The rise and fall of Venezuela

Venezuela crisis: Maduro loyalists lift Juan Guaido's immunity

Tear gas fired as Guaido rallies in Venezuela, crisis continues

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro announced 30 days of electricity rationing on Sunday after his government said it was reducing the length of the workday and keeping schools closed due to devastating blackouts plaguing the country.

The measures are a stark admission by the government -- which has sought to blame repeated blackouts in March on sabotage -- that there is not enough electricity to go around, and that the power crisis is here to stay.

Speaking on state television, Maduro said he had approved "a 30-day plan" to ration power, "with an emphasis on guaranteeing water service."

Crippled infrastructure, little investment in the power grid and poor maintenance have all contributed to the electricity problem.

Add to that the country's economic deep crisis, eye-popping inflation rate and the "brain drain" of qualified personnel -- some 25,000 people in the electricity sector have left the country, part of the 2.7 million Venezuelans who have emigrated since 2015 -- and you have the makings of a crisis with no end in sight.

Earlier on Sunday, authorities announced other measures as a result of the electricity shortage.

"To achieve consistency in the provision of electricity, the Bolivarian government decided to maintain the suspension of school activities and establish a workday until 2:00 pm in public and private institutions," Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez said on state television.

With no electricity, pumping stations can't work so water service is limited. Street lights and traffic lights go dark, pumps at fuel stations stand idle, and cell phone and internet service is non-existent.

"This is going to continue, the situation is very serious, there will be more blackouts and rationing," said Winton Cabas, president of the Venezuelan association of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering.

"The whole power grid is barely generating between 5,500 and 6,000 megawatts, when it has the capacity to generate 34,000 megawatts," he told AFP.

Who is responsible?

The Maduro government has blamed "terrorists" for alleged attacks that have damaged the Guri hydroelectric power plant, which generates 80 percent of Venezuela's electricity.

The Guri plant, however, was already showing signs of trouble: back in 2010, then-president Hugo Chavez said that electricity would be rationed in some Venezuelan states because water was low at the Guri dam due to a drought.

Jose Aguilar, a Venezuelan consultant living in the United States, says that the problems with the power grid run deep.

"Over the past 20 years, the infrastructure has been abused due to a lack of maintenance and the postponing of upgrade plans," he told AFP.

Add to that the "de-professionalization" of the sector after Chavez nationalized the privately-run power company in 2007, which led to pro-government loyalists taking positions as managers and engineers.

The blackouts have worsened the dire economic and living conditions in a country that is witnessing a political showdown between Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, recognized as interim president by the United States and some 50 other countries.

Spreading protests

Demonstrations by Venezuelans angry about the blackouts broke out Sunday in Caracas. Some demos, according to protesters and human rights NGOs, were attacked by "colectivos" -- pro-government enforcers that the opposition describe as armed paramilitary thugs.

Maduro has given the "colectivos" a green light to contain protests that he describes as violent mobs aiming to oust him from power.

Joaquin Rodriguez, a 54-year-old lawyer, was among the protesters gathered in Los Palos Grandes, a once-prosperous neighborhood that has endured blackouts for more than a decade.

"Once again a nationwide blackout is affecting our quality of life," he told AFP.&nbsp;

"We don't have water, we don't have any light, we don't have internet access, our phones don't work... we are even worse off than we could have imagined."

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro announced 30 days of electricity rationing on Sunday after his government said it was reducing the length of the workday and keeping schools closed due to devastating blackouts plaguing the country.

Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro announced 30 days of electricity rationing on Sunday after his government said it was reducing the length of the workday and keeping schools closed due to devastating blackouts plaguing the country. The measures are a stark admission by the government -- which has sought to blame repeated blackouts in March on sabotage -- that there is not enough electricity to go around, and that the power crisis is here to stay. Speaking on state television, Maduro said he had approved "a 30-day plan" to ration power, "with an emphasis on guaranteeing water service." Crippled infrastructure, little investment in the power grid and poor maintenance have all contributed to the electricity problem. Add to that the country's economic deep crisis, eye-popping inflation rate and the "brain drain" of qualified personnel -- some 25,000 people in the electricity sector have left the country, part of the 2.7 million Venezuelans who have emigrated since 2015 -- and you have the makings of a crisis with no end in sight. Earlier on Sunday, authorities announced other measures as a result of the electricity shortage. "To achieve consistency in the provision of electricity, the Bolivarian government decided to maintain the suspension of school activities and establish a workday until 2:00 pm in public and private institutions," Communications Minister Jorge Rodriguez said on state television. With no electricity, pumping stations can't work so water service is limited. Street lights and traffic lights go dark, pumps at fuel stations stand idle, and cell phone and internet service is non-existent. "This is going to continue, the situation is very serious, there will be more blackouts and rationing," said Winton Cabas, president of the Venezuelan association of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering. "The whole power grid is barely generating between 5,500 and 6,000 megawatts, when it has the capacity to generate 34,000 megawatts," he told AFP. Who is responsible? The Maduro government has blamed "terrorists" for alleged attacks that have damaged the Guri hydroelectric power plant, which generates 80 percent of Venezuela's electricity. The Guri plant, however, was already showing signs of trouble: back in 2010, then-president Hugo Chavez said that electricity would be rationed in some Venezuelan states because water was low at the Guri dam due to a drought. Jose Aguilar, a Venezuelan consultant living in the United States, says that the problems with the power grid run deep. "Over the past 20 years, the infrastructure has been abused due to a lack of maintenance and the postponing of upgrade plans," he told AFP. Add to that the "de-professionalization" of the sector after Chavez nationalized the privately-run power company in 2007, which led to pro-government loyalists taking positions as managers and engineers. The blackouts have worsened the dire economic and living conditions in a country that is witnessing a political showdown between Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, recognized as interim president by the United States and some 50 other countries. Spreading protests Demonstrations by Venezuelans angry about the blackouts broke out Sunday in Caracas. Some demos, according to protesters and human rights NGOs, were attacked by "colectivos" -- pro-government enforcers that the opposition describe as armed paramilitary thugs. Maduro has given the "colectivos" a green light to contain protests that he describes as violent mobs aiming to oust him from power. Joaquin Rodriguez, a 54-year-old lawyer, was among the protesters gathered in Los Palos Grandes, a once-prosperous neighborhood that has endured blackouts for more than a decade. "Once again a nationwide blackout is affecting our quality of life," he told AFP. "We don't have water, we don't have any light, we don't have internet access, our phones don't work... we are even worse off than we could have imagined."

Nicolas Maduro announces 30 days of electricity rationing in Venezuela

There has been a considerable amount of cooperation from India on the US efforts to restrict the export of Venezuelan oil, a top American diplomat said Friday as the Trump administration tightened its noose over the authoritarian regime of the Latin American country.

"I would say that we have had contacts with Indian companies and with the government of India and that we have found there to be a very considerable amount of cooperation, which we are very happy to see," US Special Representative for Venezuela Elliott Abrams told reporters at a news conference.

The Trump administration has recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as oil-rich country's interim leader against President Nicolas Maduro.

As part of its effort to squeeze the Maduro regime, the US had asked countries, including India, across the world to stop importing oil from Venezuela or face American sanctions.

Several Indian companies have stopped importing oil from the country.

In recent weeks, the Trump administration has appreciated Indian cooperation in this regard.&nbsp;

Early this month, the Venezuelan Oil Ministry had said that it has suspended the export of oil to India.

There has been a considerable amount of cooperation from India on the US efforts to restrict the export of Venezuelan oil, a top American diplomat said Friday as the Trump administration tightened its noose over the authoritarian regime of the Latin American country.

There has been a considerable amount of cooperation from India on the US efforts to restrict the export of Venezuelan oil, a top American diplomat said Friday as the Trump administration tightened its noose over the authoritarian regime of the Latin American country. "I would say that we have had contacts with Indian companies and with the government of India and that we have found there to be a very considerable amount of cooperation, which we are very happy to see," US Special Representative for Venezuela Elliott Abrams told reporters at a news conference. The Trump administration has recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as oil-rich country's interim leader against President Nicolas Maduro. As part of its effort to squeeze the Maduro regime, the US had asked countries, including India, across the world to stop importing oil from Venezuela or face American sanctions. Several Indian companies have stopped importing oil from the country. In recent weeks, the Trump administration has appreciated Indian cooperation in this regard. Early this month, the Venezuelan Oil Ministry had said that it has suspended the export of oil to India.

Considerable amount of cooperation from India on US efforts to restrict Venezuela oil export: US

A new blackout hit Caracas and other major Venezuelan cities on Friday, the third major electricity outage in the crisis-plagued country this month.

The blackout began around 7:10 pm (2310 GMT), leaving the capital as well as cities including Maracaibo, Valencia, Maracay and San Cristobal without electricity, according to users on social media networks.

It is the third time since March 7 that a major power outage has hit Venezuela -- worsening the already-dire economic and living conditions in a country that is witnessing a major political showdown between President Nicolas Maduro and opposition chief Juan Guaido.

Maduro has blamed the previous outages on sabotage, but experts have said that infrastructure crumbling from years of neglect is a more likely culprit than outside interference.

Earlier on Friday, the Red Cross said it would begin impartially distributing aid in Venezuela in two weeks, brushing aside the threat of political interference amid the Maduro-Guaido power struggle.

Malnutrition and disease are on the rise as living conditions plummet in the oil-producing Latin American nation, which is spiralling ever deeper into economic chaos during a protracted political crisis.

"We estimate that in a period of approximately 15 days we will be ready to offer help," said Francesco Rocca, head of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent.

The United States -- which considers Guaido interim president along with some 50 other countries -- welcomed the announcement as a "real opportunity."

Rocca told reporters in Caracas the organization would begin distributing aid mid-April, including tons of mostly US food and medical supplies that Maduro has to date refused to allow into the country -- leaving it stockpiled for weeks on the borders with Colombia and Brazil.

The Red Cross -- aiming to reach 650,000 people initially -- would act according to its principles of "impartiality, neutrality and independence," he said, "without accepting interference from anyone."

'Victory over sanctions'

Meanwhile, in a boost to Maduro, a Chinese plane loaded with 65 tons of medical aid landed in Caracas on Friday. His government celebrated it as a victory over US sanctions, which the socialist leader blames for the economic crisis.

Though unpopular, Maduro has the upper hand at home, thanks to loyalty from his military chiefs and, since last weekend, the presence of 100 Russian troops.

The Russian deployment to Venezuela has drawn fire from Washington, but Caracas' defence minister said Friday that "no one should be alarmed" by their presence.

"We are overcoming the purported siege, the blockade, which has been undertaken by President Trump and the diabolical puppet from here in Venezuela," said vice-president Tareck El Aissami, referring to Guaido.

El Aissami, on the tarmac to meet the Chinese plane, said the medical supplies were the "first cargo of several that start from this moment."&nbsp;

It includes analgesics, surgical equipment and medicine for diseases such as diabetes.

China's ambassador Li Baorong said the delivery was part of previous "cooperation agreements" with Venezuela.

Speaking at a news conference in Caracas, Rocca said agreements had been put in place to guarantee aid distribution, but declined to give details.&nbsp;

In Washington, Elliott Abrams, the envoy heading the US effort to oust Maduro, praised the Red Cross initiative and credited appeals by Guaido.&nbsp;

"This looks like a real opportunity, and we think that it is a response to the efforts that interim President Guaido has been making," Abrams told reporters in Washington.

"So it's very welcome, we hope it works, and -- assuming that it does, which we do -- the United States would be happy to put some of our aid into this method of reaching the Venezuelan people," he said.

Maduro ordered the border closed to keep out the aid, thwarting a high-profile February 23 operation orchestrated by Guaido to bring badly needed food and medical supplies into the country where the UN says seven million people are in dire need.&nbsp;

At least seven people were killed and dozens injured in subsequent rioting at the border.

Seven million in dire need

The socialist leader said aid would be a precursor to a US military incursion.

"That was an issue that was very politicized," said Rocca. "If that help complies with our rules and our protocols, of course, we are willing to distribute it."

About 24 per cent of Venezuela's population -- seven million people -- are in dire need of humanitarian aid, according to an internal UN report that showed malnutrition and disease were on the rise as living conditions plummet.

Abrams nonetheless said the Red Cross assistance was no substitute for toppling Maduro.

"The kind of aid that is needed for a broad recovery of the Venezuelan economy really cannot be put in place until the regime is replaced by democratic government," Abrams said.

A new blackout hit Caracas and other major Venezuelan cities on Friday, the third major electricity outage in the crisis-plagued country this month. The blackout began around 7:10 pm (2310 GMT), leaving the capital as well as cities including Maracaibo, Valencia, Maracay and San Cristobal without electricity, according to users on social media networks.

A new blackout hit Caracas and other major Venezuelan cities on Friday, the third major electricity outage in the crisis-plagued country this month. The blackout began around 7:10 pm (2310 GMT), leaving the capital as well as cities including Maracaibo, Valencia, Maracay and San Cristobal without electricity, according to users on social media networks. It is the third time since March 7 that a major power outage has hit Venezuela -- worsening the already-dire economic and living conditions in a country that is witnessing a major political showdown between President Nicolas Maduro and opposition chief Juan Guaido. Maduro has blamed the previous outages on sabotage, but experts have said that infrastructure crumbling from years of neglect is a more likely culprit than outside interference. Earlier on Friday, the Red Cross said it would begin impartially distributing aid in Venezuela in two weeks, brushing aside the threat of political interference amid the Maduro-Guaido power struggle. Malnutrition and disease are on the rise as living conditions plummet in the oil-producing Latin American nation, which is spiralling ever deeper into economic chaos during a protracted political crisis. "We estimate that in a period of approximately 15 days we will be ready to offer help," said Francesco Rocca, head of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent. The United States -- which considers Guaido interim president along with some 50 other countries -- welcomed the announcement as a "real opportunity." Rocca told reporters in Caracas the organization would begin distributing aid mid-April, including tons of mostly US food and medical supplies that Maduro has to date refused to allow into the country -- leaving it stockpiled for weeks on the borders with Colombia and Brazil. The Red Cross -- aiming to reach 650,000 people initially -- would act according to its principles of "impartiality, neutrality and independence," he said, "without accepting interference from anyone." 'Victory over sanctions' Meanwhile, in a boost to Maduro, a Chinese plane loaded with 65 tons of medical aid landed in Caracas on Friday. His government celebrated it as a victory over US sanctions, which the socialist leader blames for the economic crisis. Though unpopular, Maduro has the upper hand at home, thanks to loyalty from his military chiefs and, since last weekend, the presence of 100 Russian troops. The Russian deployment to Venezuela has drawn fire from Washington, but Caracas' defence minister said Friday that "no one should be alarmed" by their presence. "We are overcoming the purported siege, the blockade, which has been undertaken by President Trump and the diabolical puppet from here in Venezuela," said vice-president Tareck El Aissami, referring to Guaido. El Aissami, on the tarmac to meet the Chinese plane, said the medical supplies were the "first cargo of several that start from this moment." It includes analgesics, surgical equipment and medicine for diseases such as diabetes. China's ambassador Li Baorong said the delivery was part of previous "cooperation agreements" with Venezuela. Speaking at a news conference in Caracas, Rocca said agreements had been put in place to guarantee aid distribution, but declined to give details. In Washington, Elliott Abrams, the envoy heading the US effort to oust Maduro, praised the Red Cross initiative and credited appeals by Guaido. "This looks like a real opportunity, and we think that it is a response to the efforts that interim President Guaido has been making," Abrams told reporters in Washington. "So it's very welcome, we hope it works, and -- assuming that it does, which we do -- the United States would be happy to put some of our aid into this method of reaching the Venezuelan people," he said. Maduro ordered the border closed to keep out the aid, thwarting a high-profile February 23 operation orchestrated by Guaido to bring badly needed food and medical supplies into the country where the UN says seven million people are in dire need. At least seven people were killed and dozens injured in subsequent rioting at the border. Seven million in dire need The socialist leader said aid would be a precursor to a US military incursion. "That was an issue that was very politicized," said Rocca. "If that help complies with our rules and our protocols, of course, we are willing to distribute it." About 24 per cent of Venezuela's population -- seven million people -- are in dire need of humanitarian aid, according to an internal UN report that showed malnutrition and disease were on the rise as living conditions plummet. Abrams nonetheless said the Red Cross assistance was no substitute for toppling Maduro. "The kind of aid that is needed for a broad recovery of the Venezuelan economy really cannot be put in place until the regime is replaced by democratic government," Abrams said.

Caracas and other major Venezuelan cities hit by new blackout

Venezuela faces second major blackout this month

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 25, 2019

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov Monday accused the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-urges-moscow-in-phone-call-to-cease-unconstructive-behavior-in-venezuela-205580">United States of plotting a "coup" against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a>, in a dispute over Russian military assistance for the crisis-hit country.

Lavrov said in a statement he had complained of "attempts by Washington to organise a coup d'etat in Venezuela" during a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The statement said such moves "constitute violations of the UN charter and undisguised interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state".

Pompeo earlier warned Russia that the United States will not "stand idly by" as Moscow inserts military personnel into Venezuela to support Maduro, a State Department statement said.

Russian state news agency Sputnik reported Sunday that two Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to Venezuela over the weekend.

Lavrov did not comment on that report.

Pompeo said Russian military reinforcements were prolonging the political crisis in the South American country.

Venezuela is rich in oil but has plunged into economic crisis, suffering hyperinflation and shortages of food and basic goods.

Washington and its allies support Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido and recognise his claim to be acting president in defiance of Maduro.

Socialist leader Maduro retains the support of Russia and China, US rivals who have offered him political and economic support.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov Monday accused the United States of plotting a "coup" against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in a dispute over Russian military assistance for the crisis-hit country.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov Monday accused the United States of plotting a "coup" against Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, in a dispute over Russian military assistance for the crisis-hit country. Lavrov said in a statement he had complained of "attempts by Washington to organise a coup d'etat in Venezuela" during a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The statement said such moves "constitute violations of the UN charter and undisguised interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state". Pompeo earlier warned Russia that the United States will not "stand idly by" as Moscow inserts military personnel into Venezuela to support Maduro, a State Department statement said. Russian state news agency Sputnik reported Sunday that two Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to Venezuela over the weekend. Lavrov did not comment on that report. Pompeo said Russian military reinforcements were prolonging the political crisis in the South American country. Venezuela is rich in oil but has plunged into economic crisis, suffering hyperinflation and shortages of food and basic goods. Washington and its allies support Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido and recognise his claim to be acting president in defiance of Maduro. Socialist leader Maduro retains the support of Russia and China, US rivals who have offered him political and economic support.

Russia accuses US of plotting 'coup' in Venezuela

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called on Russia to "cease its unconstructive behaviour" by supporting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during a phone call with his Russian counterpart, the State Department said on Monday.

Spokesman Robert Palladino said Pompeo had spoken to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov about Venezuela on Monday.

"The secretary told Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov that the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela," Palladino said in a statement.

The call appears to have been prompted by reports of the arrival on Sunday in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, of two Russian air force planes carrying a Russian defence official and nearly 100 troops, amid strengthening ties between Caracas and Moscow.

The State Department statement did not refer to the arrival of the Russian passenger jet and a military cargo plane, although it condemned Russian military support for the "illegitimate regime of Nicolas Maduro."&nbsp;

Russia has warned the United States and neighbours against military intervention in Venezuela.

During the call with Lavrov, Pompeo urged Moscow to join the United States and regional countries in backing opposition leader Juan Guaido.

The Trump administration has imposed crippling sanctions on the OPEC nation's oil industry. On Friday it sanctioned its development bank, Bandes, in efforts to choke off financial flows to Maduro's government and called on Venezuelan military leaders to abandon him.

Maduro has denounced the sanctions as US intervention and has won diplomatic backing from Russia, China and Cuba.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called on Russia to "cease its unconstructive behaviour" by supporting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during a phone call with his Russian counterpart, the State Department said on Monday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called on Russia to "cease its unconstructive behaviour" by supporting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro during a phone call with his Russian counterpart, the State Department said on Monday. Spokesman Robert Palladino said Pompeo had spoken to Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov about Venezuela on Monday. "The secretary told Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov that the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela," Palladino said in a statement. The call appears to have been prompted by reports of the arrival on Sunday in the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, of two Russian air force planes carrying a Russian defence official and nearly 100 troops, amid strengthening ties between Caracas and Moscow. The State Department statement did not refer to the arrival of the Russian passenger jet and a military cargo plane, although it condemned Russian military support for the "illegitimate regime of Nicolas Maduro." Russia has warned the United States and neighbours against military intervention in Venezuela. During the call with Lavrov, Pompeo urged Moscow to join the United States and regional countries in backing opposition leader Juan Guaido. The Trump administration has imposed crippling sanctions on the OPEC nation's oil industry. On Friday it sanctioned its development bank, Bandes, in efforts to choke off financial flows to Maduro's government and called on Venezuelan military leaders to abandon him. Maduro has denounced the sanctions as US intervention and has won diplomatic backing from Russia, China and Cuba.

Pompeo urges Moscow in phone call to cease 'unconstructive behaviour' in Venezuela

Venezuelan intelligence officers Thursday arrested the chief of staff of Juan Guaido, the opposition leader recognized by the US and other countries as interim leader, Guaido and the opposition-ruled congress said on Twitter.

Roberto Marrero was grabbed by SEBIN officers when they staged a pre-dawn raid on his Caracas home, according to Guaido and a recorded voice message by Marrero published on social media.

The United States has repeatedly warned Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government against arresting Guaido or his aides, and Washington's Secretary of State Mike Pompeo quickly called for Marrero's release.

"They have grabbed Roberto Marrero, my chief of staff. He yelled out that they planted two rifles and a grenade," Guaido tweeted. "The raid happened at around 2:00 am (0600 GMT). We don't know his whereabouts. He must be released immediately."

Maduro and Guaido both claim to be legitimate leader of Venezuela.&nbsp;

Maduro, 56, retains the loyalty of military brass and has control of state apparatus.&nbsp;

Guaido, 35, declared himself interim president on January 23 and has the backing of the US and more than 50 other countries, mostly in Latin America and the US.

"The United States condemns raids by Maduro's security services and detention of Roberto Marrero, Chief of Staff to Interim President @jguaido. We call for his immediate release. We will hold accountable those involved," Pompeo said on Twitter.

US President Donald Trump has said, as recently as Tuesday, that "all options" remain on the table in his drive to bring down Maduro, implying military action if he deemed it necessary.

So far, however, the power struggle in Venezuela has become bogged down in an impasse, with Maduro railing daily about the US "imperialists" trying to dislodge him and Guaido touring the country to rally supporters and pledge he'll be taking over "very soon."

'Ransacked' home

Maduro's forces have reinforced obstacles blocking a border bridge linking Venezuela and Colombia to prevent Guaido's supporter's trucking in US aid stockpiled on the other side. Extra shipping containers and concrete blocks have been moved into place on the bridge.

As well as seizing Marrero early Thursday, SEBIN officers raided the next-door home of an opposition lawmaker, Sergio Vergara, the opposition-ruled congress -- the National Assembly -- tweeted.

Vergara was not arrested. He told reporters that he saw Marrero bundled off into the street.

He said around 15 SEBIN officers "ransacked" his own home for around two hours while asking where to find Marrero, a lawyer who works in the National Assembly.

"They started to bash on the door of Roberto Marrero's place, which is a few meters (yards) from my door until they were able to get inside," he said.

"The dictatorship is abducting citizens," he added.

US warning

The United States has cautioned Maduro to not lay a finger on Guaido or National Assembly deputies or risk unspecified repercussions.&nbsp;

Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton in January tweeted: "Any violence and intimidation against US diplomatic personnel, Venezuela's democratic leader, Juan Guaido, or the National Assembly itself would represent a grave assault on the rule of law and will be met with a significant response."

The United States has since withdrawn all its diplomats from Venezuela.

In just over a month, on April 28, increasingly harsh US sanctions on Venezuela will jump up a critical level with a ban on all oil sales to the United States, Venezuela's main crude buyer.

The step is expected to worsen already dire economic conditions ravaging Venezuela, a once-wealthy South American nation that has become impoverished under Maduro. 
&nbsp;

Venezuelan intelligence officers Thursday arrested the chief of staff of Juan Guaido, the opposition leader recognized by the US and other countries as interim leader, Guaido and the opposition-ruled congress said on Twitter.

Venezuelan intelligence officers Thursday arrested the chief of staff of Juan Guaido, the opposition leader recognized by the US and other countries as interim leader, Guaido and the opposition-ruled congress said on Twitter. Roberto Marrero was grabbed by SEBIN officers when they staged a pre-dawn raid on his Caracas home, according to Guaido and a recorded voice message by Marrero published on social media. The United States has repeatedly warned Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government against arresting Guaido or his aides, and Washington's Secretary of State Mike Pompeo quickly called for Marrero's release. "They have grabbed Roberto Marrero, my chief of staff. He yelled out that they planted two rifles and a grenade," Guaido tweeted. "The raid happened at around 2:00 am (0600 GMT). We don't know his whereabouts. He must be released immediately." Maduro and Guaido both claim to be legitimate leader of Venezuela. Maduro, 56, retains the loyalty of military brass and has control of state apparatus. Guaido, 35, declared himself interim president on January 23 and has the backing of the US and more than 50 other countries, mostly in Latin America and the US. "The United States condemns raids by Maduro's security services and detention of Roberto Marrero, Chief of Staff to Interim President @jguaido. We call for his immediate release. We will hold accountable those involved," Pompeo said on Twitter. US President Donald Trump has said, as recently as Tuesday, that "all options" remain on the table in his drive to bring down Maduro, implying military action if he deemed it necessary. So far, however, the power struggle in Venezuela has become bogged down in an impasse, with Maduro railing daily about the US "imperialists" trying to dislodge him and Guaido touring the country to rally supporters and pledge he'll be taking over "very soon." 'Ransacked' home Maduro's forces have reinforced obstacles blocking a border bridge linking Venezuela and Colombia to prevent Guaido's supporter's trucking in US aid stockpiled on the other side. Extra shipping containers and concrete blocks have been moved into place on the bridge. As well as seizing Marrero early Thursday, SEBIN officers raided the next-door home of an opposition lawmaker, Sergio Vergara, the opposition-ruled congress -- the National Assembly -- tweeted. Vergara was not arrested. He told reporters that he saw Marrero bundled off into the street. He said around 15 SEBIN officers "ransacked" his own home for around two hours while asking where to find Marrero, a lawyer who works in the National Assembly. "They started to bash on the door of Roberto Marrero's place, which is a few meters (yards) from my door until they were able to get inside," he said. "The dictatorship is abducting citizens," he added. US warning The United States has cautioned Maduro to not lay a finger on Guaido or National Assembly deputies or risk unspecified repercussions. Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton in January tweeted: "Any violence and intimidation against US diplomatic personnel, Venezuela's democratic leader, Juan Guaido, or the National Assembly itself would represent a grave assault on the rule of law and will be met with a significant response." The United States has since withdrawn all its diplomats from Venezuela. In just over a month, on April 28, increasingly harsh US sanctions on Venezuela will jump up a critical level with a ban on all oil sales to the United States, Venezuela's main crude buyer. The step is expected to worsen already dire economic conditions ravaging Venezuela, a once-wealthy South American nation that has become impoverished under Maduro.

Chief of staff to Venezuela's Guaido arrested

Venezuela ordered American diplomats to leave the country within 72 hours on Tuesday after President Nicolas Maduro accused US counterpart Donald Trump of cyber "sabotage" that plunged the OPEC nation into its worst blackout on record.

Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said US diplomats on Venezuelan soil must leave within three days, after talks broke down over maintaining diplomatic "interest sections" in the two countries.

"The presence on Venezuelan soil of these officials represents a risk for the peace, unity and stability of the country," the government said in a statement.

The US State Department had announced on Monday it will withdraw its staff from Venezuela this week, saying their presence had become "a constraint on U.S. policy."

Washington has taken the lead in recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president after the 35-year-old Congress chief announced an interim presidency in January after declaring Maduro's 2018 re-election a fraud. Most countries in Europe and Latin America have followed suit.

Maduro, who retains control of the military and other state institutions as well as the backing of Russia and China, has denounced Guaido as a puppet of the United States.

Julio Castro, of nongovernmental organization Doctors for Health, said on Twitter on Monday night that 24 people have died in public hospitals since the start of the blackout.

With the blackout in its sixth day, hospitals struggled to keep equipment running, food rotted in the tropical heat and exports from the country's main oil terminal were shut down.

Venezuela's opposition-controlled Congress on Monday declared a symbolic "state of alarm" on Monday.

Power returned to many parts of the country on Tuesday, including some areas that had not had electricity since last Thursday, according to witnesses and social media.

But power was still out in parts of the capital of Caracas and the western region near the border with Colombia.

'Trump most responsible'

Maduro blamed Washington for organising what he said was a sophisticated cyber attack on Venezuela's hydroelectric power operations.

"Donald Trump is most responsible for the cyber attack on the Venezuelan electricity system," Maduro said in a broadcast from the Miraflores presidential palace on Monday night.

"This is a technology that only the government of the United States possesses."

Maduro, elected in 2013 following the death of his political mentor Hugo Chavez, officially broke diplomatic relations with the United States on Jan. 23 when it recognized Guaido. Washington evacuated most of its diplomatic staff two days later.

The blackout was likely caused by a technical problem with transmission lines linking the Guri hydroelectric plant in southeastern Venezuela to the national power grid, experts told Reuters.

Venezuela's electricity network has suffered from years of underinvestment and lack of maintenance. With the economy in a tailspin, spare parts are scarce while many skilled technical staff have fled the country amid an exodus of more than three million Venezuelans in three years.

The government suspended schools and business activities on Tuesday for two more days, after doing so on Friday and Monday.

Guaido planned to lead national protests over the blackout in Caracas on Tuesday afternoon.

"With ourneighbourss and relatives, we will protest in the streets and avenues closest to each other's home to claim our rights," Guaido said on Twitter on Tuesday.

Amid signs of a crackdown on media, the National Press Workers' Union said that prominent radio journalist Luis Carlos Diaz was arrested on Monday by intelligence agents at his home in Caracas.

The Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Venezuelan authorities briefly detained American journalist Cody Weddle last week before ordering him to leave the country. 
&nbsp;

Venezuela ordered American diplomats to leave the country within 72 hours on Tuesday after President Nicolas Maduro accused US counterpart Donald Trump of cyber "sabotage" that plunged the OPEC nation into its worst blackout on record.

Venezuela ordered American diplomats to leave the country within 72 hours on Tuesday after President Nicolas Maduro accused US counterpart Donald Trump of cyber "sabotage" that plunged the OPEC nation into its worst blackout on record. Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza said US diplomats on Venezuelan soil must leave within three days, after talks broke down over maintaining diplomatic "interest sections" in the two countries. "The presence on Venezuelan soil of these officials represents a risk for the peace, unity and stability of the country," the government said in a statement. The US State Department had announced on Monday it will withdraw its staff from Venezuela this week, saying their presence had become "a constraint on U.S. policy." Washington has taken the lead in recognizing opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president after the 35-year-old Congress chief announced an interim presidency in January after declaring Maduro's 2018 re-election a fraud. Most countries in Europe and Latin America have followed suit. Maduro, who retains control of the military and other state institutions as well as the backing of Russia and China, has denounced Guaido as a puppet of the United States. Julio Castro, of nongovernmental organization Doctors for Health, said on Twitter on Monday night that 24 people have died in public hospitals since the start of the blackout. With the blackout in its sixth day, hospitals struggled to keep equipment running, food rotted in the tropical heat and exports from the country's main oil terminal were shut down. Venezuela's opposition-controlled Congress on Monday declared a symbolic "state of alarm" on Monday. Power returned to many parts of the country on Tuesday, including some areas that had not had electricity since last Thursday, according to witnesses and social media. But power was still out in parts of the capital of Caracas and the western region near the border with Colombia. 'Trump most responsible' Maduro blamed Washington for organising what he said was a sophisticated cyber attack on Venezuela's hydroelectric power operations. "Donald Trump is most responsible for the cyber attack on the Venezuelan electricity system," Maduro said in a broadcast from the Miraflores presidential palace on Monday night. "This is a technology that only the government of the United States possesses." Maduro, elected in 2013 following the death of his political mentor Hugo Chavez, officially broke diplomatic relations with the United States on Jan. 23 when it recognized Guaido. Washington evacuated most of its diplomatic staff two days later. The blackout was likely caused by a technical problem with transmission lines linking the Guri hydroelectric plant in southeastern Venezuela to the national power grid, experts told Reuters. Venezuela's electricity network has suffered from years of underinvestment and lack of maintenance. With the economy in a tailspin, spare parts are scarce while many skilled technical staff have fled the country amid an exodus of more than three million Venezuelans in three years. The government suspended schools and business activities on Tuesday for two more days, after doing so on Friday and Monday. Guaido planned to lead national protests over the blackout in Caracas on Tuesday afternoon. "With ourneighbourss and relatives, we will protest in the streets and avenues closest to each other's home to claim our rights," Guaido said on Twitter on Tuesday. Amid signs of a crackdown on media, the National Press Workers' Union said that prominent radio journalist Luis Carlos Diaz was arrested on Monday by intelligence agents at his home in Caracas. The Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Venezuelan authorities briefly detained American journalist Cody Weddle last week before ordering him to leave the country.

Venezuela give US diplomats 72 hours to leave; Nicolas Maduro blames Trump for blackout

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido urged lawmakers Monday to declare a "state of alarm" to pave the way for the delivery of international aid as the country's devastating blackout entered its fifth day.

The current was restored to some areas of the country over the weekend but -- with residents and businesses fearing that refrigerated food will spoil -- service was patchy and power often lasted just a few hours before dropping out again.

Guaido headed an emergency session of the opposition-majority National Assembly to force the issue of a "state of alarm." But even that fell victim to the blackout, as the partly-restored electricity supply failed an hour into the meeting.

"We cannot turn away from this tragedy our country is going through," said the 35-year-old National Assembly leader who in January declared himself interim president, triggering a power struggle in the oil-rich South American country of 30 million.

Businesses and schools remained closed as President Nicolas Maduro extended an order issued when the blackout began on Thursday. In any event, the lack of public transport made travel difficult, even in Caracas.

The situation on the ground was still confused as Maduro battled to restore power and maintain the upper hand in his struggle with Guaido.

A ball of flame flared across the darkened sky over southeastern Caracas in the early hours of the morning when the Humboldt power station erupted in a massive explosion, increasing the chaos in an area where looting was reported on Sunday.

"I felt like I was in a horror movie," said Carolina Molina, who witnessed the blast from her window.&nbsp;

State-owned electricity company Corpoelec declined to comment on the explosion.

The fire that followed the blast was still smouldering by mid-morning. A metal beam holding one of the huge transformers had melted and a permiter wall had been blackened, AFP reporters said.

'State of alarm'

Guaido -- recognised by more than 50 countries as interim president -- has no means to enforce a "state of alarm" as the army, police and civil service remains in Maduro's hands.

But Guaido hopes a declaration by the National Assembly would open the door to foreign intervention in the country in the name of delivering humanitarian aid.

He told supporters at a rally on Saturday he was ready to authorize a foreign miitary intervention. Maduro has shut Venezuela's border to keep out humanitarian aid, dismissing it as a precursor to a US military "invasion".

Maduro, who has blamed the blackout on US "sabotage" of the country's main hydroelectric complex at Guri, said a massive amount of food aid, water and fuel would be distributed on Monday.

He ordered that hospitals -- where patients were languishing without proper treatment, and where at least 15 people reportedly died due to a lack of kidney dialysis treatment -- should be given top priority.

Last month, Maduro used the military to block an opposition bid to bring in more than 250 tons of supplies over land from Colombia and Brazil.

On Sunday, the embattled president -- who has presided over a calamitous economic collapse that has left people in need of basic food and medicine -- vowed not to back down.

"This macabre strategy to bring us to a confrontation will fail," he wrote on Twitter.

Power was restored late Sunday in some areas of the capital Caracas, sparking enthusiastic cheers. But already twice so far, the restoration of electricity has been fleeting.

Guaido has called for more street protests on Monday to pressure Maduro to step down, following up on Saturday's rally.

"You have the right to go into the street, to protest, to demand, because this regime is letting Venezuelans die," he said Sunday, appealing to the armed forces "to stop covering for the dictator."

Electromagnetic attack?

Maduro blames "imperialism" for the country's accumulating woes, and claims the power outage was caused by an electromagnetic attack on the Guri hydroelectric complex, which supplies 80 per cent of Venezuela's electricity.

Guaido dismissed that explanation as "Hollywoodesque." Critics blame the government for failing to maintain the power grid, as did the Lima Group, a primarily Latin American bloc.

For ordinary Venezuelans, the blackout -- the longest in recent memory -- has piled misery upon an already agonizing day-to-day struggle to survive in a country now in economic freefall.

"Every day is worse," said Edward Cazano, a 20-year-old who lives with his mother and three brothers in a poor Caracas neighbourhood called Pinto Salinas.&nbsp;

"We have the worst services in the world: no light, no water, sometimes no gas."

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido urged lawmakers Monday to declare a "state of alarm" to pave the way for the delivery of international aid as the country's devastating blackout entered its fifth day.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido urged lawmakers Monday to declare a "state of alarm" to pave the way for the delivery of international aid as the country's devastating blackout entered its fifth day. The current was restored to some areas of the country over the weekend but -- with residents and businesses fearing that refrigerated food will spoil -- service was patchy and power often lasted just a few hours before dropping out again. Guaido headed an emergency session of the opposition-majority National Assembly to force the issue of a "state of alarm." But even that fell victim to the blackout, as the partly-restored electricity supply failed an hour into the meeting. "We cannot turn away from this tragedy our country is going through," said the 35-year-old National Assembly leader who in January declared himself interim president, triggering a power struggle in the oil-rich South American country of 30 million. Businesses and schools remained closed as President Nicolas Maduro extended an order issued when the blackout began on Thursday. In any event, the lack of public transport made travel difficult, even in Caracas. The situation on the ground was still confused as Maduro battled to restore power and maintain the upper hand in his struggle with Guaido. A ball of flame flared across the darkened sky over southeastern Caracas in the early hours of the morning when the Humboldt power station erupted in a massive explosion, increasing the chaos in an area where looting was reported on Sunday. "I felt like I was in a horror movie," said Carolina Molina, who witnessed the blast from her window. State-owned electricity company Corpoelec declined to comment on the explosion. The fire that followed the blast was still smouldering by mid-morning. A metal beam holding one of the huge transformers had melted and a permiter wall had been blackened, AFP reporters said. 'State of alarm' Guaido -- recognised by more than 50 countries as interim president -- has no means to enforce a "state of alarm" as the army, police and civil service remains in Maduro's hands. But Guaido hopes a declaration by the National Assembly would open the door to foreign intervention in the country in the name of delivering humanitarian aid. He told supporters at a rally on Saturday he was ready to authorize a foreign miitary intervention. Maduro has shut Venezuela's border to keep out humanitarian aid, dismissing it as a precursor to a US military "invasion". Maduro, who has blamed the blackout on US "sabotage" of the country's main hydroelectric complex at Guri, said a massive amount of food aid, water and fuel would be distributed on Monday. He ordered that hospitals -- where patients were languishing without proper treatment, and where at least 15 people reportedly died due to a lack of kidney dialysis treatment -- should be given top priority. Last month, Maduro used the military to block an opposition bid to bring in more than 250 tons of supplies over land from Colombia and Brazil. On Sunday, the embattled president -- who has presided over a calamitous economic collapse that has left people in need of basic food and medicine -- vowed not to back down. "This macabre strategy to bring us to a confrontation will fail," he wrote on Twitter. Power was restored late Sunday in some areas of the capital Caracas, sparking enthusiastic cheers. But already twice so far, the restoration of electricity has been fleeting. Guaido has called for more street protests on Monday to pressure Maduro to step down, following up on Saturday's rally. "You have the right to go into the street, to protest, to demand, because this regime is letting Venezuelans die," he said Sunday, appealing to the armed forces "to stop covering for the dictator." Electromagnetic attack? Maduro blames "imperialism" for the country's accumulating woes, and claims the power outage was caused by an electromagnetic attack on the Guri hydroelectric complex, which supplies 80 per cent of Venezuela's electricity. Guaido dismissed that explanation as "Hollywoodesque." Critics blame the government for failing to maintain the power grid, as did the Lima Group, a primarily Latin American bloc. For ordinary Venezuelans, the blackout -- the longest in recent memory -- has piled misery upon an already agonizing day-to-day struggle to survive in a country now in economic freefall. "Every day is worse," said Edward Cazano, a 20-year-old who lives with his mother and three brothers in a poor Caracas neighbourhood called Pinto Salinas. "We have the worst services in the world: no light, no water, sometimes no gas."

Venezuela still in darkness as Juan Guaido rallies lawmakers

US seeks India's help against Maduro, asks India to stop buying Venezuelan oil

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, 11th March, 2019

Thousands of Venezuelans are expected to protest once again Saturday as opposition leader Juan Guaido cranks up the pressure on beleaguered President Nicolas Maduro -- in the midst of a sweeping electricity blackout that has crippled the crisis-wracked country.&nbsp;

Both Guaido and Maduro, who are locked in a bitter power struggle for the right to lead the oil-rich South American nation, have asked their supporters to fill the streets of Caracas and other cities.

"Tomorrow, I call on the Venezuelan people to make a huge statement in the streets against the usurper, corrupt and incapable regime that has plunged our country into darkness," Guaido wrote on Twitter.

"We return to the streets and we won't leave until we reach the goal," said the 35-year-old National Assembly leader, who is recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's interim president.

Guaido is trying to force out Maduro -- whose re-election in May he deems illegitimate -- in order to set up new elections.

Maduro has meanwhile asked his backers to march on Saturday against "imperialism."

The mounting political pressure comes after one of the worst and longest blackouts in recent memory in Venezuela. It began on Thursday afternoon, paralyzing much of the country.

Power was gradually being restored to large areas of Caracas on Friday afternoon, as well as parts of Miranda state and Vargas, which contains the country's international airport and main port.

But the relief was short-lived as the lights went off again, extending the blackout beyond 24 hours.

As night fell, people banging saucepans could be heard around the capital: a form of popular protest often seen in South America.

Maduro has blamed the blackout on US sabotage and shut down offices and schools on Friday.

Large lines formed at the few gas stations open as people fetched fuel for generators. Some took gas from their cars.

The power "came for one moment and went away again," Antonio Belisario, who had been waiting around an hour for petrol, told AFP.&nbsp;

Crippled public services

Venezuela has suffered more than four years of recession that has seen poverty soar as citizens struggle with food and medicine shortages.

So the blackout came at an already stressful time -- and made matters worse.

The outage had left most of the country in disarray, crippling day-to-day functioning of hospitals and other public services, according to local press reports.

Witnesses described scenes of chaos at several hospitals as people tried to move sick relatives in the dark to clinics with better emergency power facilities.&nbsp;

Marielsi Aray, a patient at the University Hospital in Caracas, died after her respirator stopped working.

"The doctors tried to help her by pumping manually. They did everything they could, but with no electricity, what were they to do?" asked Jose Lugo, her distraught uncle.

Generators at the JM de Rios children's hospital in downtown Caracas failed to kick in when the blackout hit, said Gilbert Altuvez, whose eight-year old son is among the patients.

"The night was terrible. Without light. Total madness," he said.

The putrid odor of rotting flesh hung around the entrance to Caracas' main Bello Monte morgue on Friday where refrigerators had stopped working and worried relatives gathered outside, waiting to be allowed to bury their dead.

- 'Electrical war' - 
The blackout in the capital hit Thursday at 4:50 pm (2050 GMT) -- just before nightfall. Its cause is still unknown.

Thousands of homes in Caracas -- a crime-ridden city of two million people -- were without water. Telephone services and access to the internet were knocked out while the subway system ground to a halt.

The capital's Simon Bolivar international airport was hit, as were others across the country.

Following Maduro's decision to close the borders to keep out humanitarian aid for his people, the country was completely isolated on Friday.

"The electrical war announced and directed by US imperialism against our people will be defeated," Maduro tweeted.

Critics blame the government for failing to invest in maintaining the electrical grid, although the government often blames external factors when the lights go out.

The state power company Corpoelec said there had been sabotage at the Guri hydroelectric plant in Bolivar state, one of the largest in Latin America. It gave no details.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Maduro was wrong to blame the US or any other country for Venezuela's woes.

"Power shortages and starvation are the result of the Maduro regime's incompetence," he tweeted. 
-----------

Thousands of Venezuelans are expected to protest once again Saturday as opposition leader Juan Guaido cranks up the pressure on beleaguered President Nicolas Maduro -- in the midst of a sweeping electricity blackout that has crippled the crisis-wracked country.

Thousands of Venezuelans are expected to protest once again Saturday as opposition leader Juan Guaido cranks up the pressure on beleaguered President Nicolas Maduro -- in the midst of a sweeping electricity blackout that has crippled the crisis-wracked country. Both Guaido and Maduro, who are locked in a bitter power struggle for the right to lead the oil-rich South American nation, have asked their supporters to fill the streets of Caracas and other cities. "Tomorrow, I call on the Venezuelan people to make a huge statement in the streets against the usurper, corrupt and incapable regime that has plunged our country into darkness," Guaido wrote on Twitter. "We return to the streets and we won't leave until we reach the goal," said the 35-year-old National Assembly leader, who is recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's interim president. Guaido is trying to force out Maduro -- whose re-election in May he deems illegitimate -- in order to set up new elections. Maduro has meanwhile asked his backers to march on Saturday against "imperialism." The mounting political pressure comes after one of the worst and longest blackouts in recent memory in Venezuela. It began on Thursday afternoon, paralyzing much of the country. Power was gradually being restored to large areas of Caracas on Friday afternoon, as well as parts of Miranda state and Vargas, which contains the country's international airport and main port. But the relief was short-lived as the lights went off again, extending the blackout beyond 24 hours. As night fell, people banging saucepans could be heard around the capital: a form of popular protest often seen in South America. Maduro has blamed the blackout on US sabotage and shut down offices and schools on Friday. Large lines formed at the few gas stations open as people fetched fuel for generators. Some took gas from their cars. The power "came for one moment and went away again," Antonio Belisario, who had been waiting around an hour for petrol, told AFP. Crippled public services Venezuela has suffered more than four years of recession that has seen poverty soar as citizens struggle with food and medicine shortages. So the blackout came at an already stressful time -- and made matters worse. The outage had left most of the country in disarray, crippling day-to-day functioning of hospitals and other public services, according to local press reports. Witnesses described scenes of chaos at several hospitals as people tried to move sick relatives in the dark to clinics with better emergency power facilities. Marielsi Aray, a patient at the University Hospital in Caracas, died after her respirator stopped working. "The doctors tried to help her by pumping manually. They did everything they could, but with no electricity, what were they to do?" asked Jose Lugo, her distraught uncle. Generators at the JM de Rios children's hospital in downtown Caracas failed to kick in when the blackout hit, said Gilbert Altuvez, whose eight-year old son is among the patients. "The night was terrible. Without light. Total madness," he said. The putrid odor of rotting flesh hung around the entrance to Caracas' main Bello Monte morgue on Friday where refrigerators had stopped working and worried relatives gathered outside, waiting to be allowed to bury their dead. - 'Electrical war' - The blackout in the capital hit Thursday at 4:50 pm (2050 GMT) -- just before nightfall. Its cause is still unknown. Thousands of homes in Caracas -- a crime-ridden city of two million people -- were without water. Telephone services and access to the internet were knocked out while the subway system ground to a halt. The capital's Simon Bolivar international airport was hit, as were others across the country. Following Maduro's decision to close the borders to keep out humanitarian aid for his people, the country was completely isolated on Friday. "The electrical war announced and directed by US imperialism against our people will be defeated," Maduro tweeted. Critics blame the government for failing to invest in maintaining the electrical grid, although the government often blames external factors when the lights go out. The state power company Corpoelec said there had been sabotage at the Guri hydroelectric plant in Bolivar state, one of the largest in Latin America. It gave no details. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Maduro was wrong to blame the US or any other country for Venezuela's woes. "Power shortages and starvation are the result of the Maduro regime's incompetence," he tweeted. -----------

Juan Guaido, Nicolas Maduro rallies set as Venezuela struggles with blackout

Colombia will allow Venezuelans to cross the border using expired passports in view of the difficulty of renewing travel documents in the neighbouring country in the midst of its economic crisis, the migration agency said on Friday.

More than 1.2 million Venezuelans fleeing widespread food and medicine shortages and a complex political crisis have migrated to Colombia in recent years, overtaxing the South American country's already-limited public healthcare, housing and utilities.

Many arrive without visas because they are unable to renew their passports.

Passport renewals in Venezuela are "nearly impossible because of the high cost of the document, because of a lack of primary materials to make them and because of other actions from the Venezuelan side to curb the exit of Venezuelans," said Christian Kruger, the head of Colombia's migration agency.

Venezuelans will now be able to use old passports for up to two years after their expiry date, Kruger said in a statement.

The measure is part of recent agreements made by the Lima Group bloc of nations to give migrants security and prevent them from turning to trafficking gangs in order to cross the border, the statement said.

Most Western nations recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido, and not President Nicolas Maduro, as Venezuela's legitimate leader.

An attempt by Guaido to bring hundreds of tonnes of humanitarian aid into Venezuela was largely stymied last month by Maduro, whose troops blocked convoys of aid trucks, leading to clashes that killed at least six people.

"There is nothing more dangerous for a country than not to know who is within its borders. Shutting the frontier and demanding official documents from a population that is fleeing a dictatorship because of hunger and want only incentivizes irregularities," Kruger said.

Colombia will allow Venezuelans to cross the border using expired passports in view of the difficulty of renewing travel documents in the neighbouring country in the midst of its economic crisis, the migration agency said on Friday.

Colombia will allow Venezuelans to cross the border using expired passports in view of the difficulty of renewing travel documents in the neighbouring country in the midst of its economic crisis, the migration agency said on Friday. More than 1.2 million Venezuelans fleeing widespread food and medicine shortages and a complex political crisis have migrated to Colombia in recent years, overtaxing the South American country's already-limited public healthcare, housing and utilities. Many arrive without visas because they are unable to renew their passports. Passport renewals in Venezuela are "nearly impossible because of the high cost of the document, because of a lack of primary materials to make them and because of other actions from the Venezuelan side to curb the exit of Venezuelans," said Christian Kruger, the head of Colombia's migration agency. Venezuelans will now be able to use old passports for up to two years after their expiry date, Kruger said in a statement. The measure is part of recent agreements made by the Lima Group bloc of nations to give migrants security and prevent them from turning to trafficking gangs in order to cross the border, the statement said. Most Western nations recognize opposition leader Juan Guaido, and not President Nicolas Maduro, as Venezuela's legitimate leader. An attempt by Guaido to bring hundreds of tonnes of humanitarian aid into Venezuela was largely stymied last month by Maduro, whose troops blocked convoys of aid trucks, leading to clashes that killed at least six people. "There is nothing more dangerous for a country than not to know who is within its borders. Shutting the frontier and demanding official documents from a population that is fleeing a dictatorship because of hunger and want only incentivizes irregularities," Kruger said.

Colombia to allow Venezuelans to enter on expired passports

The crisis in Venezuela could have displaced more than five million people by the end of this year if there is no letup in the country's crisis, a report said Friday, comparing the flow with that of Afghanistan and Syria.

The number cited in the report for the Organisation of American States would be roughly double the 2.7 million the United Nations says have left Venezuela since 2015, a mass migration burdening Colombia and other neighbouring countries.

"Without any significant change that could reverse the economic, political and social crisis in Venezuela, the total number of migrants and refugees could reach between 5.39 and 5.75 million by the end of 2019," said the report commissioned by OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro.

Venezuelans are fleeing an economic collapse with shortages of food and medicine alongside rising crime and hyperinflation under President Nicolas Maduro, whose rule is being challenged by National Assembly leader Juan Guaido.

The OAS report was coordinated by Venezuelan opposition politician David Smolansky, with four independent experts.

It stressed that "the magnitude and speed" of the migratory flow of Venezuelans has similarities with other massive migrant crises caused by wars, as in Syria or Afghanistan.

The crisis in Syria, which began in 2011, generated 6.2 million internally displaced people as of August, according to the United Nations.

"The speed of growth in the total number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees is as high as the Syrian crisis in its early years," the report said.

Between 2015 and 2018, it said, at least 3.4 million people fled Venezuela. That represents more than 10 per cent of the country's total population.&nbsp;

The crisis in Venezuela could have displaced more than five million people by the end of this year if there is no letup in the country's crisis, a report said Friday, comparing the flow with that of Afghanistan and Syria.

The crisis in Venezuela could have displaced more than five million people by the end of this year if there is no letup in the country's crisis, a report said Friday, comparing the flow with that of Afghanistan and Syria. The number cited in the report for the Organisation of American States would be roughly double the 2.7 million the United Nations says have left Venezuela since 2015, a mass migration burdening Colombia and other neighbouring countries. "Without any significant change that could reverse the economic, political and social crisis in Venezuela, the total number of migrants and refugees could reach between 5.39 and 5.75 million by the end of 2019," said the report commissioned by OAS Secretary General Luis Almagro. Venezuelans are fleeing an economic collapse with shortages of food and medicine alongside rising crime and hyperinflation under President Nicolas Maduro, whose rule is being challenged by National Assembly leader Juan Guaido. The OAS report was coordinated by Venezuelan opposition politician David Smolansky, with four independent experts. It stressed that "the magnitude and speed" of the migratory flow of Venezuelans has similarities with other massive migrant crises caused by wars, as in Syria or Afghanistan. The crisis in Syria, which began in 2011, generated 6.2 million internally displaced people as of August, according to the United Nations. "The speed of growth in the total number of Venezuelan migrants and refugees is as high as the Syrian crisis in its early years," the report said. Between 2015 and 2018, it said, at least 3.4 million people fled Venezuela. That represents more than 10 per cent of the country's total population.

Over 5 million people could flee Venezuela by year's end: Study

Venezuela Crisis: US to punish foreign entities funding Maduro regime

Sanctions have "exacerbated," the crisis in Venezuela, the UN human rights chief said Wednesday after the United States warned it may expand the measures it has imposed targeting President Nicolas Maduro's government.&nbsp;

In her annual report to the United Nations Human Rights Council, rights chief Michelle Bachelet also levelled tough criticism at Maduro.

"Venezuela clearly illustrates the way violations of civil and political rights – including failure to uphold fundamental freedoms, and the independence of key institutions – can accentuate a decline of economic and social rights," said Bachelet, the former president of Chile.&nbsp;

Venezuelans, battered by an economic meltdown and a major political crisis, are struggling to access basic goods including food and medicine.&nbsp;

"This situation has been exacerbated by sanctions," Bachelet said.&nbsp;

Washington, which has recognized Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as the country's leader, imposed sanctions on Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA last month.&nbsp;

It has also handed Guaido control of Venezuela's bank accounts in the United States.

The US envoy for the crisis in Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, said Tuesday that Washington was weighing more punitive measures to increase the pressure on Maduro.&nbsp;

Washington has not ruled out so-called "secondary sanctions" that could target foreign companies or other states that do business with Maduro's government.

Venezuela is wracked by a humanitarian crisis that has seen poverty soar, with an estimated 2.7 million people leaving the country since 2015.

Sanctions have "exacerbated," the crisis in Venezuela, the UN human rights chief said Wednesday after the United States warned it may expand the measures it has imposed targeting President Nicolas Maduro's government.

Sanctions have "exacerbated," the crisis in Venezuela, the UN human rights chief said Wednesday after the United States warned it may expand the measures it has imposed targeting President Nicolas Maduro's government. In her annual report to the United Nations Human Rights Council, rights chief Michelle Bachelet also levelled tough criticism at Maduro. "Venezuela clearly illustrates the way violations of civil and political rights – including failure to uphold fundamental freedoms, and the independence of key institutions – can accentuate a decline of economic and social rights," said Bachelet, the former president of Chile. Venezuelans, battered by an economic meltdown and a major political crisis, are struggling to access basic goods including food and medicine. "This situation has been exacerbated by sanctions," Bachelet said. Washington, which has recognized Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as the country's leader, imposed sanctions on Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA last month. It has also handed Guaido control of Venezuela's bank accounts in the United States. The US envoy for the crisis in Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, said Tuesday that Washington was weighing more punitive measures to increase the pressure on Maduro. Washington has not ruled out so-called "secondary sanctions" that could target foreign companies or other states that do business with Maduro's government. Venezuela is wracked by a humanitarian crisis that has seen poverty soar, with an estimated 2.7 million people leaving the country since 2015.

UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet says sanctions have worsened Venezuela crisis

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido vowed Tuesday to step up the pressure on President Nicolas Maduro as he offered his backing to a potential public sector strike.

The 35-year-old <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opposition-leader-guaido-calls-for-mass-protests-ahead-of-return-to-venezuela-monday-200975">National Assembly leader returned home to a hero's welcome on Monday</a>, having defied a ban on leaving the country to embark on a 10-day tour of South American allies and remains free after returning despite the threat of arrest by the government.

"They're drowning in contradictions, they don't know how to respond to Venezuela's people," Guaido told reporters. "They thought the pressure had reached its zenith, but it's only just beginning."

On Tuesday, a national holiday, he met public sector union leaders.

"Public sector workers have lost practically all their rights, we have no other option but to call for a civic strike," said Guaido, without giving further details.

Battered by an economic meltdown, Venezuela descended into a major political crisis when Guaido declared himself interim president in January and asserted that Maduro was no longer legitimate.

Recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's acting president, Guaido flouted a government travel ban on February 22 to head off and rally support for his bid to oust Maduro.

When he returned to Caracas -- his latest challenge to Maduro's authority -- Guaido announced to tens of thousands of supporters a new demonstration on Saturday.

Guaido has vowed to set up a transitional government and hold new elections.

On Tuesday, US envoy Elliott Abrams said that given Maduro's low popularity, it would be "a gift" if he decided to run in fresh polls.

"That's ultimately a decision for Venezuelans to make," Abrams said.

'Paralysed public administration'

As part of his challenge to Maduro, Guaido is attempting to take control of the state bureaucracy, which he considers having been "kidnapped" through blackmail and persecution.

Unions from the oil industry, basic services, the public bank and local government took part in Tuesday's meeting, union leader Ana Yanez told AFP.

"The public administration is practically paralysed. In the town halls, people only go to work three days a week and even then barely half the day," said Yanez.

Maduro finally made an appearance in the late afternoon to lead a military parade paying tribute to his predecessor Hugo Chavez on the sixth anniversary of the socialist firebrand's death.

Standing in front of Chavez's mausoleum, Maduro also called on his supporters to take to the streets on Saturday, to mark "four years since" then-US president Barack Obama first announced sanctions against the socialist government.

Maduro has done this before, calling his own counter-demonstration every time Guaido announces a protest.

Both attract thousands of supporters, but the opposition gatherings usually have the edge in numbers.

Maduro had been active on Twitter earlier in the day, again paying tribute to Chavez.

"Thanks to your teachings and your example we're continuing the permanent fight against those who tried so many times to extinguish your voice," wrote Maduro.

During his travels, Guaido met US Vice President Mike Pence and the leaders of Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Chile and Ecuador.

He crossed into Colombia on February 23 to lead a bid to bring in humanitarian aid stockpiled near the border, but the move was blocked by the military and security forces in a day of chaos and bloodshed.

Venezuela is wracked by a humanitarian crisis that has seen poverty soar, with an estimated 2.7 million people leaving the country since 2015.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido vowed Tuesday to step up the pressure on President Nicolas Maduro as he offered his backing to a potential public sector strike.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido vowed Tuesday to step up the pressure on President Nicolas Maduro as he offered his backing to a potential public sector strike. The 35-year-old National Assembly leader returned home to a hero's welcome on Monday, having defied a ban on leaving the country to embark on a 10-day tour of South American allies and remains free after returning despite the threat of arrest by the government. "They're drowning in contradictions, they don't know how to respond to Venezuela's people," Guaido told reporters. "They thought the pressure had reached its zenith, but it's only just beginning." On Tuesday, a national holiday, he met public sector union leaders. "Public sector workers have lost practically all their rights, we have no other option but to call for a civic strike," said Guaido, without giving further details. Battered by an economic meltdown, Venezuela descended into a major political crisis when Guaido declared himself interim president in January and asserted that Maduro was no longer legitimate. Recognized by more than 50 countries as Venezuela's acting president, Guaido flouted a government travel ban on February 22 to head off and rally support for his bid to oust Maduro. When he returned to Caracas -- his latest challenge to Maduro's authority -- Guaido announced to tens of thousands of supporters a new demonstration on Saturday. Guaido has vowed to set up a transitional government and hold new elections. On Tuesday, US envoy Elliott Abrams said that given Maduro's low popularity, it would be "a gift" if he decided to run in fresh polls. "That's ultimately a decision for Venezuelans to make," Abrams said. 'Paralysed public administration' As part of his challenge to Maduro, Guaido is attempting to take control of the state bureaucracy, which he considers having been "kidnapped" through blackmail and persecution. Unions from the oil industry, basic services, the public bank and local government took part in Tuesday's meeting, union leader Ana Yanez told AFP. "The public administration is practically paralysed. In the town halls, people only go to work three days a week and even then barely half the day," said Yanez. Maduro finally made an appearance in the late afternoon to lead a military parade paying tribute to his predecessor Hugo Chavez on the sixth anniversary of the socialist firebrand's death. Standing in front of Chavez's mausoleum, Maduro also called on his supporters to take to the streets on Saturday, to mark "four years since" then-US president Barack Obama first announced sanctions against the socialist government. Maduro has done this before, calling his own counter-demonstration every time Guaido announces a protest. Both attract thousands of supporters, but the opposition gatherings usually have the edge in numbers. Maduro had been active on Twitter earlier in the day, again paying tribute to Chavez. "Thanks to your teachings and your example we're continuing the permanent fight against those who tried so many times to extinguish your voice," wrote Maduro. During his travels, Guaido met US Vice President Mike Pence and the leaders of Colombia, Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Chile and Ecuador. He crossed into Colombia on February 23 to lead a bid to bring in humanitarian aid stockpiled near the border, but the move was blocked by the military and security forces in a day of chaos and bloodshed. Venezuela is wracked by a humanitarian crisis that has seen poverty soar, with an estimated 2.7 million people leaving the country since 2015.

Venezuela's Guaido tells Nicolas Maduro 'pressure just beginning', calls for civic strike

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido begins journey home from Ecuador

The United States and Russia clashed Friday over how to assist ailing Venezuela, with Moscow pledging new relief channelled through President Nicolas Maduro and Washington slapping sanctions over the blocking of US aid it tried to force through the border.

A day after Russia and China vetoed a US and European resolution at the UN Security Council that called for unimpeded aid deliveries, Washington said it was targeting six Venezuelan military officers for stopping last weekend's US-led convoy.

Four people were killed in the melee as Maduro's forces prevented the 178 metric tonnes of rice, beans and other food from crossing, with the leftist strongman seeing the aid as a pretext for a US-led invasion.

"We are sanctioning members of Maduro's security forces in response to the reprehensible violence, tragic deaths and unconscionable torching of food and medicine destined for sick and starving Venezuelans," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

The six include Major General Richard Jesus Lopez Vargas, the commander of the Venezuelan National Guard. The sanctions freeze any assets in the United States and penalize US financial dealings with the officials.

The United States also revoked the visas of 49 Venezuelan officials and their family members, the State Department said.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, whom Washington has recognized as interim president, had hoped to triumph in bringing in the stockpiles of food, which the United States coordinated with Colombia and Brazil.

Guaido has said 300,000 people could die without an influx of aid into Venezuela. The United Nations says 2.7 million Venezuelans have fled since 2015 as the socialist economy crumbles, with basic supplies out of reach to the masses.

Russia steps up

More than 50 countries recognise Guaido as Venezuela's president -- but Maduro enjoys strong support from Russia, which is eager to challenge US interventionism, as well as China, which is concerned over the fate of billions of dollars Beijing has lent to Caracas.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, receiving Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez in Moscow, said Russia was stepping up shipments of wheat and was considering sending more medical supplies after shipping 7.5 tonnes worth.

"We are very closely cooperating and coordinating all our steps in the international arena," Lavrov said.

"This has acquired special significance now that Venezuela is facing a frontal attack and unabashed interference in its domestic affairs," he said.

Elliott Abrams, the US special representative on the crisis, charged that Maduro's forces would turn Russian aid into a "political weapon" by providing it only to supporters.

"Obviously we are in favour of giving humanitarian assistance to Venezuela; we are not in favour of giving it to this corrupt regime," Abrams told reporters in Washington.

Lavrov voiced hope that international pressure would "cool hotheads in Washington" who he said are seeking military intervention in Venezuela.&nbsp;

He alleged that the United States was planning to buy small arms, mortar launchers and shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles from an "Eastern European country" and station them "close to Venezuela."

Warnings of force

President Donald Trump has not ruled out military intervention in Venezuela, although even close US allies have said they would not support the use of force.

Republican Senator Marco Rubio, who has worked closely with Trump to seek Maduro's ouster, appeared this week to suggest a violent climax as he posted on Twitter two pictures of Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi -- one relaxed and smiling while in power, the other bloodied as he was lynched in an uprising.

Defying a travel ban by Maduro, Guaido went first to Colombia to try to bring in the aid and to meet with visiting US Vice President Mike Pence.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old political newcomer continued on to Brazil, where he met the new right-wing president, Jair Bolsonaro, and on Friday travelled to Paraguay.

Speaking to reporters in Brasilia on Thursday, Guaido said he would return home "at the latest on Monday" despite threats to arrest him.

Abrams said the United States was "very concerned" about Guaido's ability to return home safely and warned of a "very large reaction" if he is arrested.

The United States and Russia clashed Friday over how to assist ailing Venezuela, with Moscow pledging new relief channelled through President Nicolas Maduro and Washington slapping sanctions over the blocking of US aid it tried to force through the border.

The United States and Russia clashed Friday over how to assist ailing Venezuela, with Moscow pledging new relief channelled through President Nicolas Maduro and Washington slapping sanctions over the blocking of US aid it tried to force through the border. A day after Russia and China vetoed a US and European resolution at the UN Security Council that called for unimpeded aid deliveries, Washington said it was targeting six Venezuelan military officers for stopping last weekend's US-led convoy. Four people were killed in the melee as Maduro's forces prevented the 178 metric tonnes of rice, beans and other food from crossing, with the leftist strongman seeing the aid as a pretext for a US-led invasion. "We are sanctioning members of Maduro's security forces in response to the reprehensible violence, tragic deaths and unconscionable torching of food and medicine destined for sick and starving Venezuelans," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. The six include Major General Richard Jesus Lopez Vargas, the commander of the Venezuelan National Guard. The sanctions freeze any assets in the United States and penalize US financial dealings with the officials. The United States also revoked the visas of 49 Venezuelan officials and their family members, the State Department said. Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido, whom Washington has recognized as interim president, had hoped to triumph in bringing in the stockpiles of food, which the United States coordinated with Colombia and Brazil. Guaido has said 300,000 people could die without an influx of aid into Venezuela. The United Nations says 2.7 million Venezuelans have fled since 2015 as the socialist economy crumbles, with basic supplies out of reach to the masses. Russia steps up More than 50 countries recognise Guaido as Venezuela's president -- but Maduro enjoys strong support from Russia, which is eager to challenge US interventionism, as well as China, which is concerned over the fate of billions of dollars Beijing has lent to Caracas. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, receiving Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodriguez in Moscow, said Russia was stepping up shipments of wheat and was considering sending more medical supplies after shipping 7.5 tonnes worth. "We are very closely cooperating and coordinating all our steps in the international arena," Lavrov said. "This has acquired special significance now that Venezuela is facing a frontal attack and unabashed interference in its domestic affairs," he said. Elliott Abrams, the US special representative on the crisis, charged that Maduro's forces would turn Russian aid into a "political weapon" by providing it only to supporters. "Obviously we are in favour of giving humanitarian assistance to Venezuela; we are not in favour of giving it to this corrupt regime," Abrams told reporters in Washington. Lavrov voiced hope that international pressure would "cool hotheads in Washington" who he said are seeking military intervention in Venezuela. He alleged that the United States was planning to buy small arms, mortar launchers and shoulder-fired anti-aircraft missiles from an "Eastern European country" and station them "close to Venezuela." Warnings of force President Donald Trump has not ruled out military intervention in Venezuela, although even close US allies have said they would not support the use of force. Republican Senator Marco Rubio, who has worked closely with Trump to seek Maduro's ouster, appeared this week to suggest a violent climax as he posted on Twitter two pictures of Libyan dictator Moamer Kadhafi -- one relaxed and smiling while in power, the other bloodied as he was lynched in an uprising. Defying a travel ban by Maduro, Guaido went first to Colombia to try to bring in the aid and to meet with visiting US Vice President Mike Pence. The 35-year-old political newcomer continued on to Brazil, where he met the new right-wing president, Jair Bolsonaro, and on Friday travelled to Paraguay. Speaking to reporters in Brasilia on Thursday, Guaido said he would return home "at the latest on Monday" despite threats to arrest him. Abrams said the United States was "very concerned" about Guaido's ability to return home safely and warned of a "very large reaction" if he is arrested.

Venezuela: Amid US sanctions, Russia pledges new relief to Maduro regime

Russia and China on Thursday vetoed a US resolution in the UN Security Council on addressing the crisis in Venezuela, but a counter-proposal from Moscow did not win enough votes.

The failure to take action on the two competing drafts laid bare divisions among world powers over the way forward in Venezuela, which is mired in a political standoff and an economic meltdown.

The proposed US text -- which called for new presidential elections in Venezuela and unimpeded deliveries of humanitarian aid -- won the required nine votes at the 15-member council, but Moscow and Beijing joined forces to block it.

Resolutions at the council, which are legally binding, must garner nine votes to be adopted, with no vetoes from the five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States.

Russia's draft resolution -- which urged a settlement "through peaceful means" and insisted that all humanitarian aid be agreed by Maduro's government -- won only four votes: Russia, China, South Africa and Equatorial Guinea.

Seven countries including the United States, European countries and Peru opposed the Russian measure and there were four abstentions.

Battered by economic collapse, Venezuela descended into a major political crisis when opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president in January and asserted that President Nicolas Maduro was no longer legitimate.

The United States is leading a push for recognition of Guaido, who heads the National Assembly. He is now backed by more than 50 countries.

After the double vetoes, US envoy for Venezuela Elliott Abrams took an implicit swipe at Russia and China, lamenting that countries "continue to shield Maduro and his cronies and prolong the suffering of the Venezuelan people."

Abrams expressed satisfaction that "a clear majority of the council" had supported the US stance.

France, Germany and Britain were among those that backed the proposed US measure. South Africa voted no while Indonesia, Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast abstained.

Asked how long it will take for Maduro to fall, Abrams told reporters: "Are we talking days, weeks or months? &nbsp;We hope it's as little as possible."

Regime change

Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia meanwhile accused the United States of putting forward a text that was "written for regime change, disguised as care for people. We have all seen this already in Libya, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan."

Venezuela's Ambassador Samuel Moncada renewed his government's assertions that the United States is preparing military action, referring to President Donald Trump's statement that "all options are on the table."

Maduro has accused the United States of using aid as a political tool aimed at overthrowing him, and blames US sanctions for the economic turmoil.

The crisis turned violent over the weekend when four people died in clashes at Venezuela's borders during an attempt led by Guaido to bring in humanitarian aid from Colombia and Brazil.

Russia and China on Thursday vetoed a US resolution in the UN Security Council on addressing the crisis in Venezuela, but a counter-proposal from Moscow did not win enough votes.

Russia and China on Thursday vetoed a US resolution in the UN Security Council on addressing the crisis in Venezuela, but a counter-proposal from Moscow did not win enough votes. The failure to take action on the two competing drafts laid bare divisions among world powers over the way forward in Venezuela, which is mired in a political standoff and an economic meltdown. The proposed US text -- which called for new presidential elections in Venezuela and unimpeded deliveries of humanitarian aid -- won the required nine votes at the 15-member council, but Moscow and Beijing joined forces to block it. Resolutions at the council, which are legally binding, must garner nine votes to be adopted, with no vetoes from the five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States. Russia's draft resolution -- which urged a settlement "through peaceful means" and insisted that all humanitarian aid be agreed by Maduro's government -- won only four votes: Russia, China, South Africa and Equatorial Guinea. Seven countries including the United States, European countries and Peru opposed the Russian measure and there were four abstentions. Battered by economic collapse, Venezuela descended into a major political crisis when opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president in January and asserted that President Nicolas Maduro was no longer legitimate. The United States is leading a push for recognition of Guaido, who heads the National Assembly. He is now backed by more than 50 countries. After the double vetoes, US envoy for Venezuela Elliott Abrams took an implicit swipe at Russia and China, lamenting that countries "continue to shield Maduro and his cronies and prolong the suffering of the Venezuelan people." Abrams expressed satisfaction that "a clear majority of the council" had supported the US stance. France, Germany and Britain were among those that backed the proposed US measure. South Africa voted no while Indonesia, Equatorial Guinea and Ivory Coast abstained. Asked how long it will take for Maduro to fall, Abrams told reporters: "Are we talking days, weeks or months? We hope it's as little as possible." Regime change Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia meanwhile accused the United States of putting forward a text that was "written for regime change, disguised as care for people. We have all seen this already in Libya, Iraq, Syria, Afghanistan." Venezuela's Ambassador Samuel Moncada renewed his government's assertions that the United States is preparing military action, referring to President Donald Trump's statement that "all options are on the table." Maduro has accused the United States of using aid as a political tool aimed at overthrowing him, and blames US sanctions for the economic turmoil. The crisis turned violent over the weekend when four people died in clashes at Venezuela's borders during an attempt led by Guaido to bring in humanitarian aid from Colombia and Brazil.

Russia, China veto US push for fresh election in Venezuela

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido arrived early Thursday in Brazil for talks aimed at securing more support from President Jair Bolsonaro, press reports said.

Guaido, recognised as interim president by some 50 countries, travelled to the capital Brasilia from Colombia, where he has stayed since Friday despite a travel ban imposed by the regime of Venezuela's socialist leader Nicolas Maduro.

There are fears he might be arrested upon his return to Venezuela.

Guaido arrived in Brasilia around 0440 GMT, the news website G1 reported.

Bolsonaro "will host Guaido in a personal visit, although Guaido will be officially welcomed by the minister for foreign affairs," Ernesto Araujo, said the Brazilian presidency's spokesman Otavio Rego Barros.

He said the meeting with Bolsonaro would take place at 2:00 pm (1700 GMT) at the president's official workplace, Planalto Palace.

A statement from Guaido's envoy to Brazil, Maria Teresa Belandria, said he would also meet "a number of representatives of the diplomatic delegations in Brasilia (that) have recognized him as Venezuela's legitimate interim president."

Brazil and Colombia are Guaido allies that have been stockpiling humanitarian aid the National Assembly speaker wants to bring into Venezuela.

He failed to do so over the weekend, as a military blockade ordered by Maduro held firm.

Guaido had not yet decided if he will visit the border area with Venezuela where four people were killed in weekend clashes with Maduro's security services, a source in his camp said.

He met US Vice President Mike Pence at a Lima Group meeting with regional allies in Bogota on Monday, after which he said he would return home this week, despite having received threats.

"A prisoner is no use to anyone. Neither is a president in exile," Guaido told NTN24 television channel on Tuesday.

"My role and my duty is to be in Caracas, despite the risks and regardless of what that implies."

Maduro told US channel ABC News that Guaido would have to face justice when he returns as he flouted a ban on foreign travel.

Guaido has dismissed Maduro's authority as illegitimate over his controversial re-election in May polls that were boycotted by the opposition because many of its leaders were prevented from standing.

Venezuela has been struck by a humanitarian crisis that has left millions in poverty amid chronic shortages of basic necessities such as food and medication.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido arrived early Thursday in Brazil for talks aimed at securing more support from President Jair Bolsonaro, press reports said.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido arrived early Thursday in Brazil for talks aimed at securing more support from President Jair Bolsonaro, press reports said. Guaido, recognised as interim president by some 50 countries, travelled to the capital Brasilia from Colombia, where he has stayed since Friday despite a travel ban imposed by the regime of Venezuela's socialist leader Nicolas Maduro. There are fears he might be arrested upon his return to Venezuela. Guaido arrived in Brasilia around 0440 GMT, the news website G1 reported. Bolsonaro "will host Guaido in a personal visit, although Guaido will be officially welcomed by the minister for foreign affairs," Ernesto Araujo, said the Brazilian presidency's spokesman Otavio Rego Barros. He said the meeting with Bolsonaro would take place at 2:00 pm (1700 GMT) at the president's official workplace, Planalto Palace. A statement from Guaido's envoy to Brazil, Maria Teresa Belandria, said he would also meet "a number of representatives of the diplomatic delegations in Brasilia (that) have recognized him as Venezuela's legitimate interim president." Brazil and Colombia are Guaido allies that have been stockpiling humanitarian aid the National Assembly speaker wants to bring into Venezuela. He failed to do so over the weekend, as a military blockade ordered by Maduro held firm. Guaido had not yet decided if he will visit the border area with Venezuela where four people were killed in weekend clashes with Maduro's security services, a source in his camp said. He met US Vice President Mike Pence at a Lima Group meeting with regional allies in Bogota on Monday, after which he said he would return home this week, despite having received threats. "A prisoner is no use to anyone. Neither is a president in exile," Guaido told NTN24 television channel on Tuesday. "My role and my duty is to be in Caracas, despite the risks and regardless of what that implies." Maduro told US channel ABC News that Guaido would have to face justice when he returns as he flouted a ban on foreign travel. Guaido has dismissed Maduro's authority as illegitimate over his controversial re-election in May polls that were boycotted by the opposition because many of its leaders were prevented from standing. Venezuela has been struck by a humanitarian crisis that has left millions in poverty amid chronic shortages of basic necessities such as food and medication.

Venezuela's Guaido arrives in Brazil to meet with president

Venezuela's foreign minister on Wednesday called for direct talks between President Nicolas Maduro and Donald Trump to address the country's crisis -- a proposal swiftly rejected by the White House, which recognises the opposition.&nbsp;

The call from Venezuela's top diplomat Jorge Arreaza came in an address to the United Nations Human Rights Council that was boycotted by multiple diplomats including from Latin America and Europe.&nbsp;

"We are proposing the path of dialogue, even with the United States... Why shouldn't they meet, President Trump and President Maduro?" Arreaza said.

The United States does not sit on the rights council following Trump's decision to quit the body last year.&nbsp;

But the American envoy to the UN's Conference on Disarmament (CoD) Robert Wood walked out of the chamber as another Venezuelan diplomat, Felix Plasencia, took the podium.&nbsp;

Several Latin American, European and other diplomats also joined Wood's walkout.

Vice President Mike Pence said the United States only recognises opposition leader Juan Guaido -- whom he met earlier this week in Colombia in a show of support.

"The only thing to discuss with Maduro at this point is the time and date for his departure," Pence tweeted.

"For democracy to return and for Venezuela to rebuild -- Maduro must go," he wrote.

Wood, asked about the prospects of a Trump-Maduro summit, told reporters: "President Trump is prepared to meet with the rightful president of Venezuela and that is Juan Guaido."

Venezuela's call comes just as Trump meets in Hanoi with another US arch-enemy, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

The US has led a diplomatic campaign in support of opposition leader Guaido who has declared himself interim president and is recognised by about 50 countries, notably within the EU.&nbsp;

Arreaza denounced what he described as a campaign of "aggression" being perpetrated by the United States against Venezuela, including an international assault on the government's foreign assets. &nbsp;

He said Washington's actions were depriving ordinary Venezuelans of food and medicine and called on the rights council to "raise its voice" against the American "blockade."

Wood said it was a "disgrace" that Maduro's representatives were being allowed to address UN bodies.&nbsp;

Wednesday's walkouts in the rights council and disarmament chamber "sent a very powerful message," he added.&nbsp;

"The former Maduro regime should not be allowed to try to continue to represent the Venezuelan people," Wood said.&nbsp;

The US has ramped up the pressure on the Maduro regime with sanctions against top officials, and the promise to exempt those who recognise Guaido as their true leader.

An estimated 2.7 million people have fled Venezuela since a devastating political and economic crisis engulfed the country in 2015, according to the UN.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Venezuela's foreign minister on Wednesday called for direct talks between President Nicolas Maduro and Donald Trump to address the country's crisis -- a proposal swiftly rejected by the White House, which recognises the opposition.

Venezuela's foreign minister on Wednesday called for direct talks between President Nicolas Maduro and Donald Trump to address the country's crisis -- a proposal swiftly rejected by the White House, which recognises the opposition. The call from Venezuela's top diplomat Jorge Arreaza came in an address to the United Nations Human Rights Council that was boycotted by multiple diplomats including from Latin America and Europe. "We are proposing the path of dialogue, even with the United States... Why shouldn't they meet, President Trump and President Maduro?" Arreaza said. The United States does not sit on the rights council following Trump's decision to quit the body last year. But the American envoy to the UN's Conference on Disarmament (CoD) Robert Wood walked out of the chamber as another Venezuelan diplomat, Felix Plasencia, took the podium. Several Latin American, European and other diplomats also joined Wood's walkout. Vice President Mike Pence said the United States only recognises opposition leader Juan Guaido -- whom he met earlier this week in Colombia in a show of support. "The only thing to discuss with Maduro at this point is the time and date for his departure," Pence tweeted. "For democracy to return and for Venezuela to rebuild -- Maduro must go," he wrote. Wood, asked about the prospects of a Trump-Maduro summit, told reporters: "President Trump is prepared to meet with the rightful president of Venezuela and that is Juan Guaido." Venezuela's call comes just as Trump meets in Hanoi with another US arch-enemy, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The US has led a diplomatic campaign in support of opposition leader Guaido who has declared himself interim president and is recognised by about 50 countries, notably within the EU. Arreaza denounced what he described as a campaign of "aggression" being perpetrated by the United States against Venezuela, including an international assault on the government's foreign assets. He said Washington's actions were depriving ordinary Venezuelans of food and medicine and called on the rights council to "raise its voice" against the American "blockade." Wood said it was a "disgrace" that Maduro's representatives were being allowed to address UN bodies. Wednesday's walkouts in the rights council and disarmament chamber "sent a very powerful message," he added. "The former Maduro regime should not be allowed to try to continue to represent the Venezuelan people," Wood said. The US has ramped up the pressure on the Maduro regime with sanctions against top officials, and the promise to exempt those who recognise Guaido as their true leader. An estimated 2.7 million people have fled Venezuela since a devastating political and economic crisis engulfed the country in 2015, according to the UN.

Venezuela seeks Trump talks, but US quickly says no

The UN Security Council will vote Thursday on two rival draft resolutions from the United States and Russia aimed at confronting the crisis in Venezuela, but both are expected to fail, according to diplomats.

Battered by an economic meltdown, Venezuela descended into a major political crisis when <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-arrives-in-brazil-to-meet-with-president-200207">opposition leader Juan Guaido </a>declared himself interim president in January and asserted that President Nicolas Maduro was no longer legitimate.

On Wednesday, the United States put forward a measure that would call for presidential elections to end the political standoff and unimpeded deliveries of aid to ease shortages of food and medicine in Venezuela.

A competing Russian text urges a peaceful settlement of the crisis and recalls that aid deliveries to Venezuela require the consent of Maduro's government.

The council is set to vote around 9:30 am (1530 GMT) on both proposed measures.

Russia and China, which support Maduro, are likely to veto the US draft resolution that "expresses deep concern about the actions of a regime that have caused an economic collapse," diplomats said.

But the Russian measure, which expresses "concern over the threats to use force" against Venezuela, is unlikely to garner the nine votes for adoption, according to diplomats.&nbsp;

Resolutions at the Security Council, which are legally binding, must garner nine votes to be adopted, with no vetoes from the five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States.

'Neither free nor fair'&nbsp;

The US-drafted text, seen by AFP, calls for "free, fair and credible presidential elections," with the presence of international observers, describing the May vote in which Maduro was declared the winner as "neither free nor fair."

It expresses support for "the peaceful restoration of democracy and rule of law in Venezuela" and requests that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres broker a deal on holding fresh elections.&nbsp;

Russia's draft resolution urges a settlement "through peaceful means" and welcomes calls by Guterres for dialogue, according to the text seen by AFP.

The United States is leading a push for recognition of Guaido, who heads the National Assembly, backed by about 50 countries.

The crisis turned violent over the weekend when four people died in clashes at Venezuela's borders during an attempt led by Guaido to bring in humanitarian aid from Colombia and Brazil.

Maduro has accused the United States of using aid as a political tool aimed at overthrowing him and blames US sanctions for the economic turmoil.

UN expert Richard Gowan said the United States is hoping to pile pressure on Caracas by showing that a majority of council members back its stance, even if Russia and China block the measure.

What next?

"If Beijing and Moscow kill it off, the US will claim the moral high ground," said Gowan, a senior fellow at the UN University Center for Policy Research.

"The problem is what the US does next after this resolution fails. Does it keep trying to pile moral pressure on Maduro, or does it conclude the UN diplomatic route is dead?"&nbsp;

In Geneva earlier, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza proposed direct talks between the leaders, asking: "Why shouldn't they meet, President Trump and President Maduro?"

But US Vice President Mike Pence responded on Twitter that "the only thing to discuss with Maduro at this point is the time and date for his departure."

In an address to the council on Tuesday, the foreign minister accused the Trump administration of having a "script to justify war" against his country and urged the council to adopt a measure opposing the use of force.

The US-drafted measure "stresses the importance of ensuring the security" of all lawmakers and opposition members, but a reference in a previous draft expressing "full support" for the National Assembly was dropped.

At a council meeting on Tuesday, US envoy Elliott Abrams said his government was "deeply concerned" about Guaido's safety after Maduro said in an interview that the opposition leader would have to face justice when he returns from Colombia.

Guaido was to travel to Brasilia to meet President Jair Bolsonaro on Thursday.&nbsp;

The UN Security Council will vote Thursday on two rival draft resolutions from the United States and Russia aimed at confronting the crisis in Venezuela, but both are expected to fail, according to diplomats.

The UN Security Council will vote Thursday on two rival draft resolutions from the United States and Russia aimed at confronting the crisis in Venezuela, but both are expected to fail, according to diplomats. Battered by an economic meltdown, Venezuela descended into a major political crisis when opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president in January and asserted that President Nicolas Maduro was no longer legitimate. On Wednesday, the United States put forward a measure that would call for presidential elections to end the political standoff and unimpeded deliveries of aid to ease shortages of food and medicine in Venezuela. A competing Russian text urges a peaceful settlement of the crisis and recalls that aid deliveries to Venezuela require the consent of Maduro's government. The council is set to vote around 9:30 am (1530 GMT) on both proposed measures. Russia and China, which support Maduro, are likely to veto the US draft resolution that "expresses deep concern about the actions of a regime that have caused an economic collapse," diplomats said. But the Russian measure, which expresses "concern over the threats to use force" against Venezuela, is unlikely to garner the nine votes for adoption, according to diplomats. Resolutions at the Security Council, which are legally binding, must garner nine votes to be adopted, with no vetoes from the five permanent members -- Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States. 'Neither free nor fair' The US-drafted text, seen by AFP, calls for "free, fair and credible presidential elections," with the presence of international observers, describing the May vote in which Maduro was declared the winner as "neither free nor fair." It expresses support for "the peaceful restoration of democracy and rule of law in Venezuela" and requests that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres broker a deal on holding fresh elections. Russia's draft resolution urges a settlement "through peaceful means" and welcomes calls by Guterres for dialogue, according to the text seen by AFP. The United States is leading a push for recognition of Guaido, who heads the National Assembly, backed by about 50 countries. The crisis turned violent over the weekend when four people died in clashes at Venezuela's borders during an attempt led by Guaido to bring in humanitarian aid from Colombia and Brazil. Maduro has accused the United States of using aid as a political tool aimed at overthrowing him and blames US sanctions for the economic turmoil. UN expert Richard Gowan said the United States is hoping to pile pressure on Caracas by showing that a majority of council members back its stance, even if Russia and China block the measure. What next? "If Beijing and Moscow kill it off, the US will claim the moral high ground," said Gowan, a senior fellow at the UN University Center for Policy Research. "The problem is what the US does next after this resolution fails. Does it keep trying to pile moral pressure on Maduro, or does it conclude the UN diplomatic route is dead?" In Geneva earlier, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza proposed direct talks between the leaders, asking: "Why shouldn't they meet, President Trump and President Maduro?" But US Vice President Mike Pence responded on Twitter that "the only thing to discuss with Maduro at this point is the time and date for his departure." In an address to the council on Tuesday, the foreign minister accused the Trump administration of having a "script to justify war" against his country and urged the council to adopt a measure opposing the use of force. The US-drafted measure "stresses the importance of ensuring the security" of all lawmakers and opposition members, but a reference in a previous draft expressing "full support" for the National Assembly was dropped. At a council meeting on Tuesday, US envoy Elliott Abrams said his government was "deeply concerned" about Guaido's safety after Maduro said in an interview that the opposition leader would have to face justice when he returns from Colombia. Guaido was to travel to Brasilia to meet President Jair Bolsonaro on Thursday.

UN to vote on dueling US, Russia drafts on Venezuela

By Ben Zissimos

Violence erupted at the Venezuela-Colombia border over the delivery of humanitarian aid to Venezuela, killing four people and injuring 24 on February 22.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro that his “days are numbered,” and Trump officials reiterated that the US is considering all options, including military action, to address Venezuela’s crisis.

Almost 80 per cent of Venezuelans disapprove of Maduro, who was reinaugurated for a second six-year term in January after an election widely seen as fraudulent. Since taking power in 2013, he has led Venezuela into a deep economic crisis.

In late January, opposition leader Juan Guaidó declared Maduro a “usurper” and swore himself in as the country’s rightful president. More than 50 countries – including the United States, Europe and most of Latin America – want to replace Maduro’s regime with a Guaidó-led government.

Despite near global condemnation of Maduro, any US intervention in Venezuela would be controversial. The United States’ long history of interfering in Latin American politics suggests that its military operations generally usher in dictatorship and civil war – not democracy.

The Cuban-US Cold War

Cuba, the focus of my history research, is a prime example of this pattern.

US-Cuban relations have never recovered from President William McKinley’s intervention in Cuba’s war for independence over a century ago.

Before waging what in the US is known as the Spanish-American War in 1898, McKinley promised that “the people of the island of Cuba” would be “free and independent” from Spain and that his government had no “intention to exercise sovereignty, jurisdiction or control over said Island.”

In the end, however, Cuba’s independence from Spain meant domination by the United States.

For 60 years after the Spanish-American War, the White House made repeated military and diplomatic interventions in Cuba, supporting politicians who protected US economic interests in sugar, utilities, banks or tourism and who backed American foreign policy in the Caribbean.

By 1952, when the US-backed Fulgencio Batista overthrew President Carlos Prío Socarrás, Cuba’s government had effectively become protectors of American businesses, according to my research. Batista had a warm relationship with both Washington, DC and the American organized crime groups that used to control Havana’s tourist industry.

A communist revolution led by Fidel Castro overthrew Batista’s military junta in 1959. Castro decried the “imperialist government of the United States” for turning Cuba into an “American colony.”

The Kennedy administration’s trade embargo against Cuba and the disastrous 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion – in which the US military trained Cuban dissidents in an attempt to unseat Castro – only pushed Cuba further into the orbit of Soviet Russia.

For the past six decades, the US and Cuba have remained locked in a Cold War, with a brief thaw under President Barack Obama.

Anti-communist coups

Fearing that communism would spread across the hemisphere, the US government repeatedly interfered in the politics of Latin American nations during the Cold War.

In 1954 the CIA worked with elements of the Guatemalan military to overthrow elected President Jacobo Árbenz, whom US policymakers considered dangerously left-wing. Decades of dictatorship and civil war followed, killing an estimated 200,000 people.

A peace agreement in 1996 restored democracy, but Guatemala has yet to recover economically, politically or psychologically from the bloodshed.

Then there is Chile’s US-supported coup d'etat. In 1973, the US government covertly assisted right-wing elements of the Chilean military in overthrowing the socialist president Salvador Allende.

General Augusto Pinochet took power with the quiet financial and political support of the United States. His dictatorship, which lasted until 1990, killed tens of thousands of Chileans.

The Dominican Republic and Panama

US intervention in Latin America did not start or end with the Cold War.

During World War I, the United States was concerned that Germany could use the Dominican Republic as a base of military operations. So American troops occupied the Caribbean island from 1916 to 1924. 
 
Though the American-led administration improved the finances and infrastructure of the Dominican Republic, it also created the national guard that helped to propel Gen. Rafael Trujillo into power. His 30-year reign was savage.

President George H W Bush’s 1989 invasion of Panama is the rare exception when U.S. intervention in Latin American affairs actually created stability.

Most Panamanians appear to have supported the 1989 U.S. military operation to remove the corrupt and brutal military strongman Manuel Noriega.

In the years since, Panama has enjoyed comparatively peaceful elections and transfers of power.

Anti-Americanism in Latin America

On balance, though, US military operations in Latin America have rarely brought democracy.

But they have created strong anti-American sentiment in the region, which leftist leaders from Fidel Castro to Hugo Chávez have adeptly harnessed to vilify their political opponents as mere US puppets.

Support for the US government is lower now than it has been in decades. Just 35 per cent of Argentines, 39 per cent of Chileans and 45 percent of Venezuelans view the US favourably, according to the Pew Research Center.

President Maduro, too, has used anti-imperialist rhetoric. He denounces US sanctions and other efforts to isolate his regime as a “gringo plot.”

A safer way to restore democracy

This history explains why a US intervention in Venezuela would be viewed with skepticism. Though Maduro is unpopular, 65 per cent of Venezuelans oppose any foreign military operation to remove Maduro, according to recent polling.

Rather than plan yet another coup d'etat, I believe US&nbsp;efforts in Venezuela should support the work of the Lima Group, a coalition of 12 Latin American countries, including Mexico, Guatemala and Brazil, plus Canada.

The Lima Group has ruled out military force in Venezuela. Its pressure campaign to force him out peacefully has included diplomatically isolating his regime and asking Venezuela’s soldiers to pledge loyalty to Guaidó.

A negotiated settlement leading to Maduro’s voluntary departure from office is their ultimate goal.

Regional diplomacy is much slower than foreign intervention. But it avoids further bloodshed and reduces the role of anti-Americanism in Venezuela’s crisis.

It may also open a new chapter in the history of US-Latin American relations – one in which the US takes its lead from the region, and not the other way around.

(Joseph J Gonzalez is Associate Professor, Global Studies, Appalachian State University)

(This article was originally published on the Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/venezuela-crisis-trump-threats-to-maduro-evoke-bloody-history-of-us-intervention-in-latin-america-111169">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

By Ben Zissimos Violence erupted at the Venezuela-Colombia border over the delivery of humanitarian aid to Venezuela, killing four people and injuring 24 on February 22.

By Ben Zissimos Violence erupted at the Venezuela-Colombia border over the delivery of humanitarian aid to Venezuela, killing four people and injuring 24 on February 22. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro that his “days are numbered,” and Trump officials reiterated that the US is considering all options, including military action, to address Venezuela’s crisis. Almost 80 per cent of Venezuelans disapprove of Maduro, who was reinaugurated for a second six-year term in January after an election widely seen as fraudulent. Since taking power in 2013, he has led Venezuela into a deep economic crisis. In late January, opposition leader Juan Guaidó declared Maduro a “usurper” and swore himself in as the country’s rightful president. More than 50 countries – including the United States, Europe and most of Latin America – want to replace Maduro’s regime with a Guaidó-led government. Despite near global condemnation of Maduro, any US intervention in Venezuela would be controversial. The United States’ long history of interfering in Latin American politics suggests that its military operations generally usher in dictatorship and civil war – not democracy. The Cuban-US Cold War Cuba, the focus of my history research, is a prime example of this pattern. US-Cuban relations have never recovered from President William McKinley’s intervention in Cuba’s war for independence over a century ago. Before waging what in the US is known as the Spanish-American War in 1898, McKinley promised that “the people of the island of Cuba” would be “free and independent” from Spain and that his government had no “intention to exercise sovereignty, jurisdiction or control over said Island.” In the end, however, Cuba’s independence from Spain meant domination by the United States. For 60 years after the Spanish-American War, the White House made repeated military and diplomatic interventions in Cuba, supporting politicians who protected US economic interests in sugar, utilities, banks or tourism and who backed American foreign policy in the Caribbean. By 1952, when the US-backed Fulgencio Batista overthrew President Carlos Prío Socarrás, Cuba’s government had effectively become protectors of American businesses, according to my research. Batista had a warm relationship with both Washington, DC and the American organized crime groups that used to control Havana’s tourist industry. A communist revolution led by Fidel Castro overthrew Batista’s military junta in 1959. Castro decried the “imperialist government of the United States” for turning Cuba into an “American colony.” The Kennedy administration’s trade embargo against Cuba and the disastrous 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion – in which the US military trained Cuban dissidents in an attempt to unseat Castro – only pushed Cuba further into the orbit of Soviet Russia. For the past six decades, the US and Cuba have remained locked in a Cold War, with a brief thaw under President Barack Obama. Anti-communist coups Fearing that communism would spread across the hemisphere, the US government repeatedly interfered in the politics of Latin American nations during the Cold War. In 1954 the CIA worked with elements of the Guatemalan military to overthrow elected President Jacobo Árbenz, whom US policymakers considered dangerously left-wing. Decades of dictatorship and civil war followed, killing an estimated 200,000 people. A peace agreement in 1996 restored democracy, but Guatemala has yet to recover economically, politically or psychologically from the bloodshed. Then there is Chile’s US-supported coup d'etat. In 1973, the US government covertly assisted right-wing elements of the Chilean military in overthrowing the socialist president Salvador Allende. General Augusto Pinochet took power with the quiet financial and political support of the United States. His dictatorship, which lasted until 1990, killed tens of thousands of Chileans. The Dominican Republic and Panama US intervention in Latin America did not start or end with the Cold War. During World War I, the United States was concerned that Germany could use the Dominican Republic as a base of military operations. So American troops occupied the Caribbean island from 1916 to 1924. Though the American-led administration improved the finances and infrastructure of the Dominican Republic, it also created the national guard that helped to propel Gen. Rafael Trujillo into power. His 30-year reign was savage. President George H W Bush’s 1989 invasion of Panama is the rare exception when U.S. intervention in Latin American affairs actually created stability. Most Panamanians appear to have supported the 1989 U.S. military operation to remove the corrupt and brutal military strongman Manuel Noriega. In the years since, Panama has enjoyed comparatively peaceful elections and transfers of power. Anti-Americanism in Latin America On balance, though, US military operations in Latin America have rarely brought democracy. But they have created strong anti-American sentiment in the region, which leftist leaders from Fidel Castro to Hugo Chávez have adeptly harnessed to vilify their political opponents as mere US puppets. Support for the US government is lower now than it has been in decades. Just 35 per cent of Argentines, 39 per cent of Chileans and 45 percent of Venezuelans view the US favourably, according to the Pew Research Center. President Maduro, too, has used anti-imperialist rhetoric. He denounces US sanctions and other efforts to isolate his regime as a “gringo plot.” A safer way to restore democracy This history explains why a US intervention in Venezuela would be viewed with skepticism. Though Maduro is unpopular, 65 per cent of Venezuelans oppose any foreign military operation to remove Maduro, according to recent polling. Rather than plan yet another coup d'etat, I believe US efforts in Venezuela should support the work of the Lima Group, a coalition of 12 Latin American countries, including Mexico, Guatemala and Brazil, plus Canada. The Lima Group has ruled out military force in Venezuela. Its pressure campaign to force him out peacefully has included diplomatically isolating his regime and asking Venezuela’s soldiers to pledge loyalty to Guaidó. A negotiated settlement leading to Maduro’s voluntary departure from office is their ultimate goal. Regional diplomacy is much slower than foreign intervention. But it avoids further bloodshed and reduces the role of anti-Americanism in Venezuela’s crisis. It may also open a new chapter in the history of US-Latin American relations – one in which the US takes its lead from the region, and not the other way around. (Joseph J Gonzalez is Associate Professor, Global Studies, Appalachian State University) (This article was originally published on the Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Venezuela crisis: Donald Trump's threats to Nicolas Maduro evoke history of US intervention in Latin America

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - February 26th, 2019

Venezuela crisis: US imposes new sanctions on Maduro's government

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-venezuelan-governors-supporting-nicolas-maduro-199710">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> accused the American government of manufacturing a crisis in an attempt to start a war in South America, in an interview broadcast on Monday.

"Everything that the United States government has done has been doomed to failure," Maduro told American broadcaster ABC News from the presidential palace in Caracas in remarks translated by the network from Spanish.

"They are trying to fabricate a crisis to justify political escalation and military intervention in Venezuela to bring a war to South America."

Earlier in the day, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-with-you-100-per-cent-us-vice-president-pence-to-venezuelas-guaido-199713">US Vice President Mike Pence</a> announced $56 million in aid to Venezuelans as well as tougher US sanctions as he joined a Lima Group meeting of Latin American countries plus Canada that was also attended by opposition leader Juan Guaido.

The United States is among some 50 countries that recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president.

Maduro blasted the talks in Bogota as being "politics to attempt to establish a parallel government in Venezuela."&nbsp;

Washington, he said, "wants Venezuela's oil" and is "willing to go to war for that oil."

"The extremist Ku Klux Klan government that Donald Trump directs wants a war over oil, and more than just oil," Maduro said, describing Venezuela as a "pacifist, humble nation."

But he also said he was ready to participate in a "direct dialogue" with the Trump administration.

Asked if he would allow Guaido back into the country, Maduro said: "He has to respect the laws."

Guaido "can leave and come back and will have to see the face of justice because justice had prohibited him from him leaving the country."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused the American government of manufacturing a crisis in an attempt to start a war in South America, in an interview broadcast on Monday.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro accused the American government of manufacturing a crisis in an attempt to start a war in South America, in an interview broadcast on Monday. "Everything that the United States government has done has been doomed to failure," Maduro told American broadcaster ABC News from the presidential palace in Caracas in remarks translated by the network from Spanish. "They are trying to fabricate a crisis to justify political escalation and military intervention in Venezuela to bring a war to South America." Earlier in the day, US Vice President Mike Pence announced $56 million in aid to Venezuelans as well as tougher US sanctions as he joined a Lima Group meeting of Latin American countries plus Canada that was also attended by opposition leader Juan Guaido. The United States is among some 50 countries that recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. Maduro blasted the talks in Bogota as being "politics to attempt to establish a parallel government in Venezuela." Washington, he said, "wants Venezuela's oil" and is "willing to go to war for that oil." "The extremist Ku Klux Klan government that Donald Trump directs wants a war over oil, and more than just oil," Maduro said, describing Venezuela as a "pacifist, humble nation." But he also said he was ready to participate in a "direct dialogue" with the Trump administration. Asked if he would allow Guaido back into the country, Maduro said: "He has to respect the laws." Guaido "can leave and come back and will have to see the face of justice because justice had prohibited him from him leaving the country."

Maduro says US wants to 'fabricate' Venezuela crisis to start war

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