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

Tourism to Cuba will likely drop 8.5 per cent this year in the wake of tighter US restrictions <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tightens-cuba-sanctions-ends-group-travel-224316">on travel to the Caribbean island</a>, the government said on Thursday, and the decline in arrivals will further hurt Cuba's already ailing centrally planned economy.

A boom in tourism over the last few years has helped offset weaker exports and a steep decline in aid from key ally Venezuela that has forced the government to take austerity measures like cutting imports.

The administration of US President Donald Trump has decided to squeeze that hard currency revenue stream too as part of its attempt to force the Communist government to reform and stop supporting Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro.

Last month it banned cruise ships and private planes and yachts from travelling to the island and ended a heavily used educational category of travel allowed as an exemption to the overall ban on US tourism.

"These measures sparked a 20.33% reduction in tourist activity," tourism minister Manuel Marrero was quoted as saying by state news agencies in a speech to the National Assembly.

The minister estimated 4.3 million people would visit Cuba this year, down from the goal of more than 5 million, and 4.7 million last year.

Looser restrictions on US travel to Cuba under former President Barack Obama, the re-establishment of diplomatic relations and commercial flights and cruises had caused a spike in US visits to the country.

US travellers excluding Cuban-Americans became the second- biggest group of tourists on the island in recent years after Canadians, with cruise travellers accounting for half of them.

But Trump has rolled back much of Obama's detente and taken additional measures to punish the economy and government.

Marrero noted the Trump administration's decision in April to allow US lawsuits against foreign companies deemed to be "trafficking" in properties in Cuba nationalised after Cuba's 1959 revolution was also affecting the tourism sector.

Several hotel operators and a unit of online travel agency Expedia have been targeted with lawsuits.

Cubans working in the tourism sector complain that while the policy targets the government, they are the ones who suffer.

"Our income has dropped by 80 per cent," said Carlos Cristobal Marquez, owner of the private restaurant San Cristobal, where Obama dined on his historic trip to Havana in 2016.

"Many restaurants will have to close, while others will have a hard time. Trump has said he wants to support the private sector, but he isn't," he said.

Marrero said the country would continue to develop the tourism sector regardless of the US measures. It is planning new dolphinariums and the country's first amusement park, for example.

Cranes tower around Havana at the construction sites of what are to be the city's first generation of luxury hotels, in a bid to attract a new type of client.

Cuba, which receives just two-thirds of the visitors that neighbouring Dominican Republic does although it is twice as large, has traditionally focused on resort tourism or travellers on a medium budget.

José Luis Perelló, a former University of Havana professor who studies Cuba's tourism industry, said the country should not take short-term shifts in US policy too much into account in the long-term development of its tourism industry.

"A large part of the revenues we use weekly... comes from tourism," President Miguel Diaz-Canel told the National Assembly. "For this reason, we must continue betting on the development of tourism."

Tourism to Cuba will likely drop 8.5 per cent this year in the wake of tighter US restrictions on travel to the Caribbean island, the government said on Thursday, and the decline in arrivals will further hurt Cuba's already ailing centrally planned economy.

Tourism to Cuba will likely drop 8.5 per cent this year in the wake of tighter US restrictions on travel to the Caribbean island, the government said on Thursday, and the decline in arrivals will further hurt Cuba's already ailing centrally planned economy. A boom in tourism over the last few years has helped offset weaker exports and a steep decline in aid from key ally Venezuela that has forced the government to take austerity measures like cutting imports. The administration of US President Donald Trump has decided to squeeze that hard currency revenue stream too as part of its attempt to force the Communist government to reform and stop supporting Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro. Last month it banned cruise ships and private planes and yachts from travelling to the island and ended a heavily used educational category of travel allowed as an exemption to the overall ban on US tourism. "These measures sparked a 20.33% reduction in tourist activity," tourism minister Manuel Marrero was quoted as saying by state news agencies in a speech to the National Assembly. The minister estimated 4.3 million people would visit Cuba this year, down from the goal of more than 5 million, and 4.7 million last year. Looser restrictions on US travel to Cuba under former President Barack Obama, the re-establishment of diplomatic relations and commercial flights and cruises had caused a spike in US visits to the country. US travellers excluding Cuban-Americans became the second- biggest group of tourists on the island in recent years after Canadians, with cruise travellers accounting for half of them. But Trump has rolled back much of Obama's detente and taken additional measures to punish the economy and government. Marrero noted the Trump administration's decision in April to allow US lawsuits against foreign companies deemed to be "trafficking" in properties in Cuba nationalised after Cuba's 1959 revolution was also affecting the tourism sector. Several hotel operators and a unit of online travel agency Expedia have been targeted with lawsuits. Cubans working in the tourism sector complain that while the policy targets the government, they are the ones who suffer. "Our income has dropped by 80 per cent," said Carlos Cristobal Marquez, owner of the private restaurant San Cristobal, where Obama dined on his historic trip to Havana in 2016. "Many restaurants will have to close, while others will have a hard time. Trump has said he wants to support the private sector, but he isn't," he said. Marrero said the country would continue to develop the tourism sector regardless of the US measures. It is planning new dolphinariums and the country's first amusement park, for example. Cranes tower around Havana at the construction sites of what are to be the city's first generation of luxury hotels, in a bid to attract a new type of client. Cuba, which receives just two-thirds of the visitors that neighbouring Dominican Republic does although it is twice as large, has traditionally focused on resort tourism or travellers on a medium budget. José Luis Perelló, a former University of Havana professor who studies Cuba's tourism industry, said the country should not take short-term shifts in US policy too much into account in the long-term development of its tourism industry. "A large part of the revenues we use weekly... comes from tourism," President Miguel Diaz-Canel told the National Assembly. "For this reason, we must continue betting on the development of tourism."

Cuba's tourism industry hit after Trump ban on cruise ship stopovers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-response-to-norway-mediation-will-resume-talks-with-maduro-government-in-barbados-guaido-233875">In response to Norway mediation, will resume talks with Maduro government in Barbados: Guaido</a>

Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-better-be-careful-warns-trump-on-breaching-uranium-enrichment-cap-233859">Iran better be careful, warns Trump on breaching uranium enrichment cap</a>

US President Donald Trump warned Iran over its imminent breach of a uranium enrichment cap.

"Iran better be careful, because you enrich for one reason, and I won't tell you what that reason is. But it's no good. They better be careful," he told reporters in Morristown, New Jersey.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/riot-police-baton-charge-protesters-in-hong-kong-233863">Riot police baton-charge protesters in Hong Kong</a>

Fresh political violence broke out in Hong Kong on Sunday night as riot police baton-charged anti-government protesters seeking to keep the pressure up on the city's pro-Beijing leaders, after a mass rally outside a train station linking the finance hub to mainland China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-want-the-press-to-go-and-see-migrant-detention-centres-trump-233876">I want the press to go and see migrant detention centres: Trump</a>

US President Donald Trump on Sunday said migrant detention centers that have come under criticism for overcrowding and poor conditions will be opened to visits by journalists.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brazil-lifts-up-their-ninth-copa-america-trophy-after-defeating-peru-233851">Brazil outlast Peru to lift ninth Copa America Cup</a>

Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday.

Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

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

In response to Norway mediation, will resume talks with Maduro government in Barbados: Guaido Dialogue between Venezuela's opposition and President Nicolas Maduro's government will resume in Barbados, self-declared interim president Juan Guaido said on Sunday, after previous negotiations in Norway petered out. Iran better be careful, warns Trump on breaching uranium enrichment cap US President Donald Trump warned Iran over its imminent breach of a uranium enrichment cap. "Iran better be careful, because you enrich for one reason, and I won't tell you what that reason is. But it's no good. They better be careful," he told reporters in Morristown, New Jersey. Riot police baton-charge protesters in Hong Kong Fresh political violence broke out in Hong Kong on Sunday night as riot police baton-charged anti-government protesters seeking to keep the pressure up on the city's pro-Beijing leaders, after a mass rally outside a train station linking the finance hub to mainland China. I want the press to go and see migrant detention centres: Trump US President Donald Trump on Sunday said migrant detention centers that have come under criticism for overcrowding and poor conditions will be opened to visits by journalists. Brazil outlast Peru to lift ninth Copa America Cup Ten-man Brazil held on to win the Copa America on home soil despite Gabriel Jesus's dismissal with a 3-1 victory over Peru on Sunday. Jesus scored the decisive goal after a penalty from Peru captain Paolo Guerrero cancelled out Everton's opener for hosts Brazil at Rio de Janeiro's Maracana stadium.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Venezuelan Independence Day on July 5 was marked by rival rallied led by President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido.

The country celebrated its 1811 Declaration of Independence on July 5.

Maduro led a military parade down the Paseo de los Proceres, a boulevard to honour the country's founders.

Guaido, on the other hand, encouraged supporters to not give up hope.

"Don't leave! We're going to get there! Have no doubt, we'll succeed," Guaido said.

Meanwhile, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rule-of-law-in-venezuela-eroded-un-rights-chief-233251">UN human rights chief lamented the erosion</a> of rule of law in Venezuela, pointing to attacks on political opponents and activists, including using torture and killings.

The report pointed out that, according to a count by Caracas, nearly 7,000 people have been killed during security operations in Venezuela in the past year and a half.

The report also decried a wide range of other grave rights violations in Venezuela, which is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between President Nicolas Maduro's government and National Assembly leader Juan Guaido.

Venezuelan Independence Day on July 5 was marked by rival rallied led by President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido. The country celebrated its 1811 Declaration of Independence on July 5.

Venezuelan Independence Day on July 5 was marked by rival rallied led by President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido. The country celebrated its 1811 Declaration of Independence on July 5. Maduro led a military parade down the Paseo de los Proceres, a boulevard to honour the country's founders. Guaido, on the other hand, encouraged supporters to not give up hope. "Don't leave! We're going to get there! Have no doubt, we'll succeed," Guaido said. Meanwhile, the UN human rights chief lamented the erosion of rule of law in Venezuela, pointing to attacks on political opponents and activists, including using torture and killings. The report pointed out that, according to a count by Caracas, nearly 7,000 people have been killed during security operations in Venezuela in the past year and a half. The report also decried a wide range of other grave rights violations in Venezuela, which is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between President Nicolas Maduro's government and National Assembly leader Juan Guaido.

Venezuelan Independence Day marked by rival rallies, UN rebuke

Chile has barred entry to more than 100 Venezuelans linked to the "dictatorship" of President Nicolas Maduro following a damning UN report, President Sebastian Pinera announced Friday.

"We are going to prohibit the entry into Chile of more than 100 people who are directly linked to the Venezuelan dictatorship," Pinera told a press conference in Santiago.&nbsp;

He did not specify individuals on the list of those barred, but said, "They are people who are part of the Venezuelan government."

Pinera's announcement came in the wake of a UN report that said Venezuelan security services had killed nearly 7,000 people in the past 18 months, many of them likely executions.

"The incidents of alleged extrajudicial killings by security forces ... have been shockingly high," the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said in the report published Thursday.

Pinera said he would request that Bachelet -- his leftist predecessor as Chile's president -- provide "all the background and evidence supporting the report to the International Criminal Court."

He said the UN report "is a necessary and useful report to be able to face up to the serious and tragic problems that affect Venezuela."

Pinera, a billionaire conservative, has been one of the harshest critics of Maduro's socialist government, calling for the end of his "dictatorship" and for fresh elections to be held as soon as possible.&nbsp;

He was one of the first international leaders to recognize Maduro's opposition rival Juan Guaido after the National Assembly leader proclaimed himself interim president in January.

Chile has barred entry to more than 100 Venezuelans linked to the "dictatorship" of President Nicolas Maduro following a damning UN report, President Sebastian Pinera announced Friday.

Chile has barred entry to more than 100 Venezuelans linked to the "dictatorship" of President Nicolas Maduro following a damning UN report, President Sebastian Pinera announced Friday. "We are going to prohibit the entry into Chile of more than 100 people who are directly linked to the Venezuelan dictatorship," Pinera told a press conference in Santiago. He did not specify individuals on the list of those barred, but said, "They are people who are part of the Venezuelan government." Pinera's announcement came in the wake of a UN report that said Venezuelan security services had killed nearly 7,000 people in the past 18 months, many of them likely executions. "The incidents of alleged extrajudicial killings by security forces ... have been shockingly high," the office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said in the report published Thursday. Pinera said he would request that Bachelet -- his leftist predecessor as Chile's president -- provide "all the background and evidence supporting the report to the International Criminal Court." He said the UN report "is a necessary and useful report to be able to face up to the serious and tragic problems that affect Venezuela." Pinera, a billionaire conservative, has been one of the harshest critics of Maduro's socialist government, calling for the end of his "dictatorship" and for fresh elections to be held as soon as possible. He was one of the first international leaders to recognize Maduro's opposition rival Juan Guaido after the National Assembly leader proclaimed himself interim president in January.

Chile bars entry to 'more than 100' Venezuelans linked to Maduro government: President

The Venezuelan foreign ministry said on Monday it had agreed to the return of the German ambassador whom President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-former-spy-chief-says-nicolas-maduro-could-yet-fall-230214">Nicolas Maduro</a>'s government expelled in March after he had gone to Caracas airport to greet opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said in a statement that ambassador Daniel Kriener would return to Venezuela with the German government's permission, in the context of a process "to normalise the diplomatic relations between both states."

The German embassy did not respond to a request for comment.

Kriener went to the airport with other European ambassadors to welcome Guaido upon his return to Venezuela from a tour of Latin America to muster support for his campaign to oust Maduro.

In February, the German government publicly said it recognized Guaido as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/venezuelas-power-struggle-reaches-a-tense-stalemate-as-human-suffering-deepens-208171">Venezuela</a>'s legitimate head of state.

Guaido, a member of the National Assembly, invoked the Venezuelan constitution in January to declare himself interim president, denouncing Maduro as a usurper who had secured re-election last year in a vote that was widely viewed as fraudulent.

Maduro, who retains control of the state and the military, calls Guaido a US-controlled puppet trying to foment a coup.

The Venezuelan foreign ministry said on Monday it had agreed to the return of the German ambassador whom President Nicolas Maduro's government expelled in March after he had gone to Caracas airport to greet opposition leader Juan Guaido.

The Venezuelan foreign ministry said on Monday it had agreed to the return of the German ambassador whom President Nicolas Maduro's government expelled in March after he had gone to Caracas airport to greet opposition leader Juan Guaido. Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said in a statement that ambassador Daniel Kriener would return to Venezuela with the German government's permission, in the context of a process "to normalise the diplomatic relations between both states." The German embassy did not respond to a request for comment. Kriener went to the airport with other European ambassadors to welcome Guaido upon his return to Venezuela from a tour of Latin America to muster support for his campaign to oust Maduro. In February, the German government publicly said it recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state. Guaido, a member of the National Assembly, invoked the Venezuelan constitution in January to declare himself interim president, denouncing Maduro as a usurper who had secured re-election last year in a vote that was widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro, who retains control of the state and the military, calls Guaido a US-controlled puppet trying to foment a coup.

Ambassador Daniel Kriener to return with German government's permission: Venezuela

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-venezuelans-cram-border-with-colombia-225597">Venezuela's government</a> on Saturday deported 59 Colombian citizens who had been "arbitrarily" detained there almost three years ago, the United Nations human rights office said, applauding it as a "positive sign."

Colombia's foreign ministry had requested last year that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-un-resolution-calling-for-venezuela-elections-196300">United Nations</a> intervene to negotiate the release of those arrested in September 2016 by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government on allegations they were paramilitaries.

The foreign ministry had said Venezuelan authorities were keeping them in poor conditions and had not followed the correct legal process. Venezuela's government had no immediate comment on its release.

"These 59 compatriots have returned to our country and will go to their homes," President Ivan Duque said during an event in eastern Vichada province. "We hope these compatriots can finish with this horrible night and be reunited with their loved ones."

Duque's adviser on human rights, Francisco Barbosa, said on Twitter earlier on Saturday that he would receive "59 citizens arbitrarily detained by the dictatorship of Nicolas Maduro" in the border city of Cucuta.

The U.N. human rights office wrote on Twitter that "we applaud their release."

"It is a positive sign that the government is complying with the human rights commitments that it made during (U.N. human rights chief) Michelle Bachelet's recent visit. We expect more releases in the coming days," the office said.

Bachelet travelled to Caracas last week for a three-day visit to meet with Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, as well as activists and victims of human rights violations.

Maduro's administration cut off diplomatic relations with Colombia in February after Duque's government assisted Guaido's efforts to bring humanitarian aid into Venezuela.

Colombia recognizes Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state, along with dozens of other countries, while Maduro accuses Guaido of trying to illegally force him from power.

Venezuela's government on Saturday deported 59 Colombian citizens who had been "arbitrarily" detained there almost three years ago, the United Nations human rights office said, applauding it as a "positive sign.

Venezuela's government on Saturday deported 59 Colombian citizens who had been "arbitrarily" detained there almost three years ago, the United Nations human rights office said, applauding it as a "positive sign." Colombia's foreign ministry had requested last year that the United Nations intervene to negotiate the release of those arrested in September 2016 by Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government on allegations they were paramilitaries. The foreign ministry had said Venezuelan authorities were keeping them in poor conditions and had not followed the correct legal process. Venezuela's government had no immediate comment on its release. "These 59 compatriots have returned to our country and will go to their homes," President Ivan Duque said during an event in eastern Vichada province. "We hope these compatriots can finish with this horrible night and be reunited with their loved ones." Duque's adviser on human rights, Francisco Barbosa, said on Twitter earlier on Saturday that he would receive "59 citizens arbitrarily detained by the dictatorship of Nicolas Maduro" in the border city of Cucuta. The U.N. human rights office wrote on Twitter that "we applaud their release." "It is a positive sign that the government is complying with the human rights commitments that it made during (U.N. human rights chief) Michelle Bachelet's recent visit. We expect more releases in the coming days," the office said. Bachelet travelled to Caracas last week for a three-day visit to meet with Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, as well as activists and victims of human rights violations. Maduro's administration cut off diplomatic relations with Colombia in February after Duque's government assisted Guaido's efforts to bring humanitarian aid into Venezuela. Colombia recognizes Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state, along with dozens of other countries, while Maduro accuses Guaido of trying to illegally force him from power.

Venezuela deports 59 Colombians arrested 'arbitrarily' three years ago: United Nation

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

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

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

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

The Trump administration <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-venezuelan-president-maduros-son-nicolasito-231308">turned up the pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Friday by targeting his son Nicolas "Nicolasito" Maduro with sanctions, the US Treasury Department said.

The new sanctions are the latest push in six months of efforts to oust Maduro, whose 2018 re-election has been deemed illegitimate by the United States and most Western nations.

Maduro's son has been involved in propaganda and censorship, has profited from Venezuelan mines, and helped pressure the military to keep humanitarian aid out of the country, the Treasury Department said.

"Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

"Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro's corruption," said Mnuchin, who is in Osaka, Japan, with President Donald Trump for a G20 summit.

The Venezuelan government called the new measures "illegal" and said they had the "dark aim" of trying to directly attack Maduro's family after the Trump administration's previous attempts to overthrow the socialist leader had failed.

The government "rejects the continued attacks by the Trump administration that seek to undermine, unsuccessfully, the spirit and will of a people determined to take the reins of their own destiny," it said in a statement.

Washington has thrown its support behind opposition leader Juan Guaido, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly, who invoked the country's constitution in January to declare himself interim president.

Maduro has retained the backing of the country's military and other institutions and calls Guaido a Washington puppet.

The new sanctions come as Trump holds a series of meetings with world leaders on the sidelines of the G20.

Trump raised the subject of Venezuela with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who backs Maduro, and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a Guaido supporter, on the first day of the summit.

Asked whether momentum had been lost in efforts to oust Maduro, Trump told reporters: "No, not at all. Things take time."

Venezuela still in Trump's focus

On the second day of the G20, Trump is scheduled to speak with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Chinese President Xi Jinping, both of whom support Maduro.

"Venezuela is going to come up at most of the conversations the president has out there. That's because the president has not lost focus on Venezuela," a senior US administration official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

More information will be released in the coming weeks about the younger Maduro's "direct role in corruption," the official said, declining to give further details.

Maduro appointed his son the head of the Corps of Inspectors of the Presidency and he is also a member of Venezuela's National Constituent Assembly, a pro-Maduro legislative super body created by the government in 2017 to override the opposition-controlled National Assembly.

The United States does not regard the National Constituent Assembly as legitimate and has previously imposed sanctions on other people involved in it.

The Treasury designation means that any assets held by the younger Maduro in the United States will be frozen - and will make it difficult for him to move money through the international banking system.

The senior administration official declined to comment on whether the younger Maduro has assets in the United States.

The Trump administration is continuing to work on sanctions for other individuals connected to Maduro, including magistrates on Venezuela's supreme court who have not yet been designated, the official said.

"We will continue to target corruption and squeeze the Maduro regime until it no longer has funds with which to prop itself up," the official said.

The Trump administration turned up the pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday by targeting his son Nicolas "Nicolasito" Maduro with sanctions, the US Treasury Department said.

The Trump administration turned up the pressure on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday by targeting his son Nicolas "Nicolasito" Maduro with sanctions, the US Treasury Department said. The new sanctions are the latest push in six months of efforts to oust Maduro, whose 2018 re-election has been deemed illegitimate by the United States and most Western nations. Maduro's son has been involved in propaganda and censorship, has profited from Venezuelan mines, and helped pressure the military to keep humanitarian aid out of the country, the Treasury Department said. "Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro's corruption," said Mnuchin, who is in Osaka, Japan, with President Donald Trump for a G20 summit. The Venezuelan government called the new measures "illegal" and said they had the "dark aim" of trying to directly attack Maduro's family after the Trump administration's previous attempts to overthrow the socialist leader had failed. The government "rejects the continued attacks by the Trump administration that seek to undermine, unsuccessfully, the spirit and will of a people determined to take the reins of their own destiny," it said in a statement. Washington has thrown its support behind opposition leader Juan Guaido, the head of Venezuela's National Assembly, who invoked the country's constitution in January to declare himself interim president. Maduro has retained the backing of the country's military and other institutions and calls Guaido a Washington puppet. The new sanctions come as Trump holds a series of meetings with world leaders on the sidelines of the G20. Trump raised the subject of Venezuela with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who backs Maduro, and Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a Guaido supporter, on the first day of the summit. Asked whether momentum had been lost in efforts to oust Maduro, Trump told reporters: "No, not at all. Things take time." Venezuela still in Trump's focus On the second day of the G20, Trump is scheduled to speak with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan and Chinese President Xi Jinping, both of whom support Maduro. "Venezuela is going to come up at most of the conversations the president has out there. That's because the president has not lost focus on Venezuela," a senior US administration official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. More information will be released in the coming weeks about the younger Maduro's "direct role in corruption," the official said, declining to give further details. Maduro appointed his son the head of the Corps of Inspectors of the Presidency and he is also a member of Venezuela's National Constituent Assembly, a pro-Maduro legislative super body created by the government in 2017 to override the opposition-controlled National Assembly. The United States does not regard the National Constituent Assembly as legitimate and has previously imposed sanctions on other people involved in it. The Treasury designation means that any assets held by the younger Maduro in the United States will be frozen - and will make it difficult for him to move money through the international banking system. The senior administration official declined to comment on whether the younger Maduro has assets in the United States. The Trump administration is continuing to work on sanctions for other individuals connected to Maduro, including magistrates on Venezuela's supreme court who have not yet been designated, the official said. "We will continue to target corruption and squeeze the Maduro regime until it no longer has funds with which to prop itself up," the official said.

New sanctions on Nicolas Maduro's son 'illegal', have dark aim: Venezuelan government

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on the son of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for serving in his father's "illegitimate regime."

"Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in announcing the action.

"Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro’s corruption," he said.

The action freezes any assets Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra has in the United States and bars American individuals or institutions from doing business with him.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/charities-use-cryptocurrency-to-send-aid-to-venezuela-220620/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The latest US action comes as Maduro moves to consolidate his hold on power after a failed coup attempt by opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, is recognised by the United States and more than 50 other countries as Venezuela's acting president.

In targeting Maduro's son, the Treasury noted that he was a member of the pro-government Constituent Assembly, which Maduro has used to sideline the National Assembly.

It also said that Maduro Guerra "has profited from Venezuelan mines along with Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores," and engaged in propaganda and censorship efforts on behalf of his father's government.

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on the son of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for serving in his father's "illegitimate regime." "Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in announcing the action.

The United States on Friday imposed sanctions on the son of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro for serving in his father's "illegitimate regime." "Maduro relies on his son Nicolasito and others close to his authoritarian regime to maintain a stranglehold on the economy and suppress the people of Venezuela," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in announcing the action. "Treasury will continue to target complicit relatives of illegitimate regime insiders profiting off of Maduro’s corruption," he said. The action freezes any assets Nicolas Ernesto Maduro Guerra has in the United States and bars American individuals or institutions from doing business with him. The latest US action comes as Maduro moves to consolidate his hold on power after a failed coup attempt by opposition leader Juan Guaido. Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, is recognised by the United States and more than 50 other countries as Venezuela's acting president. In targeting Maduro's son, the Treasury noted that he was a member of the pro-government Constituent Assembly, which Maduro has used to sideline the National Assembly. It also said that Maduro Guerra "has profited from Venezuelan mines along with Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores," and engaged in propaganda and censorship efforts on behalf of his father's government.

US imposes sanctions on Venezuelan President Maduro's son Nicolasito

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said on Wednesday security forces had foiled an opposition coup attempt that included plans to assassinate him and other top political figures and install a jailed former military officer as president.

Venezuela: Nicolas Maduro claims his govt foiled opposition's coup plot

Venezuela's socialist government said Wednesday it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defence minister in his place.

Maduro warned that he would be "ruthless in a revolutionary counter-offensive against an attempted fascist coup -- ruthless!"

In a speech broadcast nationwide on radio and television, an agitated Maduro denounced a "fascist attempt to assassinate me" -- and lashed out at Colombian President Ivan Duque saying his "complicity" was "evident."

Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez earlier said the alleged coup involved active duty and retired military officers, and was to have been executed between Sunday and Monday this past weekend.

"We were in all the meetings to plan the coup d'Etat. We were in all the conferences," he said, suggesting informers had infiltrated the alleged plotters -- at least six of whom had been detained.

In his televised speech, Rodriguez also accused opposition leader Juan Guaido of planning "a bloodbath."

Guaido for his part dismissed the coup claims as fiction, saying the media had "lost count" of how many times the same accusations had been repeated.

Recognized by the United States and more than 50 countries as the country's interim president, Guaido said he would continue to call on the armed forces to abandon Maduro.&nbsp;

Moles among the plotters?&nbsp; 
Rodriguez accused Colombia's Duque of being closely involved in the alleged plot, and implicated Chilean President Sebastian Pinera and US National Security Advisor John Bolton.

Without referring directly to the charge, Colombia's foreign minister, Carlos Holmes Trujillo, said his country would "continue to act through political and diplomatic means" in Venezuela.

Venezuela's socialist government said Wednesday it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defence minister in his place.

Venezuela's socialist government said Wednesday it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defence minister in his place. Maduro warned that he would be "ruthless in a revolutionary counter-offensive against an attempted fascist coup -- ruthless!" In a speech broadcast nationwide on radio and television, an agitated Maduro denounced a "fascist attempt to assassinate me" -- and lashed out at Colombian President Ivan Duque saying his "complicity" was "evident." Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez earlier said the alleged coup involved active duty and retired military officers, and was to have been executed between Sunday and Monday this past weekend. "We were in all the meetings to plan the coup d'Etat. We were in all the conferences," he said, suggesting informers had infiltrated the alleged plotters -- at least six of whom had been detained. In his televised speech, Rodriguez also accused opposition leader Juan Guaido of planning "a bloodbath." Guaido for his part dismissed the coup claims as fiction, saying the media had "lost count" of how many times the same accusations had been repeated. Recognized by the United States and more than 50 countries as the country's interim president, Guaido said he would continue to call on the armed forces to abandon Maduro. Moles among the plotters? Rodriguez accused Colombia's Duque of being closely involved in the alleged plot, and implicated Chilean President Sebastian Pinera and US National Security Advisor John Bolton. Without referring directly to the charge, Colombia's foreign minister, Carlos Holmes Trujillo, said his country would "continue to act through political and diplomatic means" in Venezuela.

Venezuela says it thwarted plot to assassinate President Maduro

Venezuela's former intelligence chief, Cristopher Figuera, who fled the country after backing a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro in April, has told the Washington Post the regime could still fall.

"I'm proud of what I did," he said in an interview published online late Monday. "For now, the regime has gotten ahead of us. But that can quickly change."

The highest-profile defector against the Maduro regime, Figuera was sacked after supporting the April 30 uprising by opposition leader Juan Guaido and spent two months in hiding in Colombia before his arrival in the United States on Monday, according to the Post.

Venezuela is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between Maduro and Guaido, who declared himself interim president earlier this year, securing recognition from the US and more than 50 other countries.

Maduro, re-elected last year in elections widely seen as rigged, has so far retained the support of the powerful military.

The former head of security for late president Hugo Chavez, Figuera told the newspaper that members of Maduro's family and his government were engaged in money laundering and corruption and alleged that Hezbollah cells were allowed to operate in Venezuela and raise funds.

An Iran-backed Shiite movement, Hezbollah is listed as a "terrorist group" by the United States.

"I quickly realized that Maduro is the head of a criminal enterprise, with his own family involved," he said, accusing the president's son, Nicolas Maduro Guerra, of running an illicit scheme involving the sale of gold at high prices to Venezuela's central bank.

'Advisor for Maduro'

He also claimed that Cuba exerted a strong influence on Maduro, describing frequent phone calls between former president Raul Castro and the Venezuelan leader.

"Raul Castro was like an adviser for Maduro," Figuera said. "If he was in any meeting, it would be interrupted if Castro was on the phone."

The newspaper said it could not independently confirm the allegations, which emerged the same day as an announcement by another high-profile Maduro critic that he was released from house arrest.

Former Venezuelan police officer Ivan Simonovis, who was serving a 30-year sentence for his role in a failed 2002 coup against late President Hugo Chavez, confirmed his whereabouts for the first time since a "pardon" issued by Guaido in his capacity of interim president.

"I'M FREE!" the Caracas police commissioner wrote on Twitter, posting photos of himself in Washington at a monument to South American liberator Simon Bolivar.

"I am on the streets thanks to the efforts of many people, but especially those of active officials who are not at the service of tyranny, they are on the right side: that of Freedom and Democracy for Venezuela."

The opposition and human rights groups regarded Simonovis as a political prisoner, a claim denied by Maduro's government.&nbsp;

Venezuela's former intelligence chief, Cristopher Figuera, who fled the country after backing a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro in April, has told the Washington Post the regime could still fall.

Venezuela's former intelligence chief, Cristopher Figuera, who fled the country after backing a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro in April, has told the Washington Post the regime could still fall. "I'm proud of what I did," he said in an interview published online late Monday. "For now, the regime has gotten ahead of us. But that can quickly change." The highest-profile defector against the Maduro regime, Figuera was sacked after supporting the April 30 uprising by opposition leader Juan Guaido and spent two months in hiding in Colombia before his arrival in the United States on Monday, according to the Post. Venezuela is caught in an economic crisis and a political standoff between Maduro and Guaido, who declared himself interim president earlier this year, securing recognition from the US and more than 50 other countries. Maduro, re-elected last year in elections widely seen as rigged, has so far retained the support of the powerful military. The former head of security for late president Hugo Chavez, Figuera told the newspaper that members of Maduro's family and his government were engaged in money laundering and corruption and alleged that Hezbollah cells were allowed to operate in Venezuela and raise funds. An Iran-backed Shiite movement, Hezbollah is listed as a "terrorist group" by the United States. "I quickly realized that Maduro is the head of a criminal enterprise, with his own family involved," he said, accusing the president's son, Nicolas Maduro Guerra, of running an illicit scheme involving the sale of gold at high prices to Venezuela's central bank. 'Advisor for Maduro' He also claimed that Cuba exerted a strong influence on Maduro, describing frequent phone calls between former president Raul Castro and the Venezuelan leader. "Raul Castro was like an adviser for Maduro," Figuera said. "If he was in any meeting, it would be interrupted if Castro was on the phone." The newspaper said it could not independently confirm the allegations, which emerged the same day as an announcement by another high-profile Maduro critic that he was released from house arrest. Former Venezuelan police officer Ivan Simonovis, who was serving a 30-year sentence for his role in a failed 2002 coup against late President Hugo Chavez, confirmed his whereabouts for the first time since a "pardon" issued by Guaido in his capacity of interim president. "I'M FREE!" the Caracas police commissioner wrote on Twitter, posting photos of himself in Washington at a monument to South American liberator Simon Bolivar. "I am on the streets thanks to the efforts of many people, but especially those of active officials who are not at the service of tyranny, they are on the right side: that of Freedom and Democracy for Venezuela." The opposition and human rights groups regarded Simonovis as a political prisoner, a claim denied by Maduro's government.

Venezuela's former spy chief says Nicolas Maduro could yet fall

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 23rd, 2019

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called on Venezuela to release jailed dissidents Friday and said the crisis-wracked country faced a "serious" humanitarian situation.

Her comments came at the end of a three-day visit to the country on the invitation of embattled President Nicolas Maduro, who has faced allegations of cracking down on political opponents amid rampant hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods.

"I call on the authorities to release all those who are detained or deprived of their liberty for exercising their civil rights in a peaceful manner," said Bachelet, referring to the hundreds of Maduro government opponents who are currently incarcerated.

The UN rights chief met relatives of these detainees, many of whom are accused of "conspiracy" to overthrow the government. She also spoke with relatives of people who died during the anti-Maduro protests of 2017.

Rights groups had pushed Bachelet to raise the issue of 715 people they say have been jailed for political reasons, a claim Maduro's government rejects.

Maduro, meanwhile, said he would respect the recommendations made by Bachelet, a former Chilean president.

"I told her that she can count on me, as president, to take her suggestions, her recommendations and her proposals seriously," Maduro said, adding that people accused of human rights abuses would be prosecuted.

Bachelet also said she had appointed delegates to remain in the country with the mandate "to provide assistance and technical advice, but also, very importantly, to continue to monitor the human rights situation across Venezuela."

The high commissioner's visit came amid the country's ongoing economic and political crisis that the UN says has caused some four million Venezuelans to flee since 2015 amid collapsing government services and shortages of food.

Bachelet has previously criticized the government's response to the crisis and called for Caracas to respect "everyone's fundamental right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression."

Yet it was the Maduro government who invited her to Venezuela, saying the visit would be an opportunity to show its adherence to human rights and the "negative repercussions" of sanctions that prevent it from selling its oil to the United States.

'Skeptical'

Bachelet has also been critical of US sanctions against Maduro imposed by President Donald Trump, raising concerns that restrictions on trade with Venezuela could have negative repercussions for the general population in a country where 96 per cent of the budget is based on oil.

During her visit, Bachelet also met with opposition leader Juan Guaido, who is recognized as Venezuela's interim president by some 50 countries, including the United States.

She called for dialogue between the government and Guaido's opposition and spoke in support of Norway's efforts to broker talks.

Delegates from both sides met there for the first time in May, but progress has since stalled.

"I understand that some are skeptical that these sorts of negotiations will bear fruit, but the serious situation in the country demands that the leaders try," Bachelet said.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called on Venezuela to release jailed dissidents Friday and said the crisis-wracked country faced a "serious" humanitarian situation.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet called on Venezuela to release jailed dissidents Friday and said the crisis-wracked country faced a "serious" humanitarian situation. Her comments came at the end of a three-day visit to the country on the invitation of embattled President Nicolas Maduro, who has faced allegations of cracking down on political opponents amid rampant hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods. "I call on the authorities to release all those who are detained or deprived of their liberty for exercising their civil rights in a peaceful manner," said Bachelet, referring to the hundreds of Maduro government opponents who are currently incarcerated. The UN rights chief met relatives of these detainees, many of whom are accused of "conspiracy" to overthrow the government. She also spoke with relatives of people who died during the anti-Maduro protests of 2017. Rights groups had pushed Bachelet to raise the issue of 715 people they say have been jailed for political reasons, a claim Maduro's government rejects. Maduro, meanwhile, said he would respect the recommendations made by Bachelet, a former Chilean president. "I told her that she can count on me, as president, to take her suggestions, her recommendations and her proposals seriously," Maduro said, adding that people accused of human rights abuses would be prosecuted. Bachelet also said she had appointed delegates to remain in the country with the mandate "to provide assistance and technical advice, but also, very importantly, to continue to monitor the human rights situation across Venezuela." The high commissioner's visit came amid the country's ongoing economic and political crisis that the UN says has caused some four million Venezuelans to flee since 2015 amid collapsing government services and shortages of food. Bachelet has previously criticized the government's response to the crisis and called for Caracas to respect "everyone's fundamental right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression." Yet it was the Maduro government who invited her to Venezuela, saying the visit would be an opportunity to show its adherence to human rights and the "negative repercussions" of sanctions that prevent it from selling its oil to the United States. 'Skeptical' Bachelet has also been critical of US sanctions against Maduro imposed by President Donald Trump, raising concerns that restrictions on trade with Venezuela could have negative repercussions for the general population in a country where 96 per cent of the budget is based on oil. During her visit, Bachelet also met with opposition leader Juan Guaido, who is recognized as Venezuela's interim president by some 50 countries, including the United States. She called for dialogue between the government and Guaido's opposition and spoke in support of Norway's efforts to broker talks. Delegates from both sides met there for the first time in May, but progress has since stalled. "I understand that some are skeptical that these sorts of negotiations will bear fruit, but the serious situation in the country demands that the leaders try," Bachelet said.

Venezuela should release jailed opponents: UN rights chief

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he would take "seriously" the recommendations of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet following their meeting in Caracas.

"There are always going to be different criteria in every country, but I told her that she can count on me, as president, to take her suggestions, her recommendations and her proposals seriously," Maduro said as he saw off Bachelet from the Miraflores presidential palace.

He later vowed to prosecute people accused of human rights abuses.

Bachelet's visit came amid the country's ongoing economic and political crisis that the UN says has caused some four million Venezuelans to flee since 2015 amid hyperinflation and a shortage of basic goods.

Bachelet has previously criticized the Venezuelan government's response to the crisis and called for Caracas to respect "everyone's fundamental right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression."

Yet it was the Maduro government who invited former Chilean president Bachelet, saying the visit would be an opportunity to show its adherence to human rights and the "negative repercussions" of sanctions that prevent Venezuela from selling its oil to the United States.

During her visit, Bachelet also met with opposition leader Juan Guaido, who is recognized as Venezuela's interim president by some 50 countries, including the United States.

Rights groups had pushed Bachelet to raise the issue of 715 people they say are jailed for political reasons, a claim Maduro's government rejects. 
Guaido said after their meeting that Bachelet would call "for the release of political prisoners" in a forthcoming report.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he would take "seriously" the recommendations of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet following their meeting in Caracas.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday said he would take "seriously" the recommendations of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet following their meeting in Caracas. "There are always going to be different criteria in every country, but I told her that she can count on me, as president, to take her suggestions, her recommendations and her proposals seriously," Maduro said as he saw off Bachelet from the Miraflores presidential palace. He later vowed to prosecute people accused of human rights abuses. Bachelet's visit came amid the country's ongoing economic and political crisis that the UN says has caused some four million Venezuelans to flee since 2015 amid hyperinflation and a shortage of basic goods. Bachelet has previously criticized the Venezuelan government's response to the crisis and called for Caracas to respect "everyone's fundamental right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression." Yet it was the Maduro government who invited former Chilean president Bachelet, saying the visit would be an opportunity to show its adherence to human rights and the "negative repercussions" of sanctions that prevent Venezuela from selling its oil to the United States. During her visit, Bachelet also met with opposition leader Juan Guaido, who is recognized as Venezuela's interim president by some 50 countries, including the United States. Rights groups had pushed Bachelet to raise the issue of 715 people they say are jailed for political reasons, a claim Maduro's government rejects. Guaido said after their meeting that Bachelet would call "for the release of political prisoners" in a forthcoming report.

United Nations rights recommendations to be taken 'seriously': Maduro

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

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

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

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

Several thousand Venezuelans, desperate for food and medicine, packed a border crossing to Colombia on Saturday, hours after President Nicolas Maduro partially reopened it.

Maduro had the day prior ordered the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-partially-opens-border-with-colombia-that-was-shut-in-february-225365"> reopening of the Venezuelan border </a>in the western state of Tachira, near the location in Colombia where the international community had massed humanitarian aid that Maduro's government refused to take.

Early Saturday, thousands of people rushed to the border bridges between the two countries, and crowds in long queues stretched throughout the day.

"My two daughters have dengue. They have a fever, and I had to come get care in Colombia," says Belky Rangel, 34, about to burst into tears after waiting three hours with her two daughters, five and eight, to cross to Cucuta.

At midday, 18,000 people had crossed the border from Venezuela and 8,000 from Colombia, the head of the Migration Service in Colombia, Christian Krueger, told AFP.

Before the border closed in February, about 30,000 people crossed the Simon Bolivar International Bridge every day, from San Antonio del Tachira, Venezuela, to Cucuta, official data show.

But containers deposited on the Venezuelan side to prevent any entry of humanitarian aid, considered by the government a potential pretext for foreign military intervention, were still in place.

"They have not moved the containers at all. It is so hard getting across. There are so many people" on the Venezuelan side, says Carlos Julio Perez, 55. He waited hours to go to a medical appointment on the Colombian side.

When the border was closed, many Venezuelans crossed via hidden trails linking the two countries, putting themselves at the mercy of smugglers and armed groups.

The economically-devastated South American nation is suffering from shortages of food, medicine and other essentials amid a power struggle between socialist Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has been recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries including the United States.&nbsp;

Announcing the reopening of the frontier on Twitter, Maduro said: "We are a people of peace that strongly defends our independence and self-determination."

The leader, however, did not say if other key border bridges, closed since August 2015 after two Venezuelan soldiers were wounded by suspected smugglers, would be unblocked.

More than three million Venezuelans have left their country since 2015 to flee the worst economic crisis in the oil-rich country's recent history.

Several thousand Venezuelans, desperate for food and medicine, packed a border crossing to Colombia on Saturday, hours after President Nicolas Maduro partially reopened it.

Several thousand Venezuelans, desperate for food and medicine, packed a border crossing to Colombia on Saturday, hours after President Nicolas Maduro partially reopened it. Maduro had the day prior ordered the reopening of the Venezuelan border in the western state of Tachira, near the location in Colombia where the international community had massed humanitarian aid that Maduro's government refused to take. Early Saturday, thousands of people rushed to the border bridges between the two countries, and crowds in long queues stretched throughout the day. "My two daughters have dengue. They have a fever, and I had to come get care in Colombia," says Belky Rangel, 34, about to burst into tears after waiting three hours with her two daughters, five and eight, to cross to Cucuta. At midday, 18,000 people had crossed the border from Venezuela and 8,000 from Colombia, the head of the Migration Service in Colombia, Christian Krueger, told AFP. Before the border closed in February, about 30,000 people crossed the Simon Bolivar International Bridge every day, from San Antonio del Tachira, Venezuela, to Cucuta, official data show. But containers deposited on the Venezuelan side to prevent any entry of humanitarian aid, considered by the government a potential pretext for foreign military intervention, were still in place. "They have not moved the containers at all. It is so hard getting across. There are so many people" on the Venezuelan side, says Carlos Julio Perez, 55. He waited hours to go to a medical appointment on the Colombian side. When the border was closed, many Venezuelans crossed via hidden trails linking the two countries, putting themselves at the mercy of smugglers and armed groups. The economically-devastated South American nation is suffering from shortages of food, medicine and other essentials amid a power struggle between socialist Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, who has been recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries including the United States. Announcing the reopening of the frontier on Twitter, Maduro said: "We are a people of peace that strongly defends our independence and self-determination." The leader, however, did not say if other key border bridges, closed since August 2015 after two Venezuelan soldiers were wounded by suspected smugglers, would be unblocked. More than three million Venezuelans have left their country since 2015 to flee the worst economic crisis in the oil-rich country's recent history.

Thousands of Venezuelans cram border with Colombia

Venezuela has announced it will close its consulates in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, leaving only its embassy in Ottawa to handle its affairs in Canada.

The Venezuelan foreign ministry, which announced the decision Saturday, said it was in response to Canada's temporary closing of its embassy in Caracas.

Canada is one of more than 50 countries, led by the United States, that recognizes opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's acting president in the country's political standoff.

In a statement, it said the Canadian decision, "far from being an administrative matter, is a political decision that reflects the continued hostility of that government toward Venezuela."

Canada announced the temporary closing of its embassy in Caracas a week ago, blaming President Nicolas Maduro for refusing to accredit diplomats critical to its functioning.

"The regime has taken steps to limit the ability of foreign embassies to function in Venezuela, particularly those advocating for the restoration of democracy," Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said.

Citing the principle of reciprocity, the Venezuelan foreign ministry said: "it will temporarily stop providing services at its general consulates in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal."

"All the functions of Venezuelan diplomacy in Canada will be concentrated at the headquarters of its embassy in Ottawa," it said.

The opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, declared Maduro a "usurper" after he assumed the second term in office in January following elections that were widely denounced as fraudulent. Guaido then invoked the constitution to declare himself president on an interim basis.

Venezuela has announced it will close its consulates in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, leaving only its embassy in Ottawa to handle its affairs in Canada. The Venezuelan foreign ministry, which announced the decision Saturday, said it was in response to Canada's temporary closing of its embassy in Caracas.

Venezuela has announced it will close its consulates in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal, leaving only its embassy in Ottawa to handle its affairs in Canada. The Venezuelan foreign ministry, which announced the decision Saturday, said it was in response to Canada's temporary closing of its embassy in Caracas. Canada is one of more than 50 countries, led by the United States, that recognizes opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's acting president in the country's political standoff. In a statement, it said the Canadian decision, "far from being an administrative matter, is a political decision that reflects the continued hostility of that government toward Venezuela." Canada announced the temporary closing of its embassy in Caracas a week ago, blaming President Nicolas Maduro for refusing to accredit diplomats critical to its functioning. "The regime has taken steps to limit the ability of foreign embassies to function in Venezuela, particularly those advocating for the restoration of democracy," Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said. Citing the principle of reciprocity, the Venezuelan foreign ministry said: "it will temporarily stop providing services at its general consulates in Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal." "All the functions of Venezuelan diplomacy in Canada will be concentrated at the headquarters of its embassy in Ottawa," it said. The opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, declared Maduro a "usurper" after he assumed the second term in office in January following elections that were widely denounced as fraudulent. Guaido then invoked the constitution to declare himself president on an interim basis.

Venezuela says closing consulates in Canada

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday announced a partial opening of the country's border with Colombia, which his government closed in February as opposition leaders prepared an ultimately failed effort to bring aid into the country.

Maduro had closed borders with Colombia, Brazil and Dutch Antilles islands as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelan-opposition-leader-guaido-renews-call-for-maduro-to-step-down-after-norway-talks-223364">opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> prepared to bring in US-backed humanitarian aid. His government last month opened the border with Brazil and the island of Aruba, but the Aruba authorities said the border would remain closed.

Maduro said on Friday via Twitter that Colombia border crossings in the western state of Tachira would be open as of Saturday. "We are a people of peace who firmly defend our independence," he wrote.

The closures caused economic problems for border towns that have increasingly come to rely on Colombian cities for basic goods and services.

Many citizens have resorted to illegal crossings over backroads, at times paying tolls to criminals who controlled passage, in order to get groceries or basic medical treatment.

Venezuela is suffering a hyperinflationary economic collapse resulting from the unravelling of its socialist system.

Guaido, who has been recognised by dozens of countries as Venezuela's legitimate head of state, attempted to bring food and hygiene supplies into the country in February. Troops and police pushed back the aid trucks, two of which went up in flames.

Watch: US suspends flights to Venezuela, accused of violating International law

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suspends-flights-to-venezuela-accused-of-violating-international-law-219195/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Maduro says Venezuela is victim of an "economic war" led by the opposition with the help of Washington, which has levied several rounds of sanctions against his government.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday announced a partial opening of the country's border with Colombia, which his government closed in February as opposition leaders prepared an ultimately failed effort to bring aid into the country.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Friday announced a partial opening of the country's border with Colombia, which his government closed in February as opposition leaders prepared an ultimately failed effort to bring aid into the country. Maduro had closed borders with Colombia, Brazil and Dutch Antilles islands as opposition leader Juan Guaido prepared to bring in US-backed humanitarian aid. His government last month opened the border with Brazil and the island of Aruba, but the Aruba authorities said the border would remain closed. Maduro said on Friday via Twitter that Colombia border crossings in the western state of Tachira would be open as of Saturday. "We are a people of peace who firmly defend our independence," he wrote. The closures caused economic problems for border towns that have increasingly come to rely on Colombian cities for basic goods and services. Many citizens have resorted to illegal crossings over backroads, at times paying tolls to criminals who controlled passage, in order to get groceries or basic medical treatment. Venezuela is suffering a hyperinflationary economic collapse resulting from the unravelling of its socialist system. Guaido, who has been recognised by dozens of countries as Venezuela's legitimate head of state, attempted to bring food and hygiene supplies into the country in February. Troops and police pushed back the aid trucks, two of which went up in flames. Watch: US suspends flights to Venezuela, accused of violating International law × Maduro says Venezuela is victim of an "economic war" led by the opposition with the help of Washington, which has levied several rounds of sanctions against his government.

Venezuela partially opens border with Colombia that was shut in February

The Kremlin on Tuesday denied informing the United States it was withdrawing personnel from Venezuela, as stated by US President Donald Trump.

"This is apparently an indirect reference to some sources of information in newspapers because there have been no official messages from the Russian side about this and there couldn't have been any," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists.&nbsp;

He confirmed that Russian military specialists are still in Venezuela "working on servicing equipment supplied earlier."

"This process is going according to plan. And what is meant by 'removed their people' we don't know," he said.

Trump tweeted Monday during a state visit to Britain that "Russia has informed us that they have removed most of their people from Venezuela."

US-Russian tensions have spiked over the months-long standoff in Venezuela, where Washington has thrown its weight behind a campaign to oust the Moscow-backed socialist president, Nicolas Maduro.

Trump in March called on Russia to "get out" of Venezuela after Moscow -- in a significant show of solidarity for Maduro's badly isolated government -- deployed around 100 soldiers to the country.

Russia's state defence contractor Rostec has played down any changes in deployment, dismissing a report in The Wall Street Journal saying that the overall Russian presence in Venezuela had been reduced from as many as 1,000 personnel to a few dozen.

The Kremlin on Tuesday denied informing the United States it was withdrawing personnel from Venezuela, as stated by US President Donald Trump. "This is apparently an indirect reference to some sources of information in newspapers because there have been no official messages from the Russian side about this and there couldn't have been any," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists.

The Kremlin on Tuesday denied informing the United States it was withdrawing personnel from Venezuela, as stated by US President Donald Trump. "This is apparently an indirect reference to some sources of information in newspapers because there have been no official messages from the Russian side about this and there couldn't have been any," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists. He confirmed that Russian military specialists are still in Venezuela "working on servicing equipment supplied earlier." "This process is going according to plan. And what is meant by 'removed their people' we don't know," he said. Trump tweeted Monday during a state visit to Britain that "Russia has informed us that they have removed most of their people from Venezuela." US-Russian tensions have spiked over the months-long standoff in Venezuela, where Washington has thrown its weight behind a campaign to oust the Moscow-backed socialist president, Nicolas Maduro. Trump in March called on Russia to "get out" of Venezuela after Moscow -- in a significant show of solidarity for Maduro's badly isolated government -- deployed around 100 soldiers to the country. Russia's state defence contractor Rostec has played down any changes in deployment, dismissing a report in The Wall Street Journal saying that the overall Russian presence in Venezuela had been reduced from as many as 1,000 personnel to a few dozen.

Russia denies telling US of personnel withdrawal from Venezuela

Canada announced Sunday it was temporarily<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-federal-agents-arrest-protesters-occupying-venezuelan-embassy-219291"> shutting its embassy in Venezuela</a>, blaming President Nicolas Maduro for refusing to accredit diplomats critical of his regime.

At the same time, Ottawa is reviewing the status of Maduro envoys to Canada.

Foreign minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement that "the regime has taken steps to limit the ability of foreign embassies to function in Venezuela, particularly those advocating for the restoration of democracy" there.

In January, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juan-guaido-blasts-venezuela-regime-after-security-forces-block-congress-218827">Canada, along with the United States</a> and major Latin American powers, was among the first to recognise Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido's claim to be acting president, beginning a months-long power struggle between him and Maduro.

Soon, Canadian diplomats in Venezuela "will no longer be in a position to obtain diplomatic accreditation under the Maduro regime, and their visas will expire," Freeland said.

"Therefore, we are left with no choice but to temporarily suspend our operations at the embassy of Canada to Venezuela, effective immediately."

More than 50 countries now recognise Guaido rather than leftist firebrand Maduro, who has presided over a crumbling economy and was re-elected in a ballot widely regarded as a sham.

Freeland also said Canada is "evaluating the status of Venezuelan diplomats appointed by the Maduro regime to Canada."

Canada announced Sunday it was temporarily shutting its embassy in Venezuela, blaming President Nicolas Maduro for refusing to accredit diplomats critical of his regime.

Canada announced Sunday it was temporarily shutting its embassy in Venezuela, blaming President Nicolas Maduro for refusing to accredit diplomats critical of his regime. At the same time, Ottawa is reviewing the status of Maduro envoys to Canada. Foreign minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement that "the regime has taken steps to limit the ability of foreign embassies to function in Venezuela, particularly those advocating for the restoration of democracy" there. In January, Canada, along with the United States and major Latin American powers, was among the first to recognise Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido's claim to be acting president, beginning a months-long power struggle between him and Maduro. Soon, Canadian diplomats in Venezuela "will no longer be in a position to obtain diplomatic accreditation under the Maduro regime, and their visas will expire," Freeland said. "Therefore, we are left with no choice but to temporarily suspend our operations at the embassy of Canada to Venezuela, effective immediately." More than 50 countries now recognise Guaido rather than leftist firebrand Maduro, who has presided over a crumbling economy and was re-elected in a ballot widely regarded as a sham. Freeland also said Canada is "evaluating the status of Venezuelan diplomats appointed by the Maduro regime to Canada."

Canada temporarily shuts embassy in Venezuela over diplomats accreditation row

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido renewed calls for President Nicolas Maduro to resign on Friday while campaigning in the birthplace of former leader Hugo Chavez, following inconclusive talks in Norway to end the country's crisis.

Guaido -- who is backed by the United States and is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries -- has been leading a push to oust leftist firebrand Maduro, who has presided over a crumbling economy after succeeding Chavez in 2013.

During a brief speech before a handful of followers in the small town of Sabaneta, Guaido called for a "large mobilization" of protesters to rally against the government over shortages of gasoline and prolonged blackouts in the country.&nbsp;

"The real solution is, without a doubt, to leave once and for all and let us live in peace," he said of Maduro.&nbsp;

Sabaneta&nbsp;has been turned into a shrine for the hugely popular Chavez, who mixed a larger-than-life personality with a man-of-the-people style and generously-funded social programs through oil revenues.&nbsp;

Dozens of walls in the town are adorned with murals of the leftist leader, who died of cancer in 2013, and a bronze and granite statue of the former president, donated by the Rosneft oil company on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin, stands six blocks away from where Guaido spoke on Friday.

But Maduro struggled to fill his mentor's shoes and he quickly lost favour after a fall in oil prices in 2014 precipitated a massive economic crisis.

Sabaneta resident Mireya Moreno, 61, said that even locals who had staunchly supported Chavez had turned against his successor.

"We have hope that Juan Guaido will take us out of this hole we are in," the teacher told.

Venezuela is reeling from astronomical rises in the cost of consumer goods, with the International Monetary Fund forecasting an inflation rate of 10 million per cent by the end of the year.

Representatives of Guaido and Maduro met face-to-face in Oslo this week as part of talks mediated by Norway aimed at resolving the country's political deadlock.

Further talks are planned despite the first meeting ending without agreement.

Maduro's government will go into the next round proposing the "release" of resources for medical transplants which are blocked by US sanctions, the leader said Friday.&nbsp;

Four children have died in the last month waiting for bone marrow transplants at the main pediatric hospital in Caracas.&nbsp;

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido renewed calls for President Nicolas Maduro to resign on Friday while campaigning in the birthplace of former leader Hugo Chavez, following inconclusive talks in Norway to end the country's crisis.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido renewed calls for President Nicolas Maduro to resign on Friday while campaigning in the birthplace of former leader Hugo Chavez, following inconclusive talks in Norway to end the country's crisis. Guaido -- who is backed by the United States and is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries -- has been leading a push to oust leftist firebrand Maduro, who has presided over a crumbling economy after succeeding Chavez in 2013. During a brief speech before a handful of followers in the small town of Sabaneta, Guaido called for a "large mobilization" of protesters to rally against the government over shortages of gasoline and prolonged blackouts in the country. "The real solution is, without a doubt, to leave once and for all and let us live in peace," he said of Maduro. Sabaneta has been turned into a shrine for the hugely popular Chavez, who mixed a larger-than-life personality with a man-of-the-people style and generously-funded social programs through oil revenues. Dozens of walls in the town are adorned with murals of the leftist leader, who died of cancer in 2013, and a bronze and granite statue of the former president, donated by the Rosneft oil company on behalf of Russian President Vladimir Putin, stands six blocks away from where Guaido spoke on Friday. But Maduro struggled to fill his mentor's shoes and he quickly lost favour after a fall in oil prices in 2014 precipitated a massive economic crisis. Sabaneta resident Mireya Moreno, 61, said that even locals who had staunchly supported Chavez had turned against his successor. "We have hope that Juan Guaido will take us out of this hole we are in," the teacher told. Venezuela is reeling from astronomical rises in the cost of consumer goods, with the International Monetary Fund forecasting an inflation rate of 10 million per cent by the end of the year. Representatives of Guaido and Maduro met face-to-face in Oslo this week as part of talks mediated by Norway aimed at resolving the country's political deadlock. Further talks are planned despite the first meeting ending without agreement. Maduro's government will go into the next round proposing the "release" of resources for medical transplants which are blocked by US sanctions, the leader said Friday. Four children have died in the last month waiting for bone marrow transplants at the main pediatric hospital in Caracas.

Venezuelan opposition leader Guaido renews call for Maduro to step down after Norway talks

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido vowed to press ahead with street protests after talks with government officials hosted by Norway ended on Wednesday without progress towards resolving the South American country's long-running political crisis.

At the meeting in Oslo, opposition delegates repeated calls for President Nicolas Maduro to step down and allow a transitional government to organize presidential elections to bring an end to a political crisis in the OPEC nation.

Guaido in January assumed a rival interim presidency, citing Venezuela's constitution, and denounced Maduro's government as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely criticized as rigged.

Most Western nations have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate president but Maduro has repeatedly said that he will not step aside. He has denounced Guaido as a coup monger and a puppet of Washington.

"There was no immediate agreement, so the chance that we have today is to remain in the streets," Guaido told Fox Business Network, speaking via an interpreter. "We want to reach a solution to the conflict."

In an earlier statement, Guaido's office said that the opposition remained willing to continue with the mediation as long as there were conditions for progress, but that it would not abandon its roadmap for new elections.

Norway's foreign ministry said on Wednesday that envoys for Venezuela's government and opposition had shown a "willingness" to make some headway.

"The parties have demonstrated their willingness to move forward in the search for an agreed-upon and constitutional solution for the country, which includes political, economic and electoral matters," the foreign ministry said.

In its statement, Oslo called on both sides to show discretion in public comments so as not to damage the process.

In remarks on national television, Maduro said the government had prepared the ground for the Norway mediation with months of secret talks. Opposition sources have also said there have been contacts with elements of the government for months, particularly in the run up to an abortive April 30 military uprising.

"The only way forward is dialogue," Maduro said. "We want a peace deal."

Economic collapse has driven more than 3 million Venezuelans abroad in recent years, while political protests have often turned deadly.

Intelligence agents have detained several Guaido allies and the Supreme Court this month has accused 14 opposition lawmakers of crimes including treason and conspiracy.

Norway has a long tradition of conflict mediation, but has its work cut out solving the Venezuelan crisis, which has become a geopolitical football as dozens of Western and Latin American nations recognise Guaido, while Russia and China back Maduro.

U.S. Vice President Mike Pence wrote on Twitter that he spoke with Guaido by phone on Wednesday, but did not say if they discussed the Oslo talks.

"Told him America will continue to stand with Venezuela until freedom is restored! The people of Venezuela are suffering under dictatorship and oppression. Nicolas Maduro must go," Pence said.

Guaido told Fox Business Network that Pence has expressed concern for the collapse of public services in Venezuela, which is suffering lack of gasoline, water shortages and rolling blackouts in many parts of the country. A Guaido aide said the two men spoke for 45 minutes.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido vowed to press ahead with street protests after talks with government officials hosted by Norway ended on Wednesday without progress towards resolving the South American country's long-running political crisis.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido vowed to press ahead with street protests after talks with government officials hosted by Norway ended on Wednesday without progress towards resolving the South American country's long-running political crisis. At the meeting in Oslo, opposition delegates repeated calls for President Nicolas Maduro to step down and allow a transitional government to organize presidential elections to bring an end to a political crisis in the OPEC nation. Guaido in January assumed a rival interim presidency, citing Venezuela's constitution, and denounced Maduro's government as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely criticized as rigged. Most Western nations have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate president but Maduro has repeatedly said that he will not step aside. He has denounced Guaido as a coup monger and a puppet of Washington. "There was no immediate agreement, so the chance that we have today is to remain in the streets," Guaido told Fox Business Network, speaking via an interpreter. "We want to reach a solution to the conflict." In an earlier statement, Guaido's office said that the opposition remained willing to continue with the mediation as long as there were conditions for progress, but that it would not abandon its roadmap for new elections. Norway's foreign ministry said on Wednesday that envoys for Venezuela's government and opposition had shown a "willingness" to make some headway. "The parties have demonstrated their willingness to move forward in the search for an agreed-upon and constitutional solution for the country, which includes political, economic and electoral matters," the foreign ministry said. In its statement, Oslo called on both sides to show discretion in public comments so as not to damage the process. In remarks on national television, Maduro said the government had prepared the ground for the Norway mediation with months of secret talks. Opposition sources have also said there have been contacts with elements of the government for months, particularly in the run up to an abortive April 30 military uprising. "The only way forward is dialogue," Maduro said. "We want a peace deal." Economic collapse has driven more than 3 million Venezuelans abroad in recent years, while political protests have often turned deadly. Intelligence agents have detained several Guaido allies and the Supreme Court this month has accused 14 opposition lawmakers of crimes including treason and conspiracy. Norway has a long tradition of conflict mediation, but has its work cut out solving the Venezuelan crisis, which has become a geopolitical football as dozens of Western and Latin American nations recognise Guaido, while Russia and China back Maduro. U.S. Vice President Mike Pence wrote on Twitter that he spoke with Guaido by phone on Wednesday, but did not say if they discussed the Oslo talks. "Told him America will continue to stand with Venezuela until freedom is restored! The people of Venezuela are suffering under dictatorship and oppression. Nicolas Maduro must go," Pence said. Guaido told Fox Business Network that Pence has expressed concern for the collapse of public services in Venezuela, which is suffering lack of gasoline, water shortages and rolling blackouts in many parts of the country. A Guaido aide said the two men spoke for 45 minutes.

Venezuelan opposition leader Guaido vows protests as Oslo talks produce no deal

President Nicolas Maduro promised Monday to show "good faith" ahead of a meeting in Norway between representatives of his government and those of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-defends-planned-talks-with-maduro-representatives-221944">opposition leader Juan Guaido</a>.

"We are going to be showing our very best good faith... to be able to find, based on the platform the parties agreed on, peaceful, democratic solutions to help overcome Venezuela's conflict," Maduro said in a televised address.

The talks in Norway this week will be the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-opposition-to-meet-nicolas-maduro-envoys-in-oslo-guaido-221654">first face-to-face meeting</a> between representatives of Maduro and those of his rival Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by some 50 countries.

Maduro confirmed that his delegation will include Communication Minister Jorge Rodriguez, Miranda state Governor Hector Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who were on the ground in Norway.&nbsp;

"This is a dialogue between the Revolutionary Government, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the extremist opposition... which is trying to topple the government at the behest of US interests," Maduro said.

The bid for talks comes after a months-long power struggle between Guaido, the leader of the National Assembly legislature, and the socialist president.

Guaido's backers dismiss Maduro's presidency as "illegitimate" following his re-election last year in polls widely labeled as rigged.

Maduro, who has presided over the country's economic collapse, has been shunned by much of the international community, but retains the backing of Russia, China and Cuba, as well as the country's powerful military.

Watch: Charities use cryptocurrency to send aid to Venezuela

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/charities-use-cryptocurrency-to-send-aid-to-venezuela-220620/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

President Nicolas Maduro promised Monday to show "good faith" ahead of a meeting in Norway between representatives of his government and those of opposition leader Juan Guaido.

President Nicolas Maduro promised Monday to show "good faith" ahead of a meeting in Norway between representatives of his government and those of opposition leader Juan Guaido. "We are going to be showing our very best good faith... to be able to find, based on the platform the parties agreed on, peaceful, democratic solutions to help overcome Venezuela's conflict," Maduro said in a televised address. The talks in Norway this week will be the first face-to-face meeting between representatives of Maduro and those of his rival Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by some 50 countries. Maduro confirmed that his delegation will include Communication Minister Jorge Rodriguez, Miranda state Governor Hector Rodriguez and Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who were on the ground in Norway. "This is a dialogue between the Revolutionary Government, the Revolutionary Armed Forces, and the extremist opposition... which is trying to topple the government at the behest of US interests," Maduro said. The bid for talks comes after a months-long power struggle between Guaido, the leader of the National Assembly legislature, and the socialist president. Guaido's backers dismiss Maduro's presidency as "illegitimate" following his re-election last year in polls widely labeled as rigged. Maduro, who has presided over the country's economic collapse, has been shunned by much of the international community, but retains the backing of Russia, China and Cuba, as well as the country's powerful military. Watch: Charities use cryptocurrency to send aid to Venezuela ×

Maduro pledges 'good faith' ahead of talks with opposition in Norway

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-opposition-to-meet-nicolas-maduro-envoys-in-oslo-guaido-221654">Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido </a>on Sunday defended his decision to send delegates to Oslo for talks with representatives of President Nicolas Maduro's government, warning that critics of the move risk becoming accomplices of his rival's "dictatorship."

"We have to play on all the boards... we have to have an active presence in all places," Guaido told hundreds of supporters in Barquisimeto in Venezuela's Lara state.

"From Lara to Norway, from Caracas to Washington, our demands are the same. Whoever wants us to renounce the pressure in the street or in international scenarios in order to stop the takeover, becomes an accomplice of the dictatorship," he later tweeted.

Guaido, recognized by the United States and dozens of other countries as Venezuela's interim president, said Saturday that the opposition delegation will be headed by deputy legislative speaker Stalin Gonzalez and the ex-deputy Gerardo Blyde.

Media reports said Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez and the governor of Miranda state Hector Rodriguez represented Maduro's government in the initial talks, but it was unclear if they would participate in next week's meeting.

Guaido has appeared cautious about talking with Maduro's representatives since the idea is unpopular with the opposition base that has spent months in the streets trying to push Maduro out.

The bid for talks comes after a months-long power struggle between National Assembly leader Guaido and the socialist president, with sometimes deadly street clashes.

Guaido's backers dismiss Maduro's presidency as "illegitimate" following his re-election last year in polls widely labelled as rigged.

Maduro has been shunned by much of the international community for presiding over the country's economic collapse, which has led to shortages of basic goods -- forcing millions to flee -- as well as brutally suppressing dissent.

He retains the backing of major creditors Russia, China and Cuba, as well as the powerful military.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Sunday defended his decision to send delegates to Oslo for talks with representatives of President Nicolas Maduro's government, warning that critics of the move risk becoming accomplices of his rival's "dictatorship.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Sunday defended his decision to send delegates to Oslo for talks with representatives of President Nicolas Maduro's government, warning that critics of the move risk becoming accomplices of his rival's "dictatorship." "We have to play on all the boards... we have to have an active presence in all places," Guaido told hundreds of supporters in Barquisimeto in Venezuela's Lara state. "From Lara to Norway, from Caracas to Washington, our demands are the same. Whoever wants us to renounce the pressure in the street or in international scenarios in order to stop the takeover, becomes an accomplice of the dictatorship," he later tweeted. Guaido, recognized by the United States and dozens of other countries as Venezuela's interim president, said Saturday that the opposition delegation will be headed by deputy legislative speaker Stalin Gonzalez and the ex-deputy Gerardo Blyde. Media reports said Venezuelan Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez and the governor of Miranda state Hector Rodriguez represented Maduro's government in the initial talks, but it was unclear if they would participate in next week's meeting. Guaido has appeared cautious about talking with Maduro's representatives since the idea is unpopular with the opposition base that has spent months in the streets trying to push Maduro out. The bid for talks comes after a months-long power struggle between National Assembly leader Guaido and the socialist president, with sometimes deadly street clashes. Guaido's backers dismiss Maduro's presidency as "illegitimate" following his re-election last year in polls widely labelled as rigged. Maduro has been shunned by much of the international community for presiding over the country's economic collapse, which has led to shortages of basic goods -- forcing millions to flee -- as well as brutally suppressing dissent. He retains the backing of major creditors Russia, China and Cuba, as well as the powerful military.

Venezuela's Guaido defends planned talks with Maduro representatives

Delegates of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his rival Juan Guaido will hold their first <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-says-norway-talks-sought-peaceful-agenda-with-opposition-219519">face-to-face meeting in Oslo</a> next week, the opposition leader said Saturday.

Guaido said in a statement that his representatives "will talk with both the Norwegian government and with representatives of the regime" after the two sides travelled separately to Oslo last week <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-says-talking-with-democratic-opposition-in-norway-219272">to meet with the leaders of the Norwegian mediation effort</a>.

Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January, when Guaido invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has been recognised by most Latin American and Western countries as Venezuela's rightful leader.

But Maduro retains control of state functions and the loyalty of the military top brass. A socialist, Maduro says Guaido is a puppet of the United States and is attempting to lead a coup against him to wrest control of the OPEC nation's oil reserves, the largest in the world. The United States and many European countries have recognised Guaido as Venezuela's rightful leader.

The representatives of each side arrived last week in the Nordic country, signalling a fresh approach to ending months of tensions that have gripped the country in January.

So far this year, dozens of people have been killed in opposition protests against Maduro's government. An economic downturn has driven more than 3 million Venezuelans to emigrate, fleeing hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine.

The ruling socialist party, which has long said it is open to dialogue, has endorsed the talks. But many sectors of the opposition remain sceptical, arguing that Maduro has in the past used dialogue as a stalling tactic to maintain his grip on power as living standards steadily declined in the oil-rich nation.

Delegates of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his rival Juan Guaido will hold their first face-to-face meeting in Oslo next week, the opposition leader said Saturday.

Delegates of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his rival Juan Guaido will hold their first face-to-face meeting in Oslo next week, the opposition leader said Saturday. Guaido said in a statement that his representatives "will talk with both the Norwegian government and with representatives of the regime" after the two sides travelled separately to Oslo last week to meet with the leaders of the Norwegian mediation effort. Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January, when Guaido invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has been recognised by most Latin American and Western countries as Venezuela's rightful leader. But Maduro retains control of state functions and the loyalty of the military top brass. A socialist, Maduro says Guaido is a puppet of the United States and is attempting to lead a coup against him to wrest control of the OPEC nation's oil reserves, the largest in the world. The United States and many European countries have recognised Guaido as Venezuela's rightful leader. The representatives of each side arrived last week in the Nordic country, signalling a fresh approach to ending months of tensions that have gripped the country in January. So far this year, dozens of people have been killed in opposition protests against Maduro's government. An economic downturn has driven more than 3 million Venezuelans to emigrate, fleeing hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine. The ruling socialist party, which has long said it is open to dialogue, has endorsed the talks. But many sectors of the opposition remain sceptical, arguing that Maduro has in the past used dialogue as a stalling tactic to maintain his grip on power as living standards steadily declined in the oil-rich nation.

Venezuela opposition to meet Nicolas Maduro envoys in Oslo: Guaido

nicolas-maduro

Nicolas Maduro, News on Nicolas Maduro, stories on Nicolas Maduro, articles on Nicolas Maduro, Nicolas Maduro stories at Wion, Nicolas Maduro news, Nicolas Maduro latest news

nicolas maduro