venezuela-russian-embassy-230688">Venezuela</a> is struggling with a political and economic crisis that the United Nations says has left a quarter of its 30 million people in need of humanitarian aid.&nbsp;

In January, National Assembly Speaker Juan Guaido declared himself acting president, branding Maduro a "usurper" over his re-election last year in a poll widely believed to have been rigged.

But despite the support of some 50 countries including the US, Guaido has been unable to dislodge him from power. 
&nbsp;

United States immigration officials have added Venezuelan government minister Tareck El Aissami, a suspected drug smuggler, to their list of most wanted fugitives, they said Wednesday.

United States immigration officials have added Venezuelan government minister Tareck El Aissami, a suspected drug smuggler, to their list of most wanted fugitives, they said Wednesday. "Have you seen this #mostwanted #fugitive?," Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) posted on its Twitter account, alongside a picture of the industry minister and former deputy to President Nicolas Maduro. "He's wanted for international narcotics trafficking." US federal authorities in March charged El Aissami with drug trafficking and dodging sanctions imposed by Washington. If he is arrested and extradited, El Aissami could face up to 30 years in prison. The US designated El Aissami in February 2017 as having played "a significant role in international narcotics trafficking." "In his previous positions, he oversaw or partially owned narcotics shipments of more than 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) from Venezuela on multiple occasions, including those with the final destinations of Mexico and the United States," ICE said on its website. El Aissami denounced the move as "a dirty trick" and declared himself steadfast and loyal to Maduro's government. "Accuse us of whatever you want... we will win," he said. Venezuela is struggling with a political and economic crisis that the United Nations says has left a quarter of its 30 million people in need of humanitarian aid. In January, National Assembly Speaker Juan Guaido declared himself acting president, branding Maduro a "usurper" over his re-election last year in a poll widely believed to have been rigged. But despite the support of some 50 countries including the US, Guaido has been unable to dislodge him from power.

US immigration agency names Venezuelan minister Tareck El Aissami among 'most wanted'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicolas-maduro-meets-european-unions-special-envoy-in-caracas-ahead-of-opposition-talks-234668">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Tuesday honoured American protesters who had occupied the country's embassy in Washington for weeks in support of the beleaguered leader before being evicted by US authorities.

Venezuela broke off relations with Washington after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-tears-into-china-on-twitter-as-trade-talks-resume-239492">President Donald Trump</a> said he recognised opposition politician Juan Guaido as acting president one of around 50 countries to acknowledge the 36-year-old as leader of the crisis-hit nation.

Several left-wing and pacifist activists protesting Guaido's bid to remove Maduro from power occupied the Venezuelan embassy in Washington in April, aiming to block the entry of his delegation to the embassy before US police evicted them the following month.

On Tuesday, Maduro awarded the American squatters a replica of the sword used by Venezuela's founding father Simon Bolivar.

"I want to give it to you as a show of deep gratitude," he said.

The Venezuelan government had condemned the eviction of the activists and accused the US government of violating international law.&nbsp;

For more than a month, an unclear number of Americans belonging to a group calling itself the Embassy Protection Collective lived in the diplomatic mission, with the consent of the Maduro government.

A group of Venezuelan residents of Washington meanwhile camped outside the building to protest against the squatters and prevent any supplies from being delivered to them inside.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday honoured American protesters who had occupied the country's embassy in Washington for weeks in support of the beleaguered leader before being evicted by US authorities.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday honoured American protesters who had occupied the country's embassy in Washington for weeks in support of the beleaguered leader before being evicted by US authorities. Venezuela broke off relations with Washington after President Donald Trump said he recognised opposition politician Juan Guaido as acting president one of around 50 countries to acknowledge the 36-year-old as leader of the crisis-hit nation. Several left-wing and pacifist activists protesting Guaido's bid to remove Maduro from power occupied the Venezuelan embassy in Washington in April, aiming to block the entry of his delegation to the embassy before US police evicted them the following month. On Tuesday, Maduro awarded the American squatters a replica of the sword used by Venezuela's founding father Simon Bolivar. "I want to give it to you as a show of deep gratitude," he said. The Venezuelan government had condemned the eviction of the activists and accused the US government of violating international law. For more than a month, an unclear number of Americans belonging to a group calling itself the Embassy Protection Collective lived in the diplomatic mission, with the consent of the Maduro government. A group of Venezuelan residents of Washington meanwhile camped outside the building to protest against the squatters and prevent any supplies from being delivered to them inside.

Maduro honors Americans evicted from Venezuelan embassy in US

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

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

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

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

The Lima Group on Tuesday said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/indigenous-people-are-forgotten-victims-of-the-ongoing-crisis-in-venezuela-215018">Venezuela's political crisis</a> threatened regional peace and international security and urged the global community to make a "huge effort to re-establish" democracy in the South American country.

The group of a dozen Latin American countries and Canada helping to mediate the Venezuelan crisis urged the world to push Caracas to hold new presidential elections a move <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nicolas-maduro-optimistic-after-opposition-talks-resume-in-barbados-234229">socialist leader Nicolas Maduro</a> has refused to consider.

Venezuela was thrust into a political impasse six months ago when opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself acting president after branding Maduro a "usurper" because of his "fraudulent" 2018 re-election.

Government-opposition talks are stalled as Guaido, recognized by more than 50 countries, is demanding that Maduro step down and hold new elections.

"While a dictator is in power in Venezuela, all our democracies are more fragile," said Argentine Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie at the Lima Group meeting in Buenos Aires.

He said the Venezuelan crisis "threatens regional peace and security" as well as international security.

Most Lima Group members recognize Guaido, who participated by video link.

A quarter of Venezuela's 30 million people are in need of humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations, while three million have left the country since early 2016.

Colombia has taken in 1.3 million Venezuelans while another 768,000 live in Peru.

Nestor Popolizio, Peru's foreign minister, asked for "urgent and concrete help in the form of international cooperation" to relieve the burden on countries hosting the migrants.

"The crisis is worsening and requires an urgent solution in the form of credible, transparent, free and fair elections," Popolizio said.

Legalized military intervention

Separately, Venezuela's opposition-controlled legislature approved re-joining a regional defence treaty that could provide a legal framework for foreign military intervention.

Venezuela withdrew from the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR) a defence pact involving 17 countries including the United States seven years ago under the late president Hugo Chavez.

Guaido said that re-joining the treaty would let Venezuela establish "international alliances" to "protect and defend the people and Venezuelan sovereignty," but didn't mention foreign intervention.

The vote, however, does not necessarily mean Venezuela will be re-join the TIAR.

The National Assembly's decisions are routinely annulled by the Supreme Court, which is filled with Maduro loyalists, and the body has been effectively replaced by the staunchly pro-government Constituent Assembly.

The Lima Group on Tuesday said Venezuela's political crisis threatened regional peace and international security and urged the global community to make a "huge effort to re-establish" democracy in the South American country.

The Lima Group on Tuesday said Venezuela's political crisis threatened regional peace and international security and urged the global community to make a "huge effort to re-establish" democracy in the South American country. The group of a dozen Latin American countries and Canada helping to mediate the Venezuelan crisis urged the world to push Caracas to hold new presidential elections a move socialist leader Nicolas Maduro has refused to consider. Venezuela was thrust into a political impasse six months ago when opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself acting president after branding Maduro a "usurper" because of his "fraudulent" 2018 re-election. Government-opposition talks are stalled as Guaido, recognized by more than 50 countries, is demanding that Maduro step down and hold new elections. "While a dictator is in power in Venezuela, all our democracies are more fragile," said Argentine Foreign Minister Jorge Faurie at the Lima Group meeting in Buenos Aires. He said the Venezuelan crisis "threatens regional peace and security" as well as international security. Most Lima Group members recognize Guaido, who participated by video link. A quarter of Venezuela's 30 million people are in need of humanitarian aid, according to the United Nations, while three million have left the country since early 2016. Colombia has taken in 1.3 million Venezuelans while another 768,000 live in Peru. Nestor Popolizio, Peru's foreign minister, asked for "urgent and concrete help in the form of international cooperation" to relieve the burden on countries hosting the migrants. "The crisis is worsening and requires an urgent solution in the form of credible, transparent, free and fair elections," Popolizio said. Legalized military intervention Separately, Venezuela's opposition-controlled legislature approved re-joining a regional defence treaty that could provide a legal framework for foreign military intervention. Venezuela withdrew from the Inter-American Treaty of Reciprocal Assistance (TIAR) a defence pact involving 17 countries including the United States seven years ago under the late president Hugo Chavez. Guaido said that re-joining the treaty would let Venezuela establish "international alliances" to "protect and defend the people and Venezuelan sovereignty," but didn't mention foreign intervention. The vote, however, does not necessarily mean Venezuela will be re-join the TIAR. The National Assembly's decisions are routinely annulled by the Supreme Court, which is filled with Maduro loyalists, and the body has been effectively replaced by the staunchly pro-government Constituent Assembly.

Lima Group: Venezuela crisis threatens 'international security'

Caracas and other parts of crisis-wracked Venezuela were hit by a massive power cut on Monday that the government blamed on an "electromagnetic attack."

The lights went out in most of Caracas at 4:41 pm (2041 GMT) while people in other parts of the country took to social media to report the power had gone out there too.

"The first indications received from the investigation... point to the existence of an electromagnetic attack that sought to affect the hydroelectric generation system of Guayana," Communication Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in a statement on state television.

Guayana, a natural region in southern Venezuela, is home to the Guri hydroelectric power station that produces 80 per cent of the country's electricity.

The statement read by Rodriguez recognized the cut as a "national event."

The capital was hit by huge traffic jams due to the traffic lights losing power, while the sidewalks teemed with pedestrians walking home as the metro had stopped running.

Closed stores were a common site on Monday, as the lack of electricity prevented the use of credit and debit cards that are essential due to the shortage of cash in inflation-plagued Venezuela.

"I'm hungry, I want to eat, but there is nowhere to use my debit card," said Hernan Montalvo, complaining of not having enough cash to buy a hot dog.

"I'm outraged," Eurimar Guere, 36, told AFP after leaving her office in eastern Caracas.

"Necessary repairs weren't carried out and it's more of the same. Maybe this power cut will be worse than the previous ones."

'Destroyed' electricity system

A major power outage in March affected all 23 states in Venezuela and lasted a week, paralyzing basic services such as the water supply and forcing the workday to be cancelled and school classes to be suspended.

Hospital care was also affected by that incident and another one that came days later.

Opponents of President Nicolas Maduro said at the time that about 20 people died due to problems in medical treatment due to the blackout.

Maduro had blamed unnamed "terrorists" for that near-nationwide blackout, claiming they had attacked the Guri hydroelectric plant.

Another huge outage in April left large parts of the country, including Caracas, in darkness, although it lasted hours rather than days.

Rodriguez said that following the earlier blackouts, the government "has implemented protection and security protocols" that will permit the restoration of electricity "in the shortest possible time."

Blackouts are a common occurrence in Venezuela, especially in remote western regions.

The government usually blames them on sabotage but experts say that a lack of investment, poor management, the emigration of qualified engineers and personnel, and corruption are the more likely culprits.&nbsp;

"They tried to hide the tragedy by rationing throughout the country, but the failure is clear," said opposition leader Juan Guaido on Twitter.

"They've destroyed the electricity system and they don't have any answers."

crisis-wracked Venezuela has been mired in a political impasse since January when Guaido proclaimed himself acting president, quickly receiving the support of more than 50 countries.

The oil-rich, cash-poor country has been in a deep recession for five years. Shortages of food and medicine are frequent, and public services are progressively failing.

Around a quarter of Venezuela's 30-million-strong population are in need of aid, according to the United Nations. Three million people have left the country since the start of 2016.

Caracas and other parts of crisis-wracked Venezuela were hit by a massive power cut on Monday that the government blamed on an "electromagnetic attack." The lights went out in most of Caracas at 4:41 pm (2041 GMT) while people in other parts of the country took to social media to report the power had gone out there too.

Caracas and other parts of crisis-wracked Venezuela were hit by a massive power cut on Monday that the government blamed on an "electromagnetic attack." The lights went out in most of Caracas at 4:41 pm (2041 GMT) while people in other parts of the country took to social media to report the power had gone out there too. "The first indications received from the investigation... point to the existence of an electromagnetic attack that sought to affect the hydroelectric generation system of Guayana," Communication Minister Jorge Rodriguez said in a statement on state television. Guayana, a natural region in southern Venezuela, is home to the Guri hydroelectric power station that produces 80 per cent of the country's electricity. The statement read by Rodriguez recognized the cut as a "national event." The capital was hit by huge traffic jams due to the traffic lights losing power, while the sidewalks teemed with pedestrians walking home as the metro had stopped running. Closed stores were a common site on Monday, as the lack of electricity prevented the use of credit and debit cards that are essential due to the shortage of cash in inflation-plagued Venezuela. "I'm hungry, I want to eat, but there is nowhere to use my debit card," said Hernan Montalvo, complaining of not having enough cash to buy a hot dog. "I'm outraged," Eurimar Guere, 36, told AFP after leaving her office in eastern Caracas. "Necessary repairs weren't carried out and it's more of the same. Maybe this power cut will be worse than the previous ones." 'Destroyed' electricity system A major power outage in March affected all 23 states in Venezuela and lasted a week, paralyzing basic services such as the water supply and forcing the workday to be cancelled and school classes to be suspended. Hospital care was also affected by that incident and another one that came days later. Opponents of President Nicolas Maduro said at the time that about 20 people died due to problems in medical treatment due to the blackout. Maduro had blamed unnamed "terrorists" for that near-nationwide blackout, claiming they had attacked the Guri hydroelectric plant. Another huge outage in April left large parts of the country, including Caracas, in darkness, although it lasted hours rather than days. Rodriguez said that following the earlier blackouts, the government "has implemented protection and security protocols" that will permit the restoration of electricity "in the shortest possible time." Blackouts are a common occurrence in Venezuela, especially in remote western regions. The government usually blames them on sabotage but experts say that a lack of investment, poor management, the emigration of qualified engineers and personnel, and corruption are the more likely culprits. "They tried to hide the tragedy by rationing throughout the country, but the failure is clear," said opposition leader Juan Guaido on Twitter. "They've destroyed the electricity system and they don't have any answers." crisis-wracked Venezuela has been mired in a political impasse since January when Guaido proclaimed himself acting president, quickly receiving the support of more than 50 countries. The oil-rich, cash-poor country has been in a deep recession for five years. Shortages of food and medicine are frequent, and public services are progressively failing. Around a quarter of Venezuela's 30-million-strong population are in need of aid, according to the United Nations. Three million people have left the country since the start of 2016.

Caracas, other parts of Venezuela hit by massive power cut

US President Donald Trump's administration plans to divert more than $40 million in humanitarian aid for Central America to support the US-backed opposition in Venezuela, according to an internal document obtained by Reuters on Tuesday.

The $41.9 million had been destined for Guatemala and Honduras, two of the three Central American countries at the centre of a migration crisis in which thousands of people have fled poverty, violence and corruption and attempted to cross the southern US border.

The congressional notification from the US Agency for International Development said the money will instead be used for salaries, travel, communications equipment, technical assistance and training for the management of a government budget and other needs for the Venezuelan opposition.

The memorandum, dated July 11, says the funds are necessary because of "a significant, exigent event in the US national interest, specifically the rapidly evolving crisis in Venezuela."

The memo and its contents were first reported by the Los Angeles Times.

Spokespeople for the State Department, Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido and Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Guaido, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly, invoked the Venezuelan constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, arguing Venezuela`s President Nicolas Maduro is illegitimate.&nbsp;

Maduro, meanwhile, has called Guaido a US-backed puppet and has so far retained his grip on the levers of government.

The State Department announced in June it was slashing hundreds of millions of dollars of aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras after Trump said the three countries were not doing enough to stem migration.

US President Donald Trump's administration plans to divert more than $40 million in humanitarian aid for Central America to support the US-backed opposition in Venezuela, according to an internal document obtained by Reuters on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump's administration plans to divert more than $40 million in humanitarian aid for Central America to support the US-backed opposition in Venezuela, according to an internal document obtained by Reuters on Tuesday. The $41.9 million had been destined for Guatemala and Honduras, two of the three Central American countries at the centre of a migration crisis in which thousands of people have fled poverty, violence and corruption and attempted to cross the southern US border. The congressional notification from the US Agency for International Development said the money will instead be used for salaries, travel, communications equipment, technical assistance and training for the management of a government budget and other needs for the Venezuelan opposition. The memorandum, dated July 11, says the funds are necessary because of "a significant, exigent event in the US national interest, specifically the rapidly evolving crisis in Venezuela." The memo and its contents were first reported by the Los Angeles Times. Spokespeople for the State Department, Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido and Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Guaido, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly, invoked the Venezuelan constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, arguing Venezuela`s President Nicolas Maduro is illegitimate. Maduro, meanwhile, has called Guaido a US-backed puppet and has so far retained his grip on the levers of government. The State Department announced in June it was slashing hundreds of millions of dollars of aid to El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras after Trump said the three countries were not doing enough to stem migration.

Trump administration plans to divert $40 million in aid to Venezuela's opposition

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