The United States is holding direct communications with members of Venezuela's military urging them to abandon <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-military-attache-to-us-urges-army-to-back-maduro-opponent-193034">President Nicolas Maduro</a> and is also preparing new sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on him, a senior White House official said.

The Trump administration expects further military defections from Maduro's side, the official told Reuters in an interview, despite only a few senior officers having done so since opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president last month, earning the recognition of the United States and dozens of other countries.

"We believe these to be those first couple pebbles before we start really seeing bigger rocks rolling down the hill," the official said this week, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We're still having conversations with members of the former Maduro regime, with military members, although those conversations are very, very limited."

The official declined to provide details on the discussions or the level at which they are being held, and it was unclear whether such contacts could create cracks in the Venezuelan socialist leader's support from the military, which is pivotal to his grip on power.

With the Venezuelan military still apparently loyal to Maduro, a source in Washington close to the opposition expressed doubts whether the Trump administration has laid enough groundwork to spur a wider mutiny in the ranks where many officers are suspected of benefiting from corruption and drug trafficking.

Members of the South American country's security forces fear they or their families could be targeted by Maduro if they defect, so the US would need to offer them something that could outweigh those concerns, said Eric Farnsworth, vice president of the Council of the Americas think tank in Washington.

"It depends on what they're offering," Farnsworth said. "Are there incentives built into these contacts that will at least cause people to question their loyalty to the regime?"

Guaido says the May 2018 vote in which Maduro won a second term as president was a sham and on January 23 invoked a constitutional provision to declare himself president, promising free and fair elections.

VENEZUELAN ASSETS

The US government also sees European allies as likely to do more to prevent Maduro from transferring or hiding Venezuela government assets held outside the country, the US official said.

Major European countries have joined the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/venezuela-france-wests-duplicity-196078">United States in backing Guaido </a>but they have stopped short of the sweeping oil sanctions and financial measures that Washington has imposed.

At the same time, the Trump administration is readying further possible sanctions on Venezuela, the official said.

Previous rounds have targeted dozens of Venezuelan military and government officials, including Maduro himself, and last month finally hit the OPEC member's vital oil sector. But the administration has stopped short of imposing so-called "secondary" sanctions, which would punish non-US companies for doing business with the Venezuela government or the state oil monopoly PDVSA.

The US official said that Washington had every tool available to apply pressure on Maduro and his associates "to accept a legitimate democratic transition."

The US government is also weighing possible sanctions on Cuban military and intelligence officials whom it says are helping Maduro remain in power, a second US official and person familiar with the deliberations have told Reuters.

Maduro's government has accused Guaido, who has galvanized Venezuela's opposition, of attempting to stage a US-directed coup.

General Francisco Yanez of the air force's high command became the first active Venezuelan general to recognise Guaido, but he is one of about 2,000 generals. Venezuela's chief military attache to the United States also said he was defecting late last month.

Guaido has actively courted members of the military with promises of amnesty and preferential legal treatment if they disavow Maduro and disobey his orders, and Washington this week raised the prospect of dropping sanctions on senior Venezuelan officers if they recognise Guaido.

Maduro still has the support of the military high command, and now routinely appears in pre-recorded events at military bases where officers stand behind him and chant triumphal slogans such as "Loyal always, traitors never."

The United States is holding direct communications with members of Venezuela's military urging them to abandon President Nicolas Maduro and is also preparing new sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on him, a senior White House official said.

The United States is holding direct communications with members of Venezuela's military urging them to abandon President Nicolas Maduro and is also preparing new sanctions aimed at increasing pressure on him, a senior White House official said. The Trump administration expects further military defections from Maduro's side, the official told Reuters in an interview, despite only a few senior officers having done so since opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president last month, earning the recognition of the United States and dozens of other countries. "We believe these to be those first couple pebbles before we start really seeing bigger rocks rolling down the hill," the official said this week, speaking on condition of anonymity. "We're still having conversations with members of the former Maduro regime, with military members, although those conversations are very, very limited." The official declined to provide details on the discussions or the level at which they are being held, and it was unclear whether such contacts could create cracks in the Venezuelan socialist leader's support from the military, which is pivotal to his grip on power. With the Venezuelan military still apparently loyal to Maduro, a source in Washington close to the opposition expressed doubts whether the Trump administration has laid enough groundwork to spur a wider mutiny in the ranks where many officers are suspected of benefiting from corruption and drug trafficking. Members of the South American country's security forces fear they or their families could be targeted by Maduro if they defect, so the US would need to offer them something that could outweigh those concerns, said Eric Farnsworth, vice president of the Council of the Americas think tank in Washington. "It depends on what they're offering," Farnsworth said. "Are there incentives built into these contacts that will at least cause people to question their loyalty to the regime?" Guaido says the May 2018 vote in which Maduro won a second term as president was a sham and on January 23 invoked a constitutional provision to declare himself president, promising free and fair elections. VENEZUELAN ASSETS The US government also sees European allies as likely to do more to prevent Maduro from transferring or hiding Venezuela government assets held outside the country, the US official said. Major European countries have joined the United States in backing Guaido but they have stopped short of the sweeping oil sanctions and financial measures that Washington has imposed. At the same time, the Trump administration is readying further possible sanctions on Venezuela, the official said. Previous rounds have targeted dozens of Venezuelan military and government officials, including Maduro himself, and last month finally hit the OPEC member's vital oil sector. But the administration has stopped short of imposing so-called "secondary" sanctions, which would punish non-US companies for doing business with the Venezuela government or the state oil monopoly PDVSA. The US official said that Washington had every tool available to apply pressure on Maduro and his associates "to accept a legitimate democratic transition." The US government is also weighing possible sanctions on Cuban military and intelligence officials whom it says are helping Maduro remain in power, a second US official and person familiar with the deliberations have told Reuters. Maduro's government has accused Guaido, who has galvanized Venezuela's opposition, of attempting to stage a US-directed coup. General Francisco Yanez of the air force's high command became the first active Venezuelan general to recognise Guaido, but he is one of about 2,000 generals. Venezuela's chief military attache to the United States also said he was defecting late last month. Guaido has actively courted members of the military with promises of amnesty and preferential legal treatment if they disavow Maduro and disobey his orders, and Washington this week raised the prospect of dropping sanctions on senior Venezuelan officers if they recognise Guaido. Maduro still has the support of the military high command, and now routinely appears in pre-recorded events at military bases where officers stand behind him and chant triumphal slogans such as "Loyal always, traitors never."

US in direct contact with Venezuelan military, urging defections: Report

What appeared to be a carefully calibrated policy to oust Venezuelan President<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-assembly-head-warns-of-irregular-war-upon-foreign-intervention-195790"> Nicolas Maduro </a>was actually a big gamble by a small group of Opposition leaders acting on a hastily assembled plan, according to a Dow Jones Newswires report on Thursday.

The strategy marked a coup of sorts: This one within the country's notoriously fractious Opposition, which had been locked in debate over whether to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-revokes-visas-of-venezuelan-lawmakers-seated-by-maduro-195916">negotiate with Maduro </a>or take more direct action.

When Juan Guaido declared himself Venezuela's interim president on January 23 in front of a crowd of 100,000 people under a broiling sun, some leading Opposition figures had no idea he would do so, say people who work with Guaido and other top leaders. That included a few standing alongside him. A stern look of shock crossed their faces. Some quietly left the stage.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-colombia-border-venezuelans-hunger-for-aid-195822">Also read:&nbsp;Colombia border, Venezuelans hunger for aid</a>

"What the hell is going on?" one member of a group of politicians wrote to the others in a WhatsApp group chat. "How come we didn't know about this."

The plan was largely devised by a group of four Opposition leaders, two in exile, one under house arrest and one barred from leaving the country. It came together only in recent weeks, as Maduro prepared to start a second six-year term on Jan 10 after elections widely seen as a sham. Maduro has denounced the ceremony as part of a US-backed coup to overthrow his government.

The act of political skulduggery paid off. The crowd reacted ecstatically to Guaido, and one nation after another recognised him within hours.

The strategy has dramatically altered Venezuela's political landscape, empowering a faction led by Guaido's Popular Will Party that has long lobbied for more direct confrontation with the Maduro regime.

Opposition leaders agreed Maduro was illegitimate and that the National Assembly, with the 35-year-old Guaidó as its newly elected head, was the country's lone democratic institution. However, many were initially against the idea of naming Guaido interim president, according to people familiar with the matter. They worried it might make eventual negotiation with Maduro impossible while deepening the misery for millions suffering from food and medicine shortages and political persecution against his rivals.

Others argued it was critical to strike quickly, and that waiting for consensus was futile.

"This was the moment to go for it," said Maria Corina Machado, one of the four behind the strategy. The timing was also irresistible. The swearing-in took place on a symbolic day in Venezuela: On January 23, 1958, students, unions and the military rose up to topple military dictator Marcos Perez Jimenez.

Guaido himself only agreed to act the day before he declared himself president, his aides said. Some politicians, including those in the traditional Democratic Action Party, the largest Opposition party, weren't told of the plan.

"We didn't want them to mess it up," said one Opposition leader who knew of the strategy.

That evening, after Guaido's move sparked an outpouring of support, Opposition politicians of all stripes, including from Democratic Action, publicly backed the move.

"We've become part of the political package facing off with the government," said Edgar Zambrano, 63, a member of Democratic Action and the vice president of the National Assembly.

Zambrano, one of the Opposition leaders who appeared surprised on stage on January 23, said the possibility of Guaido assuming the presidency had been discussed in the weeks before, but that the final decision was in the hands of the young leader because of the risks it entailed.

For now, at least, the events have electrified the Opposition's base. Guaido draws large, boisterous crowds. He has appointed ambassadors for what is, in essence, a parallel government. His team has laid out plans to bring humanitarian aid from Colombia in a tactic designed to test the resolve of Venezuelan troops loyal to Maduro.

"Only a few weeks ago, I was totally depressed," said Michael Penfold, an advisor to the Opposition who counts himself as one of the doves who has now become a hawk. "I thought nothing was ever going to get Maduro out of power. Now, I wouldn't be surprised if Maduro resigns within days."

The government, meanwhile, seems caught off guard and under siege, symbolised by the sandbags and soldiers toting machine guns that surround Maduro's Miraflores presidential palace. On frequent appearances on state TV, Maduro can be seen jogging with troops and leading them in chants of, "Traitors, never! Loyal, always!"

If the Opposition can force out Maduro, Popular Will and its head, Leopoldo Lopez, will likely take the driver's seat for any future democratic election, politicians and political analysts say. Lopez, Guaido's political mentor, is under house arrest in Caracas.

Lopez, who attended college and graduate school in the US, has long had close contact with American diplomats and is pro-free market. Guaido has laid out an economic recovery plan that calls on private companies to help rescue Venezuela's decaying oil industry, a proposal Lopez had a hand in shaping.

The perception that the hard-line faction of the Opposition has won the day could make the regime more liable to dig in, making any negotiation more unlikely. One Opposition plan posits that Maduro would negotiate his own removal, leaving in exchange for, say, safe passage to a friendly country.

With the Opposition taking action, "the Maduro team doesn't want to talk to them and doesn't trust them," said Phil Gunson, who tracks Venezuela's crisis for the International Crisis Group, a non-profit that studies conflicts. "They think they will all end up in jail or strung up from lampposts."

If Maduro holds firm, it is likely to deepen the economic hardship for millions of Venezuelans. He could even emerge stronger, able to brag that he beat back a superpower.

Zambrano, the member of Democratic Action, said that one big risk with the Opposition strategy is thinking it will all be over too soon and not planning for a long and drawn-out confrontation.

"We've committed a lot of errors in strategies, thinking the government was going to be ousted in a day," he said. "Whoever bases their politics on that is going to fail."

The road to the standoff comes after three years of setbacks for the Opposition that left them despondent, according to interviews with prominent members of several parties.

It also left four prominent leaders with the sense that the time for dramatic action was growing near. All have been targets of the regime.

Antonio Ledezma, 63, is a former Caracas mayor who spent time jailed and under house arrest before escaping to Spain.

His close ally is Maria Corina Machado, 51, an industrial engineer whose brief career as a lawmaker in the National Assembly included getting her nose broken in an attack by ruling party lawmakers, being accused of trying to assassinate Maduro and getting expelled from the legislature in 2014. She is considered among the more intrepid of Opposition leaders for holding rallies and speeches in pro-government communities, where she has been physically beaten and fired upon.

Julio Borges, 49, who lives in exile in Colombia, was the peacenik of the group. A father of quadruplets, he had long favored negotiations and elections. His position hardened toward taking action after he was threatened with jail early last year, forcing him and his family to flee.

And then there is Leopoldo López, 47, the head of Popular Will. The best-known adversary of the regime outside of Venezuela, he has maintained close ties with his Opposition colleagues despite being confined at his apartment with an ankle monitor. He was jailed after protests in 2014 on charges that rights groups, as well as his prosecutors who have since defected, called trumped up. He's a distant relative of Simón Bolívar, the liberation hero whose legacy Maduro's Socialist Party has long leaned on.

The four leaders had in the past often bitterly disagreed over how to remove Maduro, and before him, Hugo Chavez, who turned Venezuela toward socialism after he took office in 1999.

Some in the Opposition argued a tough approach led to costly blunders, including a short-lived 2002 coup that ended up strengthening Chavez's hand, and demonstrations in 2014 and 2017 that failed to force Maduro's ouster while taking the lives of nearly 200 young people.

"The Opposition was a mess," Borges said. "We had no plan. Some wanted dialogue, others not."

The government's own autocracy fueled the hardening in the Opposition. It neutered the Opposition-controlled Congress, created a parallel assembly, illegally sunk a recall referendum on Maduro and barred leading opponents from running against Maduro last year.

The four leaders saw some factors breaking their way. Some 60 countries called the presidential vote illegitimate. The geopolitical stars aligned from South America to Washington and Europe, as conservative governments opposed to Maduro took power and policymakers in Washington who had long wanted to take action on Venezuela received the go-ahead.

By the end of last year, the country was descending into anarchy. Inflation had hit 1.7 million per cent for the year. Food and medicine shortages were critical, and oil production was falling fast. Dec was marked by protests as Venezuelans tried to celebrate Christmas without pork, a holiday tradition.

By December, the four were discussing strategy every day, the Dow Jones Newswires report added.

"We spent hours every day on Zoom, talking about what to do," said Borges, referring to the video conferencing app.

What appeared to be a carefully calibrated policy to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was actually a big gamble by a small group of Opposition leaders acting on a hastily assembled plan, according to a Dow Jones Newswires report on Thursday.

What appeared to be a carefully calibrated policy to oust Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was actually a big gamble by a small group of Opposition leaders acting on a hastily assembled plan, according to a Dow Jones Newswires report on Thursday. The strategy marked a coup of sorts: This one within the country's notoriously fractious Opposition, which had been locked in debate over whether to negotiate with Maduro or take more direct action. When Juan Guaido declared himself Venezuela's interim president on January 23 in front of a crowd of 100,000 people under a broiling sun, some leading Opposition figures had no idea he would do so, say people who work with Guaido and other top leaders. That included a few standing alongside him. A stern look of shock crossed their faces. Some quietly left the stage. Also read: Colombia border, Venezuelans hunger for aid "What the hell is going on?" one member of a group of politicians wrote to the others in a WhatsApp group chat. "How come we didn't know about this." The plan was largely devised by a group of four Opposition leaders, two in exile, one under house arrest and one barred from leaving the country. It came together only in recent weeks, as Maduro prepared to start a second six-year term on Jan 10 after elections widely seen as a sham. Maduro has denounced the ceremony as part of a US-backed coup to overthrow his government. The act of political skulduggery paid off. The crowd reacted ecstatically to Guaido, and one nation after another recognised him within hours. The strategy has dramatically altered Venezuela's political landscape, empowering a faction led by Guaido's Popular Will Party that has long lobbied for more direct confrontation with the Maduro regime. Opposition leaders agreed Maduro was illegitimate and that the National Assembly, with the 35-year-old Guaidó as its newly elected head, was the country's lone democratic institution. However, many were initially against the idea of naming Guaido interim president, according to people familiar with the matter. They worried it might make eventual negotiation with Maduro impossible while deepening the misery for millions suffering from food and medicine shortages and political persecution against his rivals. Others argued it was critical to strike quickly, and that waiting for consensus was futile. "This was the moment to go for it," said Maria Corina Machado, one of the four behind the strategy. The timing was also irresistible. The swearing-in took place on a symbolic day in Venezuela: On January 23, 1958, students, unions and the military rose up to topple military dictator Marcos Perez Jimenez. Guaido himself only agreed to act the day before he declared himself president, his aides said. Some politicians, including those in the traditional Democratic Action Party, the largest Opposition party, weren't told of the plan. "We didn't want them to mess it up," said one Opposition leader who knew of the strategy. That evening, after Guaido's move sparked an outpouring of support, Opposition politicians of all stripes, including from Democratic Action, publicly backed the move. "We've become part of the political package facing off with the government," said Edgar Zambrano, 63, a member of Democratic Action and the vice president of the National Assembly. Zambrano, one of the Opposition leaders who appeared surprised on stage on January 23, said the possibility of Guaido assuming the presidency had been discussed in the weeks before, but that the final decision was in the hands of the young leader because of the risks it entailed. For now, at least, the events have electrified the Opposition's base. Guaido draws large, boisterous crowds. He has appointed ambassadors for what is, in essence, a parallel government. His team has laid out plans to bring humanitarian aid from Colombia in a tactic designed to test the resolve of Venezuelan troops loyal to Maduro. "Only a few weeks ago, I was totally depressed," said Michael Penfold, an advisor to the Opposition who counts himself as one of the doves who has now become a hawk. "I thought nothing was ever going to get Maduro out of power. Now, I wouldn't be surprised if Maduro resigns within days." The government, meanwhile, seems caught off guard and under siege, symbolised by the sandbags and soldiers toting machine guns that surround Maduro's Miraflores presidential palace. On frequent appearances on state TV, Maduro can be seen jogging with troops and leading them in chants of, "Traitors, never! Loyal, always!" If the Opposition can force out Maduro, Popular Will and its head, Leopoldo Lopez, will likely take the driver's seat for any future democratic election, politicians and political analysts say. Lopez, Guaido's political mentor, is under house arrest in Caracas. Lopez, who attended college and graduate school in the US, has long had close contact with American diplomats and is pro-free market. Guaido has laid out an economic recovery plan that calls on private companies to help rescue Venezuela's decaying oil industry, a proposal Lopez had a hand in shaping. The perception that the hard-line faction of the Opposition has won the day could make the regime more liable to dig in, making any negotiation more unlikely. One Opposition plan posits that Maduro would negotiate his own removal, leaving in exchange for, say, safe passage to a friendly country. With the Opposition taking action, "the Maduro team doesn't want to talk to them and doesn't trust them," said Phil Gunson, who tracks Venezuela's crisis for the International Crisis Group, a non-profit that studies conflicts. "They think they will all end up in jail or strung up from lampposts." If Maduro holds firm, it is likely to deepen the economic hardship for millions of Venezuelans. He could even emerge stronger, able to brag that he beat back a superpower. Zambrano, the member of Democratic Action, said that one big risk with the Opposition strategy is thinking it will all be over too soon and not planning for a long and drawn-out confrontation. "We've committed a lot of errors in strategies, thinking the government was going to be ousted in a day," he said. "Whoever bases their politics on that is going to fail." The road to the standoff comes after three years of setbacks for the Opposition that left them despondent, according to interviews with prominent members of several parties. It also left four prominent leaders with the sense that the time for dramatic action was growing near. All have been targets of the regime. Antonio Ledezma, 63, is a former Caracas mayor who spent time jailed and under house arrest before escaping to Spain. His close ally is Maria Corina Machado, 51, an industrial engineer whose brief career as a lawmaker in the National Assembly included getting her nose broken in an attack by ruling party lawmakers, being accused of trying to assassinate Maduro and getting expelled from the legislature in 2014. She is considered among the more intrepid of Opposition leaders for holding rallies and speeches in pro-government communities, where she has been physically beaten and fired upon. Julio Borges, 49, who lives in exile in Colombia, was the peacenik of the group. A father of quadruplets, he had long favored negotiations and elections. His position hardened toward taking action after he was threatened with jail early last year, forcing him and his family to flee. And then there is Leopoldo López, 47, the head of Popular Will. The best-known adversary of the regime outside of Venezuela, he has maintained close ties with his Opposition colleagues despite being confined at his apartment with an ankle monitor. He was jailed after protests in 2014 on charges that rights groups, as well as his prosecutors who have since defected, called trumped up. He's a distant relative of Simón Bolívar, the liberation hero whose legacy Maduro's Socialist Party has long leaned on. The four leaders had in the past often bitterly disagreed over how to remove Maduro, and before him, Hugo Chavez, who turned Venezuela toward socialism after he took office in 1999. Some in the Opposition argued a tough approach led to costly blunders, including a short-lived 2002 coup that ended up strengthening Chavez's hand, and demonstrations in 2014 and 2017 that failed to force Maduro's ouster while taking the lives of nearly 200 young people. "The Opposition was a mess," Borges said. "We had no plan. Some wanted dialogue, others not." The government's own autocracy fueled the hardening in the Opposition. It neutered the Opposition-controlled Congress, created a parallel assembly, illegally sunk a recall referendum on Maduro and barred leading opponents from running against Maduro last year. The four leaders saw some factors breaking their way. Some 60 countries called the presidential vote illegitimate. The geopolitical stars aligned from South America to Washington and Europe, as conservative governments opposed to Maduro took power and policymakers in Washington who had long wanted to take action on Venezuela received the go-ahead. By the end of last year, the country was descending into anarchy. Inflation had hit 1.7 million per cent for the year. Food and medicine shortages were critical, and oil production was falling fast. Dec was marked by protests as Venezuelans tried to celebrate Christmas without pork, a holiday tradition. By December, the four were discussing strategy every day, the Dow Jones Newswires report added. "We spent hours every day on Zoom, talking about what to do," said Borges, referring to the video conferencing app.

'What the hell is going on?' How a tiny cabal galvanised Venezuela's Opposition

It's a topsy-turvy world. President Emmanuel Macron's France can recognise Juan Guaido, who is leading the protests in distant Venezuela, as “Interim President” of that country. But Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio cannot meet “Yellow Vest” protesters demonstrating on the streets of Paris. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Why is the recognition of protests acceptable in the case of Venezuela but not when it comes to France? &nbsp;

Because the West led by the United States and its camp followers in Europe say so. This is the so-called “international community” known for its duplicitous standards. &nbsp;

When it comes to bleeding or browbeating a developing country the developed industrial nations of the North band come and set aside their own differences, divisions and disputes. They also find collaborators among poorer southern nations willing to strike against one of their own. Which explains Venezuela's neighbours acting as columns of the US, which is out to topple President Nicolas Maduro; and, as a step towards this, has recognised Guaido as “Interim President”.&nbsp;

What happened in Venezuela?&nbsp; &nbsp;

On January 10, President Maduro began his second term. The next day, Guaido, who is also National Assembly President, declared himself “Interim President”. A week later thousands came out to root for Guaido; and, on January 19, there were violent clashes between supporters of Maduro and Guaido. The army was incited to revolt. However, the Maduro government put down the mutiny even as protests escalated in the capital Caracas.&nbsp; 
 
In the last one month, all efforts to unseat Maduro – from propping up Guaido, his recognition by powerful nations barring Russia, China, India, Iran and Turkey to inciting the armed forces, imposing sanctions, squeezing Venezuela economically, denying the country food and medicines and funding protests – have failed. The US-led community is certain to keep at it till Maduro goes, for South America has been its backyard where its chosen dictators have ruled the roost for the last 100 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Those opposed to US-led interference and regime-change in Venezuela have taken the stand that it is for Venezuela to resolve its internal issues. Given the 'big power play' in Venezuela – the world's largest petroleum producer – it is, no coincidence that the protests in Caracas have overshadowed the Yellow Vest protests in France.&nbsp;

The protests in France began on November 17, almost two months before the eruption in Venezuela. A move to hike fuel prices drew more than 300,000 people across France to protest by raising barricades, jamming streets and blocking roads.&nbsp;

Soon the protests, which were not to any script and had no leadership, swelled into a movement where the demonstrators clashed with the police. The violent police crackdown – said to be the worst in 40 years -- has been likened to that unleashed upon students during the 1968 revolt.&nbsp;

President Macron's handling of the protests was repressive and inept. He promised to hold back on the proposed fuel tax and called for a national debate on economic issues. The debate was a flop. His promise to hike wages and pensions did not staunch the tide of protest.&nbsp;

A few days ago, some 12 weeks after the protests began, France passed the anti-hooligan law to suppress the yellow vest protests. The police have been given enormous powers to pick out trouble-makers from demonstrations. Local authorities can ban individual protesters. And, protesters have been banned from hiding their faces.

The passing of this draconian law was dubbed as a “Black Day” for French democracy. President Macron, once hailed as the harbinger of change in France and Europe, proved that he is as intolerant of dissent and protest as Latin American dictators. It is hardly surprising then that President Macron approval ratings are the worst even; and, France's annual growth rate is the worst in over two years.&nbsp;

Yet President Macron recognised Venezuelan protesters leader Guaido as “Interim President”.&nbsp; Can other countries follow the French example and use the same argument to talk to the Yellow Vest protesters?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Apparently not. France recalled its ambassador to Italy because Italian Deputy Prime Minister &nbsp;Luigi di Maio met leaders of the Yellow Vest movement. Earlier France, which is now interfering in the affairs of Venezuela (in the footsteps of the US), had warned Di Maio that "this new provocation is unacceptable”. After his meeting with the protesters, Di Maio, leader of Italy's populist Five Star Movement, tweeted "The wind of change has crossed the Alps".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Italy's ruling coalition, which includes the Five Star movement, is divided on Guaido. Di Maio has not only stopped the Italian government from backing Guaido but also scuttled the European Union from taking a joint position in support of Guaido. Venezuelans of Italian origin are a large and influential group in the South American country.&nbsp; 
 
It is surprising that the EU, which is divided on a host of issues from migrants and refugees to human rights and trade, should be one when it comes to ganging up against Venezuela. And, see it as an opportunity to get on the right side of US President Donald Trump despite disputes and differences that have kept the trans-Atlantic partners far apart in recent years.&nbsp; &nbsp;

In 2012, the EU was awarded the Nobel Prize for its contribution to peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights. That reads more like an epitaph to a Europe where democracy and human rights are little valued except as instruments for striking trade bargains and selling military hardware.&nbsp; 
 
( Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

It's a topsy-turvy world. President Emmanuel Macron's France can recognise Juan Guaido, who is leading the protests in distant Venezuela, as “Interim President” of that country.

It's a topsy-turvy world. President Emmanuel Macron's France can recognise Juan Guaido, who is leading the protests in distant Venezuela, as “Interim President” of that country. But Italy's Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio cannot meet “Yellow Vest” protesters demonstrating on the streets of Paris. Why is the recognition of protests acceptable in the case of Venezuela but not when it comes to France? Because the West led by the United States and its camp followers in Europe say so. This is the so-called “international community” known for its duplicitous standards. When it comes to bleeding or browbeating a developing country the developed industrial nations of the North band come and set aside their own differences, divisions and disputes. They also find collaborators among poorer southern nations willing to strike against one of their own. Which explains Venezuela's neighbours acting as columns of the US, which is out to topple President Nicolas Maduro; and, as a step towards this, has recognised Guaido as “Interim President”. What happened in Venezuela? On January 10, President Maduro began his second term. The next day, Guaido, who is also National Assembly President, declared himself “Interim President”. A week later thousands came out to root for Guaido; and, on January 19, there were violent clashes between supporters of Maduro and Guaido. The army was incited to revolt. However, the Maduro government put down the mutiny even as protests escalated in the capital Caracas. In the last one month, all efforts to unseat Maduro – from propping up Guaido, his recognition by powerful nations barring Russia, China, India, Iran and Turkey to inciting the armed forces, imposing sanctions, squeezing Venezuela economically, denying the country food and medicines and funding protests – have failed. The US-led community is certain to keep at it till Maduro goes, for South America has been its backyard where its chosen dictators have ruled the roost for the last 100 years. Those opposed to US-led interference and regime-change in Venezuela have taken the stand that it is for Venezuela to resolve its internal issues. Given the 'big power play' in Venezuela – the world's largest petroleum producer – it is, no coincidence that the protests in Caracas have overshadowed the Yellow Vest protests in France. The protests in France began on November 17, almost two months before the eruption in Venezuela. A move to hike fuel prices drew more than 300,000 people across France to protest by raising barricades, jamming streets and blocking roads. Soon the protests, which were not to any script and had no leadership, swelled into a movement where the demonstrators clashed with the police. The violent police crackdown – said to be the worst in 40 years -- has been likened to that unleashed upon students during the 1968 revolt. President Macron's handling of the protests was repressive and inept. He promised to hold back on the proposed fuel tax and called for a national debate on economic issues. The debate was a flop. His promise to hike wages and pensions did not staunch the tide of protest. A few days ago, some 12 weeks after the protests began, France passed the anti-hooligan law to suppress the yellow vest protests. The police have been given enormous powers to pick out trouble-makers from demonstrations. Local authorities can ban individual protesters. And, protesters have been banned from hiding their faces. The passing of this draconian law was dubbed as a “Black Day” for French democracy. President Macron, once hailed as the harbinger of change in France and Europe, proved that he is as intolerant of dissent and protest as Latin American dictators. It is hardly surprising then that President Macron approval ratings are the worst even; and, France's annual growth rate is the worst in over two years. Yet President Macron recognised Venezuelan protesters leader Guaido as “Interim President”. Can other countries follow the French example and use the same argument to talk to the Yellow Vest protesters? Apparently not. France recalled its ambassador to Italy because Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi di Maio met leaders of the Yellow Vest movement. Earlier France, which is now interfering in the affairs of Venezuela (in the footsteps of the US), had warned Di Maio that "this new provocation is unacceptable”. After his meeting with the protesters, Di Maio, leader of Italy's populist Five Star Movement, tweeted "The wind of change has crossed the Alps". Italy's ruling coalition, which includes the Five Star movement, is divided on Guaido. Di Maio has not only stopped the Italian government from backing Guaido but also scuttled the European Union from taking a joint position in support of Guaido. Venezuelans of Italian origin are a large and influential group in the South American country. It is surprising that the EU, which is divided on a host of issues from migrants and refugees to human rights and trade, should be one when it comes to ganging up against Venezuela. And, see it as an opportunity to get on the right side of US President Donald Trump despite disputes and differences that have kept the trans-Atlantic partners far apart in recent years. In 2012, the EU was awarded the Nobel Prize for its contribution to peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights. That reads more like an epitaph to a Europe where democracy and human rights are little valued except as instruments for striking trade bargains and selling military hardware. ( Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Venezuela, France & West's duplicity

In the world of states, there is no such thing as “humanitarian intervention”. But, there is a military intervention which states only take recourse to when their interests are at stake. In the general schema of state interest(s), there is a hierarchy of these and it is only when a given state’s fundamental interests are at stake, that it opts for military intervention. &nbsp;

From this perspective, Venezuela’s warning to the United States that there will be “irregular warfare” if the country intervenes militarily is rich and gratuitous.

It may be recalled that Venezuela is in the midst of a severe political and economic crisis, where the charismatic former president of the country, Hugo Chavez’ successor’s legitimacy and thereby the country’s future is at stake. But, the Venezuelan crisis, as important it is from a humanitarian angle, is a “low stakes game”. It is low stakes because Venezuela, even though an important oil producer and exporter, is neither a significant state in the region nor a swing one.&nbsp;

This is not to detract from the country’s intrinsic importance (because all nations and countries are important in their own right) but to put matters into perspective.

Moreover, the drift, thrust and tenor of international politics and relations is such that Venezuela, in the schema of powers that be constitute a lower order interest, perhaps because of oil and its politics thereof. But, there appears to be a humanitarian crisis brewing in the country. Given all this, will the international community led by the United States opt for military intervention?

No is the flat answer.

Besides the reasons delineated in this essay, other factors that militate against a full-blown military intervention pertain to the United States itself. The country, under Trump, has and is retreated inward into a quasi-isolationist and protectionist posture.&nbsp;

It has exited from Syria, is considering a retreat from Afghanistan and is confrontational toward China in trade matters. Against this backdrop, and the general aversion toward military intervention after the second Gulf War, it is well nigh impossible that the country will put “ boots on the ground” in Venezuela. &nbsp;

Even if these reasons and factors were to be discounted, the United States, at this point in time, does not have the absorptive capacity for the military option even of a limited and sort.

All this then rules out the military instrument. &nbsp;But, the international community along with the United States is not staying silent. It is doing something. The nature of the international community’s commission with respect to Venezuela lies in denying&nbsp;Nicolas Maduro and his government legitimacy.&nbsp;

This is a form of pressure that accrues from the very nature of international relations and politics. The state as a unit in international relations and in the international system derives legitimacy from two sides: internally and externally. It is upon the latter that the international community is focusing on. The hope here appears to be that if the Venezuelan state, in its current form and avatar, is denied legitimacy externally and with sufficient unrest, protests and perhaps even anarchy within, implied and even tacit support for the opposition forces, Maduro’s regime will collapse.&nbsp;

But, there are a plethora of assumptions involved in this approach. That is, there are too many if’s and but’s in it.

But, whatever be the case and howsoever, conditions in Venezuela will pan out and denoue, there will be no military intervention. Venezuela will be in the nature of a split and divided country and too conflicted for its own good.&nbsp;

The international community, by employing the tools and instruments it is taking recourse to, is essentially banking upon a scenario, which might or might not come to pass. &nbsp;But, it is the people of Venezuela that will suffer on a range of levels. However, all said and done, it is the people of Venezuela, not some distant politicians or technocratic experts, sitting in foreign capitals, that must choose and determine their future, how they want to live and be governed, and what system they adopt in a fair and a transparent manner. This choice must then be respected by all.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.) 
&nbsp;

In the world of states, there is no such thing as “humanitarian intervention”. But, there is a military intervention which states only take recourse to when their interests are at stake.

In the world of states, there is no such thing as “humanitarian intervention”. But, there is a military intervention which states only take recourse to when their interests are at stake. In the general schema of state interest(s), there is a hierarchy of these and it is only when a given state’s fundamental interests are at stake, that it opts for military intervention. From this perspective, Venezuela’s warning to the United States that there will be “irregular warfare” if the country intervenes militarily is rich and gratuitous. It may be recalled that Venezuela is in the midst of a severe political and economic crisis, where the charismatic former president of the country, Hugo Chavez’ successor’s legitimacy and thereby the country’s future is at stake. But, the Venezuelan crisis, as important it is from a humanitarian angle, is a “low stakes game”. It is low stakes because Venezuela, even though an important oil producer and exporter, is neither a significant state in the region nor a swing one. This is not to detract from the country’s intrinsic importance (because all nations and countries are important in their own right) but to put matters into perspective. Moreover, the drift, thrust and tenor of international politics and relations is such that Venezuela, in the schema of powers that be constitute a lower order interest, perhaps because of oil and its politics thereof. But, there appears to be a humanitarian crisis brewing in the country. Given all this, will the international community led by the United States opt for military intervention? No is the flat answer. Besides the reasons delineated in this essay, other factors that militate against a full-blown military intervention pertain to the United States itself. The country, under Trump, has and is retreated inward into a quasi-isolationist and protectionist posture. It has exited from Syria, is considering a retreat from Afghanistan and is confrontational toward China in trade matters. Against this backdrop, and the general aversion toward military intervention after the second Gulf War, it is well nigh impossible that the country will put “ boots on the ground” in Venezuela. Even if these reasons and factors were to be discounted, the United States, at this point in time, does not have the absorptive capacity for the military option even of a limited and sort. All this then rules out the military instrument. But, the international community along with the United States is not staying silent. It is doing something. The nature of the international community’s commission with respect to Venezuela lies in denying Nicolas Maduro and his government legitimacy. This is a form of pressure that accrues from the very nature of international relations and politics. The state as a unit in international relations and in the international system derives legitimacy from two sides: internally and externally. It is upon the latter that the international community is focusing on. The hope here appears to be that if the Venezuelan state, in its current form and avatar, is denied legitimacy externally and with sufficient unrest, protests and perhaps even anarchy within, implied and even tacit support for the opposition forces, Maduro’s regime will collapse. But, there are a plethora of assumptions involved in this approach. That is, there are too many if’s and but’s in it. But, whatever be the case and howsoever, conditions in Venezuela will pan out and denoue, there will be no military intervention. Venezuela will be in the nature of a split and divided country and too conflicted for its own good. The international community, by employing the tools and instruments it is taking recourse to, is essentially banking upon a scenario, which might or might not come to pass. But, it is the people of Venezuela that will suffer on a range of levels. However, all said and done, it is the people of Venezuela, not some distant politicians or technocratic experts, sitting in foreign capitals, that must choose and determine their future, how they want to live and be governed, and what system they adopt in a fair and a transparent manner. This choice must then be respected by all. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Venezuela crisis: Will the US opt for military intervention?

Venezuela's opposition on Wednesday said it would use a US-based fund to receive some of the country's oil income in a key step to bankroll its efforts to dislodge <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/you-will-stain-the-presidency-with-blood-venezuelas-maduro-to-trump-194921">President Nicolas Maduro</a>.

The fund would receive income accrued by state-run oil firm PDVSA's US unit Citgo Petroleum Corp since last month when US President Donald Trump recognised Juan Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state, opposition legislator Carlos Paparoni told Reuters.

Guaido, head of Venezuela's National Assembly, last month declared himself to be the South American country's interim ruler.

White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the United States would consider lifting sanctions on senior Venezuelan military officers if they recognise Guaido as interim leader. "If not, the international financial circle will be closed off completely," Bolton wrote on Twitter.

Aside from one senior general, who recognised Guaido in a video and urged others in the military to do the same, most of Venezuela's top military officers have not defected from Maduro.

Citgo, the eighth-largest US refiner and Venezuela's top foreign asset, is in the middle of a tug of war as the United States has made aggressive moves to remove it from Maduro's control and imposed sanctions on OPEC-member Venezuela's oil industry.

"This is already quite advanced, I hope that next week it can be announced by our representative in the United States," Paparoni said, though he did not give details about the nature of the US-based fund or the financial institution involved.

Pressure is building on Maduro, a socialist, to resign amid an economic crisis marked by widespread shortages and hyperinflation. Maduro was re-elected last year in a vote critics have called a sham.

Yon Goicoechea, a member of Guaido's policy team, told Reuters that Guaido was in contact with PDVSA's international partners and they were willing to keep operating in Venezuela. He did not identify the partners.

Guaido's team is planning for a post-Maduro government with an emergency arrangement to supply fuel domestically, given widespread shortages across Venezuela, Goicoechea said.

Most Latin American and European countries also recognise Guaido, although Italy so far has not. Guaido has reached out to Italy's ruling coalition seeking its support.

Maduro, who retains control over the state, denounces Guaido as a US puppet who is seeking to foment a coup against him. He is supported by China and Russia, while Slovakia on Wednesday joined Italy in defying the coordinated action of European Union nations and the United States.

GOLD SALES

The opposition has also sought to prevent the government from selling gold, believing that it is using the proceeds to try to stay solvent as the sanctions cut off other revenue streams.

But Maduro's government last year sold 73 tonnes of gold to Turkey and the United Arab Emirates without the required approval of the opposition-led National Assembly, Paparoni told a news conference. Abu Dhabi investment firm Noor Capital bought the largest amount, 27.3 tonnes of gold, and a Turkish firm bought 23.9 tonnes, Paparoni said.

"We will keep working so that not one more gram of gold can be sold," Paparoni said.

Venezuela had gold reserves of 132 tonnes between the central bank's vaults and the Bank of England at the end of November, according to central bank data.

Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Noor Capital said it "does not engage in any illegal or prohibited transactions."

In recent days, at least five tankers carrying gasoline, gas oil for power generation and naphtha have been ordered to unload at Venezuela's ports as fuel inventories dwindle. PDVSA issued court orders for most of the tankers to discharge, according to shipping and PDVSA sources.

Guaido asked Italy's ruling coalition leaders in a letter to meet with his representatives as he seeks their explicit backing. Italy's hard-right League has expressed strong support for Guaido, but coalition partner the 5-Star Movement has not, making Italy the only major European Union nation not to recognise him as Venezuela's interim head of state.

League leader and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini's office on Wednesday said he would meet Guaido's envoys on February 11.

As the world's countries line up to support either Maduro or Guaido, the United Nations warned against using aid as a pawn. The United States has sent food and medicine to Venezuela's border, even though it is unclear how it will get past the objections of Maduro.

"Humanitarian action needs to be independent of political, military or other objectives," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has doubled its budget in Venezuela in recent weeks and is also helping Venezuelan migrants in neighbouring Colombia and Brazil, ICRC President Peter Maurer said in Geneva. 
&nbsp;

Venezuela's opposition on Wednesday said it would use a US-based fund to receive some of the country's oil income in a key step to bankroll its efforts to dislodge President Nicolas Maduro.

Venezuela's opposition on Wednesday said it would use a US-based fund to receive some of the country's oil income in a key step to bankroll its efforts to dislodge President Nicolas Maduro. The fund would receive income accrued by state-run oil firm PDVSA's US unit Citgo Petroleum Corp since last month when US President Donald Trump recognised Juan Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state, opposition legislator Carlos Paparoni told Reuters. Guaido, head of Venezuela's National Assembly, last month declared himself to be the South American country's interim ruler. White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Wednesday the United States would consider lifting sanctions on senior Venezuelan military officers if they recognise Guaido as interim leader. "If not, the international financial circle will be closed off completely," Bolton wrote on Twitter. Aside from one senior general, who recognised Guaido in a video and urged others in the military to do the same, most of Venezuela's top military officers have not defected from Maduro. Citgo, the eighth-largest US refiner and Venezuela's top foreign asset, is in the middle of a tug of war as the United States has made aggressive moves to remove it from Maduro's control and imposed sanctions on OPEC-member Venezuela's oil industry. "This is already quite advanced, I hope that next week it can be announced by our representative in the United States," Paparoni said, though he did not give details about the nature of the US-based fund or the financial institution involved. Pressure is building on Maduro, a socialist, to resign amid an economic crisis marked by widespread shortages and hyperinflation. Maduro was re-elected last year in a vote critics have called a sham. Yon Goicoechea, a member of Guaido's policy team, told Reuters that Guaido was in contact with PDVSA's international partners and they were willing to keep operating in Venezuela. He did not identify the partners. Guaido's team is planning for a post-Maduro government with an emergency arrangement to supply fuel domestically, given widespread shortages across Venezuela, Goicoechea said. Most Latin American and European countries also recognise Guaido, although Italy so far has not. Guaido has reached out to Italy's ruling coalition seeking its support. Maduro, who retains control over the state, denounces Guaido as a US puppet who is seeking to foment a coup against him. He is supported by China and Russia, while Slovakia on Wednesday joined Italy in defying the coordinated action of European Union nations and the United States. GOLD SALES The opposition has also sought to prevent the government from selling gold, believing that it is using the proceeds to try to stay solvent as the sanctions cut off other revenue streams. But Maduro's government last year sold 73 tonnes of gold to Turkey and the United Arab Emirates without the required approval of the opposition-led National Assembly, Paparoni told a news conference. Abu Dhabi investment firm Noor Capital bought the largest amount, 27.3 tonnes of gold, and a Turkish firm bought 23.9 tonnes, Paparoni said. "We will keep working so that not one more gram of gold can be sold," Paparoni said. Venezuela had gold reserves of 132 tonnes between the central bank's vaults and the Bank of England at the end of November, according to central bank data. Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Noor Capital said it "does not engage in any illegal or prohibited transactions." In recent days, at least five tankers carrying gasoline, gas oil for power generation and naphtha have been ordered to unload at Venezuela's ports as fuel inventories dwindle. PDVSA issued court orders for most of the tankers to discharge, according to shipping and PDVSA sources. Guaido asked Italy's ruling coalition leaders in a letter to meet with his representatives as he seeks their explicit backing. Italy's hard-right League has expressed strong support for Guaido, but coalition partner the 5-Star Movement has not, making Italy the only major European Union nation not to recognise him as Venezuela's interim head of state. League leader and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini's office on Wednesday said he would meet Guaido's envoys on February 11. As the world's countries line up to support either Maduro or Guaido, the United Nations warned against using aid as a pawn. The United States has sent food and medicine to Venezuela's border, even though it is unclear how it will get past the objections of Maduro. "Humanitarian action needs to be independent of political, military or other objectives," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York. The International Committee of the Red Cross has doubled its budget in Venezuela in recent weeks and is also helping Venezuelan migrants in neighbouring Colombia and Brazil, ICRC President Peter Maurer said in Geneva.

Venezuela opposition plans to get oil money from US-based fund

Venezuela Crisis: Maduro govt blocks humanitarian aid

By Thomas Purcell

There appear to be two distinct responses to the current crisis in Venezuela. Either an authoritarian regime (led by Nicolás Maduro) is clinging to power against the wishes of popular forces arrayed around the new self-declared interim President Juan Guaidó. Or Venezuela is facing a coup backed by US imperialism with clear designs on the country’s huge oil reserves.

As with most complex situations, neither of these narratives fully captures what is going on. Indeed, for the majority of Venezuelans – thousands of whom have again taken to the streets across the country in peaceful demonstrations – ideological epithets pale in comparison to the economic impact they are experiencing in their daily lives.

Many face hunger, seeing family members flee the country (upwards of 3m have left the country) and rampant hyperinflation (predicted by the International Monetary Fund to reach an astronomical 10,000,000 per cent in 2019).

And make no mistake – despite the much publicised US sanctions, the economic crisis in Venezuela is homegrown. The government’s attempt to set prices for basic goods, maintain currency and exchange controls and regulate profits has decimated domestic production.

It has also strengthened black markets and encouraged the smuggling of everything from meat to nappies over the border with Colombia – a trade which has become an everyday survival strategy for thousands of Venezuelans.

Maduro’s government has been peddling the line of “economic war” for over four years. It even denies inflation actually exists, while printing more money to pay for increases in a minimum wage that doesn’t even cover the cost of a dozen eggs.

In a recent television interview, Maduro blamed the supposed economic war when asked about a rate of 3 per cent inflation per day in 2018. He also expressed a willingness to hold talks with his political rival Guaidó – while also somewhat ominously stating that 50,000 civilian militia members with access to weapons were on stand by to “defend the peace”.

Sanctions that have been in place since 2017 have exacerbated the economic crisis but were not successful in an attempt to force Maduro out of power. Yet, paradoxically, the very public US backing of Guaidó has increased the plausibility of Maduro’s claim – because with added sanctions now in place designed to restrict food supplies and oil equipment, that economic war has become very real.

The fact that this is a homegrown crisis is not lost on the people taking to the streets. So it can seem surprising that some angry Venezuelans don’t welcome internationally supported regime change. Still, others maintain steadfast supporters of “Chavismo” – the political movement named after the late president Hugo Chávez, Maduro’s predecessor. “Chavismo” still carries significant weight among activists anxious to defend “la patria” (the fatherland) from any external intervention.

Let’s take one salient example. The agricultural commune “El Maizal”, located between the states of Lara and Portuguesa, is perhaps the most successful worker-run cooperative still struggling for their vision of 21st-century socialism. While extremely critical of the “corruption, bureaucracy and clientelism” that pervades the government, the commune’s Twitter feed expresses the militant sentiment of a people prepared to rise up against the perceived threat of “Yankee imperialism”.

(Thomas Purcell is Senior Lecturer in International Political Economy, Leeds Beckett University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/venezuela-us-sanctions-hurt-but-the-economic-crisis-is-home-grown-111280">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Thomas Purcell There appear to be two distinct responses to the current crisis in Venezuela. Either an authoritarian regime (led by Nicolás Maduro) is clinging to power against the wishes of popular forces arrayed around the new self-declared interim President Juan Guaidó.

By Thomas Purcell There appear to be two distinct responses to the current crisis in Venezuela. Either an authoritarian regime (led by Nicolás Maduro) is clinging to power against the wishes of popular forces arrayed around the new self-declared interim President Juan Guaidó. Or Venezuela is facing a coup backed by US imperialism with clear designs on the country’s huge oil reserves. As with most complex situations, neither of these narratives fully captures what is going on. Indeed, for the majority of Venezuelans – thousands of whom have again taken to the streets across the country in peaceful demonstrations – ideological epithets pale in comparison to the economic impact they are experiencing in their daily lives. Many face hunger, seeing family members flee the country (upwards of 3m have left the country) and rampant hyperinflation (predicted by the International Monetary Fund to reach an astronomical 10,000,000 per cent in 2019). And make no mistake – despite the much publicised US sanctions, the economic crisis in Venezuela is homegrown. The government’s attempt to set prices for basic goods, maintain currency and exchange controls and regulate profits has decimated domestic production. It has also strengthened black markets and encouraged the smuggling of everything from meat to nappies over the border with Colombia – a trade which has become an everyday survival strategy for thousands of Venezuelans. Maduro’s government has been peddling the line of “economic war” for over four years. It even denies inflation actually exists, while printing more money to pay for increases in a minimum wage that doesn’t even cover the cost of a dozen eggs. In a recent television interview, Maduro blamed the supposed economic war when asked about a rate of 3 per cent inflation per day in 2018. He also expressed a willingness to hold talks with his political rival Guaidó – while also somewhat ominously stating that 50,000 civilian militia members with access to weapons were on stand by to “defend the peace”. Sanctions that have been in place since 2017 have exacerbated the economic crisis but were not successful in an attempt to force Maduro out of power. Yet, paradoxically, the very public US backing of Guaidó has increased the plausibility of Maduro’s claim – because with added sanctions now in place designed to restrict food supplies and oil equipment, that economic war has become very real. The fact that this is a homegrown crisis is not lost on the people taking to the streets. So it can seem surprising that some angry Venezuelans don’t welcome internationally supported regime change. Still, others maintain steadfast supporters of “Chavismo” – the political movement named after the late president Hugo Chávez, Maduro’s predecessor. “Chavismo” still carries significant weight among activists anxious to defend “la patria” (the fatherland) from any external intervention. Let’s take one salient example. The agricultural commune “El Maizal”, located between the states of Lara and Portuguesa, is perhaps the most successful worker-run cooperative still struggling for their vision of 21st-century socialism. While extremely critical of the “corruption, bureaucracy and clientelism” that pervades the government, the commune’s Twitter feed expresses the militant sentiment of a people prepared to rise up against the perceived threat of “Yankee imperialism”. (Thomas Purcell is Senior Lecturer in International Political Economy, Leeds Beckett 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: US sanctions hurt, but the economic crisis is homegrown

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/oil-ticks-higher-market-eyes-us-state-of-the-union-address-195511">Oil prices slipped</a> on Thursday after US crude inventories rose and the country's production held at record levels, but OPEC-led supply cuts and Washington's sanctions against Venezuela supported markets.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $53.82 per barrel at 0607 GMT, down 19 cents, or 0.4 per cent, from their last settlement.

International Brent crude oil futures fell 25 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to $62.44 per barrel.

US crude oil inventories climbed by 1.3 million barrels in the week that ended February 1 to 447.21 million barrels, data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) showed on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, average weekly US crude oil production remained at the record 11.9 million barrels per day (bpd) it reached in late 2018. The United States is currently the world's largest oil producer, ahead of traditional top suppliers Russia and Saudi Arabia.

Countering the rising US crude output and inventories are voluntary supply cuts led by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) aimed at tightening the market and propping up prices.

"The key supply story remains the ongoing OPEC production cuts," US bank Goldman Sachs said on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, US sanctions against Venezuela's oil industry are expected to freeze sales proceeds of Venezuelan crude exports to the United States.

"Around a third of Venezuela's exports head to the US as such, we expect Venezuelan exports to quickly fall by 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) to around 700,000 bpd," ANZ bank said on Thursday.

"The risks are rising that this political standoff will deepen the fall in output as funds dry up and the mass defection of workers accelerates," it added.

Washington said last week that after April 28 foreign companies will not be able to conduct business with PDVSA using the US financial system, effectively banning them from paying in US dollars.

"The ban ... dramatically ramps up the sanctions to a global level and could potentially result in a loss of most Venezuelan output," French bank Societe Generale said in a note published on Wednesday.

Oil prices slipped on Thursday after US crude inventories rose and the country's production held at record levels, but OPEC-led supply cuts and Washington's sanctions against Venezuela supported markets.

Oil prices slipped on Thursday after US crude inventories rose and the country's production held at record levels, but OPEC-led supply cuts and Washington's sanctions against Venezuela supported markets. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $53.82 per barrel at 0607 GMT, down 19 cents, or 0.4 per cent, from their last settlement. International Brent crude oil futures fell 25 cents, or 0.4 per cent, to $62.44 per barrel. US crude oil inventories climbed by 1.3 million barrels in the week that ended February 1 to 447.21 million barrels, data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) showed on Wednesday. Meanwhile, average weekly US crude oil production remained at the record 11.9 million barrels per day (bpd) it reached in late 2018. The United States is currently the world's largest oil producer, ahead of traditional top suppliers Russia and Saudi Arabia. Countering the rising US crude output and inventories are voluntary supply cuts led by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) aimed at tightening the market and propping up prices. "The key supply story remains the ongoing OPEC production cuts," US bank Goldman Sachs said on Wednesday. Meanwhile, US sanctions against Venezuela's oil industry are expected to freeze sales proceeds of Venezuelan crude exports to the United States. "Around a third of Venezuela's exports head to the US as such, we expect Venezuelan exports to quickly fall by 300,000 barrels per day (bpd) to around 700,000 bpd," ANZ bank said on Thursday. "The risks are rising that this political standoff will deepen the fall in output as funds dry up and the mass defection of workers accelerates," it added. Washington said last week that after April 28 foreign companies will not be able to conduct business with PDVSA using the US financial system, effectively banning them from paying in US dollars. "The ban ... dramatically ramps up the sanctions to a global level and could potentially result in a loss of most Venezuelan output," French bank Societe Generale said in a note published on Wednesday.

International oil prices dip as US crude inventories rise

Venezuelan military officers blocked a bridge on the border with Colombia ahead of an anticipated humanitarian aid shipment, as opposition leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-challenging-maduro-through-humanitarian-aid-195434">Juan Guaido stepped up his challenge</a> to President Nicolas Maduro's authority.

Earlier Tuesday the opposition-dominated National Assembly had warned the armed forces, which make up much of Maduro's power base, not to cross a "red line" by blocking aid.

Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president on January 23 -- sparking an international crisis -- claims that up to 300,000 people face death if the aid is not delivered.

"You know there's a red line, you know well there's a limit, you know that medicines, food and medical supplies are that limit," lawmaker Miguel Pizarro said in a message to the military.

Maduro, though, said humanitarian aid would be the forerunner of a US-led invasion, insisting that "no one will enter, not one invading soldier."

Venezuelan military officers used a tanker truck and huge shipping container to block access to the Tienditas bridge, which links Cucuta, Colombia to Urena, Venezuela.

Franklyn Duarte, an opposition lawmaker from the border state of Tachira, told AFP that troops from the armed forces were blocking the crossing.

The aid delivery was being coordinated by Guaido, who has declared himself interim president of the oil-rich country and now enjoys the backing of some 40 countries as Venezuela's legitimate leader.

Maduro, 56, has repeatedly accused the United States of fomenting a coup.

The US, which has not ruled out military intervention in crisis-wracked Venezuela, was the first to recognize him as acting president, followed by a dozen Latin American countries.

In his State of the Union address Tuesday night, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/i-will-meet-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-in-vietnam-on-february-27-28-trump-in-state-of-the-union-address-195467">President Donald Trump</a> reaffirmed US support for Guaido, saying "we stand with the Venezuelan people in their noble quest for freedom."

Britain, France, Germany and Spain were among 20 EU nations to side with Guaido this week after Maduro ignored their demands that he announce new presidential elections by February 3

Interference&nbsp;

Guaido is trying to force Maduro from power, set up a transitional government and hold a new presidential poll.

He thanked his EU supporters "for supporting all Venezuelans in this struggle we undertake to rescue our nation's democracy, freedom and justice."

But key Maduro ally Russia slammed what it called interference in the oil-rich but now poor Latin American country, saying it was an attempt to "legitimize usurped power."

Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused the EU of trying to "topple the government by violence and ruse," while berating the US for treating Venezuela like "one of your states."

Guaido, 35, claims his legitimacy from the constitution and has been ramping up pressure on Maduro by calling his supporters out into the streets.

The next mass demonstration is due for February 12.

Guaido must still find a way to bring in the humanitarian aid given the military's loyalty to Maduro.

He accused the military on Monday of planning to divert aid being stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and an unidentified Caribbean island, in order to distribute it through the socialist government's subsidized food program for its own supporters.

The National Assembly said the military must decide whether it is on the side of the people or "the problem."

Guaido knows he needs the armed forces on his side to dislodge Maduro. He was boosted on Saturday by the defection of a top air force general.

His fledgling alternative administration will hold talks in Washington February 14 on responding to "the largest hemispheric humanitarian crisis in modern history."

Maduro disclosed Monday that he sent Pope Francis a letter seeking help in mediating the country's crisis. The pope told journalists Tuesday that this would require agreement from both the government and the opposition.

"Getting close to both sides to enact the possibilities of dialogue. That's how diplomacy works," the pope said on the plane bringing him back from the United Arab Emirates. &nbsp; &nbsp;

'Confrontation'&nbsp;

Eurasia Group analysts say the humanitarian crisis "represents a lose-lose gambit for Maduro" who will either have to allow the goods to enter the country, further bolstering Guaido, or force the military to block their entry, risking a backlash in the streets.

Maduro, though, remains steadfast.

"Venezuela doesn't have to beg to anyone," he said. "If they want to help, then end the blockade and the sanctions."

Under Maduro's stewardship, oil-dependent Venezuela has plunged into an economic crisis, suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine.

Eurasia said US oil sanctions are "set to have a broad impact" with the government facing "the prospect of running out of gasoline, which could serve as another social catalyst."

Maduro won't cave&nbsp;

Guaido branded Maduro illegitimate over his reelection in May, which the opposition boycotted after several of its leaders were either jailed, barred or forced into exile.

The US and EU dismissed the elections as a fraud.

Maduro has flatly rejected demands for new elections, telling Spanish television he would not "cave in to pressure."&nbsp;

He has supported plans for a meeting of Latin American and EU states in a "Contact Group" in Montevideo on Thursday, though.

The United Nations said 40 people were killed in clashes with security forces in a week of protests last month, coinciding with Guaido's self-proclamation as acting leader. Local NGO Foro Penal said almost 1,000 people were detained between January 21 and 31.

Venezuelan military officers blocked a bridge on the border with Colombia ahead of an anticipated humanitarian aid shipment, as opposition leader Juan Guaido stepped up his challenge to President Nicolas Maduro's authority.

Venezuelan military officers blocked a bridge on the border with Colombia ahead of an anticipated humanitarian aid shipment, as opposition leader Juan Guaido stepped up his challenge to President Nicolas Maduro's authority. Earlier Tuesday the opposition-dominated National Assembly had warned the armed forces, which make up much of Maduro's power base, not to cross a "red line" by blocking aid. Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president on January 23 -- sparking an international crisis -- claims that up to 300,000 people face death if the aid is not delivered. "You know there's a red line, you know well there's a limit, you know that medicines, food and medical supplies are that limit," lawmaker Miguel Pizarro said in a message to the military. Maduro, though, said humanitarian aid would be the forerunner of a US-led invasion, insisting that "no one will enter, not one invading soldier." Venezuelan military officers used a tanker truck and huge shipping container to block access to the Tienditas bridge, which links Cucuta, Colombia to Urena, Venezuela. Franklyn Duarte, an opposition lawmaker from the border state of Tachira, told AFP that troops from the armed forces were blocking the crossing. The aid delivery was being coordinated by Guaido, who has declared himself interim president of the oil-rich country and now enjoys the backing of some 40 countries as Venezuela's legitimate leader. Maduro, 56, has repeatedly accused the United States of fomenting a coup. The US, which has not ruled out military intervention in crisis-wracked Venezuela, was the first to recognize him as acting president, followed by a dozen Latin American countries. In his State of the Union address Tuesday night, President Donald Trump reaffirmed US support for Guaido, saying "we stand with the Venezuelan people in their noble quest for freedom." Britain, France, Germany and Spain were among 20 EU nations to side with Guaido this week after Maduro ignored their demands that he announce new presidential elections by February 3 Interference Guaido is trying to force Maduro from power, set up a transitional government and hold a new presidential poll. He thanked his EU supporters "for supporting all Venezuelans in this struggle we undertake to rescue our nation's democracy, freedom and justice." But key Maduro ally Russia slammed what it called interference in the oil-rich but now poor Latin American country, saying it was an attempt to "legitimize usurped power." Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan accused the EU of trying to "topple the government by violence and ruse," while berating the US for treating Venezuela like "one of your states." Guaido, 35, claims his legitimacy from the constitution and has been ramping up pressure on Maduro by calling his supporters out into the streets. The next mass demonstration is due for February 12. Guaido must still find a way to bring in the humanitarian aid given the military's loyalty to Maduro. He accused the military on Monday of planning to divert aid being stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and an unidentified Caribbean island, in order to distribute it through the socialist government's subsidized food program for its own supporters. The National Assembly said the military must decide whether it is on the side of the people or "the problem." Guaido knows he needs the armed forces on his side to dislodge Maduro. He was boosted on Saturday by the defection of a top air force general. His fledgling alternative administration will hold talks in Washington February 14 on responding to "the largest hemispheric humanitarian crisis in modern history." Maduro disclosed Monday that he sent Pope Francis a letter seeking help in mediating the country's crisis. The pope told journalists Tuesday that this would require agreement from both the government and the opposition. "Getting close to both sides to enact the possibilities of dialogue. That's how diplomacy works," the pope said on the plane bringing him back from the United Arab Emirates. 'Confrontation' Eurasia Group analysts say the humanitarian crisis "represents a lose-lose gambit for Maduro" who will either have to allow the goods to enter the country, further bolstering Guaido, or force the military to block their entry, risking a backlash in the streets. Maduro, though, remains steadfast. "Venezuela doesn't have to beg to anyone," he said. "If they want to help, then end the blockade and the sanctions." Under Maduro's stewardship, oil-dependent Venezuela has plunged into an economic crisis, suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine. Eurasia said US oil sanctions are "set to have a broad impact" with the government facing "the prospect of running out of gasoline, which could serve as another social catalyst." Maduro won't cave Guaido branded Maduro illegitimate over his reelection in May, which the opposition boycotted after several of its leaders were either jailed, barred or forced into exile. The US and EU dismissed the elections as a fraud. Maduro has flatly rejected demands for new elections, telling Spanish television he would not "cave in to pressure." He has supported plans for a meeting of Latin American and EU states in a "Contact Group" in Montevideo on Thursday, though. The United Nations said 40 people were killed in clashes with security forces in a week of protests last month, coinciding with Guaido's self-proclamation as acting leader. Local NGO Foro Penal said almost 1,000 people were detained between January 21 and 31.

Venezuela's military blocks humanitarian aid shipment

Boosted by the backing of 19 European Union countries, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> is ploughing on with his bid to bring humanitarian aid into the country despite <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-writes-to-pope-francis-for-help-195155">President Nicolas Maduro</a>'s vow to block it.

Venezuela's National Assembly, headed by self-proclaimed acting president Guaido, was to discuss the process of gathering badly-needed food and medicines in neighbouring countries before bringing it in.

Guaido has pleaded with the military, the key power behind Maduro's authority, not to block the aid, claiming that up to 300,000 people face death without it.

"Here in Venezuela nothing will enter, not one invading soldier," said Maduro, who claims humanitarian aid would be a precursor to a US-led invasion.

Maduro has repeatedly accused the United States of being behind an attempted coup by Guaido, who declared himself acting president on January 23.

The US, which has not ruled out military intervention in crisis-wracked Venezuela, was the first to recognize his claims followed by a dozen Latin American countries.

Britain, France and Spain were among 19 EU nations to side with Guaido on Monday after Maduro ignored a deadline they had set for him to announce new presidential elections.

Interference&nbsp;

Guaido is trying to force Maduro from power, set up a transitional government and hold a new presidential poll.

He thanked each EU country in turn on Twitter "for supporting all Venezuelans in this struggle we undertake to rescue our nation's democracy, freedom and justice."

But key Maduro ally Russia slammed what it called interference in the oil-rich but now poor Latin American country, saying it was an attempt to "legitimize usurped power."

Guaido, 35, claims his legitimacy from the constitution and has been ramping up pressure on Maduro by calling his supporters out into the streets.

The next mass demonstration is due for February 12.

Guaido and Maduro led rival rallies in Caracas on Saturday that brought tens of thousands of people into the streets.

Guaido must still find a way to bring in the humanitarian aid given the military's loyalty to Maduro.

The young lawmaker accused the military on Monday of planning to divert aid being stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and an unidentified Caribbean island, in order to distribute it through the socialist government's subsidized food program for its own supporters.

Guaido appealed to the military's "conscience" to let the aid reach those most in need.

Guaido knows he also needs the armed forces on his side to dislodge Maduro, although he was boosted on Saturday by the defection of a top air force general.

His fledgeling alternative administration will also hold talks in Washington February 14 on responding to "the largest hemispheric humanitarian crisis in modern history."

'Confrontation'&nbsp;

Analysts Eurasia Group says the humanitarian crisis "represents a lose-lose gambit for Maduro as he will either have to allow the goods to enter the country, further bolstering Guaido, or force the military to block their entry, which would likely lead to more blowback in the streets."

Maduro, though, remains steadfast.

"They want to send two little trucks with four casseroles. Venezuela doesn't have to beg to anyone," he said.

"If they want to help then end the blockade and the sanctions."

The US has stepped up the pressure on Maduro's regime by imposing sanctions on state oil company PDVSA in a bid to starve the administration of its funding.

But on Monday, Guaido accused Maduro of trying to illicitly transfer up to $1.2 billion from public coffers to a bank in Uruguay, urging the Montevideo government "not to lend itself to stealing."

Under Maduro's stewardship, oil-dependent Venezuela has plunged into an economic crisis, suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine.

Eurasia said US oil sanctions are "set to have a broad impact" with the government facing "the prospect of running out of gasoline, which could serve as another social catalyst."

Maduro won't cave&nbsp;

Guaido branded Maduro illegitimate over his reelection in May, which the opposition boycotted after several of its leaders were either jailed, barred or forced into exile.

The US and EU dismissed the elections as a fraud.

Maduro has flatly rejected demands for new elections, telling Spanish television he would not "cave in to pressure."&nbsp;

He has supported plans for a meeting of Latin American and EU states in a "Contact Group" in Montevideo on Thursday, though, saying it would lead to "dialogue."

The United Nations said 40 people were killed in clashes with security forces in a week of protests last month, coinciding with Guaido's self-proclamation as acting leader. Local NGO Foro Penal said almost 1,000 people were detained between January 21 and 31.

Boosted by the backing of 19 European Union countries, Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido is ploughing on with his bid to bring humanitarian aid into the country despite President Nicolas Maduro's vow to block it.

Boosted by the backing of 19 European Union countries, Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido is ploughing on with his bid to bring humanitarian aid into the country despite President Nicolas Maduro's vow to block it. Venezuela's National Assembly, headed by self-proclaimed acting president Guaido, was to discuss the process of gathering badly-needed food and medicines in neighbouring countries before bringing it in. Guaido has pleaded with the military, the key power behind Maduro's authority, not to block the aid, claiming that up to 300,000 people face death without it. "Here in Venezuela nothing will enter, not one invading soldier," said Maduro, who claims humanitarian aid would be a precursor to a US-led invasion. Maduro has repeatedly accused the United States of being behind an attempted coup by Guaido, who declared himself acting president on January 23. The US, which has not ruled out military intervention in crisis-wracked Venezuela, was the first to recognize his claims followed by a dozen Latin American countries. Britain, France and Spain were among 19 EU nations to side with Guaido on Monday after Maduro ignored a deadline they had set for him to announce new presidential elections. Interference Guaido is trying to force Maduro from power, set up a transitional government and hold a new presidential poll. He thanked each EU country in turn on Twitter "for supporting all Venezuelans in this struggle we undertake to rescue our nation's democracy, freedom and justice." But key Maduro ally Russia slammed what it called interference in the oil-rich but now poor Latin American country, saying it was an attempt to "legitimize usurped power." Guaido, 35, claims his legitimacy from the constitution and has been ramping up pressure on Maduro by calling his supporters out into the streets. The next mass demonstration is due for February 12. Guaido and Maduro led rival rallies in Caracas on Saturday that brought tens of thousands of people into the streets. Guaido must still find a way to bring in the humanitarian aid given the military's loyalty to Maduro. The young lawmaker accused the military on Monday of planning to divert aid being stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and an unidentified Caribbean island, in order to distribute it through the socialist government's subsidized food program for its own supporters. Guaido appealed to the military's "conscience" to let the aid reach those most in need. Guaido knows he also needs the armed forces on his side to dislodge Maduro, although he was boosted on Saturday by the defection of a top air force general. His fledgeling alternative administration will also hold talks in Washington February 14 on responding to "the largest hemispheric humanitarian crisis in modern history." 'Confrontation' Analysts Eurasia Group says the humanitarian crisis "represents a lose-lose gambit for Maduro as he will either have to allow the goods to enter the country, further bolstering Guaido, or force the military to block their entry, which would likely lead to more blowback in the streets." Maduro, though, remains steadfast. "They want to send two little trucks with four casseroles. Venezuela doesn't have to beg to anyone," he said. "If they want to help then end the blockade and the sanctions." The US has stepped up the pressure on Maduro's regime by imposing sanctions on state oil company PDVSA in a bid to starve the administration of its funding. But on Monday, Guaido accused Maduro of trying to illicitly transfer up to $1.2 billion from public coffers to a bank in Uruguay, urging the Montevideo government "not to lend itself to stealing." Under Maduro's stewardship, oil-dependent Venezuela has plunged into an economic crisis, suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine. Eurasia said US oil sanctions are "set to have a broad impact" with the government facing "the prospect of running out of gasoline, which could serve as another social catalyst." Maduro won't cave Guaido branded Maduro illegitimate over his reelection in May, which the opposition boycotted after several of its leaders were either jailed, barred or forced into exile. The US and EU dismissed the elections as a fraud. Maduro has flatly rejected demands for new elections, telling Spanish television he would not "cave in to pressure." He has supported plans for a meeting of Latin American and EU states in a "Contact Group" in Montevideo on Thursday, though, saying it would lead to "dialogue." The United Nations said 40 people were killed in clashes with security forces in a week of protests last month, coinciding with Guaido's self-proclamation as acting leader. Local NGO Foro Penal said almost 1,000 people were detained between January 21 and 31.

Venezuela's Guaido challenging Maduro through humanitarian aid

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/you-will-stain-the-presidency-with-blood-venezuelas-maduro-to-trump-194921">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> said he has written to the pope asking him to help mediate his country's crisis after a swathe of nations recognised a rival opposition chief as interim leader.

"I sent a letter to Pope Francis," Maduro told Italy's SkyTG24 television in an interview broadcast on Monday, with opposition leader <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">Juan Guaido</a> gaining more international support.

"I told him that I serve Christ's cause... and in this spirit, I asked for his help, in a process of facilitating and strengthening dialogue," said Maduro, who has rejected calls for snap presidential elections.

"I ask the pope to put in his best effort, his will, to help on the path of dialogue. I hope to receive a positive response," he said.

Maduro is supporting plans for a meeting of Latin American and European Union states in "Contact Group" talks in Montevideo on Thursday.

The pope is currently on a visit to the United Arab Emirates and is due to return to Rome on Tuesday.

Under Maduro's stewardship, oil-dependent Venezuela has plunged into an economic crisis, suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine.

After several years of opposition efforts to oust Maduro, Guaido declared himself acting president at a rally on January 23.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said he has written to the pope asking him to help mediate his country's crisis after a swathe of nations recognised a rival opposition chief as interim leader.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said he has written to the pope asking him to help mediate his country's crisis after a swathe of nations recognised a rival opposition chief as interim leader. "I sent a letter to Pope Francis," Maduro told Italy's SkyTG24 television in an interview broadcast on Monday, with opposition leader Juan Guaido gaining more international support. "I told him that I serve Christ's cause... and in this spirit, I asked for his help, in a process of facilitating and strengthening dialogue," said Maduro, who has rejected calls for snap presidential elections. "I ask the pope to put in his best effort, his will, to help on the path of dialogue. I hope to receive a positive response," he said. Maduro is supporting plans for a meeting of Latin American and European Union states in "Contact Group" talks in Montevideo on Thursday. The pope is currently on a visit to the United Arab Emirates and is due to return to Rome on Tuesday. Under Maduro's stewardship, oil-dependent Venezuela has plunged into an economic crisis, suffering from hyperinflation and shortages of food and medicine. After several years of opposition efforts to oust Maduro, Guaido declared himself acting president at a rally on January 23.

Venezuela's Maduro writes to pope for help

The United Nations will not join any group of nations promoting initiatives to resolve the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">crisis in Venezuela</a>, the UN chief said Monday, indicating he will not attend a meeting in Uruguay this week of several countries.

Mexico and Uruguay had hoped that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres would attend a conference in Montevideo on Thursday aimed at promoting dialogue between Venezuela's self-proclaimed president Juan Guaido and leader Nicolas Maduro.

"The UN Secretariat has decided not to be part of any of these groups in order to give credibility to our continued offer of good offices to the parties to be able at their request to help find a political solution," Guterres told reporters.

Guaido has won backing from the United States, European powers including France, Germany and Spain, Canada, Australia and a dozen Latin American countries to take over the leadership, but Russia and China continue to support Maduro.

The global split over Venezuela has left the United Nations in a quandary and Guterres' comments suggested that the world body would remain on the sidelines for now.&nbsp;

Mexico and Uruguay have not recognized Guaido, the head of the National Assembly who declared himself acting president on January 23 in place of Maduro.

A group of Latin American and European states are to hold their first meeting of a contact group in Montevideo on Thursday.

The contact group comprises the EU and eight of its member states -- France, Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden -- and four Latin American countries: Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Uruguay.

Guterres said he was following the crisis in Venezuela "with a lot of concern," adding that he had discussed the various initiatives put forward with the countries involved.

The UN chief met with Mexico's ambassador to the United Nations Juan Jose Gomez Camacho last week who said the Montevideo conference was to "offer a chance for dialogue to all parties involved."

Venezuela has suffered an economic meltdown marked by hyperinflation and shortages of basic necessities that the opposition blames on the Maduro government.

Millions have been left in poverty, while 2.3 million more have fled the country, unleashing a migration crisis in South America.

The United Nations will not join any group of nations promoting initiatives to resolve the crisis in Venezuela, the UN chief said Monday, indicating he will not attend a meeting in Uruguay this week of several countries.

The United Nations will not join any group of nations promoting initiatives to resolve the crisis in Venezuela, the UN chief said Monday, indicating he will not attend a meeting in Uruguay this week of several countries. Mexico and Uruguay had hoped that UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres would attend a conference in Montevideo on Thursday aimed at promoting dialogue between Venezuela's self-proclaimed president Juan Guaido and leader Nicolas Maduro. "The UN Secretariat has decided not to be part of any of these groups in order to give credibility to our continued offer of good offices to the parties to be able at their request to help find a political solution," Guterres told reporters. Guaido has won backing from the United States, European powers including France, Germany and Spain, Canada, Australia and a dozen Latin American countries to take over the leadership, but Russia and China continue to support Maduro. The global split over Venezuela has left the United Nations in a quandary and Guterres' comments suggested that the world body would remain on the sidelines for now. Mexico and Uruguay have not recognized Guaido, the head of the National Assembly who declared himself acting president on January 23 in place of Maduro. A group of Latin American and European states are to hold their first meeting of a contact group in Montevideo on Thursday. The contact group comprises the EU and eight of its member states -- France, Britain, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden -- and four Latin American countries: Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Uruguay. Guterres said he was following the crisis in Venezuela "with a lot of concern," adding that he had discussed the various initiatives put forward with the countries involved. The UN chief met with Mexico's ambassador to the United Nations Juan Jose Gomez Camacho last week who said the Montevideo conference was to "offer a chance for dialogue to all parties involved." Venezuela has suffered an economic meltdown marked by hyperinflation and shortages of basic necessities that the opposition blames on the Maduro government. Millions have been left in poverty, while 2.3 million more have fled the country, unleashing a migration crisis in South America.

UN will not join any group on Venezuela crisis talks: Antonio Guterres

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Monday pledged Can$53 million (US$40 million) in humanitarian aid for Venezuelans amid a deepening crisis.

"Today, Canada is stepping up and announcing $53 million to address the most pressing needs of Venezuelans on the ground, including almost 3 million refugees," Trudeau told a gathering of the Lima Group of nations.

"The bulk of the funds will go to trusted partners, and neighbouring countries to help them support Venezuela and Venezuelans," he said.

The 14-member Lima Group, which includes most Latin American countries and Canada, met to discuss how to support opposition leader Juan Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president last month.

Guaido, who heads the opposition-controlled National Assembly, addressed the gathering in a video message, saying he looked forward to having "free and fair elections as soon as possible in order to restore democracy to Venezuela."

Most of the bloc has urged Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down, and make way for elections to deal with an economic collapse that has sent Venezuelans flooding into neighbouring countries.

Maduro began a new term in office last month after disputed 2018 elections whose results were rejected as invalid by the opposition. The Lima Group also had refused to recognize the results.

Guaido has been recognized as the legitimate interim president by a number of countries, including the United States and some EU member states.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Monday pledged Can$53 million (US$40 million) in humanitarian aid for Venezuelans amid a deepening crisis. "Today, Canada is stepping up and announcing $53 million to address the most pressing needs of Venezuelans on the ground, including almost 3 million refugees," Trudeau told a gathering of the Lima Group of nations.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Monday pledged Can$53 million (US$40 million) in humanitarian aid for Venezuelans amid a deepening crisis. "Today, Canada is stepping up and announcing $53 million to address the most pressing needs of Venezuelans on the ground, including almost 3 million refugees," Trudeau told a gathering of the Lima Group of nations. "The bulk of the funds will go to trusted partners, and neighbouring countries to help them support Venezuela and Venezuelans," he said. The 14-member Lima Group, which includes most Latin American countries and Canada, met to discuss how to support opposition leader Juan Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president last month. Guaido, who heads the opposition-controlled National Assembly, addressed the gathering in a video message, saying he looked forward to having "free and fair elections as soon as possible in order to restore democracy to Venezuela." Most of the bloc has urged Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro to step down, and make way for elections to deal with an economic collapse that has sent Venezuelans flooding into neighbouring countries. Maduro began a new term in office last month after disputed 2018 elections whose results were rejected as invalid by the opposition. The Lima Group also had refused to recognize the results. Guaido has been recognized as the legitimate interim president by a number of countries, including the United States and some EU member states.

Canada's Trudeau announces $53 million in aid to Venezuelans

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-slams-european-interference-in-venezuela-195064">Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela</a>

Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-vs-bengal-ready-to-give-my-life-but-not-compromise-says-mamata-cbi-files-contempt-plea-in-sc-195124">Centre vs Bengal: Ready to give my life but not compromise, says Mamata; CBI files contempt plea in SC</a>

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said she is "ready to give my life but not compromise" in the wake of the CBI-Kolkata Police face-off in her state.&nbsp;

"I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Mamata said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president</a>

Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">After Trump speaks, Iraqis demand </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059"> leave </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/iraqi-constitution-rejects-use-of-iraq-as-a-base-for-attacking-a-neighbouring-country-barham-saleh-195059">country</a>

Iraqi politicians on Monday hit back at Donald Trump after the US president said he plans to keep American forces in the country to spy on Iran.

In an interview with CBS television, Trump reaffirmed his determination to pull the United States out of "endless wars" in Syria and Afghanistan but said American troops would stay on in Iraq, partly "to be looking a little bit at Iran".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">Body found in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090">wreckage</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/body-found-in-wreckage-of-footballer-salas-plane-investigators-195090"> of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators</a>

British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader. Centre vs Bengal: Ready to give my life but not compromise, says Mamata; CBI files contempt plea in SC West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has said she is "ready to give my life but not compromise" in the wake of the CBI-Kolkata Police face-off in her state. "I am ready to give my life but not compromise. I did not take to the streets when you touched TMC leaders. But I am angry when they tried to insult the chair of the Kolkata Police Commissioner, he is leading the organisation," Mamata said. UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections. After Trump speaks, Iraqis demand US leave country Iraqi politicians on Monday hit back at Donald Trump after the US president said he plans to keep American forces in the country to spy on Iran. In an interview with CBS television, Trump reaffirmed his determination to pull the United States out of "endless wars" in Syria and Afghanistan but said American troops would stay on in Iraq, partly "to be looking a little bit at Iran". Body found in wreckage of footballer Emiliano Sala's plane: Investigators British investigators on Monday said they had spotted a body in underwater images of the wreckage of the plane carrying footballer Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson that disappeared in the Channel two weeks ago.

News brief: Big stories of the day

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-pitch-optimism-greatness-in-state-of-union-white-house-194496">US President Donald Trump</a> said that sending the military to Venezuela was "an option" and that he had turned down President Nicolas Maduro's request for a meeting.

"Certainly, it's something that's on the - it's an option," Trump said in an interview with CBS to be broadcast on Sunday.

Trump said Maduro requested a meeting months ago and he turned down the Venezuela leader.

"I've turned it down because we're very far along in the process," he said in excerpts from a CBS "Face the Nation" interview. "So, I think the process is playing out - very, very big tremendous protests."

Tens of thousands of people have thronged the streets to protest the Maduro government, wearing the yellow, red and blue of the Venezuelan flag.

As domestic and international pressure mounts on Maduro to step down, a senior air force general disavowed him in a video that circulated earlier on Saturday, expressing his allegiance to parliament head and self-proclaimed interim president Juan Guaido.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said that sending the military to Venezuela was "an option" and that he had turned down President Nicolas Maduro's request for a meeting.

US President Donald Trump said that sending the military to Venezuela was "an option" and that he had turned down President Nicolas Maduro's request for a meeting. "Certainly, it's something that's on the - it's an option," Trump said in an interview with CBS to be broadcast on Sunday. Trump said Maduro requested a meeting months ago and he turned down the Venezuela leader. "I've turned it down because we're very far along in the process," he said in excerpts from a CBS "Face the Nation" interview. "So, I think the process is playing out - very, very big tremendous protests." Tens of thousands of people have thronged the streets to protest the Maduro government, wearing the yellow, red and blue of the Venezuelan flag. As domestic and international pressure mounts on Maduro to step down, a senior air force general disavowed him in a video that circulated earlier on Saturday, expressing his allegiance to parliament head and self-proclaimed interim president Juan Guaido.

Trump says sending military into Venezuela is 'an option': Report

Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-speaks-with-venezuelas-guaido-praises-courage-and-leadership-194951">Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido</a> as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections.

"UK alongside European allies now recognises @jguaido as interim constitutional president until credible elections can be held. Let's hope this takes us closer to ending humanitarian crisis," Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said in a statement on Twitter.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Nicolas Maduro has not called Presidential elections within 8 day limit we have set. So UK alongside European allies now recognises <a href="https://twitter.com/jguaido?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jguaido</a> as interim constitutional president until credible elections can be held. Let’s hope this takes us closer to ending humanitarian crisis
— Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jeremy_Hunt/status/1092349500688158720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Venezuelans have the right to express themselves freely and democratically. France recognises @jguaido as 'acting president' to implement an electoral process," President Emmanuel Macron tweeted in both French and Spanish.

"The Spanish government announces that it officially recognises Venezuela's National Assembly president, Mr Guaido Marquez, as acting president of Venezuela," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez told reporters, calling on Guaido to call elections quickly.

During a visit to Tokyo Chancellor Angela Merkel said, "As of yesterday, no presidential election had been called."&nbsp;

"Therefore, Guaido is the person we are talking to and we expect him to begin an election process as soon as possible. He is the legitimate interim president for this task from Germany's point of view and from the point of view of several European countries.&nbsp;We hope that this process can be carried out as quickly and peacefully as possible."

'Guaido has legitimacy to organise presidential elections'

France said that Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido had "the legitimacy to organise presidential elections" after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a European ultimatum to call a snap vote on his rule.

Seven EU states had given Maduro a Sunday deadline to call presidential elections failing which they would recognise 35-year-old Guaido, who heads Venezuela's National Assembly, as the country's interim president.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Inter radio that "faced with President Maduro's refusal to organise presidential elections which would clarify, calm the situation in Venezuela... we consider that Mr Guaido has the capacity and legitimacy to organise these elections."

Asked whether France now recognised Guaido as interim president Le Drian did not answer directly, saying the government would discuss the issue with its European neighbours.

Maduro said Sunday he would not give into ultimatums. He has offered to call early parliamentary elections instead.

But Le Drian insisted that only a presidential election could end the crisis "because it's a presidential regime" in Venezuela.

Guaido has already declared himself acting president. On January 23, he declared Maduro's presidency was "illegitimate" as it was founded on flawed elections.

Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections.

Britain, France, Spain and Germany on Monday recognised Venezuela's opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a demand by several European powers for fresh elections. "UK alongside European allies now recognises @jguaido as interim constitutional president until credible elections can be held. Let's hope this takes us closer to ending humanitarian crisis," Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said in a statement on Twitter. Nicolas Maduro has not called Presidential elections within 8 day limit we have set. So UK alongside European allies now recognises @jguaido as interim constitutional president until credible elections can be held. Let’s hope this takes us closer to ending humanitarian crisis — Jeremy Hunt (@Jeremy_Hunt) February 4, 2019 × "Venezuelans have the right to express themselves freely and democratically. France recognises @jguaido as 'acting president' to implement an electoral process," President Emmanuel Macron tweeted in both French and Spanish. "The Spanish government announces that it officially recognises Venezuela's National Assembly president, Mr Guaido Marquez, as acting president of Venezuela," Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez told reporters, calling on Guaido to call elections quickly. During a visit to Tokyo Chancellor Angela Merkel said, "As of yesterday, no presidential election had been called." "Therefore, Guaido is the person we are talking to and we expect him to begin an election process as soon as possible. He is the legitimate interim president for this task from Germany's point of view and from the point of view of several European countries. We hope that this process can be carried out as quickly and peacefully as possible." 'Guaido has legitimacy to organise presidential elections' France said that Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido had "the legitimacy to organise presidential elections" after President Nicolas Maduro rejected a European ultimatum to call a snap vote on his rule. Seven EU states had given Maduro a Sunday deadline to call presidential elections failing which they would recognise 35-year-old Guaido, who heads Venezuela's National Assembly, as the country's interim president. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian told France Inter radio that "faced with President Maduro's refusal to organise presidential elections which would clarify, calm the situation in Venezuela... we consider that Mr Guaido has the capacity and legitimacy to organise these elections." Asked whether France now recognised Guaido as interim president Le Drian did not answer directly, saying the government would discuss the issue with its European neighbours. Maduro said Sunday he would not give into ultimatums. He has offered to call early parliamentary elections instead. But Le Drian insisted that only a presidential election could end the crisis "because it's a presidential regime" in Venezuela. Guaido has already declared himself acting president. On January 23, he declared Maduro's presidency was "illegitimate" as it was founded on flawed elections.

UK, France, Germany recognise Venezuela opposition leader Guaido as acting president

Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-spain-recognises-venezuela-opposition-leader-guaido-as-acting-president-195050">European countries recognised</a> opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

"Attempts to legitimise usurped power" constituted "interference in Venezuela's internal affairs," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

Such interference, he added, could not facilitate the "peaceful, effective and lasting settlement of the crisis the Venezuelans are going through."

Peskov reiterated Moscow's position that only the people of Venezuela could solve the crisis "which they should get through on their own."

He declined to say on what terms Russia could recognise Guaido as interim leader.

France, Spain and Britain on Monday became the latest nations to recognise Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro defiantly rejected an ultimatum by European countries to call snap elections.

The 35-year-old National Assembly head has already been recognised by the United States, Canada, Australia and several Latin American countries.

If Maduro leaves power, Russia risks losing its long-cultivated top ally in Latin America and billions invested in oil and arms contracts.

Moscow has denounced the opposition's "usurpation of power", calling Maduro the crisis-hit country's legitimate leader.

The two countries have a long history of ties and Maduro's predecessor Hugo Chavez, known for his tirades against the United States, was a welcome guest at the Kremlin.

Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader.

Russia on Monday slammed what it said were attempts to interfere in Venezuela's domestic affairs after several European countries recognised opposition chief Juan Guaido as interim leader. "Attempts to legitimise usurped power" constituted "interference in Venezuela's internal affairs," President Vladimir Putin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. Such interference, he added, could not facilitate the "peaceful, effective and lasting settlement of the crisis the Venezuelans are going through." Peskov reiterated Moscow's position that only the people of Venezuela could solve the crisis "which they should get through on their own." He declined to say on what terms Russia could recognise Guaido as interim leader. France, Spain and Britain on Monday became the latest nations to recognise Guaido as interim leader after President Nicolas Maduro defiantly rejected an ultimatum by European countries to call snap elections. The 35-year-old National Assembly head has already been recognised by the United States, Canada, Australia and several Latin American countries. If Maduro leaves power, Russia risks losing its long-cultivated top ally in Latin America and billions invested in oil and arms contracts. Moscow has denounced the opposition's "usurpation of power", calling Maduro the crisis-hit country's legitimate leader. The two countries have a long history of ties and Maduro's predecessor Hugo Chavez, known for his tirades against the United States, was a welcome guest at the Kremlin.

Russia slams European 'interference' in Venezuela

European and Latin American countries that form an "international contact group" hoping to end <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-as-thousands-of-guaido-supporters-hit-streets-nicolas-maduro-calls-for-early-parliamentary-elections-194664">Venezuela's political crisis</a> will hold their first meeting in Montevideo on Thursday, the joint hosts announced Sunday.

The meeting will be at ministerial level, said a statement from EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and Uruguayan President Tabare Vazquez.

"The IGC aims at contributing to create conditions for a political and peaceful process to emerge, enabling Venezuelans to determine their own future, through the holding of free, transparent and credible elections, in line with the country's Constitution," said the statement.

The contact group comprises the EU and eight of its member states -- France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom -- and four Latin American countries: Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Uruguay.

The EU announced its creation last Thursday, giving itself a 90-day timetable to resolve the crisis in Venezuela.

Mogherini said then that its aim was to enable the holding of new elections under democratic conditions -- not to mediate with the government of President Nicolas Maduro.

The United States and a dozen Latin American countries have already recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's acting head of state -- as has the European Parliament.

France, Britain, Germany and Spain are among the EU countries that have told Maduro to call elections by the weekend or they will recognise the opposition-backed parliamentary speaker.

France European Affairs Minister Nathalie Loiseau said Sunday that if Maduro had not called a fresh presidential election by Sunday evening, France would consider Guaido interim president with the right to organise them in his place.

She denounced Maduro's election victory last May as a "tragic farce" in comments to French radio RTL.

European and Latin American countries that form an "international contact group" hoping to end Venezuela's political crisis will hold their first meeting in Montevideo on Thursday, the joint hosts announced Sunday.

European and Latin American countries that form an "international contact group" hoping to end Venezuela's political crisis will hold their first meeting in Montevideo on Thursday, the joint hosts announced Sunday. The meeting will be at ministerial level, said a statement from EU diplomatic chief Federica Mogherini and Uruguayan President Tabare Vazquez. "The IGC aims at contributing to create conditions for a political and peaceful process to emerge, enabling Venezuelans to determine their own future, through the holding of free, transparent and credible elections, in line with the country's Constitution," said the statement. The contact group comprises the EU and eight of its member states -- France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom -- and four Latin American countries: Bolivia, Costa Rica, Ecuador and Uruguay. The EU announced its creation last Thursday, giving itself a 90-day timetable to resolve the crisis in Venezuela. Mogherini said then that its aim was to enable the holding of new elections under democratic conditions -- not to mediate with the government of President Nicolas Maduro. The United States and a dozen Latin American countries have already recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as Venezuela's acting head of state -- as has the European Parliament. France, Britain, Germany and Spain are among the EU countries that have told Maduro to call elections by the weekend or they will recognise the opposition-backed parliamentary speaker. France European Affairs Minister Nathalie Loiseau said Sunday that if Maduro had not called a fresh presidential election by Sunday evening, France would consider Guaido interim president with the right to organise them in his place. She denounced Maduro's election victory last May as a "tragic farce" in comments to French radio RTL.

EU, Latam contact group on Venezuela to meet on December 7

Turkey's foreign minister said on Sunday countries which have recognised Venezuela's self-proclaimed interim president Juan Guaido were fueling <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-as-thousands-of-guaido-supporters-hit-streets-nicolas-maduro-calls-for-early-parliamentary-elections-194664">Venezuela's troubles</a> and punishing millions of its people.

Turkey has backed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-vs-guaido-who-is-backing-whom-193331">Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro</a> in contrast with NATO allies the United States and Canada, and several right-leaning Latin American countries which have recognised Guaido's move to declare himself an interim leader.

Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan, who has strengthened economic and political ties with Caracas, called Maduro last month to urge him to stand tall against what he described as "anti-democratic developments".

Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Sunday the countries which were supporting Guaido should instead have worked for negotiations to resolve Venezuela's crisis.

"There is a problem in a country, there is a spark that can turn into a fire at any moment. In this case, they should have contributed to the solution of the problem through dialogue," Cavusoglu told reporters in Istanbul.

"But is that how they handled things? No. On the contrary, the event was fueled from the outside. The people of Venezuela are being punished by such approach," he said.

Cavusoglu said Turkey had tried to initiate talks on Venezuela last year between Washington and Latin American countries. "But today, none of the countries that have taken these steps against Venezuela has sought dialogue."

Disagreement over Venezuela could become another serious point of friction between Washington and Ankara, which are also divided over policy in Syria, Iran sanctions and Turkey's plans to buy Russian missile defence system.

On Friday Marshall Billingslea, US assistant secretary for terrorist financing at the Treasury held talks with Turkish officials about sanctions on Venezuela and Iran.

A senior US official said last week Washington was looking at Turkey's commercial activities with Venezuela and would take action "if we assess a violation of our sanctions".

Turkish officials say Ankara's trade is in accordance with international laws and regulations.

In his remarks on Sunday Cavusoglu also reiterated Turkish criticism of what Ankara sees as a weak international response to the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul four months ago.

"Recently Western countries - you know they are very sensitive about human rights, trying to teach everyone about human rights - are silent," he said suggesting they were more interested in protecting commercial ties with Riyadh.

"They are making deals and selling arms," Cavusoglu said.

Turkey's foreign minister said on Sunday countries which have recognised Venezuela's self-proclaimed interim president Juan Guaido were fueling Venezuela's troubles and punishing millions of its people.

Turkey's foreign minister said on Sunday countries which have recognised Venezuela's self-proclaimed interim president Juan Guaido were fueling Venezuela's troubles and punishing millions of its people. Turkey has backed Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro in contrast with NATO allies the United States and Canada, and several right-leaning Latin American countries which have recognised Guaido's move to declare himself an interim leader. Turkey's President Tayyip Erdogan, who has strengthened economic and political ties with Caracas, called Maduro last month to urge him to stand tall against what he described as "anti-democratic developments". Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu said on Sunday the countries which were supporting Guaido should instead have worked for negotiations to resolve Venezuela's crisis. "There is a problem in a country, there is a spark that can turn into a fire at any moment. In this case, they should have contributed to the solution of the problem through dialogue," Cavusoglu told reporters in Istanbul. "But is that how they handled things? No. On the contrary, the event was fueled from the outside. The people of Venezuela are being punished by such approach," he said. Cavusoglu said Turkey had tried to initiate talks on Venezuela last year between Washington and Latin American countries. "But today, none of the countries that have taken these steps against Venezuela has sought dialogue." Disagreement over Venezuela could become another serious point of friction between Washington and Ankara, which are also divided over policy in Syria, Iran sanctions and Turkey's plans to buy Russian missile defence system. On Friday Marshall Billingslea, US assistant secretary for terrorist financing at the Treasury held talks with Turkish officials about sanctions on Venezuela and Iran. A senior US official said last week Washington was looking at Turkey's commercial activities with Venezuela and would take action "if we assess a violation of our sanctions". Turkish officials say Ankara's trade is in accordance with international laws and regulations. In his remarks on Sunday Cavusoglu also reiterated Turkish criticism of what Ankara sees as a weak international response to the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul four months ago. "Recently Western countries - you know they are very sensitive about human rights, trying to teach everyone about human rights - are silent," he said suggesting they were more interested in protecting commercial ties with Riyadh. "They are making deals and selling arms," Cavusoglu said.

Turkey says countries supporting Guaido fuel Venezuela crisis

Venezuelan air force general Francisco Yanez recognized <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-courts-russia-powers-divided-on-maduro-194491">opposition leader Juan </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-courts-russia-powers-divided-on-maduro-194491">Guaido</a> as the country's acting president, disavowing ruling socialist leader Nicolas Maduro in a video published on social media Saturday.

The crack in the military's united front behind Maduro came as Guaido was mobilizing a mass protest in Caracas to back his call for Maduro's resignation and early elections.

Dressed in full uniform, Major General Francisco Yanez appeared on a video posted on social media to declare his support for Guaido, the National Assembly head who has led the most serious challenge yet to Maduro's rule.

"I address you to inform you that I disavow the vitiated and dictatorial authority of Nicolas Maduro and recognize Deputy Juan Guaido as the president in charge of Venezuela," he said.

Yanez, who is strategic planning director of the air force high command, asserted that "90 per cent of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces is not with the dictator, it's with the Venezuelan people."

"With the events of the past hours, the transition to democracy is imminent; to continue ordering the armed forces to continue repressing our people is to continue with the deaths from hunger, from disease and, God forbid, combat between ourselves," he warned.

Yanez claimed that members of the presidential aircrew had confided to him that "the dictator has two planes ready every day."

"May he go!"

Rocio San Miguel, an expert on the Venezuelan military, noted that Yanez does not command troops but nonetheless "it's a hard blow" to the military.

The military high command, led by Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, has sworn absolute loyalty to Maduro despite signs of unrest within the ranks.

On January 21, a group of National Guard soldiers rose up against Maduro in Caracas.

The mutiny was quickly put down and 27 soldiers were arrested, but it kicked off a week of violent clashes with security forces that the UN said left 40 dead and 850 arrested.

Citizen Control, a non-governmental watchdog led by San Miguel, estimates that 180 members of the military were arrested in 2018, and some 10,000 members of the armed forces have left the service since 2015.

Venezuelan air force general Francisco Yanez recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's acting president, disavowing ruling socialist leader Nicolas Maduro in a video published on social media Saturday.

Venezuelan air force general Francisco Yanez recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country's acting president, disavowing ruling socialist leader Nicolas Maduro in a video published on social media Saturday. The crack in the military's united front behind Maduro came as Guaido was mobilizing a mass protest in Caracas to back his call for Maduro's resignation and early elections. Dressed in full uniform, Major General Francisco Yanez appeared on a video posted on social media to declare his support for Guaido, the National Assembly head who has led the most serious challenge yet to Maduro's rule. "I address you to inform you that I disavow the vitiated and dictatorial authority of Nicolas Maduro and recognize Deputy Juan Guaido as the president in charge of Venezuela," he said. Yanez, who is strategic planning director of the air force high command, asserted that "90 per cent of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces is not with the dictator, it's with the Venezuelan people." "With the events of the past hours, the transition to democracy is imminent; to continue ordering the armed forces to continue repressing our people is to continue with the deaths from hunger, from disease and, God forbid, combat between ourselves," he warned. Yanez claimed that members of the presidential aircrew had confided to him that "the dictator has two planes ready every day." "May he go!" Rocio San Miguel, an expert on the Venezuelan military, noted that Yanez does not command troops but nonetheless "it's a hard blow" to the military. The military high command, led by Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, has sworn absolute loyalty to Maduro despite signs of unrest within the ranks. On January 21, a group of National Guard soldiers rose up against Maduro in Caracas. The mutiny was quickly put down and 27 soldiers were arrested, but it kicked off a week of violent clashes with security forces that the UN said left 40 dead and 850 arrested. Citizen Control, a non-governmental watchdog led by San Miguel, estimates that 180 members of the military were arrested in 2018, and some 10,000 members of the armed forces have left the service since 2015.

Venezuelan air force general Francisco Yanez declares allegiance to Juan Guaido: Video

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China.

Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN&nbsp;Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay.

The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits.

"What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries."

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela."

China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing.&nbsp;

"We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged."&nbsp;

The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election.

The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down.

A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages.

Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A UN&nbsp;expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis.

With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East.

The US&nbsp;government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source.

Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions.

The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul.

Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support.

Cracking down?

Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event.

"Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts."

Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house.

Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup.

Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup.

The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro.

The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men.

Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack.

Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s.

Oil trouble&nbsp;

A United Nations human rights expert denounced the US&nbsp;oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis.

"Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions.

"The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva.

In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said.

PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China.

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China. Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay. The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits. "What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela." China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing. "We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged." The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election. The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down. A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages. Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A UN expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis. With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East. The US government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source. Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions. The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul. Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support. Cracking down? Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event. "Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts." Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house. Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup. Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup. The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro. The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men. Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack. Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s. Oil trouble A United Nations human rights expert denounced the US oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis. "Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions. "The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva. In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said. PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Venezuela's opposition leader Guaido courts Russia, China; powers divided on Maduro

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China.

Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN&nbsp;Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay.

The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits.

"What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries."

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela."

China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing.&nbsp;

"We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged."&nbsp;

The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election.

The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down.

A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages.

Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A U.N. expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis.

With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East.

The U.S. government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source.

Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions.

The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul.

Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support.

Cracking down?

Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event.

"Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts."

Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house.

Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup.

Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup.

The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro.

The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men.

Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack.

Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s.

Oil trouble&nbsp;

A United Nations human rights expert denounced the U.S. oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis.

"Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions.

"The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva.

In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said.

PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China. Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay. The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits. "What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela." China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing. "We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged." The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election. The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down. A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages. Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A U.N. expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis. With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East. The U.S. government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source. Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions. The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul. Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support. Cracking down? Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event. "Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts." Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house. Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup. Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup. The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro. The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men. Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack. Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s. Oil trouble A United Nations human rights expert denounced the U.S. oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis. "Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions. "The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva. In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said. PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Venezuela's Guaido courts Russia; powers divided on Maduro

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China.

Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN&nbsp;Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay.

The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits.

"What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries."

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela."

China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing.&nbsp;

"We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged."&nbsp;

The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election.

The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down.

A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages.

Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A U.N. expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis.

With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East.

The US&nbsp;government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source.

Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions.

The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul.

Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support.

Cracking down?

Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event.

"Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts."

Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house.

Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup.

Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup.

The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro.

The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men.

Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack.

Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s.

Oil trouble&nbsp;

A United Nations human rights expert denounced the U.S. oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis.

"Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions.

"The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva.

In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said.

PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China. Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay. The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits. "What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela." China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing. "We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged." The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election. The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down. A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages. Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A U.N. expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis. With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East. The US government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source. Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions. The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul. Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support. Cracking down? Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event. "Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts." Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house. Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup. Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup. The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro. The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men. Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack. Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s. Oil trouble A United Nations human rights expert denounced the U.S. oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis. "Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions. "The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva. In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said. PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China.

Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN&nbsp;Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay.

The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits.

"What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries."

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela."

China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing.&nbsp;

"We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged."&nbsp;

The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election.

The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down.

A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages.

Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A UN&nbsp;expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis.

With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East.

The US&nbsp;government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source.

Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions.

The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul.

Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support.

Cracking down?

Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event.

"Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts."

Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house.

Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup.

Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup.

The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro.

The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men.

Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack.

Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s.

Oil trouble&nbsp;

A United Nations human rights expert denounced the U.S. oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis.

"Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions.

"The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva.

In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said.

PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

Global jostling intensified on Thursday between countries that want Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in power and those trying to force him to resign, as opposition leader Juan Guaido made overtures to his rival's allies Russia and China. Guaido told he had sent communications to both powers, which are Venezuela's top foreign creditors and support Maduro in the UN Security Council despite worries about the cash-strapped country's ability to pay. The 35-year-old leader argued that Russia and China's interests would be best served by switching the side they back in Venezuela, an OPEC member which has the world's largest oil reserves but is in dire financial straits. "What most suits Russia and China is the country's stability and a change of government," Guaido said. "Maduro does not protect Venezuela, he doesn't protect anyone's investments, and he is not a good deal for those countries." Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang, asked if China had been in touch with Guaido, said they were "maintaining close communication with all parties through various means regarding the situation in Venezuela." China's cooperation with Venezuela was based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and joint development, he told reporters in Beijing. "We believe that no matter how the situation develops or changes, cooperation between China and Venezuela will not be damaged." The intense pressure is led by the United States, which along with most other countries in the Western Hemisphere recognizes Guaido as the country's legitimate interim president, arguing that Maduro stole his second-term election. The United States on Monday imposed sweeping sanctions on Venezuela's state-owned oil firm, aimed at pressuring Maduro to step down. A former union leader, bus driver and foreign minister, the 56-year-old Maduro, who first took office in 2013, has faced waves of protests in recent years as he presided over hyperinflation and chronic food shortages. Some 3 million Venezuelans have left the country. A UN expert on Thursday warned that the U.S. oil sanctions could worsen the humanitarian crisis. With Venezuela in deep economic crisis, the geopolitical tussling has also drawn in Europe and Latin American nations as well as parts of the Middle East. The US government warned Russia and other countries from "last-minute looting" of oil and gold on Thursday, after Reuters reported Venezuela was planning to sell gold from its central bank vaults to the United Arab Emirates in coming days in return for euros in cash, citing a senior source. Republican U.S. Senator Marco Rubio sent a tweet to the United Arab Emirates embassy in Washington on Thursday warning that anybody transporting Venezuelan gold would be subject to U.S. sanctions. The United States is also monitoring trade between its NATO ally Turkey and Venezuela and will take action if it judges any sanctions have been violated, a senior U.S. official said in Istanbul. Turkey’s president, Tayyip Erdogan, has stood by Maduro, calling him last week to express support. Cracking down? Guaido said on Thursday that agents from a feared special police unit had called at his home and asked for his wife, who was at home with their 20-month-old daughter while he was out at an event. "Such acts of intimidation are seen as very serious, very egregious by the United States," a senior U.S. administration official told reporters on a conference call. "There will be consequences for those engaged in such acts." Guaido appeared at his building with his wife and daughter, saying, "They will not intimidate this family." Neighbours said men who identified themselves as belonging to the Special Actions Forces arrived at the gate of Guaido's apartment building in a white SUV. There was no obvious police presence by the time journalists arrived at Guaido's house. Maduro, who says he will remain for his second six-year term, has accused the opposition of attempting a U.S.-backed coup. Venezuela's interior minister, Nestor Reverol, said on Thursday that security forces captured five men including a retired army colonel and other army officers on accusations of plotting a coup. The men were captured over the last few days, Reverol said. He said they had with them two AK-47 rifles, two satellite phones and 500 bracelets bearing the symbol of Operation Constitution, a political group dedicated to toppling Maduro. The government accuses one of the leaders of the group, retired Colonel Oswaldo García Palomo, of participating in an apparent attack at a Maduro event last yet. Garcia Palomo was among the captured men. Maduro frequently accuses the opposition, Colombia and the United States of backing coups or assassination attempts. Such claims have usually been dismissed as a smokescreen to distract from problems at home, but a drone exploded at a Maduro event last year, in an apparent attack. Maduro also says the opposition strategy of trying to push him from office is illegal and led by hawks in the Trump administration, such as the recently appointed US special envoy to Venezuela, Elliott Abrams, a veteran diplomat involved in the armed interventions in Central America in the 1980s. Oil trouble A United Nations human rights expert denounced the U.S. oil sanctions imposed on Monday, saying they would compound a grave humanitarian crisis. "Coercion, whether military or economic, must never be used to seek a change in government in a sovereign state," said Idriss Jazairy, a U.N. special rapporteur studying the negative impact of sanctions. "The use of sanctions by outside powers to overthrow an elected government is in violation of all norms of international law," he said in a statement in Geneva. In the tussle over oil, Guaido worked this week with Washington to wrest control of PDVSA's U.S. subsidiary Citgo from its board. Citgo and Maduro's government responded by ordering dozens of Citgo's expatriate staff in the United States to return to Caracas by the end of February, people familiar with the matter said. PDVSA has said it will pursue legal efforts to block a Citgo takeover.

There are times when one is constrained to divert one’s gaze from proximate neighbourhood towards distant regions-home to countries that are closely tied to our national interest.&nbsp;

Recent political upheaval in Venezuela deserves more serious attention than it has received. Many Indians are not even aware of the fact that India is the third largest importer of Venezuelan oil after the US and China. It has assumed even greater significance in our energy security calculations after the US has imposed sanctions on it in the wake of the dramatic political coup that has taken place in Caracas. Many Indians have much too hastily started celebrating thinking that the US sanctions will create a glut in the market and Venezuela will be forced to sell its oil at reduced prices and against rupees. The issue is far more complex.&nbsp;

First of all, there is no reason to believe that the US shall not threaten countries that continue to deal with Venezuela with secondary sanctions like they did in the case of Iran. This would leave India on the wrong foot, and once again at the mercy of POTUS Trump to avail of some respite.&nbsp;

We have in recent years allowed our ‘special’ strategic relationship with the US to dominate our relationship with countries we import oil from. Those who think that the cut imposed on oil imports from besieged Iran would be compensated by additional imports from Venezuela are not being realistic at all.&nbsp; 
 
Then there is the ‘Chinese Complication’. Venezuelans can’t be expected to give priority to India over their number two buyer. China is not going to be deterred by US bullying in pursuit of its energy security. Trump has declared a trade war against China but it has refused to blink. It is confident that the US companies and consumers feeling the pinch harder will persuade their government to reconsider its policy. (Ironically, support for Trump hasn’t registered a sharp decline so and there has been no explosive deterioration as some analysts had predicted.)

The arrest of the daughter of the founder of Huewei, herself one of the highest place company executives, in Canada enraged the Chinese enough to retaliate swiftly by arresting a former Canadian diplomat and announcing that it will not commute the death sentence awarded to a Canadian national into imprisonment for life.&nbsp;

India would do well to remember that the US shall continue to tread more cautiously where China is concerned. It realises that India, always willing to please the new found Super Power ‘Friend’ will do its bidding without overt arm twisting.&nbsp;

It is in the larger geopolitical context that we should consider recent Chinese statement that there should be no double standards in case of admission to new members to the Nuclear Fuel Suppliers Group. This cartel has 48 members and only China’s stubborn resistance has blocked India’s entry. China would like its longtime ally and protege to be treated at par with India. There should be no need to point out that Pakistan has acquired nuclear weapons through piracy flouting the non-proliferation regime while India has behaved as a responsible nuclear weapon state ever since its Peaceful Nuclear Explosion (Implosion) in Pokhran.

Our much hyped special relationship with the US rests on the cornerstone of agreement on peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Not much progress has been made since the UPA years towards the realisation of rapid economic development through clean energy. Neither new found friend (US) nor time tested ally (Russia) has exerted enough to remove the Chinese obstacle. This issue too is entwined with our energy security. 
 
Only China and Russia along with Cuba and a handful of socialist countries have condemned US recognition of what many see as usurper propped up by the US-driven compulsive to change regimes. How long are we going to let others choose or friends and foes is the question.

China is next door and Venezuela very far across oceans but both of them underline the same dilemma.&nbsp; 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp; &nbsp;

There are times when one is constrained to divert one’s gaze from proximate neighbourhood towards distant regions-home to countries that are closely tied to our national interest.

There are times when one is constrained to divert one’s gaze from proximate neighbourhood towards distant regions-home to countries that are closely tied to our national interest. Recent political upheaval in Venezuela deserves more serious attention than it has received. Many Indians are not even aware of the fact that India is the third largest importer of Venezuelan oil after the US and China. It has assumed even greater significance in our energy security calculations after the US has imposed sanctions on it in the wake of the dramatic political coup that has taken place in Caracas. Many Indians have much too hastily started celebrating thinking that the US sanctions will create a glut in the market and Venezuela will be forced to sell its oil at reduced prices and against rupees. The issue is far more complex. First of all, there is no reason to believe that the US shall not threaten countries that continue to deal with Venezuela with secondary sanctions like they did in the case of Iran. This would leave India on the wrong foot, and once again at the mercy of POTUS Trump to avail of some respite. We have in recent years allowed our ‘special’ strategic relationship with the US to dominate our relationship with countries we import oil from. Those who think that the cut imposed on oil imports from besieged Iran would be compensated by additional imports from Venezuela are not being realistic at all. Then there is the ‘Chinese Complication’. Venezuelans can’t be expected to give priority to India over their number two buyer. China is not going to be deterred by US bullying in pursuit of its energy security. Trump has declared a trade war against China but it has refused to blink. It is confident that the US companies and consumers feeling the pinch harder will persuade their government to reconsider its policy. (Ironically, support for Trump hasn’t registered a sharp decline so and there has been no explosive deterioration as some analysts had predicted.) The arrest of the daughter of the founder of Huewei, herself one of the highest place company executives, in Canada enraged the Chinese enough to retaliate swiftly by arresting a former Canadian diplomat and announcing that it will not commute the death sentence awarded to a Canadian national into imprisonment for life. India would do well to remember that the US shall continue to tread more cautiously where China is concerned. It realises that India, always willing to please the new found Super Power ‘Friend’ will do its bidding without overt arm twisting. It is in the larger geopolitical context that we should consider recent Chinese statement that there should be no double standards in case of admission to new members to the Nuclear Fuel Suppliers Group. This cartel has 48 members and only China’s stubborn resistance has blocked India’s entry. China would like its longtime ally and protege to be treated at par with India. There should be no need to point out that Pakistan has acquired nuclear weapons through piracy flouting the non-proliferation regime while India has behaved as a responsible nuclear weapon state ever since its Peaceful Nuclear Explosion (Implosion) in Pokhran. Our much hyped special relationship with the US rests on the cornerstone of agreement on peaceful uses of nuclear energy. Not much progress has been made since the UPA years towards the realisation of rapid economic development through clean energy. Neither new found friend (US) nor time tested ally (Russia) has exerted enough to remove the Chinese obstacle. This issue too is entwined with our energy security. Only China and Russia along with Cuba and a handful of socialist countries have condemned US recognition of what many see as usurper propped up by the US-driven compulsive to change regimes. How long are we going to let others choose or friends and foes is the question. China is next door and Venezuela very far across oceans but both of them underline the same dilemma. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India should be wary of the US-sponsored crisis in Venezuela

President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated strong US support for Venezuela's opposition and said protesters demanding the ouster of President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelan-president-nicolas-maduro-says-government-ready-for-potential-armed-conflict-192957">Nicolas Maduro</a> were fighting for freedom.

"Large protests all across Venezuela today against Maduro. The fight for freedom has begun!" Trump tweeted.

Trump said that earlier he had spoken by phone with self-declared acting president Juan Guaido, who has been recognized by Washington, to reinforce "strong United States support for Venezuela's fight to regain its democracy."

Washington has thrown its full backing behind Guaido's claim to lead Venezuela, but hard-left leader Maduro, who still controls the military and police, says Guaido is part of a US-led coup plot.

The country's pro-government top court has barred Guaido, who is calling for large anti-Maduro street protests this week, from leaving the country.

On Wednesday, people took to the streets in the capital Caracas and various other cities, banging pots, blowing whistles and horns, and carrying banners that read: "Armed forces, regain your dignity," "Maduro usurper," "Guaido, president" and "No to the dictatorship."

"Don't shoot people who are making demands also for your family," Guaido said in a message to the military delivered from the central university in Caracas.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated strong US support for Venezuela's opposition and said protesters demanding the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro were fighting for freedom.

President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated strong US support for Venezuela's opposition and said protesters demanding the ouster of President Nicolas Maduro were fighting for freedom. "Large protests all across Venezuela today against Maduro. The fight for freedom has begun!" Trump tweeted. Trump said that earlier he had spoken by phone with self-declared acting president Juan Guaido, who has been recognized by Washington, to reinforce "strong United States support for Venezuela's fight to regain its democracy." Washington has thrown its full backing behind Guaido's claim to lead Venezuela, but hard-left leader Maduro, who still controls the military and police, says Guaido is part of a US-led coup plot. The country's pro-government top court has barred Guaido, who is calling for large anti-Maduro street protests this week, from leaving the country. On Wednesday, people took to the streets in the capital Caracas and various other cities, banging pots, blowing whistles and horns, and carrying banners that read: "Armed forces, regain your dignity," "Maduro usurper," "Guaido, president" and "No to the dictatorship." "Don't shoot people who are making demands also for your family," Guaido said in a message to the military delivered from the central university in Caracas.

Venezuela protests a 'fight for freedom': Donald Trump

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Thursday he believed sanctions against Venezuelan "kleptocrats" could be a way to pressure President Nicolas Maduro to call new elections.

He said he would raise the issue later in the day with his European Union counterparts at a meeting in Bucharest, Romania.

"We are not considering sanctions against the whole country because there is a humanitarian situation and we wouldn't want to make the situation even worse," Hunt said in a statement.

"But targeted sanctions against the kleptocrats who have enriched themselves on the back of the rest of the population who are very poor, that is something I think can be effective."

Hunt said he had spoken to Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Wednesday.

"Mr Guaido was very clear — he wanted us to put pressure on Nicolas Maduro because they need change," he said.

He added: "What I want us to do is to put every pressure on Maduro and I'm urging EU foreign ministers to do exactly the same when I meet them this afternoon so that we do have free and fair elections and we give the people of Venezuela a fresh chance to start again.

"We have made a very clear request to Nicolas Maduro to announce elections within eight days," he said.&nbsp;

"So if he does not, we need to do something to increase the pressure to show that we mean what we say and we are not alone.

"This is Spain, France, Germany, many other countries, who have equally strong views as the United Kingdom."

According to a Foreign Office spokesman, Guaido told Hunt in their call "that the EU should consider increasing pressure on Maduro through further sanctions, and should collectively recognise him — Mr Guaido — as the constitutional interim President of Venezuela".

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Thursday he believed sanctions against Venezuelan "kleptocrats" could be a way to pressure President Nicolas Maduro to call new elections.

British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said Thursday he believed sanctions against Venezuelan "kleptocrats" could be a way to pressure President Nicolas Maduro to call new elections. He said he would raise the issue later in the day with his European Union counterparts at a meeting in Bucharest, Romania. "We are not considering sanctions against the whole country because there is a humanitarian situation and we wouldn't want to make the situation even worse," Hunt said in a statement. "But targeted sanctions against the kleptocrats who have enriched themselves on the back of the rest of the population who are very poor, that is something I think can be effective." Hunt said he had spoken to Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido on Wednesday. "Mr Guaido was very clear — he wanted us to put pressure on Nicolas Maduro because they need change," he said. He added: "What I want us to do is to put every pressure on Maduro and I'm urging EU foreign ministers to do exactly the same when I meet them this afternoon so that we do have free and fair elections and we give the people of Venezuela a fresh chance to start again. "We have made a very clear request to Nicolas Maduro to announce elections within eight days," he said. "So if he does not, we need to do something to increase the pressure to show that we mean what we say and we are not alone. "This is Spain, France, Germany, many other countries, who have equally strong views as the United Kingdom." According to a Foreign Office spokesman, Guaido told Hunt in their call "that the EU should consider increasing pressure on Maduro through further sanctions, and should collectively recognise him — Mr Guaido — as the constitutional interim President of Venezuela".

Targeted sanctions against Venezuelan 'kleptocrats' could be effective: British foreign secretary Jeremy Hunt

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-jump-as-us-threatens-sanctions-against-venezuela-192607">Oil prices rose</a> for a third day on Thursday, pushed up by lower imports into the United States amid OPEC efforts to tighten the market, and as Venezuela struggles to keep up its crude exports after Washington imposed sanctions on the nation.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $54.47 per barrel at 0758 GMT, up 24 cents, or 0.4 per cent, from their last settlement.

International Brent crude oil futures were up 36 cents, or 0.6 per cent, at $62.01 per barrel.

The price rise came after a report from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) on Wednesday showed a drop in Saudi crude supply to the United States.

"Crude oil prices were stronger after signs emerged that OPEC cuts are impacting trade. EIA's weekly report showed that US imports from Saudi Arabia fell by more than half from the previous week to 442,000 barrels per day (bpd). This is the second lowest level in weekly data going back to 2010," ANZ bank said.

Saudi Arabia is the de-facto leader of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which together with some non-OPEC producers, including Russia, announced supply cuts late last year aimed at tightening the market and propping up prices.

US sanctions imposed on state-oil firm Petroleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA) this week are also causing some supply disruptions.

Venezuela's oil inventories have started to build up at the country's ports and terminals as PDVSA is finding it cannot export crude at its usual rate due to US sanctions imposed earlier this week.

As of Wednesday, Venezuela had 25 tankers with nearly 18 million barrels of crude - representing about two weeks of the country's production - either waiting to load or expecting authorisation to set sail, shipping data showed.

Matt Stanley, a broker with Starfuels in Dubai, said the combination of US sanctions against oil producers Venezuela and Iran, the OPEC-led supply cuts, as well as hopes that the trade dispute between the United States and China could soon be resolved meant oil prices would likely rise further.

"There are just too many factors that can only cause the price to go one way and that is up," Stanley said.

Despite this, oil remains in ample supply, not least because of soaring US crude oil production, which jumped by more than 2 million bpd last year to a record 11.9 million bpd.

This shows in high US commercial crude oil stockpiles, which rose by 919,000 barrels in the week to January 25, to 445.94 million barrels, EIA data showed. Stockpiles are 6.6 per cent higher than a year ago.

Oil prices rose for a third day on Thursday, pushed up by lower imports into the United States amid OPEC efforts to tighten the market, and as Venezuela struggles to keep up its crude exports after Washington imposed sanctions on the nation.

Oil prices rose for a third day on Thursday, pushed up by lower imports into the United States amid OPEC efforts to tighten the market, and as Venezuela struggles to keep up its crude exports after Washington imposed sanctions on the nation. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $54.47 per barrel at 0758 GMT, up 24 cents, or 0.4 per cent, from their last settlement. International Brent crude oil futures were up 36 cents, or 0.6 per cent, at $62.01 per barrel. The price rise came after a report from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) on Wednesday showed a drop in Saudi crude supply to the United States. "Crude oil prices were stronger after signs emerged that OPEC cuts are impacting trade. EIA's weekly report showed that US imports from Saudi Arabia fell by more than half from the previous week to 442,000 barrels per day (bpd). This is the second lowest level in weekly data going back to 2010," ANZ bank said. Saudi Arabia is the de-facto leader of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), which together with some non-OPEC producers, including Russia, announced supply cuts late last year aimed at tightening the market and propping up prices. US sanctions imposed on state-oil firm Petroleos de Venezuela SA (PDVSA) this week are also causing some supply disruptions. Venezuela's oil inventories have started to build up at the country's ports and terminals as PDVSA is finding it cannot export crude at its usual rate due to US sanctions imposed earlier this week. As of Wednesday, Venezuela had 25 tankers with nearly 18 million barrels of crude - representing about two weeks of the country's production - either waiting to load or expecting authorisation to set sail, shipping data showed. Matt Stanley, a broker with Starfuels in Dubai, said the combination of US sanctions against oil producers Venezuela and Iran, the OPEC-led supply cuts, as well as hopes that the trade dispute between the United States and China could soon be resolved meant oil prices would likely rise further. "There are just too many factors that can only cause the price to go one way and that is up," Stanley said. Despite this, oil remains in ample supply, not least because of soaring US crude oil production, which jumped by more than 2 million bpd last year to a record 11.9 million bpd. This shows in high US commercial crude oil stockpiles, which rose by 919,000 barrels in the week to January 25, to 445.94 million barrels, EIA data showed. Stockpiles are 6.6 per cent higher than a year ago.

Oil prices rise on Saudi cuts to US; Venezuela struggles to keep up exports

Venezuela's Supreme Tribunal of Justice barred self-declared president Juan Guaido from leaving the country and froze his bank accounts Tuesday, as leader Nicolas Maduro seeks to neutralize the American-backed opposition chief.

The 35-year-old head of the National Assembly legislature "is prohibited from leaving the country until the end of the (preliminary) investigation" for having "caused harm to peace in the republic," high court president Maikel Moreno said.

The court is stacked with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-goes-after-venezuelas-oil-to-hit-maduro-193555">Maduro loyalists</a>.

The move came after the State Department revealed that Guaido&nbsp;— the National Assembly head and self-proclaimed interim president — has been handed control of Venezuela's US bank accounts.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo signed off on the order last week, which was then followed on Monday by US sanctions targeting Venezuela's state oil giant PDVSA, the cash-strapped government's main source of hard currency.

"This certification will help Venezuela's legitimate government safeguard those assets for the benefit of the Venezuelan people," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said in a statement.

Guaido shrugged off Maduro's efforts to choke his progress as "nothing new."

"I'm not dismissing the threats, the persecution at this time, but we're here, we're continuing to do our jobs," he told reporters as he arrived at the National Assembly.

Guaido, who has been recognized as interim president by US President Donald Trump, sent a message to the country's top court on Twitter warning that "the regime is in its final stage."

"You shouldn't sacrifice yourselves for the usurper and his gang," he added.

'Serious consequences' 
In Washington, Trump's national security advisor warned of "serious consequences" if any harm comes to the Venezuelan opposition leader.

"Let me reiterate -- there will be serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido," Trump advisor John Bolton tweeted.

The opposition-controlled legislature, meanwhile, named "diplomatic representatives" to a dozen countries that, like the US, have recognized Guaido as the interim president.

At the White House, US Vice President Mike Pence met with Guaido's appointed charge d'affaires in the United States, Carlos Vecchio, to discuss the crisis.&nbsp;

The 35-year-old engineer stormed onto the political stage as a virtual unknown on January 3, when he was sworn in as the president of the National Assembly, a body that had been largely neutralized by the Supreme Court.

On January 23, he declared himself the country's acting president and vowed to lead a transitional government that would hold democratic elections.

To keep up the pressure, he has called two more mass demonstrations against the government this week, and has appealed to the powerful military to change sides, offering amnesty to those who do.

At least 40 people have been killed in clashes with security forces nationwide and at least 850 arrested since January 21 when a brief military rebellion was put down in Caracas, according to the UN human rights office in Geneva.

- 'Blood on his hands' - 
US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the sanctions against PDVSA would prevent Maduro from diverting resources from the country until power could be transferred to an interim or democratically-elected government.

A furious Maduro, 56, said Trump would have "blood all over his hands" if violence breaks out in Venezuela.

In a tweet, he urged the opposition to "ignore the imperialist calls" and reiterated his offer of dialogue to Guaido. He has previously accused the US of trying to orchestrate a coup d'etat.

Gustavo Tarre, Venezuela's new pro-Guaido representative to the Organization of American States, rejected the coup accusation and cast doubt on the staying power of Maduro's regime, saying no one would defend him to the death.&nbsp;

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the new sanctions "violate all possible international norms" and said the US has "publicly taken a course toward illegal regime change."

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said his country opposes "unilateral sanctions" as they "will only complicate the situation and will not help solve practical problems."

The oil-rich country is already reeling from a deep economic crisis that has pushed millions into poverty and driven 2.3 million more to migrate.

Hyperinflation, shortages of food and medicine and failing public services has spread misery, undermining support for a leftist regime that has held power for two decades.

'All options' 
Trump's national security advisor Bolton called Monday for Venezuela's security forces "to accept the peaceful, democratic and constitutional transfer of power."

He also reiterated Trump's position that "all options are on the table."

Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan did not rule out a US military deployment to Colombia.

But the Lima Group of Latin American countries and Canada is opposed to "military intervention" in the Venezuela, Peru's Foreign Minister Nestor Popolizio said.

Six European nations -- Britain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain -- have said they would follow suit unless Maduro calls elections by February 3.

Venezuela's Supreme Tribunal of Justice barred self-declared president Juan Guaido from leaving the country and froze his bank accounts Tuesday, as leader Nicolas Maduro seeks to neutralize the American-backed opposition chief.

Venezuela's Supreme Tribunal of Justice barred self-declared president Juan Guaido from leaving the country and froze his bank accounts Tuesday, as leader Nicolas Maduro seeks to neutralize the American-backed opposition chief. The 35-year-old head of the National Assembly legislature "is prohibited from leaving the country until the end of the (preliminary) investigation" for having "caused harm to peace in the republic," high court president Maikel Moreno said. The court is stacked with Maduro loyalists. The move came after the State Department revealed that Guaido — the National Assembly head and self-proclaimed interim president — has been handed control of Venezuela's US bank accounts. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo signed off on the order last week, which was then followed on Monday by US sanctions targeting Venezuela's state oil giant PDVSA, the cash-strapped government's main source of hard currency. "This certification will help Venezuela's legitimate government safeguard those assets for the benefit of the Venezuelan people," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said in a statement. Guaido shrugged off Maduro's efforts to choke his progress as "nothing new." "I'm not dismissing the threats, the persecution at this time, but we're here, we're continuing to do our jobs," he told reporters as he arrived at the National Assembly. Guaido, who has been recognized as interim president by US President Donald Trump, sent a message to the country's top court on Twitter warning that "the regime is in its final stage." "You shouldn't sacrifice yourselves for the usurper and his gang," he added. 'Serious consequences' In Washington, Trump's national security advisor warned of "serious consequences" if any harm comes to the Venezuelan opposition leader. "Let me reiterate -- there will be serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido," Trump advisor John Bolton tweeted. The opposition-controlled legislature, meanwhile, named "diplomatic representatives" to a dozen countries that, like the US, have recognized Guaido as the interim president. At the White House, US Vice President Mike Pence met with Guaido's appointed charge d'affaires in the United States, Carlos Vecchio, to discuss the crisis. The 35-year-old engineer stormed onto the political stage as a virtual unknown on January 3, when he was sworn in as the president of the National Assembly, a body that had been largely neutralized by the Supreme Court. On January 23, he declared himself the country's acting president and vowed to lead a transitional government that would hold democratic elections. To keep up the pressure, he has called two more mass demonstrations against the government this week, and has appealed to the powerful military to change sides, offering amnesty to those who do. At least 40 people have been killed in clashes with security forces nationwide and at least 850 arrested since January 21 when a brief military rebellion was put down in Caracas, according to the UN human rights office in Geneva. - 'Blood on his hands' - US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said the sanctions against PDVSA would prevent Maduro from diverting resources from the country until power could be transferred to an interim or democratically-elected government. A furious Maduro, 56, said Trump would have "blood all over his hands" if violence breaks out in Venezuela. In a tweet, he urged the opposition to "ignore the imperialist calls" and reiterated his offer of dialogue to Guaido. He has previously accused the US of trying to orchestrate a coup d'etat. Gustavo Tarre, Venezuela's new pro-Guaido representative to the Organization of American States, rejected the coup accusation and cast doubt on the staying power of Maduro's regime, saying no one would defend him to the death. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the new sanctions "violate all possible international norms" and said the US has "publicly taken a course toward illegal regime change." Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said his country opposes "unilateral sanctions" as they "will only complicate the situation and will not help solve practical problems." The oil-rich country is already reeling from a deep economic crisis that has pushed millions into poverty and driven 2.3 million more to migrate. Hyperinflation, shortages of food and medicine and failing public services has spread misery, undermining support for a leftist regime that has held power for two decades. 'All options' Trump's national security advisor Bolton called Monday for Venezuela's security forces "to accept the peaceful, democratic and constitutional transfer of power." He also reiterated Trump's position that "all options are on the table." Acting Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan did not rule out a US military deployment to Colombia. But the Lima Group of Latin American countries and Canada is opposed to "military intervention" in the Venezuela, Peru's Foreign Minister Nestor Popolizio said. Six European nations -- Britain, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain -- have said they would follow suit unless Maduro calls elections by February 3.

Venezuela bars Juan Guaido from leaving country, freezes his bank accounts

Venezuela's government struck back at self-declared interim president Juan Guaido on Tuesday, with the Supreme Court imposing a travel ban and freeze on his bank accounts despite a warning from Washington of "serious consequences" if it did so.

The court also said prosecutors could investigate Guaido, in apparent retaliation for sweeping US sanctions on oil firm PDVSA, announced on Monday.

The sanctions mean the state-run company may not be able to fulfill contracts with North American buyers, the government of President Nicolas Maduro said.

Aimed at driving Maduro from power, the sanctions were the strongest measures yet against the 56-year-old former union leader, who has overseen economic collapse and an exodus of millions of Venezuelans in recent years.

The measures triggered higher global oil prices, angry responses from China and Russia and the first serious moves against Guaido since he challenged Maduro's claim on the presidency last week.

The Supreme Court approved a request from Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab to open a preliminary investigation into Guaido based on accusations he helped foreign countries to interfere in internal matters. The court also imposed a travel ban on the 35-year-old leader and froze his bank accounts.

As a lawmaker who heads the National Assembly, Guaido has immunity from prosecution unless ordered by a top court. But the 32-member Supreme Court is loyal to Maduro and moved quickly to open the investigation.

In response to news earlier of the attorney general's plan, U.S. national security adviser John Bolton warned of "serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido," in a tweet that described Saab as the "illegitimate former Venezuelan Attorney General."

The United States and several other countries have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state and denounced Maduro as a usurper. Maduro, sworn in on Jan. 10 for a second term after disputed elections last year, accuses Guaido of staging a U.S.-directed coup against him. Maduro is backed by a number of countries, including Russia.

Maduro's inauguration sparked protests throughout Venezuela. Over 40 people are believed to have been killed in political violence last week, including 26 shot by pro-government forces, five killed in house raids and 11 during looting, U.N. human rights spokesman Rupert Colville said on Tuesday.

He said more than 850 people were detained between Jan. 21 and Jan. 26, including 77 children, some as young as 12.

Guaido said on Tuesday he did not underestimate the threat of imprisonment but did not believe it was "anything new." Many opposition leaders have been imprisoned in the South American nation.

"We are here. We will keep acting and working to confront the humanitarian crisis," Guaido told a news conference.

Most experts believe the sanctions and other measures against Maduro will encourage him to step down only if he loses the support of the powerful military, which until now has been mostly loyal to the leftist ruling party founded by late President Hugo Chavez.

Maduro appeared on a television broadcast from a military base on Tuesday, praising the soldiers' loyalty.

The U.S. State Department said on Tuesday it had certified Guaido's authority to control certain assets held by U.S.-insured banks, including government and central bank accounts.

U.S. military invention is seen in Washington as highly unlikely, but President Donald Trump has repeatedly said "all options are on the table" and notes Bolton held at a Monday briefing containing the words "5,000 troops to Colombia" have raised questions.

SIDESTEPPING SANCTIONS

Oil minister and PDVSA head Manuel Quevedo said on Tuesday that PDVSA was considering declaring partial force majeure on its contractual obligations in the United States. The company would not allow the opposition to take control of its U.S. refinery unit Citgo, Venezuela's key foreign asset, he said.

All oil tankers leaving Venezuelan ports would have to pay for crude before departing, he said.

"We can't allow Venezuelan oil to be stolen," he said in a speech on state television.

PDVSA is also seeking to sidestep the sanctions by asking major buyers, including U.S. refiners, to renegotiate contracts, sources said.

International Brent crude oil futures rose over 2 percent on Tuesday in reaction. Venezuela is among the world's largest heavy crude oil producers. [O/R]

The Kremlin condemned the sanctions as illegal interference, while China said they would lead to suffering for which Washington would bear responsibility.

The sanctions could cause problems for Venezuela when it comes to servicing its sovereign debt to Russia, which stands at $3.15 billion, Russian Deputy Finance Minister Sergei Storchak told reporters on Tuesday.

In Geneva, senior U.S. and Venezuelan diplomats traded jibes at a disarmament conference. Venezuela's ambassador, Jorge Valero, said the Trump administration was preparing a "military invasion" and questioned whether Washington had the moral authority to "impose a diktat" on Caracas.

Venezuela has sunk into economic and political turmoil under Maduro's socialist government, with inflation seen rising to 10 million percent this year.

The loss of revenue from the United States, the No. 1 buyer of Venezuelan crude, is sure to further hamper the government's ability to import basic goods like food and medicine, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis that has prompted more than 3 million people to leave the country in recent years.

Venezuela's government struck back at self-declared interim president Juan Guaido on Tuesday, with the Supreme Court imposing a travel ban and freeze on his bank accounts despite a warning from Washington of "serious consequences" if it did so.

Venezuela's government struck back at self-declared interim president Juan Guaido on Tuesday, with the Supreme Court imposing a travel ban and freeze on his bank accounts despite a warning from Washington of "serious consequences" if it did so. The court also said prosecutors could investigate Guaido, in apparent retaliation for sweeping US sanctions on oil firm PDVSA, announced on Monday. The sanctions mean the state-run company may not be able to fulfill contracts with North American buyers, the government of President Nicolas Maduro said. Aimed at driving Maduro from power, the sanctions were the strongest measures yet against the 56-year-old former union leader, who has overseen economic collapse and an exodus of millions of Venezuelans in recent years. The measures triggered higher global oil prices, angry responses from China and Russia and the first serious moves against Guaido since he challenged Maduro's claim on the presidency last week. The Supreme Court approved a request from Venezuelan Attorney General Tarek Saab to open a preliminary investigation into Guaido based on accusations he helped foreign countries to interfere in internal matters. The court also imposed a travel ban on the 35-year-old leader and froze his bank accounts. As a lawmaker who heads the National Assembly, Guaido has immunity from prosecution unless ordered by a top court. But the 32-member Supreme Court is loyal to Maduro and moved quickly to open the investigation. In response to news earlier of the attorney general's plan, U.S. national security adviser John Bolton warned of "serious consequences for those who attempt to subvert democracy and harm Guaido," in a tweet that described Saab as the "illegitimate former Venezuelan Attorney General." The United States and several other countries have recognized Guaido as Venezuela's legitimate head of state and denounced Maduro as a usurper. Maduro, sworn in on Jan. 10 for a second term after disputed elections last year, accuses Guaido of staging a U.S.-directed coup against him. Maduro is backed by a number of countries, including Russia. Maduro's inauguration sparked protests throughout Venezuela. Over 40 people are believed to have been killed in political violence last week, including 26 shot by pro-government forces, five killed in house raids and 11 during looting, U.N. human rights spokesman Rupert Colville said on Tuesday. He said more than 850 people were detained between Jan. 21 and Jan. 26, including 77 children, some as young as 12. Guaido said on Tuesday he did not underestimate the threat of imprisonment but did not believe it was "anything new." Many opposition leaders have been imprisoned in the South American nation. "We are here. We will keep acting and working to confront the humanitarian crisis," Guaido told a news conference. Most experts believe the sanctions and other measures against Maduro will encourage him to step down only if he loses the support of the powerful military, which until now has been mostly loyal to the leftist ruling party founded by late President Hugo Chavez. Maduro appeared on a television broadcast from a military base on Tuesday, praising the soldiers' loyalty. The U.S. State Department said on Tuesday it had certified Guaido's authority to control certain assets held by U.S.-insured banks, including government and central bank accounts. U.S. military invention is seen in Washington as highly unlikely, but President Donald Trump has repeatedly said "all options are on the table" and notes Bolton held at a Monday briefing containing the words "5,000 troops to Colombia" have raised questions. SIDESTEPPING SANCTIONS Oil minister and PDVSA head Manuel Quevedo said on Tuesday that PDVSA was considering declaring partial force majeure on its contractual obligations in the United States. The company would not allow the opposition to take control of its U.S. refinery unit Citgo, Venezuela's key foreign asset, he said. All oil tankers leaving Venezuelan ports would have to pay for crude before departing, he said. "We can't allow Venezuelan oil to be stolen," he said in a speech on state television. PDVSA is also seeking to sidestep the sanctions by asking major buyers, including U.S. refiners, to renegotiate contracts, sources said. International Brent crude oil futures rose over 2 percent on Tuesday in reaction. Venezuela is among the world's largest heavy crude oil producers. [O/R] The Kremlin condemned the sanctions as illegal interference, while China said they would lead to suffering for which Washington would bear responsibility. The sanctions could cause problems for Venezuela when it comes to servicing its sovereign debt to Russia, which stands at $3.15 billion, Russian Deputy Finance Minister Sergei Storchak told reporters on Tuesday. In Geneva, senior U.S. and Venezuelan diplomats traded jibes at a disarmament conference. Venezuela's ambassador, Jorge Valero, said the Trump administration was preparing a "military invasion" and questioned whether Washington had the moral authority to "impose a diktat" on Caracas. Venezuela has sunk into economic and political turmoil under Maduro's socialist government, with inflation seen rising to 10 million percent this year. The loss of revenue from the United States, the No. 1 buyer of Venezuelan crude, is sure to further hamper the government's ability to import basic goods like food and medicine, exacerbating a humanitarian crisis that has prompted more than 3 million people to leave the country in recent years.

Venezuela targets Opposition leader Juan Guaido with probe, travel ban, asset freeze

After reports said <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-says-he-is-ready-for-talks-with-the-opposition-russias-ria-193833">Venezuela president Maduro </a>was ready to negotiate' with opposition and call for elections, President Trump in a tweet said Guaido was being targeted by the Venezuelan Supreme Court.

Juan Guaido who has declared himself as <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-supreme-court-hits-juan-guaido-with-travel-ban-freezes-his-bank-accounts-193781">interim</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-supreme-court-hits-juan-guaido-with-travel-ban-freezes-his-bank-accounts-193781"> president said the regime </a>only thought about repression and persecution, adding it was nothing new. Venezuela's Attorney General&nbsp;Tarek Saab had asked the Supreme Court to open a preliminary investigation against Guaido and freeze his assets and impose a travel ban on him.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Maduro willing to negotiate with opposition in Venezuela following U.S. sanctions and the cutting off of oil revenues. Guaido is being targeted by Venezuelan Supreme Court. Massive protest expected today. Americans should not travel to Venezuela until further notice.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1090566017238093824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The United States, several Latin American countries and Canada have recognized Guaido as interim president. Trump cautioned Americans from travelling to the country while informing that massive protests are expected today

"Maduro willing to negotiate with opposition in Venezuela following US sanctions and the cutting off of oil revenues. Guaido is being targeted by Venezuelan Supreme Court. Massive protest expected today. Americans should not travel to Venezuela until further notice," the US president said.

Maduro claimed that President Trump had ordered the government of Colombia to assassinate him. "If something happens to me one day then Donald Trump and Colombian President Ivan Duque will be responsible for everything that is happening to me," he told a local television channel.

Russia and China have backed Muduro's regime with Kremlin denouncing the opposition's "usurpation of power".

Maduro on Monday had accused&nbsp;the United States of trying to steal US refining arm Citgo Petroleum after the Trump administration annouced &nbsp;sweeping sanctions on Venezuelan state-owned oil firm PDVSA. 
&nbsp;

After reports said Venezuela president Maduro was ready to negotiate' with opposition and call for elections, President Trump in a tweet said Guaido was being targeted by the Venezuelan Supreme Court.

After reports said Venezuela president Maduro was ready to negotiate' with opposition and call for elections, President Trump in a tweet said Guaido was being targeted by the Venezuelan Supreme Court. Juan Guaido who has declared himself as interim president said the regime only thought about repression and persecution, adding it was nothing new. Venezuela's Attorney General Tarek Saab had asked the Supreme Court to open a preliminary investigation against Guaido and freeze his assets and impose a travel ban on him. Maduro willing to negotiate with opposition in Venezuela following U.S. sanctions and the cutting off of oil revenues. Guaido is being targeted by Venezuelan Supreme Court. Massive protest expected today. Americans should not travel to Venezuela until further notice. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 30, 2019 × The United States, several Latin American countries and Canada have recognized Guaido as interim president. Trump cautioned Americans from travelling to the country while informing that massive protests are expected today "Maduro willing to negotiate with opposition in Venezuela following US sanctions and the cutting off of oil revenues. Guaido is being targeted by Venezuelan Supreme Court. Massive protest expected today. Americans should not travel to Venezuela until further notice," the US president said. Maduro claimed that President Trump had ordered the government of Colombia to assassinate him. "If something happens to me one day then Donald Trump and Colombian President Ivan Duque will be responsible for everything that is happening to me," he told a local television channel. Russia and China have backed Muduro's regime with Kremlin denouncing the opposition's "usurpation of power". Maduro on Monday had accused the United States of trying to steal US refining arm Citgo Petroleum after the Trump administration annouced sweeping sanctions on Venezuelan state-owned oil firm PDVSA.

Guaido being targeted by Venezuela's Supreme Court: Trump

venezuela

Venezuela, News on Venezuela, stories on Venezuela, articles on Venezuela, Venezuela stories at Wion, Venezuela news, Venezuela latest news