Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday ordered the armed forces to be on alert for a potential attack by Colombia's government and announced military exercises on the border amid the rearmament of a group of former guerrilla commanders.

Former FARC guerillas on Thursday announced a rearmament in a video that Colombian authorities believe was filmed in Venezuela, spurring concern of a worsening of the Colombian armed conflict and expansion of armed groups in Venezuela.

"I've ordered the strategic operations commander of the Bolivarian Armed Forces and all the military units on the border to declare an alert ... in the face of the threatened aggression by Colombia toward Venezuela," Maduro said in a televised broadcast.

A set of military exercises that are carried out each year will be held between September&nbsp;10 and September. 29 in the states of Zulia, Tachira, Apure and Amazonas, which border Colombia, Maduro said. They are the third such exercises this year.

Despite the dramatic rhetoric, the statements are consistent with frequent disputes between the two nations for over a decade that at times included troop movements for political effect. Previous spats have ended in grudging reconciliation.

Colombia's Foreign Ministry declined to comment. Colombian authorities have repeatedly denied planning to attack Venezuela.

The United States, which has launched a broad set of sanctions against Maduro's government in efforts to hasten his departure, says Venezuela's government provides a safe haven to Colombian armed groups.

Earlier, Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido backed the use of satellites to help locate guerrilla groups that have crossed into Venezuela.

"We are going to authorize the use of satellite technology to facilitate the location of these irregular groups, of camps within the country's borders," Guaido said in a televised presentation.

"We are going to collaborate with the Colombian government on intelligence activities."

Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency after declaring Maduro's 2018 re-election a farce. He has been recognised by more than 50 countries, including the United States and Colombia, as Venezuela's legitimate president, but does not control state institutions.

Colombian President Ivan Duque has promised to persecute the rebel group, whose leaders said they were returning to armed struggle because Duque had betrayed the 2016 peace accord that lead to the FARC's demobilization.

(Reporting by Corina Pons and Vivian Sequera; additional reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb; writing by Brian Ellsworth; editing by Richard Chang and Leslie Adler)

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday ordered the armed forces to be on alert for a potential attack by Colombia's government and announced military exercises on the border amid the rearmament of a group of former guerrilla commanders.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Tuesday ordered the armed forces to be on alert for a potential attack by Colombia's government and announced military exercises on the border amid the rearmament of a group of former guerrilla commanders. Former FARC guerillas on Thursday announced a rearmament in a video that Colombian authorities believe was filmed in Venezuela, spurring concern of a worsening of the Colombian armed conflict and expansion of armed groups in Venezuela. "I've ordered the strategic operations commander of the Bolivarian Armed Forces and all the military units on the border to declare an alert ... in the face of the threatened aggression by Colombia toward Venezuela," Maduro said in a televised broadcast. A set of military exercises that are carried out each year will be held between September 10 and September. 29 in the states of Zulia, Tachira, Apure and Amazonas, which border Colombia, Maduro said. They are the third such exercises this year. Despite the dramatic rhetoric, the statements are consistent with frequent disputes between the two nations for over a decade that at times included troop movements for political effect. Previous spats have ended in grudging reconciliation. Colombia's Foreign Ministry declined to comment. Colombian authorities have repeatedly denied planning to attack Venezuela. The United States, which has launched a broad set of sanctions against Maduro's government in efforts to hasten his departure, says Venezuela's government provides a safe haven to Colombian armed groups. Earlier, Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido backed the use of satellites to help locate guerrilla groups that have crossed into Venezuela. "We are going to authorize the use of satellite technology to facilitate the location of these irregular groups, of camps within the country's borders," Guaido said in a televised presentation. "We are going to collaborate with the Colombian government on intelligence activities." Venezuela's Information Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency after declaring Maduro's 2018 re-election a farce. He has been recognised by more than 50 countries, including the United States and Colombia, as Venezuela's legitimate president, but does not control state institutions. Colombian President Ivan Duque has promised to persecute the rebel group, whose leaders said they were returning to armed struggle because Duque had betrayed the 2016 peace accord that lead to the FARC's demobilization. (Reporting by Corina Pons and Vivian Sequera; additional reporting by Julia Symmes Cobb; writing by Brian Ellsworth; editing by Richard Chang and Leslie Adler)

Venezuela's Maduro warns of Colombia attack, orders military exercises

The United States is not seeking a military intervention as a solution to the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, the US&nbsp;envoy to the troubled South American nation said in an interview published by a Venezuelan online news site on Sunday.

Washington this year disavowed Maduro, whose 2018 re-election was widely dismissed as a farce, and recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate president.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday opened a representative office called the Venezuela Affairs Unit (VAU), based in Colombia, to provide US&nbsp;diplomatic representation to Guaido`s interim government and to continue pressuring for a transition.

&nbsp;"What we want is not a military intervention by the international community, but rather a peaceful, political and democratic resolution (of the crisis) based on Venezuela`s constitution," said VAU Charge d`Affaires James Story, in an interview published on the website of Venezuelan newspaper 2001.

"How can you have a democracy when you can`t even choose through votes?"

Venezuela`s information ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

Maduro, who has overseen an economic collapse that has fueled a humanitarian crisis, frequently accuses the United States of preparing to invade Venezuela to control its vast oil resources and remove the country`s socialist leadership.

Guaido, president of the opposition-run congress, in January invoked the constitution to assume a rival interim presidency and was quickly recognised by more than 50 countries.&nbsp;

The United States has thrown its support behind Guaido and levied broad sanctions against Maduro`s government to pressure for his exit.

Asked how he would respond to Venezuelans seeking a military intervention - a sentiment often expressed on the country`s virulent social media - Story said there had already been a military intervention by Maduro`s foreign allies.

"There are Russian military officers in the country ... and we know that there are a lot of Cuban military officers," he said. "Why? Because they want Maduro to stay."

Guaido allies and government representatives in May began a dialogue process mediated by Norway to seek a negotiated solution to the political standoff. Maduro`s delegation last month suspended its participation to protest new US sanctions.

Maduro said in an interview broadcast on Saturday that his government had resumed contact with both the opposition and the Norwegian government.&nbsp;

He promised "good news about the dialogue process" in the coming days, but did not say when it would start up again.

The United States is not seeking a military intervention as a solution to the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, the US envoy to the troubled South American nation said in an interview published by a Venezuelan online news site on Sunday.

The United States is not seeking a military intervention as a solution to the economic and political crisis in Venezuela, the US envoy to the troubled South American nation said in an interview published by a Venezuelan online news site on Sunday. Washington this year disavowed Maduro, whose 2018 re-election was widely dismissed as a farce, and recognised opposition leader Juan Guaido as the legitimate president. The United States on Wednesday opened a representative office called the Venezuela Affairs Unit (VAU), based in Colombia, to provide US diplomatic representation to Guaido`s interim government and to continue pressuring for a transition. "What we want is not a military intervention by the international community, but rather a peaceful, political and democratic resolution (of the crisis) based on Venezuela`s constitution," said VAU Charge d`Affaires James Story, in an interview published on the website of Venezuelan newspaper 2001. "How can you have a democracy when you can`t even choose through votes?" Venezuela`s information ministry did not immediately reply to a request for comment. Maduro, who has overseen an economic collapse that has fueled a humanitarian crisis, frequently accuses the United States of preparing to invade Venezuela to control its vast oil resources and remove the country`s socialist leadership. Guaido, president of the opposition-run congress, in January invoked the constitution to assume a rival interim presidency and was quickly recognised by more than 50 countries. The United States has thrown its support behind Guaido and levied broad sanctions against Maduro`s government to pressure for his exit. Asked how he would respond to Venezuelans seeking a military intervention - a sentiment often expressed on the country`s virulent social media - Story said there had already been a military intervention by Maduro`s foreign allies. "There are Russian military officers in the country ... and we know that there are a lot of Cuban military officers," he said. "Why? Because they want Maduro to stay." Guaido allies and government representatives in May began a dialogue process mediated by Norway to seek a negotiated solution to the political standoff. Maduro`s delegation last month suspended its participation to protest new US sanctions. Maduro said in an interview broadcast on Saturday that his government had resumed contact with both the opposition and the Norwegian government. He promised "good news about the dialogue process" in the coming days, but did not say when it would start up again.

Diplomat says US does not want military intervention in Venezuela: Report

Jorge Arquiles for years started his day by turning on the stove of his small house in the Venezuelan city of Maracay. These days, his breakfast routine begins with a search for firewood in a national park just behind his home. Chronic shortages of natural gas in the country with the world's largest oil reserves now mean that cooking fuel is increasingly coming from trees.

Venezuela's trees suffer as firewood replaces scarce cooking gas

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

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

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

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

Edgar Fernandez keeps a mariachi suit in a rusty wardrobe at the public hospital in Caracas where he works as a nurse, donning it for performances that augment his meagre salary.

Given that he earns just $10 a month, the money from these shows has been his salvation in crisis-wracked Venezuela, where nurses have been forced to reinvent themselves as home entrepreneurs, security guards or builders just to survive.

Being a nurse in Venezuela is an almost impossible job these days: the country has seen an exodus of the profession, leaving those who remain short of colleagues and contending with problems such as major shortages of medical supplies and devastating electricity blackouts.

"A nurse's salary is worth nothing," Fernandez told AFP, saying the money he earns from a 12-hour shift "can't buy anything."

When a show clashes with his work shift, he has to pay a colleague to cover for him, meaning that his earnings -- which are not always money -- shrink.

"Sometimes they pay me... with flour, lentils... I prefer this to going home empty-handed," said the 40-year-old, who practically lives in the Perez Carreno hospital, sleeping on a dirty mattress since he cannot afford rent.

Decked out in his silver-lined outfit, Fernandez sings in bars and homes, and is even sometimes hired by former patients.

He saved up to record an album, which he peddles to radio stations. His hope is to one day find fame.

Home-made hairspray

Francis Guillen makes hairspray that she sells in Caracas's busy Catia market as she battles, like most Venezuelans, to make ends meet in a country whose inflation will reach a staggering one million per cent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund.

"If I didn't have another job, I don't know what would have become of me," said the 30-year-old nurse, who in a single day selling hairspray can earn the equivalent of her monthly salary.

Sometimes her father, also a nurse, helps her mix the chemicals in a bucket in her front room.

Her husband, who gave up his job as a fireman, also helps out with the business.

Guillen is tempted to resign from her job, but says the desire "to serve" her compatriots is keeping her from joining the 3.3 million people the United Nations estimates have left Venezuela since the start of 2016.

But since June 2018, 15,000 members of her profession -- or around 40 per cent -- quit and many of those emigrated, according to Ana Rosario Contreras, president of the Nurses College of Caracas, which has called for salaries to be paid in dollars to halt the exodus.

'In love' with nursing&nbsp;

By day, Carlos Ruiz works as a security guard for a metallurgy company and also does odd jobs.

The 42-year-old says he does "what's needed to survive."

But despite saving up as much as he can, he hasn't been able to buy a new nurse uniform for the last four years: he needs 10 months of salary for that.

He also has to deal with the scarcity of hospital supplies -- up to 80 per cent in some sectors, according to NGOs -- which President Nicolas Maduro blames on an economic war waged by the United States at the invitation of the opposition.

"There's no lack of those who accuse us of stealing medicines," according to Ruiz, who said he is "in love" with a job that allowed him to be present at the births of his four children.

In some hospitals, a single nurse has to look after up to four patients, something those in the profession decry as "labour persecution."

Working to save lives

Repeated major electricity blackouts have also taken their toll on the medical sector, knocking out power to hospitals -- many of which do not have working generators -- with potentially deadly consequences for patients.

Camilo Torres sells pastries and ice cream in his home in the southern state of Bolivar and goes to work at the local hospital on foot because of the lack of public transport. It takes him two hours.

Facebook photos attest to the toll his struggles have taken on his body: three years ago, he weighed 120 kilograms (264 pounds), but now weighs just 65 (143 pounds).

"I'm skinny and that's due to hunger," said the father of three, who wears broken shoes.

A neighbour helped him sew them up because a new pair costs three times his salary.

He can't even afford socks and his once white uniform looks yellow -- for Torres, detergent is a luxury.

But he won't give up.

"My job is to save lives. If there's no one in the hospital then I'm sure that if today 10 people die, tomorrow it will be 50 and that pain would never leave me," he said.

Edgar Fernandez keeps a mariachi suit in a rusty wardrobe at the public hospital in Caracas where he works as a nurse, donning it for performances that augment his meagre salary.

Edgar Fernandez keeps a mariachi suit in a rusty wardrobe at the public hospital in Caracas where he works as a nurse, donning it for performances that augment his meagre salary. Given that he earns just $10 a month, the money from these shows has been his salvation in crisis-wracked Venezuela, where nurses have been forced to reinvent themselves as home entrepreneurs, security guards or builders just to survive. Being a nurse in Venezuela is an almost impossible job these days: the country has seen an exodus of the profession, leaving those who remain short of colleagues and contending with problems such as major shortages of medical supplies and devastating electricity blackouts. "A nurse's salary is worth nothing," Fernandez told AFP, saying the money he earns from a 12-hour shift "can't buy anything." When a show clashes with his work shift, he has to pay a colleague to cover for him, meaning that his earnings -- which are not always money -- shrink. "Sometimes they pay me... with flour, lentils... I prefer this to going home empty-handed," said the 40-year-old, who practically lives in the Perez Carreno hospital, sleeping on a dirty mattress since he cannot afford rent. Decked out in his silver-lined outfit, Fernandez sings in bars and homes, and is even sometimes hired by former patients. He saved up to record an album, which he peddles to radio stations. His hope is to one day find fame. Home-made hairspray Francis Guillen makes hairspray that she sells in Caracas's busy Catia market as she battles, like most Venezuelans, to make ends meet in a country whose inflation will reach a staggering one million per cent this year, according to the International Monetary Fund. "If I didn't have another job, I don't know what would have become of me," said the 30-year-old nurse, who in a single day selling hairspray can earn the equivalent of her monthly salary. Sometimes her father, also a nurse, helps her mix the chemicals in a bucket in her front room. Her husband, who gave up his job as a fireman, also helps out with the business. Guillen is tempted to resign from her job, but says the desire "to serve" her compatriots is keeping her from joining the 3.3 million people the United Nations estimates have left Venezuela since the start of 2016. But since June 2018, 15,000 members of her profession -- or around 40 per cent -- quit and many of those emigrated, according to Ana Rosario Contreras, president of the Nurses College of Caracas, which has called for salaries to be paid in dollars to halt the exodus. 'In love' with nursing By day, Carlos Ruiz works as a security guard for a metallurgy company and also does odd jobs. The 42-year-old says he does "what's needed to survive." But despite saving up as much as he can, he hasn't been able to buy a new nurse uniform for the last four years: he needs 10 months of salary for that. He also has to deal with the scarcity of hospital supplies -- up to 80 per cent in some sectors, according to NGOs -- which President Nicolas Maduro blames on an economic war waged by the United States at the invitation of the opposition. "There's no lack of those who accuse us of stealing medicines," according to Ruiz, who said he is "in love" with a job that allowed him to be present at the births of his four children. In some hospitals, a single nurse has to look after up to four patients, something those in the profession decry as "labour persecution." Working to save lives Repeated major electricity blackouts have also taken their toll on the medical sector, knocking out power to hospitals -- many of which do not have working generators -- with potentially deadly consequences for patients. Camilo Torres sells pastries and ice cream in his home in the southern state of Bolivar and goes to work at the local hospital on foot because of the lack of public transport. It takes him two hours. Facebook photos attest to the toll his struggles have taken on his body: three years ago, he weighed 120 kilograms (264 pounds), but now weighs just 65 (143 pounds). "I'm skinny and that's due to hunger," said the father of three, who wears broken shoes. A neighbour helped him sew them up because a new pair costs three times his salary. He can't even afford socks and his once white uniform looks yellow -- for Torres, detergent is a luxury. But he won't give up. "My job is to save lives. If there's no one in the hospital then I'm sure that if today 10 people die, tomorrow it will be 50 and that pain would never leave me," he said.

Venezuela nurses turn to side jobs to survive economic crisis

More than 85,000 Venezuelan migrants crossed into Ecuador from Colombia in the last month, ahead of new visa restrictions from Quito that took effect on Monday (August 26), the Colombian government said.

Venezuelan migrants flood into Ecuador ahead of new visa restrictions

The humanitarian crisis in Venezuela pushes women into 'unwanted pregnancy'.

WION Playlist: Humanitarian crisis in Venezuela

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

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

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

The United Nations on Sunday appealed for more humanitarian aid for Venezuelan refugees pouring into neighbouring countries, where they are overwhelming social services and reportedly sparking local tensions.

UN High Commissioner for refugees, Filippo Grandi, had planned to visit the Brazilian town of Pacaraima this weekend, but authorities reportedly advised him to cancel the trip amid fears of protests by residents who are unhappy with the arrival of more than 500 Venezuelans each day.

Last week, the residents of Pacaraima closed shops and marched through the streets, raising slogans such as "Out with the Venezuelans", "Pacaraima is ours", "Out with the UN", and "Brazil for Brazilians".

Grandi said financial institutions such as the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank have been engaged, but they need to speed up their help to help sustain health and education systems, Al Jazeera reported.

The UNHCR, in a report, estimated that around 4.3 million Venezuelans fled economic and political turmoil in their country, mainly to Colombia, Peru, Chile and Ecuador. Around 180,000 are also staying in Brazil.

In June, the Organisation of American States said that the Venezuelan exodus may exceed eight million people by the end of next year, which would make it the largest migration crisis in the world.&nbsp;

The group's projection puts the exodus between 7.5 million and 8.2 million in 2020, far surpassing the 6.7 million people who have fled war-torn Syria in eight years.&nbsp;

Grandi said there were signs of anti-immigrant sentiment spreading across the region, reflected in mounting restrictions on the movement of Venezuelans in Andean countries. Venezuela plunged into a political and economic crisis in January after opposition leader Juan Guaido proclaimed himself as the country's interim president amid throngs of cheering supporters who called for the resignation of legitimate President Nicolas Maduro.&nbsp;

The US immediately extended its support to Guaido, followed by nations like Canada and Britain.&nbsp;

However, countries like Russia and China have backed Maduro and slammed the US for its external interference in Venezuela.

Since then, Washington has been pursuing a policy of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation against the Maduro government in support of Guaido.

The United Nations on Sunday appealed for more humanitarian aid for Venezuelan refugees pouring into neighbouring countries, where they are overwhelming social services and reportedly sparking local tensions.

The United Nations on Sunday appealed for more humanitarian aid for Venezuelan refugees pouring into neighbouring countries, where they are overwhelming social services and reportedly sparking local tensions. UN High Commissioner for refugees, Filippo Grandi, had planned to visit the Brazilian town of Pacaraima this weekend, but authorities reportedly advised him to cancel the trip amid fears of protests by residents who are unhappy with the arrival of more than 500 Venezuelans each day. Last week, the residents of Pacaraima closed shops and marched through the streets, raising slogans such as "Out with the Venezuelans", "Pacaraima is ours", "Out with the UN", and "Brazil for Brazilians". Grandi said financial institutions such as the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank have been engaged, but they need to speed up their help to help sustain health and education systems, Al Jazeera reported. The UNHCR, in a report, estimated that around 4.3 million Venezuelans fled economic and political turmoil in their country, mainly to Colombia, Peru, Chile and Ecuador. Around 180,000 are also staying in Brazil. In June, the Organisation of American States said that the Venezuelan exodus may exceed eight million people by the end of next year, which would make it the largest migration crisis in the world. The group's projection puts the exodus between 7.5 million and 8.2 million in 2020, far surpassing the 6.7 million people who have fled war-torn Syria in eight years. Grandi said there were signs of anti-immigrant sentiment spreading across the region, reflected in mounting restrictions on the movement of Venezuelans in Andean countries. Venezuela plunged into a political and economic crisis in January after opposition leader Juan Guaido proclaimed himself as the country's interim president amid throngs of cheering supporters who called for the resignation of legitimate President Nicolas Maduro. The US immediately extended its support to Guaido, followed by nations like Canada and Britain. However, countries like Russia and China have backed Maduro and slammed the US for its external interference in Venezuela. Since then, Washington has been pursuing a policy of economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation against the Maduro government in support of Guaido.

United Nations appeals for more help to alleviate Venezuela refugee crisis

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 14th, 2019

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

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

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

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 13th, 2019

Venezuela's pro-government legislature holds a session on Monday amid accusations it is planning to disband the opposition-run parliament and convene early legislative elections, potentially escalating the country's political crisis.

Opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/.../juan-guaido-calls-for-operation-freedom-to- topple-venezuelas-maduro-215341">Juan Guaido </a>on Sunday said the Constituent Assembly would make the decision during a Monday session after President Nicolas Maduro called for an "offensive" against congress.

Such a move would fuel criticism of Maduro in the international community and would almost certainly halt Norway-brokered talks between the government and Guaido allies meant to reach a negotiated solution to Venezuela's political stalemate.

Diosdado Cabello, vice president of the ruling Socialist Party and head of the Constituent Assembly, on Sunday night confirmed via Twitter that a session was scheduled for Monday but did not say what would be discussed.

"Nothing will stop us, we are free and we will be victorious!!" he wrote.

A Constituent Assembly official did not respond to a message seeking details on the session.

Congressional elections are held every five years, and are not scheduled until December 2020.

The opposition in 2015 won a two-thirds majority of congress in a landslide vote, taking control of parliament for the first time in 16 years. Maduro's government refused to recognize any of its decisions and the supreme court has shot down every measure it approved.

In 2017, Maduro launched an election to create the Constituent Assembly, an all-powerful body that is officially tasked with rewriting the constitution but in practice functions as a parallel legislature with no checks on its power.

The opposition broadly boycotted that vote, and the creation of the institution was harshly criticized around the world as undermining democracy.

Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival presidency, saying Maduro's 2018 re-election was fraudulent. He has been recognized by more than 50 countries, including the United States, as Venezuela's legitimate president.

Maduro said on Saturday that Guaido will face justice for supporting the most recent round of US&nbsp;sanctions, which block all commercial transactions with Venezuela's government and freeze its assets in the United States.

He called on Cabello last week to begin an offensive against the "traitors" in the legislature.

Venezuela's pro-government legislature holds a session on Monday amid accusations it is planning to disband the opposition-run parliament and convene early legislative elections, potentially escalating the country's political crisis.

Venezuela's pro-government legislature holds a session on Monday amid accusations it is planning to disband the opposition-run parliament and convene early legislative elections, potentially escalating the country's political crisis. Opposition leader Juan Guaido on Sunday said the Constituent Assembly would make the decision during a Monday session after President Nicolas Maduro called for an "offensive" against congress. Such a move would fuel criticism of Maduro in the international community and would almost certainly halt Norway-brokered talks between the government and Guaido allies meant to reach a negotiated solution to Venezuela's political stalemate. Diosdado Cabello, vice president of the ruling Socialist Party and head of the Constituent Assembly, on Sunday night confirmed via Twitter that a session was scheduled for Monday but did not say what would be discussed. "Nothing will stop us, we are free and we will be victorious!!" he wrote. A Constituent Assembly official did not respond to a message seeking details on the session. Congressional elections are held every five years, and are not scheduled until December 2020. The opposition in 2015 won a two-thirds majority of congress in a landslide vote, taking control of parliament for the first time in 16 years. Maduro's government refused to recognize any of its decisions and the supreme court has shot down every measure it approved. In 2017, Maduro launched an election to create the Constituent Assembly, an all-powerful body that is officially tasked with rewriting the constitution but in practice functions as a parallel legislature with no checks on its power. The opposition broadly boycotted that vote, and the creation of the institution was harshly criticized around the world as undermining democracy. Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume a rival presidency, saying Maduro's 2018 re-election was fraudulent. He has been recognized by more than 50 countries, including the United States, as Venezuela's legitimate president. Maduro said on Saturday that Guaido will face justice for supporting the most recent round of US sanctions, which block all commercial transactions with Venezuela's government and freeze its assets in the United States. He called on Cabello last week to begin an offensive against the "traitors" in the legislature.

Venezuela pro-government legislature holds session, may disband congress

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

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

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - August 10th, 2019

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

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

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

UN rights chief condemns latest US Venezuela sanctions

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

Venezuela: People protests against imposed sanctions

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

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

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

Venezuela's Maduro halts talks with opposition after US sanctions

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro struck a defiant tone against new U.S. sanctions against Venezuela, telling supporters that the nation will win. Watch the full video to know more.

"Venezuela will win", says Maduro after new U.S. sanctions

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

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

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

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

The Trump administration froze all Venezuelan government assets in US. Watch video to know more.

Donald Trump freezes all Venezulean govt assests in US

US President Donald Trump has<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-people-groups-linked-to-venezuelan-food-subsidy-scam-238480"> imposed sanctions</a> on assets of the Venezuelan government, according to an executive order published on Monday.

"All property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States ... are blocked and may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in," the executive order says.

The Trump administration has been ramping up <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-says-he-repudiates-trump-statement-on-possible-venezuela-blockade-240398">pressure on Caracas</a> in a bid to oust President Nicolas Maduro from power.

The United States and most Latin American countries and Western democracies have called for Maduro to step down and have recognised Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country`s president.

Watch: Venezuela plunges into darkness

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But China and Russia have continued to back Maduro, prompting US national security adviser John Bolton to warn the two countries on Monday against doubling down in their support for him.

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on assets of the Venezuelan government, according to an executive order published on Monday. "All property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States .

US President Donald Trump has imposed sanctions on assets of the Venezuelan government, according to an executive order published on Monday. "All property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States ... are blocked and may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in," the executive order says. The Trump administration has been ramping up pressure on Caracas in a bid to oust President Nicolas Maduro from power. The United States and most Latin American countries and Western democracies have called for Maduro to step down and have recognised Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido as the country`s president. Watch: Venezuela plunges into darkness × But China and Russia have continued to back Maduro, prompting US national security adviser John Bolton to warn the two countries on Monday against doubling down in their support for him.

Trump imposes sanctions on Venezuelan government's assets in US

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