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

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

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

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

Venezuela ended 2018 with 130,060 per cent inflation, while the economy contracted 47.6 per cent between 2013 and 2018, the central bank said Tuesday in the first such figures it has released in three years.&nbsp;

The data found inflation reached 274.4 per cent in 2016, 862.6 per cent in 2017 and 130,060 per cent in 2018 -- figures 10 times smaller than International Monetary Fund estimates of 1,370,000 per cent for last year. &nbsp;

The IMF projects 10,000,000 per cent inflation for the oil-rich country in 2019.

The Central Bank of Venezuela also reported that oil exports -- which account for 96 per cent of the country's revenue -- plummeted to $29.8 billion in 2018, down from $85.6 billion in 2013 and $71.7 billion in 2014, when oil prices collapsed and the country's political and economic crisis began.

Oil prices have since rebounded, starting in 2016, but Venezuela's drop in production prevented a return to previous revenue levels -- the country was producing 1.03 million barrels of oil per day in April versus the 3.2 million barrels it produced per day a decade ago.

The central bank had stopped providing officials figures three years ago without giving an official reason, though it had already been holding back the amount of economic information it reported.

Venezuela ended 2018 with 130,060 per cent inflation, while the economy contracted 47.6 per cent between 2013 and 2018, the central bank said Tuesday in the first such figures it has released in three years.

Venezuela ended 2018 with 130,060 per cent inflation, while the economy contracted 47.6 per cent between 2013 and 2018, the central bank said Tuesday in the first such figures it has released in three years. The data found inflation reached 274.4 per cent in 2016, 862.6 per cent in 2017 and 130,060 per cent in 2018 -- figures 10 times smaller than International Monetary Fund estimates of 1,370,000 per cent for last year. The IMF projects 10,000,000 per cent inflation for the oil-rich country in 2019. The Central Bank of Venezuela also reported that oil exports -- which account for 96 per cent of the country's revenue -- plummeted to $29.8 billion in 2018, down from $85.6 billion in 2013 and $71.7 billion in 2014, when oil prices collapsed and the country's political and economic crisis began. Oil prices have since rebounded, starting in 2016, but Venezuela's drop in production prevented a return to previous revenue levels -- the country was producing 1.03 million barrels of oil per day in April versus the 3.2 million barrels it produced per day a decade ago. The central bank had stopped providing officials figures three years ago without giving an official reason, though it had already been holding back the amount of economic information it reported.

Venezuela says 2018 inflation 10 times lower than IMF estimates

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-fall-on-surging-us-crude-stockpiles-economic-concerns-221236">Oil prices</a> were mixed on Tuesday as supply cuts, led by producer club OPEC, and US&nbsp;sanctions on fuel exports from Iran and Venezuela supported crude, while concerns about an economic slowdown weighed on the market.

Front-month Brent crude futures, the international benchmark for oil prices, were at $69.99 at 0637 GMT, down 12 cents, or 0.2%, from the last session's close, when they rose 2.1%.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $59.03 per barrel, up 40 cents, or 0.7%, from their last close on Friday. WTI did not trade on Monday due to a US&nbsp;public holiday.

Prices have been supported by supply cuts led by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) since the start of the year, and by political tensions in the Middle East.

OPEC and some allies including Russia are due to meet on June 25 and 26 to discuss output policy.

Beyond the output cuts, US&nbsp;bank, Citi said, "Geopolitical turmoil across the Middle East ... are likely to encourage financial investors to realign with their bullish physical counterparties."

In physical oil markets, the Middle East crude premiums hit their highest levels in years earlier this month amid falling supply.

Beyond the OPEC cuts, US&nbsp;sanctions on petroleum exports from Iran and Venezuela have tightened markets.

"Iran exports remain under pressure as US sanctions bite. This comes as OPEC appears to be heading towards extending the current production cut agreement," Citi added.

Trump last year withdrew the United States from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, and Washington is ratcheting up sanctions seeking to end Tehran's international sales of crude oil and strangle its economy.

Washington has also imposed sanctions on Venezuela's oil exports, in a bid to topple the government under President Nicolas Maduro there.

Despite this, markets remain cautious amid an economic slowdown as a result of the ongoing trade war between the United States and China, which is also expected to dent fuel consumption.

"We really need to see some strong demand figures, which so far this year has not happened before we can really start listening to the bulls," said Matt Stanley, a broker at Starfuels in Dubai.

Oil prices were mixed on Tuesday as supply cuts, led by producer club OPEC, and US sanctions on fuel exports from Iran and Venezuela supported crude, while concerns about an economic slowdown weighed on the market.

Oil prices were mixed on Tuesday as supply cuts, led by producer club OPEC, and US sanctions on fuel exports from Iran and Venezuela supported crude, while concerns about an economic slowdown weighed on the market. Front-month Brent crude futures, the international benchmark for oil prices, were at $69.99 at 0637 GMT, down 12 cents, or 0.2%, from the last session's close, when they rose 2.1%. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $59.03 per barrel, up 40 cents, or 0.7%, from their last close on Friday. WTI did not trade on Monday due to a US public holiday. Prices have been supported by supply cuts led by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) since the start of the year, and by political tensions in the Middle East. OPEC and some allies including Russia are due to meet on June 25 and 26 to discuss output policy. Beyond the output cuts, US bank, Citi said, "Geopolitical turmoil across the Middle East ... are likely to encourage financial investors to realign with their bullish physical counterparties." In physical oil markets, the Middle East crude premiums hit their highest levels in years earlier this month amid falling supply. Beyond the OPEC cuts, US sanctions on petroleum exports from Iran and Venezuela have tightened markets. "Iran exports remain under pressure as US sanctions bite. This comes as OPEC appears to be heading towards extending the current production cut agreement," Citi added. Trump last year withdrew the United States from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Iran, and Washington is ratcheting up sanctions seeking to end Tehran's international sales of crude oil and strangle its economy. Washington has also imposed sanctions on Venezuela's oil exports, in a bid to topple the government under President Nicolas Maduro there. Despite this, markets remain cautious amid an economic slowdown as a result of the ongoing trade war between the United States and China, which is also expected to dent fuel consumption. "We really need to see some strong demand figures, which so far this year has not happened before we can really start listening to the bulls," said Matt Stanley, a broker at Starfuels in Dubai.

Oil mixed as OPEC cuts, US sanctions prop up prices while trade war weighs

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

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

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

Venezuela's Guaido defends planned talks with Maduro representatives

Over the past decade, cryptocurrencies like EOS and bitcoin have become popular among investors looking to make large profits from a new and anonymous form of storing wealth. But a handful of charities are also now using digital currencies to send relief directly to those in need, circumventing banks and companies that handle remittances.

Charities use cryptocurrency to send aid to Venezuela

OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia and key producer United Arab Emirates said Sunday oil supplies were sufficient and stockpiles were still rising despite <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/oil-producers-meet-to-discuss-output-amid-iran-tension-219851">massive output drops by Iran </a>and Venezuela.

"We see that (oil) inventories are rising and supplies are plenty," Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih told reporters at the start of a key meeting for oil producers in Jeddah.

"None of us wants to see the (oil) stocks swell again. We have to be cautious."

The United Arab Emirates' energy minister said there was no need to relax an OPEC+ deal to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day to support prices.

"I don't think... that relaxing the cuts is the right measure" based on prevailing market conditions, Suheil al-Mazrouei told reporters.&nbsp;

"We have seen inventory building. I don't think it makes sense (to alter the existing deal)."&nbsp;

The statements by the two ministers send a clear message that OPEC and its allies appear poised to roll over the output cuts deal for another six months.

The OPEC+ producers, which include Russia, control more than half of the world's crude oil production.

Oil exporting countries have been under pressure from Washington to ramp up production to compensate for plunging Iranian exports amid US sanctions on Tehran, but are fearful that such a move could send prices plunging.

"The picture is foggy," warned Falih.&nbsp;

"It is crucial that we don't take hasty decisions", he said. "We should keep inventories under control."

"This complexity and intensity will continue to mount while the sheer range of issues impacting our business is pulling the oil market in multiple opposing directions," Falih said.

Sunday's meeting comes days after sabotage attacks against tankers in highly sensitive Gulf waters and the bombing of a Saudi pipeline -- the latter claimed by Iran-aligned Yemeni rebels.

"We have strong (oil) industry security... everybody is vulnerable to extreme acts of sabotage," Falih said.

The meeting will not take decisions on oil output but will make recommendations to another crucial ministerial meeting set to take place in Vienna next month.

OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia and key producer United Arab Emirates said Sunday oil supplies were sufficient and stockpiles were still rising despite massive output drops by Iran and Venezuela.

OPEC kingpin Saudi Arabia and key producer United Arab Emirates said Sunday oil supplies were sufficient and stockpiles were still rising despite massive output drops by Iran and Venezuela. "We see that (oil) inventories are rising and supplies are plenty," Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih told reporters at the start of a key meeting for oil producers in Jeddah. "None of us wants to see the (oil) stocks swell again. We have to be cautious." The United Arab Emirates' energy minister said there was no need to relax an OPEC+ deal to cut output by 1.2 million barrels per day to support prices. "I don't think... that relaxing the cuts is the right measure" based on prevailing market conditions, Suheil al-Mazrouei told reporters. "We have seen inventory building. I don't think it makes sense (to alter the existing deal)." The statements by the two ministers send a clear message that OPEC and its allies appear poised to roll over the output cuts deal for another six months. The OPEC+ producers, which include Russia, control more than half of the world's crude oil production. Oil exporting countries have been under pressure from Washington to ramp up production to compensate for plunging Iranian exports amid US sanctions on Tehran, but are fearful that such a move could send prices plunging. "The picture is foggy," warned Falih. "It is crucial that we don't take hasty decisions", he said. "We should keep inventories under control." "This complexity and intensity will continue to mount while the sheer range of issues impacting our business is pulling the oil market in multiple opposing directions," Falih said. Sunday's meeting comes days after sabotage attacks against tankers in highly sensitive Gulf waters and the bombing of a Saudi pipeline -- the latter claimed by Iran-aligned Yemeni rebels. "We have strong (oil) industry security... everybody is vulnerable to extreme acts of sabotage," Falih said. The meeting will not take decisions on oil output but will make recommendations to another crucial ministerial meeting set to take place in Vienna next month.

Saudi, UAE see sufficient oil supplies, rising stocks

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, May 17th 2019

Talks are underway in Norway between Venezuela`s government and "democratic" opponents, an envoy said on Thursday, in a possible search for a mediated solution after the opposition`s failure to spark a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

"Yes, there are talks between the Bolivarian government and the democratic sectors of the opposition," Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Jorge Valero, told reporters, denouncing US&nbsp;interference.&nbsp;

Calling Maduro a dictator, US President Donald Trump has tightened sanctions against his government and spearheaded international recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaido who in January invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency.

Guaido, who denounces Maduro`s 2018 re-election as fraudulent, called for Venezuela`s military to rise up on April 30, but his push quickly petered out and the military`s top brass has since then sworn allegiance to Maduro.

Norway`s Foreign Ministry said its norm was not to comment on possible roles in ongoing or potential peace talks. "We strongly encourage the parties to find a political and peaceful solution in order to avoid further escalation," a ministry spokeswoman said.

When asked about Venezuelan talks in Norway, UN&nbsp;spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York: "We`re very much aware of what is going on and very much supportive of this process."

Guaido, in a speech on Thursday, confirmed opposition envoys were in Norway, which was mediating between both sides, but said they would not get involved in a "false negotiation that does not lead to the end of the usurpation."

Many Venezuelan opposition supporters are sceptical about mediation talks, given that past rounds have failed, divided the opposition and, in their view, merely bought time for Maduro to consolidate power and quell street protests.

Guaido said he would meet later on Thursday with participants in a diplomatic effort between European and Latin American countries, known as the International Contact Group on Venezuela (ICG), which aims to negotiate an end to the crisis.

European Union Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said the ICG had a sent a political mission to Venezuela to meet with "all national relevant actors."

"The objective of this mission is to express ICG`s political commitment to a peaceful and democratic solution and to discuss a possible way forward with a view to create the conditions for a negotiated electoral path," Kocijancic said in an email.

Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez and Miranda state governor Hector Rodriguez of the ruling Socialist Party both travelled to Oslo, according to opposition sources.

Opposition legislator Stalin Gonzalez, along with political advisers Gerardo Blyde and Fernando Martinez have also gone, they said. Norway has a tradition of conflict mediation, including assistance with Colombia`s 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels.

Guaido also said on Thursday that Venezuelan ex-police commissioner Ivan Simonovis had left his home despite being under house arrest, though he did not confirm his whereabouts. Simonovis` escape follows the surprise April 30 release of former mayor Leopoldo Lopez, who was under house arrest until agents of the Sebin intelligence service helped him get out.

Talks are underway in Norway between Venezuela`s government and "democratic" opponents, an envoy said on Thursday, in a possible search for a mediated solution after the opposition`s failure to spark a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

Talks are underway in Norway between Venezuela`s government and "democratic" opponents, an envoy said on Thursday, in a possible search for a mediated solution after the opposition`s failure to spark a military uprising against President Nicolas Maduro. "Yes, there are talks between the Bolivarian government and the democratic sectors of the opposition," Venezuela`s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, Jorge Valero, told reporters, denouncing US interference. Calling Maduro a dictator, US President Donald Trump has tightened sanctions against his government and spearheaded international recognition of opposition leader Juan Guaido who in January invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency. Guaido, who denounces Maduro`s 2018 re-election as fraudulent, called for Venezuela`s military to rise up on April 30, but his push quickly petered out and the military`s top brass has since then sworn allegiance to Maduro. Norway`s Foreign Ministry said its norm was not to comment on possible roles in ongoing or potential peace talks. "We strongly encourage the parties to find a political and peaceful solution in order to avoid further escalation," a ministry spokeswoman said. When asked about Venezuelan talks in Norway, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters in New York: "We`re very much aware of what is going on and very much supportive of this process." Guaido, in a speech on Thursday, confirmed opposition envoys were in Norway, which was mediating between both sides, but said they would not get involved in a "false negotiation that does not lead to the end of the usurpation." Many Venezuelan opposition supporters are sceptical about mediation talks, given that past rounds have failed, divided the opposition and, in their view, merely bought time for Maduro to consolidate power and quell street protests. Guaido said he would meet later on Thursday with participants in a diplomatic effort between European and Latin American countries, known as the International Contact Group on Venezuela (ICG), which aims to negotiate an end to the crisis. European Union Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Maja Kocijancic said the ICG had a sent a political mission to Venezuela to meet with "all national relevant actors." "The objective of this mission is to express ICG`s political commitment to a peaceful and democratic solution and to discuss a possible way forward with a view to create the conditions for a negotiated electoral path," Kocijancic said in an email. Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez and Miranda state governor Hector Rodriguez of the ruling Socialist Party both travelled to Oslo, according to opposition sources. Opposition legislator Stalin Gonzalez, along with political advisers Gerardo Blyde and Fernando Martinez have also gone, they said. Norway has a tradition of conflict mediation, including assistance with Colombia`s 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels. Guaido also said on Thursday that Venezuelan ex-police commissioner Ivan Simonovis had left his home despite being under house arrest, though he did not confirm his whereabouts. Simonovis` escape follows the surprise April 30 release of former mayor Leopoldo Lopez, who was under house arrest until agents of the Sebin intelligence service helped him get out.

Venezuela says talking with 'democratic' opposition in Norway

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 16th 2019

Many international airlines had stopped flying to Venezuela anyway because of security concerns and disputes over money they say the government owes them. But domestic airlines, including Laser Airlines and Avior Airlines, had been offering services to Miami.

US suspends flights to venezuela, accused of violating International law

Representatives of <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-top-court-accuses-more-lawmakers-of-treason-as-congress-building-blocked-218844&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjXs6bByZ_iAhX97XMBHQenASQQFjAFegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ufd9yC54_WJqMAx22XpuU">Venezuela's</a> government and the opposition have travelled to Norway to discuss potential options following a failed uprising against <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-launch-bid-to-evict-pro-maduro-activists-from-venezuela-embassy-218644&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjJ4uDayZ_iAhVa7XMBHQbkCc4QFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw033GixwkZ0y3MjgYg1UoYX">President Nicolas Maduro</a>, according to four opposition sources familiar with the situation.

The trip&nbsp;suggests the two sides may be seeking a fresh approach after the repeated failure of dialogue between the opposition and the ruling Socialist Party amid a steadily escalating political crisis.

Venezuelan top government officials held talks this year to create a transition government that would not include Maduro, US&nbsp;National Security Advisor John Bolton and others have said.

Those efforts fell apart after opposition calls for Venezuela's military to rise up against Maduro on April 30 failed, according to the opposition sources.

The military's top brass has since then sworn allegiance to Maduro, who describes the April 30 events as a coup plot.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/juan-guaido-blasts-venezuela-regime-after-security-forces-block-congress-218827&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjXs6bByZ_iAhX97XMBHQenASQQFjAEegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0Gr16N42HOXLUfrXLt25hX">Opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> in January invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency, calling Maduro's 2018 re-election a fraud.

More than 50 nations have recognised Guaido as the country's legitimate president, though he does not control the military or the basic functions of governance.

Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez and Miranda state Governor Hector Rodriguez of the Socialist Party both travelled to Oslo, according to the sources.

Opposition legislator Stalin Gonzalez, along with political advisers Gerardo Blyde and Fernando Martinez have also gone to Norway, where authorities have been involved in conflict mediation, including assistance with Colombia's 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels.

Norway's foreign minister said as early as March that it was prepared to act as a mediator or facilitator of talks between the Venezuelan government and the opposition.

No meetings have yet been held, and the parties will meet separately with Norwegian diplomats, one of the sources said.

Maduro, in a speech broadcast on state television on Wednesday evening, said Jorge Rodriguez was "completing a very important mission abroad," without giving more details.

Venezuela's information ministry did not reply to a request for comment. The Norwegian foreign ministry was not immediately available for comment.

Reuters was unable to obtain comment from the participants.

It was not immediately evident whether the parties had the full backing of the opposition or of Maduro's government.

First Justice, one of the main opposition parties, said on Twitter that none of its members are involved.&nbsp;

Representatives of Venezuela's government and the opposition have travelled to Norway to discuss potential options following a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro, according to four opposition sources familiar with the situation.

Representatives of Venezuela's government and the opposition have travelled to Norway to discuss potential options following a failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro, according to four opposition sources familiar with the situation. The trip suggests the two sides may be seeking a fresh approach after the repeated failure of dialogue between the opposition and the ruling Socialist Party amid a steadily escalating political crisis. Venezuelan top government officials held talks this year to create a transition government that would not include Maduro, US National Security Advisor John Bolton and others have said. Those efforts fell apart after opposition calls for Venezuela's military to rise up against Maduro on April 30 failed, according to the opposition sources. The military's top brass has since then sworn allegiance to Maduro, who describes the April 30 events as a coup plot. Opposition leader Juan Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency, calling Maduro's 2018 re-election a fraud. More than 50 nations have recognised Guaido as the country's legitimate president, though he does not control the military or the basic functions of governance. Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez and Miranda state Governor Hector Rodriguez of the Socialist Party both travelled to Oslo, according to the sources. Opposition legislator Stalin Gonzalez, along with political advisers Gerardo Blyde and Fernando Martinez have also gone to Norway, where authorities have been involved in conflict mediation, including assistance with Colombia's 2016 peace deal between the government and FARC rebels. Norway's foreign minister said as early as March that it was prepared to act as a mediator or facilitator of talks between the Venezuelan government and the opposition. No meetings have yet been held, and the parties will meet separately with Norwegian diplomats, one of the sources said. Maduro, in a speech broadcast on state television on Wednesday evening, said Jorge Rodriguez was "completing a very important mission abroad," without giving more details. Venezuela's information ministry did not reply to a request for comment. The Norwegian foreign ministry was not immediately available for comment. Reuters was unable to obtain comment from the participants. It was not immediately evident whether the parties had the full backing of the opposition or of Maduro's government. First Justice, one of the main opposition parties, said on Twitter that none of its members are involved.

Venezuela opposition, government leaders travel to Norway for possible talks

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-government-to-put-forward-brexit-bill-in-june-218823">British government to put forward Brexit bill in June</a>

Prime Minister Theresa May's government will publish draft legislation in the first week of June that would allow Brexit to proceed if approved by parliament, a Downing Street spokesman announced on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistan-media-and-people-scared-of-speaking-against-cpec-us-lawmakers-told-218824">Pakistan media and people scared of speaking against CPEC, US lawmakers told</a>

People and the media in Pakistan are "scared" of speaking against the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as those critical of it are being suppressed, treated as anti-national or branded as terrorists, a former official in the Obama administration has told US lawmakers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankan-police-make-arrests-amid-violence-after-easter-attack-218825">Sri Lankan police make arrests in connection to violence after Easter attack</a>

Sri Lankan police arrested 23 people on Tuesday in connection with a spate of attacks on homes and shops, in what's believed to be a reprisal for the Easter bombings that killed more than 250 people.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juan-guaido-blasts-venezuela-regime-after-security-forces-block-congress-218827">Juan Guaido blasts Venezuela regime after security forces block congress</a>

Juan Guaido accused the Venezuelan government of trying to "gag" congress after security forces prevented opposition lawmakers from entering the National Assembly on Tuesday, two weeks after the opposition leader's failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-army-rulers-protesters-agree-on-3-year-transition-period-218834">Sudan army rulers, protesters agree on 3-year transition period</a>

Sudanese army rulers&nbsp;and protest leaders Wednesday agreed on a three-year transition period for transferring power to a full civilian administration even as negotiations over a new sovereign ruling body remain unfinished.

&nbsp;

British government to put forward Brexit bill in June Prime Minister Theresa May's government will publish draft legislation in the first week of June that would allow Brexit to proceed if approved by parliament, a Downing Street spokesman announced on Tuesday.

British government to put forward Brexit bill in June Prime Minister Theresa May's government will publish draft legislation in the first week of June that would allow Brexit to proceed if approved by parliament, a Downing Street spokesman announced on Tuesday. Pakistan media and people scared of speaking against CPEC, US lawmakers told People and the media in Pakistan are "scared" of speaking against the multi-billion-dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) as those critical of it are being suppressed, treated as anti-national or branded as terrorists, a former official in the Obama administration has told US lawmakers. Sri Lankan police make arrests in connection to violence after Easter attack Sri Lankan police arrested 23 people on Tuesday in connection with a spate of attacks on homes and shops, in what's believed to be a reprisal for the Easter bombings that killed more than 250 people. Juan Guaido blasts Venezuela regime after security forces block congress Juan Guaido accused the Venezuelan government of trying to "gag" congress after security forces prevented opposition lawmakers from entering the National Assembly on Tuesday, two weeks after the opposition leader's failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro. Sudan army rulers, protesters agree on 3-year transition period Sudanese army rulers and protest leaders Wednesday agreed on a three-year transition period for transferring power to a full civilian administration even as negotiations over a new sovereign ruling body remain unfinished.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Venezuela`s top court accused four opposition lawmakers of treason on Tuesday, following similar accusations against 10 legislators this month, escalating a deep political crisis in the South American country.&nbsp;

Security forces had earlier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/juan-guaido-blasts-venezuela-regime-after-security-forces-block-congress-218827">prevented lawmakers from entering the legislature</a> for Tuesday`s session, saying they were investigating the possible presence of an explosive device inside the building.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court in a statement posted on its Facebook page accused lawmakers Carlos Paparoni, Miguel Pizarro, Franco Casella and Winston Flores of treason and inciting rebellion. The accusations marked the latest step in a crackdown by President Nicolas Maduro on allies of opposition leader Juan Guaido following a failed effort to spur a military uprising in April.

"This simply gives us more strength," Flores told Reuters, calling the Supreme Court`s accusations "illegitimate orders from the dictator." "We know they will continue with this process of trying to destroy the National Assembly."

Last week, one opposition lawmaker was arrested and several took refuge in foreign embassies in Caracas or fled the country after similar accusations from the court.

Flores said he would make an "emergency" trip to Uruguay to denounce the wave of accusations against Venezuelan lawmakers to the parliament of the Mercosur trade bloc, where he is also a representative, in Montevideo.&nbsp;

In a tweet, Pizarro called the court ruling "an illegal sentence that seeks only to generate fear to shut us up."

Reuters was unable to obtain comment from the other legislators.

Opposition leaders in recent weeks have called such charges an effort by the ruling Socialist Party to shutter the legislature. The Trump administration strongly condemned this month`s detention of Edgar Zambrano, the vice president of the legislature.

Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled Assembly, in January invoked Venezuela`s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro`s 2018 re-election was illegitimate. More than 50 countries have recognised him as the country`s rightful leader, and say the assembly is its last remaining democratic institution.

"This is a dictatorship that goes after dissidents, and we are fighting for a political change," lawmaker Juan Pablo Guanipa told Reuters, referring to the blocking of congress.

Tuesday`s session was scheduled for 10 a.m. (1400 GMT), but never began. The lawmakers were set to discuss the charges against their colleagues and the arrest of Zambrano, an outspoken critic of Maduro.&nbsp;

Venezuela`s information ministry, which handles media inquiries on behalf of the government, did not respond to a request for comment on why security forces blocked the entrance to parliament. Maduro, a socialist, calls Guaido a puppet of the United States seeking to oust him in a coup.

The government stripped the assembly of most of its powers after the opposition won a majority in 2015 elections. Lawmakers loyal to Maduro generally do not attend the sessions, but go to meetings of the Constituent Assembly, a legislative body created in 2017 that meets in the same building.

The Constituent Assembly is controlled by the ruling Socialist Party and its powers supersede those of the National Assembly.

Opposition lawmaker Jorge Millan told reporters the report of "bombs" in the building was false.&nbsp;

"It is a trick to prevent the parliament from functioning today," he said. "If we do not have a session today, we will do it tomorrow."&nbsp;

Venezuela`s top court accused four opposition lawmakers of treason on Tuesday, following similar accusations against 10 legislators this month, escalating a deep political crisis in the South American country.

Venezuela`s top court accused four opposition lawmakers of treason on Tuesday, following similar accusations against 10 legislators this month, escalating a deep political crisis in the South American country. Security forces had earlier prevented lawmakers from entering the legislature for Tuesday`s session, saying they were investigating the possible presence of an explosive device inside the building. The Supreme Court in a statement posted on its Facebook page accused lawmakers Carlos Paparoni, Miguel Pizarro, Franco Casella and Winston Flores of treason and inciting rebellion. The accusations marked the latest step in a crackdown by President Nicolas Maduro on allies of opposition leader Juan Guaido following a failed effort to spur a military uprising in April. "This simply gives us more strength," Flores told Reuters, calling the Supreme Court`s accusations "illegitimate orders from the dictator." "We know they will continue with this process of trying to destroy the National Assembly." Last week, one opposition lawmaker was arrested and several took refuge in foreign embassies in Caracas or fled the country after similar accusations from the court. Flores said he would make an "emergency" trip to Uruguay to denounce the wave of accusations against Venezuelan lawmakers to the parliament of the Mercosur trade bloc, where he is also a representative, in Montevideo. In a tweet, Pizarro called the court ruling "an illegal sentence that seeks only to generate fear to shut us up." Reuters was unable to obtain comment from the other legislators. Opposition leaders in recent weeks have called such charges an effort by the ruling Socialist Party to shutter the legislature. The Trump administration strongly condemned this month`s detention of Edgar Zambrano, the vice president of the legislature. Guaido, leader of the opposition-controlled Assembly, in January invoked Venezuela`s constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro`s 2018 re-election was illegitimate. More than 50 countries have recognised him as the country`s rightful leader, and say the assembly is its last remaining democratic institution. "This is a dictatorship that goes after dissidents, and we are fighting for a political change," lawmaker Juan Pablo Guanipa told Reuters, referring to the blocking of congress. Tuesday`s session was scheduled for 10 a.m. (1400 GMT), but never began. The lawmakers were set to discuss the charges against their colleagues and the arrest of Zambrano, an outspoken critic of Maduro. Venezuela`s information ministry, which handles media inquiries on behalf of the government, did not respond to a request for comment on why security forces blocked the entrance to parliament. Maduro, a socialist, calls Guaido a puppet of the United States seeking to oust him in a coup. The government stripped the assembly of most of its powers after the opposition won a majority in 2015 elections. Lawmakers loyal to Maduro generally do not attend the sessions, but go to meetings of the Constituent Assembly, a legislative body created in 2017 that meets in the same building. The Constituent Assembly is controlled by the ruling Socialist Party and its powers supersede those of the National Assembly. Opposition lawmaker Jorge Millan told reporters the report of "bombs" in the building was false. "It is a trick to prevent the parliament from functioning today," he said. "If we do not have a session today, we will do it tomorrow."

Venezuela top court accuses more lawmakers of treason as congress building blocked

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-seeks-us-pentagon-cooperation-to-solve-political-crisis-217960">Juan Guaido</a> accused the Venezuelan government of trying to "gag" congress after security forces prevented opposition lawmakers from entering the National Assembly on Tuesday, two weeks after the opposition leader's failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

Deputies said members of the National Guard, who provide security for the building, along with police and SEBIN intelligence agents, blocked access to the opposition-controlled National Assembly.

The move came as Amnesty International said it believes the Venezuelan authorities have committed crimes against humanity in their crackdown on anti-government protests, and urged the International Criminal Court to investigate.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-police-launch-bid-to-evict-pro-maduro-activists-from-venezuela-embassy-218644">US police launch bid to evict pro-Maduro activists from Venezuela embassy</a>

"SEBIN agents, using the excuse that there's an explosive device within the facilities, took over the federal palace. We're surrounded by intelligence agents," lawmaker Manuela Bolivar told AFP.

Guaido said the security forces used "brute force", adding that congress was "occupied militarily".

He tried to incite an uprising against Maduro on April 30 but only around 30 members of the armed forces joined him, and the revolt quickly petered out. It did, however, spark two days of deadly clashes between protesters and security forces.

Since then, the Maduro regime has ramped up pressure on Guaido's allies and supporters.

The Constituent Assembly, a rival legislative body that was created by the Maduro government and is packed with people who support him, voted Tuesday to strip immunity from five more opposition lawmakers in the National Assembly. That brings to 14 the number who will presumably go to trial for backing the failed insurrection. The charges include treason.

One of them, deputy assembly speaker Edgar Zambrano, was arrested by SEBIN agents last week. Another fled to neighbouring Colombia while three others sought refuge in diplomatic compounds.

Guaido -- the National Assembly president -- has accused Maduro of trying to dismantle the legislature.

"They're trying to hold the legislative power hostage while the dictator entrenches himself alone in a palace where he shouldn't be," Guaido said on Twitter.

He has previously accused the socialist leader of terrorism for his heavy-handed response to demonstrations.

Amnesty said Maduro's government responded with "a systematic and widespread policy of repression" in late January when anti-government protests swept the country after Guaido declared himself acting president.

The London-based rights group said at least 47 people were killed during the protests from January 21 to 25. At least 33 were shot dead by the security forces and six by government supporters.

"Eleven of these deaths were extrajudicial executions," said Erika Guevara, Americas director for Amnesty International, who presented a report in Mexico City, following February's fact-finding mission to Venezuela.

Some Maduro opponents were tortured while 900 people, including children, were arbitrarily detained, Amnesty said.

"The nature of the attacks... The level of coordination by the security forces, as well as the signs of similar patterns in 2014 and 2017, leads Amnesty International to believe that the Venezuelan authorities committed crimes against humanity."

Maduro himself "knew about these public and appalling acts and took no measures to either prevent or investigate them", Amnesty added in its statement.

Guaido's declaration that he is the country's legitimate acting president, which has been supported by more than 50 countries, plunged Venezuela into a political crisis.

It came about after the National Assembly branded Maduro a usurper over his controversial re-election last year in polls widely regarded as fraudulent. 
The oil-rich, cash-poor country has been stricken by recession and a humanitarian crisis in which almost a quarter of its 30 million population is in urgent need of aid, according to the United Nations (UN).

The UN also says that more than 2.7 million people have fled the country since 2015.

Those remaining behind face shortages of basic necessities such as food and medicines, and failing public services including water, electricity and transport.

From early Tuesday, the security services cordoned off the building housing the National Assembly. Bullet-proof vehicles and a tow truck were parked in the surrounding streets.

"This is a recurring theme. It's not the first time it's happened," said Bolivar, who claimed this was part of "a policy to weaken the Assembly" and "intimidation" related to the power struggle between Guaido and Maduro, who retains the support of the armed forces.

Guaido insisted the move would not stop lawmakers from doing their job.

"Tomorrow we will be in session again, we'll reconvene and let the regime decide if it wants to continue with a type of political harakiri," he said.

"Whether it's in a square, in the annex buildings, under a bridge, the Assembly will sit and there will be a session," said congressman Luis Stefanelli.&nbsp;

Juan Guaido accused the Venezuelan government of trying to "gag" congress after security forces prevented opposition lawmakers from entering the National Assembly on Tuesday, two weeks after the opposition leader's failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro.

Juan Guaido accused the Venezuelan government of trying to "gag" congress after security forces prevented opposition lawmakers from entering the National Assembly on Tuesday, two weeks after the opposition leader's failed uprising against President Nicolas Maduro. Deputies said members of the National Guard, who provide security for the building, along with police and SEBIN intelligence agents, blocked access to the opposition-controlled National Assembly. The move came as Amnesty International said it believes the Venezuelan authorities have committed crimes against humanity in their crackdown on anti-government protests, and urged the International Criminal Court to investigate. Also read: US police launch bid to evict pro-Maduro activists from Venezuela embassy "SEBIN agents, using the excuse that there's an explosive device within the facilities, took over the federal palace. We're surrounded by intelligence agents," lawmaker Manuela Bolivar told AFP. Guaido said the security forces used "brute force", adding that congress was "occupied militarily". He tried to incite an uprising against Maduro on April 30 but only around 30 members of the armed forces joined him, and the revolt quickly petered out. It did, however, spark two days of deadly clashes between protesters and security forces. Since then, the Maduro regime has ramped up pressure on Guaido's allies and supporters. The Constituent Assembly, a rival legislative body that was created by the Maduro government and is packed with people who support him, voted Tuesday to strip immunity from five more opposition lawmakers in the National Assembly. That brings to 14 the number who will presumably go to trial for backing the failed insurrection. The charges include treason. One of them, deputy assembly speaker Edgar Zambrano, was arrested by SEBIN agents last week. Another fled to neighbouring Colombia while three others sought refuge in diplomatic compounds. Guaido -- the National Assembly president -- has accused Maduro of trying to dismantle the legislature. "They're trying to hold the legislative power hostage while the dictator entrenches himself alone in a palace where he shouldn't be," Guaido said on Twitter. He has previously accused the socialist leader of terrorism for his heavy-handed response to demonstrations. Amnesty said Maduro's government responded with "a systematic and widespread policy of repression" in late January when anti-government protests swept the country after Guaido declared himself acting president. The London-based rights group said at least 47 people were killed during the protests from January 21 to 25. At least 33 were shot dead by the security forces and six by government supporters. "Eleven of these deaths were extrajudicial executions," said Erika Guevara, Americas director for Amnesty International, who presented a report in Mexico City, following February's fact-finding mission to Venezuela. Some Maduro opponents were tortured while 900 people, including children, were arbitrarily detained, Amnesty said. "The nature of the attacks... The level of coordination by the security forces, as well as the signs of similar patterns in 2014 and 2017, leads Amnesty International to believe that the Venezuelan authorities committed crimes against humanity." Maduro himself "knew about these public and appalling acts and took no measures to either prevent or investigate them", Amnesty added in its statement. Guaido's declaration that he is the country's legitimate acting president, which has been supported by more than 50 countries, plunged Venezuela into a political crisis. It came about after the National Assembly branded Maduro a usurper over his controversial re-election last year in polls widely regarded as fraudulent. The oil-rich, cash-poor country has been stricken by recession and a humanitarian crisis in which almost a quarter of its 30 million population is in urgent need of aid, according to the United Nations (UN). The UN also says that more than 2.7 million people have fled the country since 2015. Those remaining behind face shortages of basic necessities such as food and medicines, and failing public services including water, electricity and transport. From early Tuesday, the security services cordoned off the building housing the National Assembly. Bullet-proof vehicles and a tow truck were parked in the surrounding streets. "This is a recurring theme. It's not the first time it's happened," said Bolivar, who claimed this was part of "a policy to weaken the Assembly" and "intimidation" related to the power struggle between Guaido and Maduro, who retains the support of the armed forces. Guaido insisted the move would not stop lawmakers from doing their job. "Tomorrow we will be in session again, we'll reconvene and let the regime decide if it wants to continue with a type of political harakiri," he said. "Whether it's in a square, in the annex buildings, under a bridge, the Assembly will sit and there will be a session," said congressman Luis Stefanelli.

Juan Guaido blasts Venezuela regime after security forces block congress

This segment offers you global round-up of top stories of 14 May 2019.

Global Round-up: Watch major global headlines of the day

This segment offers you global round-up of top stories of 13 May 2019.

Global Round-up: Watch major global headlines of the day , 13 May 2019

Investors in Venezuela Real Estate. Low cost project due to low-prices, low costs. Watch this video to know more.

WION Wallet: Economically hit Venezuela getting real estate investors

Venezuelan President continues to blame the United States and has called US secretary of state Mike Pompeo, 'a liar'. Watch full video to know more.

Venezuelan President hits out at US secretary of state

Venezuela has reopened its border with Brazil and restored maritime and air connections with the island of Aruba after barring entry from those countries for more than two months, Vice President Tareck El Aissami said.

"The borders with Brazil and Aruba have been re-established, but not those with the rest of the countries surrounding our territory, until they end the positions of hostility, of siege, of facilitation of paramilitary groups," he told reporters.

In February, leftist President Nicolas Maduro ordered the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-says-intelligence-agents-have-detained-his-deputy-217135">closure of Venezuela's borders</a> with Colombia and Brazil and cut off sea and air links with the nearby Dutch islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao.

The move was aimed at thwarting attempts by supporters of self-proclaimed acting head of state<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-guaido-blasts-maduro-over-opposition-crackdown-217494"> Juan Guaido to bring in US</a> aid stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and the ABC Islands.

Guaido, who is backed by Washington, said the aid was needed to address a pressing humanitarian crisis in oil-rich Venezuela.

But Maduro, whose government has accepted help from the International Red Cross and from allies such as a Cuba, China and Russia, denounced the aid initiative as a Trojan horse for a US-led military intervention.

El Aissami, accompanied by Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, said that while Maduro's government has "received from the authorities of Aruba a commitment of respect, of solidarity, of working together," such commitments have not been forthcoming from other countries.

The governor of the northwestern state of Falcon, Victor Clark, has been ordered to "initiate the working committees for the gradual re-establishment of all communication, trade and commercial channels with Aruba," the vice president said.

Before the travel ban, there were 48 flights a week between Aruba and Venezuela, El Aissami said, adding that Caracas would like to see the number of flights surpass the previous level.

"We want to establish fair-trade mechanisms. We want to increase our oil and fuel investments in the Caribbean. We hope that the authorities in the other islands come to their senses and avoid being instruments for aggression against the territory of Venezuela," he said.

Regarding Brazil, Venezuela plans to resume the normal trade in goods and services with the Brazilian border state of Roraima, the vice president said.

El Aissami also extended to Venezuela's neighbours an invitation to "sincere dialogue."

"We won't meddle in the affairs of other countries, but we demand that they leave the Venezuelan people alone. We will solve our problems, as President Maduro has said," the vice president said.

Venezuela has reopened its border with Brazil and restored maritime and air connections with the island of Aruba after barring entry from those countries for more than two months, Vice President Tareck El Aissami said.

Venezuela has reopened its border with Brazil and restored maritime and air connections with the island of Aruba after barring entry from those countries for more than two months, Vice President Tareck El Aissami said. "The borders with Brazil and Aruba have been re-established, but not those with the rest of the countries surrounding our territory, until they end the positions of hostility, of siege, of facilitation of paramilitary groups," he told reporters. In February, leftist President Nicolas Maduro ordered the closure of Venezuela's borders with Colombia and Brazil and cut off sea and air links with the nearby Dutch islands of Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao. The move was aimed at thwarting attempts by supporters of self-proclaimed acting head of state Juan Guaido to bring in US aid stockpiled in Colombia, Brazil and the ABC Islands. Guaido, who is backed by Washington, said the aid was needed to address a pressing humanitarian crisis in oil-rich Venezuela. But Maduro, whose government has accepted help from the International Red Cross and from allies such as a Cuba, China and Russia, denounced the aid initiative as a Trojan horse for a US-led military intervention. El Aissami, accompanied by Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, said that while Maduro's government has "received from the authorities of Aruba a commitment of respect, of solidarity, of working together," such commitments have not been forthcoming from other countries. The governor of the northwestern state of Falcon, Victor Clark, has been ordered to "initiate the working committees for the gradual re-establishment of all communication, trade and commercial channels with Aruba," the vice president said. Before the travel ban, there were 48 flights a week between Aruba and Venezuela, El Aissami said, adding that Caracas would like to see the number of flights surpass the previous level. "We want to establish fair-trade mechanisms. We want to increase our oil and fuel investments in the Caribbean. We hope that the authorities in the other islands come to their senses and avoid being instruments for aggression against the territory of Venezuela," he said. Regarding Brazil, Venezuela plans to resume the normal trade in goods and services with the Brazilian border state of Roraima, the vice president said. El Aissami also extended to Venezuela's neighbours an invitation to "sincere dialogue." "We won't meddle in the affairs of other countries, but we demand that they leave the Venezuelan people alone. We will solve our problems, as President Maduro has said," the vice president said.

Venezuela re-opens border with Brazil, renews travel links to Aruba

Venezuela's opposition leader <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-juan-guaido-makes-new-bid-to-rally-military-support-215851&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4xPDj45DiAhXo7XMBHcY1DAYQFjADegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2anQhDHQYHESg3YI2d4ig-">Juan Guaido</a> accused President Nicolas Maduro's regime on Thursday of "dismantling" parliament after three lawmakers sought diplomatic refuge while another was arrested for treason.&nbsp;

"If we can talk about a coup d'etat in Venezuela, here it is the dismantling of the national parliament," Guaido told a news conference, accusing Maduro's regime of "state terrorism."

Guido, who considers himself the country's legitimate acting leader, spoke out after opposition<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/will-prosecute-seven-lawmakers-who-backed-uprising-venezuela-supreme-court-216866&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjbhYaX5JDiAhVJ7XMBHUfLAb0QFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3lONm5lgMyoOsRQZAKmeoK"> lawmakers Richard Blanco</a>, Mariela Magallanes and Americo De Grazia sought refuge in the Argentine and Italian embassies in Caracas.

They are among 10 National Assembly members charged with treason for supporting Guaido's call for a military revolt on April 30.

The group also includes Edgar Zambrano, vice-president of Venezuela's opposition-controlled parliament, who was seized by intelligence agents on Wednesday night.

Guaido led around 30 members of the armed forces in trying to spark an insurrection to dislodge Maduro 10 days ago, but while it provoked two days of deadly clashes, it quickly fizzled out.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/security-forces-in-venezuela-arrests-juan-guaidos-top-aide-edgar-zambrano-217293/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Venezuela was plunged into turmoil in January when Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority.

He has since been recognized by more than 50 countries as he steps up the pressure to oust Maduro, whom he considers illegitimate after 2018 elections widely seen as fraudulent.

Guaido called for a national demonstration on Saturday to reject measures taken by the Supreme Court against opposition lawmakers.

'We're not going to stop'&nbsp;

"To make themselves look strong, to give the impression of control they don't have, what is the only tool they've used for years?" he asked, referring to the Maduro regime.

"Terror, state terrorism," said Guaido, whose own parliamentary immunity has been stripped by the Supreme Court.

"We're not going to stop, we're going to stay in the streets. This is a process that will end with Venezuela's liberty."

Maduro, though, has remained steadfast, propped up by Venezuela's powerful military high command and all branches of government except the sidelined National Assembly.

Zambrano's arrest on Wednesday night was both bizarre and dramatic, with the lawmaker commenting on events live on Twitter as it happened.

The 64-year-old's car was surrounded outside his Democratic Action Party's headquarters before it was towed, with him still in it, to the notorious Helicoide prison, within the headquarters of Venezuela's SEBIN intelligence agency.

"Democrats, keep up the fight!" tweeted Zambrano as images of the arrest circulated on social media.

&nbsp;'Kidnapped'&nbsp;

On Wednesday Guaido accused the regime of having "kidnapped" Zambrano. The European Union and several Latin American states echoed his criticism while the US called for his immediate release.

"This is an attack on the independence of the nation's democratically elected legislative branch and is part of the Maduro regime's continued attempts to crush dissent and free debate in Venezuela," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement.

"This assault on the National Assembly should serve as a clarion call to the region and the world that the dictatorship is not interested in constitutional solutions to the Venezuelan people's problems."

Even Mexico, which has steadfastly maintained its recognition for Maduro as Venezuelan president, voiced its "concern" over Zambrano's treatment.

Venezuela's Attorney General Tarek William Saab says the two days of clashes that followed Guaido's unsuccessful revolt left six people dead.

The Constituent Assembly, which Maduro created to sideline the National Assembly, has said it will suspend the immunity of any lawmakers who backed the uprising.

Venezuela has suffered five years of recession that has seen more than 2.7 million people flee poverty, hyperinflation, food shortages and insecurity since 2015, according to United Nations figures.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido accused President Nicolas Maduro's regime on Thursday of "dismantling" parliament after three lawmakers sought diplomatic refuge while another was arrested for treason.

Venezuela's opposition leader Juan Guaido accused President Nicolas Maduro's regime on Thursday of "dismantling" parliament after three lawmakers sought diplomatic refuge while another was arrested for treason. "If we can talk about a coup d'etat in Venezuela, here it is the dismantling of the national parliament," Guaido told a news conference, accusing Maduro's regime of "state terrorism." Guido, who considers himself the country's legitimate acting leader, spoke out after opposition lawmakers Richard Blanco, Mariela Magallanes and Americo De Grazia sought refuge in the Argentine and Italian embassies in Caracas. They are among 10 National Assembly members charged with treason for supporting Guaido's call for a military revolt on April 30. The group also includes Edgar Zambrano, vice-president of Venezuela's opposition-controlled parliament, who was seized by intelligence agents on Wednesday night. Guaido led around 30 members of the armed forces in trying to spark an insurrection to dislodge Maduro 10 days ago, but while it provoked two days of deadly clashes, it quickly fizzled out. Venezuela was plunged into turmoil in January when Guaido declared himself acting president in a direct challenge to Maduro's authority. He has since been recognized by more than 50 countries as he steps up the pressure to oust Maduro, whom he considers illegitimate after 2018 elections widely seen as fraudulent. Guaido called for a national demonstration on Saturday to reject measures taken by the Supreme Court against opposition lawmakers. 'We're not going to stop' "To make themselves look strong, to give the impression of control they don't have, what is the only tool they've used for years?" he asked, referring to the Maduro regime. "Terror, state terrorism," said Guaido, whose own parliamentary immunity has been stripped by the Supreme Court. "We're not going to stop, we're going to stay in the streets. This is a process that will end with Venezuela's liberty." Maduro, though, has remained steadfast, propped up by Venezuela's powerful military high command and all branches of government except the sidelined National Assembly. Zambrano's arrest on Wednesday night was both bizarre and dramatic, with the lawmaker commenting on events live on Twitter as it happened. The 64-year-old's car was surrounded outside his Democratic Action Party's headquarters before it was towed, with him still in it, to the notorious Helicoide prison, within the headquarters of Venezuela's SEBIN intelligence agency. "Democrats, keep up the fight!" tweeted Zambrano as images of the arrest circulated on social media. 'Kidnapped' On Wednesday Guaido accused the regime of having "kidnapped" Zambrano. The European Union and several Latin American states echoed his criticism while the US called for his immediate release. "This is an attack on the independence of the nation's democratically elected legislative branch and is part of the Maduro regime's continued attempts to crush dissent and free debate in Venezuela," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a statement. "This assault on the National Assembly should serve as a clarion call to the region and the world that the dictatorship is not interested in constitutional solutions to the Venezuelan people's problems." Even Mexico, which has steadfastly maintained its recognition for Maduro as Venezuelan president, voiced its "concern" over Zambrano's treatment. Venezuela's Attorney General Tarek William Saab says the two days of clashes that followed Guaido's unsuccessful revolt left six people dead. The Constituent Assembly, which Maduro created to sideline the National Assembly, has said it will suspend the immunity of any lawmakers who backed the uprising. Venezuela has suffered five years of recession that has seen more than 2.7 million people flee poverty, hyperinflation, food shortages and insecurity since 2015, according to United Nations figures.

Venezuela opposition leader Guaido blasts Maduro over opposition crackdown

People in Venezuelan capital Caracas expressed anger on Thursday at the arrest of Edgar Zambrano, deputy leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly. Watch this video to know more.

Row over arrest of Guaido's aide

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-prosecute-seven-lawmakers-who-backed-uprising-venezuela-supreme-court-216866">military uprising</a> last week to bring down President Nicolas <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-ready-for-any-us-attack-foreign-minister-216419">Maduro`s government</a>.

Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, said on Twitter that agents from the SEBIN intelligence agency were using a tow truck to drag his vehicle, with him inside, to one of their Caracas bases.

On Tuesday, Venezuela`s pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly ruled to strip Zambrano, and six other lawmakers, of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution.

The Supreme Court had earlier accused the lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and on Wednesday accused three other opposition legislators of the same crimes. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, and the US government this week threatened to sanction all its members.

An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognised as the legitimate head of state by the United States and other Western countries, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of US sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup.

"One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television.

"They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said.

Zambrano said on Twitter that SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle by the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas` La Florida district.

"We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide.

"The regime has kidnapped the first vice president," Guaido said on Twitter.

Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido`s parliamentary immunity in early April, but authorities have not tried to arrest him since then.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court`s head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the US government`s threats to sanction his court`s members if they did not reject Maduro`s government and Guaido.

The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions in 2017 on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court`s constitutional chamber for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly.

US&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said on Tuesday that the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit.&nbsp;

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro`s government.

Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido said on Wednesday that intelligence agents had detained his deputy, the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro`s government. Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, said on Twitter that agents from the SEBIN intelligence agency were using a tow truck to drag his vehicle, with him inside, to one of their Caracas bases. On Tuesday, Venezuela`s pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly ruled to strip Zambrano, and six other lawmakers, of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The Supreme Court had earlier accused the lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and on Wednesday accused three other opposition legislators of the same crimes. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, and the US government this week threatened to sanction all its members. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognised as the legitimate head of state by the United States and other Western countries, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of US sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup. "One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. "They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said. Zambrano said on Twitter that SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle by the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas` La Florida district. "We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. "The regime has kidnapped the first vice president," Guaido said on Twitter. Guaido in January invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido`s parliamentary immunity in early April, but authorities have not tried to arrest him since then. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court`s head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the US government`s threats to sanction his court`s members if they did not reject Maduro`s government and Guaido. The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions in 2017 on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court`s constitutional chamber for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly. US Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said on Tuesday that the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit.

Venezuela's Guaido says intelligence agents have detained his deputy

Venezuelan agents have detained a top aide of opposition leader Juan Guaido, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, in the first major detention since a failed attempt last week to spark a military uprising to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government.

Security forces in Venezuela arrests Juan Guaido's top aide Edgar Zambrano

Venezuelan intelligence agents detained opposition leader Juan Guaido's congressional deputy on Wednesday, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, prompting the US government to warn of "consequences" if he was not released.

The SEBIN intelligence agency seized Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, in the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government.

Venezuela's pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly agreed on Tuesday to strip Zambrano and six other lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The opposition does not recognize the assembly's decisions.

The Supreme Court had earlier accused those lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and accused another three opposition legislators of the same crimes on Wednesday.

The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, while the US government this week threatened to sanction all its members.

The US&nbsp;government's Venezuelan embassy, now based in Washington, said Zambrano's "arbitrary detention" was "illegal and inexcusable."

"Maduro and his accomplices are those directly responsible for Zambrano's security. If he is not immediately freed, there will be consequences," the embassy said on Twitter.

An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognized by the United States and other Western countries as the rightful head of state, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of US sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup.

"One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television.

"They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said.

'KIDNAPPED'

Zambrano said on Twitter at about 6.40 pm local time (2240 GMT) SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle outside the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas' La Florida district.

"We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide.

Guaido said on Twitter: "The regime has kidnapped the first vice president."

Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro has overseen the collapse of Venezuela's economy, which has shrunk by half over the past five years, forcing more than 3 million Venezuelans to emigrate.

The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido's parliamentary immunity in early April. Authorities have not tried to arrest him since then, but Maduro has said he will "face justice."

US President Donald Trump's administration has threatened Maduro's government with a harsh response should it ever detain Guaido.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court's head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the US&nbsp;government's threats to sanction his court's members if they did not reject Maduro's government and Guaido.

The US&nbsp;Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber in 2017 for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly.

US Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit.

The head of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, said: "We demand the SEBIN stop the intimidation, respect the lawmakers' parliamentary immunities, and immediately release Edgar Zambrano."

Venezuelan intelligence agents detained opposition leader Juan Guaido's congressional deputy on Wednesday, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, prompting the US government to warn of "consequences" if he was not released.

Venezuelan intelligence agents detained opposition leader Juan Guaido's congressional deputy on Wednesday, using a tow truck to drag his vehicle away with him inside, prompting the US government to warn of "consequences" if he was not released. The SEBIN intelligence agency seized Edgar Zambrano, vice president of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, which Guaido heads, in the first arrest of a lawmaker since Guaido tried to spark a military uprising last week to bring down President Nicolas Maduro's government. Venezuela's pro-Maduro Constituent Assembly agreed on Tuesday to strip Zambrano and six other lawmakers of their parliamentary immunity to allow their future prosecution. The opposition does not recognize the assembly's decisions. The Supreme Court had earlier accused those lawmakers of conspiracy, rebellion and treason, and accused another three opposition legislators of the same crimes on Wednesday. The opposition says Maduro has stacked the court with his own supporters, while the US government this week threatened to sanction all its members. The US government's Venezuelan embassy, now based in Washington, said Zambrano's "arbitrary detention" was "illegal and inexcusable." "Maduro and his accomplices are those directly responsible for Zambrano's security. If he is not immediately freed, there will be consequences," the embassy said on Twitter. An attempted uprising last week led by Guaido, recognized by the United States and other Western countries as the rightful head of state, failed to dislodge Maduro, as have a series of US sanctions against his government. Maduro decried the events as an attempted coup. "One of the principal conspirators of the coup has just been arrested," Diosdado Cabello, head of the Constituent Assembly, said in comments broadcast on state television. "They will have to pay before the courts for the failed coup that they attempted," he said. 'KIDNAPPED' Zambrano said on Twitter at about 6.40 pm local time (2240 GMT) SEBIN agents had surrounded his vehicle outside the headquarters of his Democratic Action party in Caracas' La Florida district. "We were surprised by the SEBIN, and after refusing to let us leave our vehicle, they used a tow truck to forcibly transfer us directly to the (SEBIN headquarters) Helicoide," he said. It was not yet clear if Zambrano was already at the Helicoide. Guaido said on Twitter: "The regime has kidnapped the first vice president." Guaido invoked the constitution in January to assume an interim presidency, denouncing Maduro as illegitimate after he secured re-election last year in a vote widely viewed as fraudulent. Maduro has overseen the collapse of Venezuela's economy, which has shrunk by half over the past five years, forcing more than 3 million Venezuelans to emigrate. The Constituent Assembly removed Guaido's parliamentary immunity in early April. Authorities have not tried to arrest him since then, but Maduro has said he will "face justice." US President Donald Trump's administration has threatened Maduro's government with a harsh response should it ever detain Guaido. Earlier on Wednesday, the Supreme Court's head, Maikel Moreno, rebuffed the US government's threats to sanction his court's members if they did not reject Maduro's government and Guaido. The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Moreno and the seven principal members of the court's constitutional chamber in 2017 for rulings that "usurped the authority" of the National Assembly. US Vice President Mike Pence said on Tuesday the Trump administration would soon sanction the 25 remaining members of the court. Pence said the United States was lifting economic sanctions on a former Venezuelan general who turned against Maduro in order to encourage other Maduro allies to follow suit. The head of the Organization of American States, Luis Almagro, said: "We demand the SEBIN stop the intimidation, respect the lawmakers' parliamentary immunities, and immediately release Edgar Zambrano."

Venezuela: Guaido's deputy arrested and dragged away by tow truck

venezuela

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