Tear gas fired as Guaido rallies in Venezuela, crisis continues

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

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

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

Nicolas Maduro announces 30 days of electricity rationing in Venezuela

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 30th, 2019

Russia has clearly stated the purpose of the "specialists" it has sent to Venezuela under a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guaido-says-maduro-paid-russia-with-gold-for-military-presence-206531">military cooperation deal</a>, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Saturday, dismissing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-adviser-warns-russia-on-military-presence-in-venezuela-206568">US concerns</a> about their presence.

"The Russian side clearly stated the purpose of the arrival of its specialists to Caracas. This is not about any `military contingents`," Zakharova said in a statement.

"Thus, the speculations about the conduct of certain `military operations` by Russia in Venezuela are absolutely groundless."

Russia has said its "specialists" pose no threat to regional stability, brushing aside a call from the United States to remove all its military personnel from Venezuela. 
&nbsp;

Russia has clearly stated the purpose of the "specialists" it has sent to Venezuela under a military cooperation deal, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Saturday, dismissing US concerns about their presence.

Russia has clearly stated the purpose of the "specialists" it has sent to Venezuela under a military cooperation deal, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Saturday, dismissing US concerns about their presence. "The Russian side clearly stated the purpose of the arrival of its specialists to Caracas. This is not about any `military contingents`," Zakharova said in a statement. "Thus, the speculations about the conduct of certain `military operations` by Russia in Venezuela are absolutely groundless." Russia has said its "specialists" pose no threat to regional stability, brushing aside a call from the United States to remove all its military personnel from Venezuela.

Russia dismisses speculation about its 'specialists' in Venezuela

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

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

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

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

The United States has yet to request a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by TASS news agency on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he will probably talk to Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping about the crisis in Venezuela.

The United States has yet to request a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by TASS news agency on Saturday.

The United States has yet to request a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by TASS news agency on Saturday. US President Donald Trump said on Friday he will probably talk to Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping about the crisis in Venezuela.

US has not requested phone call on Venezuela with Putin: Kremlin

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lots-to-be-done-to-take-country-forward-im-here-to-complete-that-work-pm-modi-206738">Lots to be done to take the country forward, I'm here to complete that work: PM Modi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said&nbsp;although a lot has been done by his government, a lot more is left to be done to take the country forward.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-a-piece-of-paper-trump-called-on-kim-to-hand-over-nuclear-weapons-206692">With a piece of paper, Trump called on Kim to hand over nuclear weapons: Report</a>

On the day that their&nbsp;talks in Hanoi&nbsp;collapsed last month, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump handed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a piece of paper that included a blunt call for the transfer of Pyongyang's nuclear weapons and bomb fuel to the United States, according to the document seen by Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-president-amit-shah-files-nomination-for-gandhinagar-seat-206682">BJP president Amit Shah files nomination from Gandhinagar seat</a>

Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah filed his nomination papers on Saturday for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-floods-kill-17-worsen-already-desperate-situation-206696">Afghanistan floods kill 17, worsen already desperate situation</a>

Heavy rains caused flash floods in western Afghanistan that killed at least 17 people, destroying homes and sweeping through makeshift shelters that housed displaced families, a government official said on Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-at-gaza-israel-border-on-anniversary-in-test-of-truce-206722">Thousands gather at Gaza-Israel border on </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-at-gaza-israel-border-on-anniversary-in-test-of-truce-206722">anniversary</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-at-gaza-israel-border-on-anniversary-in-test-of-truce-206722"> in </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-at-gaza-israel-border-on-anniversary-in-test-of-truce-206722">test</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-at-gaza-israel-border-on-anniversary-in-test-of-truce-206722"> of truce</a>

Thousands of Gazans began gathering to mark the first anniversary of mass&nbsp;protests along the Israeli border&nbsp;on Saturday, testing a fragile truce only 10 days ahead of an Israeli general election.

Lots to be done to take the country forward, I'm here to complete that work: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said although a lot has been done by his government, a lot more is left to be done to take the country forward.

Lots to be done to take the country forward, I'm here to complete that work: PM Modi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday said although a lot has been done by his government, a lot more is left to be done to take the country forward. With a piece of paper, Trump called on Kim to hand over nuclear weapons: Report On the day that their talks in Hanoi collapsed last month, US President Donald Trump handed North Korean leader Kim Jong Un a piece of paper that included a blunt call for the transfer of Pyongyang's nuclear weapons and bomb fuel to the United States, according to the document seen by Reuters. BJP president Amit Shah files nomination from Gandhinagar seat Bharatiya Janata Party president Amit Shah filed his nomination papers on Saturday for the Gandhinagar Lok Sabha seat in Gujarat. Afghanistan floods kill 17, worsen already desperate situation Heavy rains caused flash floods in western Afghanistan that killed at least 17 people, destroying homes and sweeping through makeshift shelters that housed displaced families, a government official said on Saturday. Thousands gather at Gaza-Israel border on anniversary in test of truce Thousands of Gazans began gathering to mark the first anniversary of mass protests along the Israeli border on Saturday, testing a fragile truce only 10 days ahead of an Israeli general election.

News brief: Big stories of the day

President Donald Trump's national security adviser warned Russia on Friday about its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guaido-says-maduro-paid-russia-with-gold-for-military-presence-206531">military presence in Venezuela</a>, saying any move to establish or expand operations there would be considered a "direct threat" to international peace.

"We strongly caution actors external to the Western Hemisphere against deploying military assets to Venezuela, or elsewhere in the Hemisphere, with the intent of establishing or expanding military operations," White House national security adviser John Bolton said in a statement.

"We will consider such provocative actions as a direct threat to international peace and security in the region," Bolton added.

Russia said on Thursday it had sent "specialists" to Venezuela under a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-in-venezuela-not-linked-to-any-military-operations-foreign-ministry-206267">military cooperation </a>deal but insisted they posed no threat to regional stability, brushing aside a call by Trump for Moscow to remove all military personnel from the country.

Trump said on Wednesday that "all options" were open to make Russia pull troops out of Venezuela after two Russian air force planes landed outside Caracas on Saturday carrying nearly 100 Russian troops, according to media reports.

The United States recognized the country`s opposition leader, Juan Guaido, the leader of the national assembly, as interim president earlier this year following disputed elections.

Washington has declared President Nicolas Maduro`s government illegitimate and has launched a campaign to have Guaido recognized as the interim leader. Russia has emerged as a key backer of Maduro`s government.&nbsp;

Bolton`s statement condemned Maduro`s "use of foreign military personnel in his attempt to remain in power, including the introduction of Russian military personnel and equipment into Venezuela."

"Maduro will only use this military support to further repress the people of Venezuela; perpetuate the economic crisis that has destroyed Venezuela’s economy; and endanger regional stability," he said.

President Donald Trump's national security adviser warned Russia on Friday about its military presence in Venezuela, saying any move to establish or expand operations there would be considered a "direct threat" to international peace.

President Donald Trump's national security adviser warned Russia on Friday about its military presence in Venezuela, saying any move to establish or expand operations there would be considered a "direct threat" to international peace. "We strongly caution actors external to the Western Hemisphere against deploying military assets to Venezuela, or elsewhere in the Hemisphere, with the intent of establishing or expanding military operations," White House national security adviser John Bolton said in a statement. "We will consider such provocative actions as a direct threat to international peace and security in the region," Bolton added. Russia said on Thursday it had sent "specialists" to Venezuela under a military cooperation deal but insisted they posed no threat to regional stability, brushing aside a call by Trump for Moscow to remove all military personnel from the country. Trump said on Wednesday that "all options" were open to make Russia pull troops out of Venezuela after two Russian air force planes landed outside Caracas on Saturday carrying nearly 100 Russian troops, according to media reports. The United States recognized the country`s opposition leader, Juan Guaido, the leader of the national assembly, as interim president earlier this year following disputed elections. Washington has declared President Nicolas Maduro`s government illegitimate and has launched a campaign to have Guaido recognized as the interim leader. Russia has emerged as a key backer of Maduro`s government. Bolton`s statement condemned Maduro`s "use of foreign military personnel in his attempt to remain in power, including the introduction of Russian military personnel and equipment into Venezuela." "Maduro will only use this military support to further repress the people of Venezuela; perpetuate the economic crisis that has destroyed Venezuela’s economy; and endanger regional stability," he said.

Trump adviser warns Russia on military presence in Venezuela

Gravitas: Trump says 'Russia has to get out' of Venezuela

Watch: WION Gravitas, 28th March, 2019

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - March 29th 2019

Venezuela faces second major blackout this month

Venezuela's auditor general's office announced on Thursday that it has stripped <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-guaido-envoy-asks-spain-to-press-for-tougher-eu-sanctions-on-maduro-204762">opposition leader Juan Guaido</a>, congressional speaker, of the right to hold public office for 15 years.

The move, announced by Auditor General Elvis Amoroso on state television, marked another effort by President Nicolas Maduro's regime to politically sideline Guaido, who is recognized by the US and 50 other countries as Venezuela's interim president.

The move comes as &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-russia-to-get-its-troops-out-of-venezuela-206097">US and Russia clashed publicly </a>over Venezuela on Monday, raising geopolitical stakes over the oil-producing nation after Moscow sent dozens of soldiers to Caracas amid what it alleged was a budding "coup."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned his counterpart Sergei Lavrov over the phone that "the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela."

Although Russian state news agency Sputnik described the troop arrival as a movement to "fulfill technical military contracts," the development unsettled Washington, which has thrown its weight behind opposition leader Juan Guaido as interim president against President Nicolas Maduro.

Lavrov said in a statement he had complained of "attempts by Washington to organize a coup d'etat in Venezuela" during his conversation with Pompeo.

President Nicolas Maduro had accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido.

"We have dismantled a plan organized personally by the diabolical puppet to kill me," Maduro told thousands of supporters in Caracas, referring to Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries.

He alleged that Colombia, Venezuela's US-aligned neighbor, was also involved, and said that an unidentified Colombian paramilitary chief had been captured in the country "and is giving testimony."

Maduro's government gave details of the alleged plot on state television, with Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez saying "hitmen" from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras had been recruited "using big sums of money" and sent to Colombia ahead of missions into Venezuela to carry out "targeted assassinations" and "sabotage."

Venezuela's auditor general's office announced on Thursday that it has stripped opposition leader Juan Guaido, congressional speaker, of the right to hold public office for 15 years.

Venezuela's auditor general's office announced on Thursday that it has stripped opposition leader Juan Guaido, congressional speaker, of the right to hold public office for 15 years. The move, announced by Auditor General Elvis Amoroso on state television, marked another effort by President Nicolas Maduro's regime to politically sideline Guaido, who is recognized by the US and 50 other countries as Venezuela's interim president. The move comes as US and Russia clashed publicly over Venezuela on Monday, raising geopolitical stakes over the oil-producing nation after Moscow sent dozens of soldiers to Caracas amid what it alleged was a budding "coup." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned his counterpart Sergei Lavrov over the phone that "the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela." Although Russian state news agency Sputnik described the troop arrival as a movement to "fulfill technical military contracts," the development unsettled Washington, which has thrown its weight behind opposition leader Juan Guaido as interim president against President Nicolas Maduro. Lavrov said in a statement he had complained of "attempts by Washington to organize a coup d'etat in Venezuela" during his conversation with Pompeo. President Nicolas Maduro had accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido. "We have dismantled a plan organized personally by the diabolical puppet to kill me," Maduro told thousands of supporters in Caracas, referring to Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries. He alleged that Colombia, Venezuela's US-aligned neighbor, was also involved, and said that an unidentified Colombian paramilitary chief had been captured in the country "and is giving testimony." Maduro's government gave details of the alleged plot on state television, with Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez saying "hitmen" from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras had been recruited "using big sums of money" and sent to Colombia ahead of missions into Venezuela to carry out "targeted assassinations" and "sabotage."

Venezuela's auditor general strips Guaido of public office

‘Russia has to get out’ of Venezuela: Trump

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-troops-in-venezuela-not-linked-to-any-military-operations-foreign-ministry-206267">Russian troops in Venezuela not linked to any military operations: Foreign ministry</a>

A day after&nbsp;President Trump asked&nbsp;Russian troops to "get out" of Venezuela, the Russian foreign ministry said that its troops in Venezuela were "not linked" to any military operations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/fire-breaks-out-in-22-storey-building-in-bangladesh-several-feared-trapped-206273">Five killed in Bangladesh building fire; several still feared trapped</a>

At least five people were killed while Several others still feared trapped in a huge fire that broke out in a 22-storey building in Dhaka's Banani area on Thursday, in the latest blaze to hit the Bangladeshi capital.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-35a-surreptitiously-inserted-by-nehru-govt-in-constitution-arun-jaitley-206257">Article 35A surreptitiously inserted by Nehru govt in Constitution: Arun Jaitley</a>

Union Finance Minister Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday wrote a blog post, where he launched a scathing attack against the Congress and blamed Pt Nehru’s govt and Nehruvian vision for Jammu and Kashmir’s present situation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/common-citizen-robert-vadra-now-involved-in-huge-deals-says-ed-seeking-his-custody-206269">Common citizen Robert Vadra now involved in huge deals, says ED seeking his custody</a>

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday opposed the anticipatory bail plea of Robert Vadra in a money laundering case. Appearing before the Patiala House Court in Delhi, ED advocate DP Singh said, "We need his custodial interrogation, we have sufficient material."

<a href="http://cms.wionews.com/india-news/syria-backs-india-as-a-full-fledged-member-of-the-organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-206265">Syria backs India as a full-fledged member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation</a>

India has a big number of Islamic people and we want India to be a full member of OIC, said Syrian Ambassador to India, Riad Abbas.&nbsp;In an interview with WION, Riad Abbas talked about his views on India-Syria relationship, Islamic State and India's membership at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Russian troops in Venezuela not linked to any military operations: Foreign ministry A day after President Trump asked Russian troops to "get out" of Venezuela, the Russian foreign ministry said that its troops in Venezuela were "not linked" to any military operations.

Russian troops in Venezuela not linked to any military operations: Foreign ministry A day after President Trump asked Russian troops to "get out" of Venezuela, the Russian foreign ministry said that its troops in Venezuela were "not linked" to any military operations. Five killed in Bangladesh building fire; several still feared trapped At least five people were killed while Several others still feared trapped in a huge fire that broke out in a 22-storey building in Dhaka's Banani area on Thursday, in the latest blaze to hit the Bangladeshi capital. Article 35A surreptitiously inserted by Nehru govt in Constitution: Arun Jaitley Union Finance Minister Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday wrote a blog post, where he launched a scathing attack against the Congress and blamed Pt Nehru’s govt and Nehruvian vision for Jammu and Kashmir’s present situation. Common citizen Robert Vadra now involved in huge deals, says ED seeking his custody The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Thursday opposed the anticipatory bail plea of Robert Vadra in a money laundering case. Appearing before the Patiala House Court in Delhi, ED advocate DP Singh said, "We need his custodial interrogation, we have sufficient material." Syria backs India as a full-fledged member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation India has a big number of Islamic people and we want India to be a full member of OIC, said Syrian Ambassador to India, Riad Abbas. In an interview with WION, Riad Abbas talked about his views on India-Syria relationship, Islamic State and India's membership at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

A day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-russia-to-get-its-troops-out-of-venezuela-206097">President Trump asked </a>Russian troops to "get out" of Venezuela, the Russian foreign ministry said that its troops in Venezuela were "not linked" to any military operations.

"Russia, unlike Washington, "isn't threatening anyone" in Venezuela," the Russian foreign ministry said.

"They are involved in the implementation of agreements in the sphere of military and technical cooperation," said ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, adding they would remain in the country "for as long as needed."

"Russia is not changing the balance of power in the region, Russia is not threatening anyone unlike citizens in Washington whom I have just quoted," she added.

On Wednesday, President Trump had said that "Russia has to get out" as he met <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/enough-already-says-wife-of-venezuelan-opposition-leader-to-maduro-205184">Fabiana Rosales, the wife</a> of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence met with Rosales to express support for her husband

The Russian foreign ministry had earlier said that &nbsp;Moscow's decision to send military specialists to Caracas was in full accordance with Venezuelan law, after Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to the country.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had warned foriegn minister Sergei Lavrov over the phone that "the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela."

"The United States views Russia's arrival of military planes this weekend as an unwelcome provocation," Pence said after meeting Rosales, adding,"We call on Russia today to cease all support of the Maduro regime and stand with Juan Guaido and stand with nations across this hemisphere and across the world until freedom is restored."

US has imposed heavy sanctions on Venezuela including its lucrative state oil company PDVSA.&nbsp;

Last week it sanctioned a key bank, BANDES and four affiliates over their support for President Nicolas Maduro. The Trump administration had also put sanctions on Venezuelan state mining company, charging that its illicit gold operations.

The US has already pulled out its diplomats from Venezuela. The US had recognised Juan Guaido, 35, as the interim president in January, calling Maduro’s 2018 re-election a fraud. Most countries in Europe and Latin America have also recognised Guaido. 
&nbsp;

A day after President Trump asked Russian troops to "get out" of Venezuela, the Russian foreign ministry said that its troops in Venezuela were "not linked" to any military operations.

A day after President Trump asked Russian troops to "get out" of Venezuela, the Russian foreign ministry said that its troops in Venezuela were "not linked" to any military operations. "Russia, unlike Washington, "isn't threatening anyone" in Venezuela," the Russian foreign ministry said. "They are involved in the implementation of agreements in the sphere of military and technical cooperation," said ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, adding they would remain in the country "for as long as needed." "Russia is not changing the balance of power in the region, Russia is not threatening anyone unlike citizens in Washington whom I have just quoted," she added. On Wednesday, President Trump had said that "Russia has to get out" as he met Fabiana Rosales, the wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido. Trump and Vice President Mike Pence met with Rosales to express support for her husband The Russian foreign ministry had earlier said that Moscow's decision to send military specialists to Caracas was in full accordance with Venezuelan law, after Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to the country. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had warned foriegn minister Sergei Lavrov over the phone that "the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela." "The United States views Russia's arrival of military planes this weekend as an unwelcome provocation," Pence said after meeting Rosales, adding,"We call on Russia today to cease all support of the Maduro regime and stand with Juan Guaido and stand with nations across this hemisphere and across the world until freedom is restored." US has imposed heavy sanctions on Venezuela including its lucrative state oil company PDVSA. Last week it sanctioned a key bank, BANDES and four affiliates over their support for President Nicolas Maduro. The Trump administration had also put sanctions on Venezuelan state mining company, charging that its illicit gold operations. The US has already pulled out its diplomats from Venezuela. The US had recognised Juan Guaido, 35, as the interim president in January, calling Maduro’s 2018 re-election a fraud. Most countries in Europe and Latin America have also recognised Guaido.

Russian troops in Venezuela not linked to any military operations: Foreign ministry

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday called on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-us-of-plotting-coup-in-venezuela-205616">Russia </a>to pull its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russian-air-force-planes-carrying-troops-landed-in-venezuela-205499">troops from Venezuela</a> and warned that "all options" were open to make that happen.

"Russia has to get out," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, where he met with Fabiana Rosales, the wife of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/venezuela-blackout-continues-maduro-govt-extends-workschool-holiday-206031">Venezuelan</a> opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Two Russian Air Force planes landed outside Caracas on Saturday carrying nearly 100 Russian troops. The US government believes the troops include special forces and cybersecurity personnel.

Asked how he would make Russian forces leave, Trump said: "We'll see. All options are open."

Trump and Vice President Mike Pence met with Rosales to express support for her husband, who invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency in January, saying President Nicolas Maduro's re-election was not legitimate.

"The United States views Russia's arrival of military planes this weekend as an unwelcome provocation," Pence told reporters.

"We call on Russia today to cease all support of the Maduro regime and stand with Juan Guaido and stand with nations across this hemisphere and across the world until freedom is restored," Pence said. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday called on Russia to pull its troops from Venezuela and warned that "all options" were open to make that happen. "Russia has to get out," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, where he met with Fabiana Rosales, the wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday called on Russia to pull its troops from Venezuela and warned that "all options" were open to make that happen. "Russia has to get out," Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, where he met with Fabiana Rosales, the wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido. Two Russian Air Force planes landed outside Caracas on Saturday carrying nearly 100 Russian troops. The US government believes the troops include special forces and cybersecurity personnel. Asked how he would make Russian forces leave, Trump said: "We'll see. All options are open." Trump and Vice President Mike Pence met with Rosales to express support for her husband, who invoked the constitution to assume the interim presidency in January, saying President Nicolas Maduro's re-election was not legitimate. "The United States views Russia's arrival of military planes this weekend as an unwelcome provocation," Pence told reporters. "We call on Russia today to cease all support of the Maduro regime and stand with Juan Guaido and stand with nations across this hemisphere and across the world until freedom is restored," Pence said.

Russian troops must get out of Venezuela: Trump

Vast portions of Venezuela remained in the dark on Wednesday as the second major blackout this month left the streets of Caracas mostly empty and residents wondering how long power would be out amid a deepening economic crisis.

President Nicolas Maduro's Socialist government, which had blamed sabotage by the United States and the opposition for the previous power cut, said an "attack" on its electrical system caused the blackout that first hit on Monday. The outage shuttered businesses, paralysed the country's main oil export terminal, and stranded commuters.

Intermittent service has long affected Venezuela's largely rural interior, but residents of Caracas fear the increasing blackouts in the capital mean that unreliable power is becoming the new normal for them, too.

Maria Garces, a dentist in Caracas, described the situation as 'mummies' waking around, trying to get what they need.

"They are starving us to death because if there is no electricity, then the banks are not operating, there's no internet, there's nothing. In others words, people are walking around like mummies trying to get to where they need to get to without really knowing how. They all go out looking for food but then not be able to buy any because there aren't any jobs. I work, I am coming here to take care of an emergency which I will not be able to tend to - I am a dentist. The people are there with oral pain and nothing can be done for them. People are dying in hospitals," Garces said.

The blackout came amid tensions with the United States over the weekend arrival of Russian military planes, which led Washington to accuse Moscow of "reckless escalation" of the country's political crisis.

The United States believes the planes were carrying "cybersecurity personnel," a US official told Reuters on Tuesday. That would suggest part of their mission could be helping Maduro's loyalists with surveillance and protecting the government's cyber infrastructure.

Russia, which has major energy investments in OPEC member Venezuela, has remained a staunch ally of Maduro, while the United States and most other Western nations have endorsed opposition leader Juan Guaido.

Citing the constitution, Guaido in January assumed the interim presidency, saying Maduro's re-election last year was fraudulent. Maduro says Guaido is a US puppet attempting to lead a coup against him and has blamed worsening economic difficulties on sanctions imposed by Washington.

Upon leaving a National Assembly session on Tuesday, individuals threw stones at the vehicle in which Guaido was travelling and tried to open its doors, according to a Reuters witness. Referring to the event on Twitter, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, "we condemn the attack on @JGuaido's caravan."

Vast portions of Venezuela remained in the dark on Wednesday as the second major blackout this month left the streets of Caracas mostly empty and residents wondering how long power would be out amid a deepening economic crisis.

Vast portions of Venezuela remained in the dark on Wednesday as the second major blackout this month left the streets of Caracas mostly empty and residents wondering how long power would be out amid a deepening economic crisis. President Nicolas Maduro's Socialist government, which had blamed sabotage by the United States and the opposition for the previous power cut, said an "attack" on its electrical system caused the blackout that first hit on Monday. The outage shuttered businesses, paralysed the country's main oil export terminal, and stranded commuters. Intermittent service has long affected Venezuela's largely rural interior, but residents of Caracas fear the increasing blackouts in the capital mean that unreliable power is becoming the new normal for them, too. Maria Garces, a dentist in Caracas, described the situation as 'mummies' waking around, trying to get what they need. "They are starving us to death because if there is no electricity, then the banks are not operating, there's no internet, there's nothing. In others words, people are walking around like mummies trying to get to where they need to get to without really knowing how. They all go out looking for food but then not be able to buy any because there aren't any jobs. I work, I am coming here to take care of an emergency which I will not be able to tend to - I am a dentist. The people are there with oral pain and nothing can be done for them. People are dying in hospitals," Garces said. The blackout came amid tensions with the United States over the weekend arrival of Russian military planes, which led Washington to accuse Moscow of "reckless escalation" of the country's political crisis. The United States believes the planes were carrying "cybersecurity personnel," a US official told Reuters on Tuesday. That would suggest part of their mission could be helping Maduro's loyalists with surveillance and protecting the government's cyber infrastructure. Russia, which has major energy investments in OPEC member Venezuela, has remained a staunch ally of Maduro, while the United States and most other Western nations have endorsed opposition leader Juan Guaido. Citing the constitution, Guaido in January assumed the interim presidency, saying Maduro's re-election last year was fraudulent. Maduro says Guaido is a US puppet attempting to lead a coup against him and has blamed worsening economic difficulties on sanctions imposed by Washington. Upon leaving a National Assembly session on Tuesday, individuals threw stones at the vehicle in which Guaido was travelling and tried to open its doors, according to a Reuters witness. Referring to the event on Twitter, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said, "we condemn the attack on @JGuaido's caravan."

Second major blackout leaves Venezuelans fearing power cuts will be the norm

Russia's foreign ministry said Tuesday that Moscow's decision to send <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-us-of-plotting-coup-in-venezuela-205616">military specialists to Caracas</a> was in full accordance with Venezuelan law, after Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to the country in a move denounced by Washington.

Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement that Moscow is "developing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-arrests-colombian-fugitive-said-linked-to-terror-plot-205198">cooperation with Venezuela </a>in strict accordance with the constitution of that country and with full respect for its legal norms."&nbsp;

She added that "the presence of Russian specialists on Venezuelan territory is regulated by an agreement between the Russian and Venezuelan governments on military and technical cooperation that was signed in May 2001."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had warned his counterpart Sergei Lavrov over the phone that "the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela."

The tense conversation came after Russia sent two planes reportedly carrying around 100 soldiers and 35 tons of military equipment to Venezuela's main airport outside Caracas on Saturday.

Although Russian state news agency Sputnik described the troop arrival as a movement to "fulfill technical military contracts," the development unsettled Washington, which has thrown its weight behind opposition leader Juan Guaido as interim president against President Nicolas Maduro.

"The continued insertion of Russian military personnel to support the illegitimate regime of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela risks prolonging the suffering of the Venezuelan people who overwhelmingly support interim President Juan Guaido," Pompeo said, according to his office.

The Organization of American States echoed the US condemnation.

Lavrov said in a statement he had complained of "attempts by Washington to organize a coup d'etat in Venezuela" during his conversation with Pompeo.

Such moves "constitute violations of the UN charter and undisguised interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state," it said.

Russia's foreign ministry said Tuesday that Moscow's decision to send military specialists to Caracas was in full accordance with Venezuelan law, after Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to the country in a move denounced by Washington.

Russia's foreign ministry said Tuesday that Moscow's decision to send military specialists to Caracas was in full accordance with Venezuelan law, after Russian military planes delivered troops and equipment to the country in a move denounced by Washington. Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said in a statement that Moscow is "developing cooperation with Venezuela in strict accordance with the constitution of that country and with full respect for its legal norms." She added that "the presence of Russian specialists on Venezuelan territory is regulated by an agreement between the Russian and Venezuelan governments on military and technical cooperation that was signed in May 2001." US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had warned his counterpart Sergei Lavrov over the phone that "the United States and regional countries will not stand idly by as Russia exacerbates tensions in Venezuela." The tense conversation came after Russia sent two planes reportedly carrying around 100 soldiers and 35 tons of military equipment to Venezuela's main airport outside Caracas on Saturday. Although Russian state news agency Sputnik described the troop arrival as a movement to "fulfill technical military contracts," the development unsettled Washington, which has thrown its weight behind opposition leader Juan Guaido as interim president against President Nicolas Maduro. "The continued insertion of Russian military personnel to support the illegitimate regime of Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela risks prolonging the suffering of the Venezuelan people who overwhelmingly support interim President Juan Guaido," Pompeo said, according to his office. The Organization of American States echoed the US condemnation. Lavrov said in a statement he had complained of "attempts by Washington to organize a coup d'etat in Venezuela" during his conversation with Pompeo. Such moves "constitute violations of the UN charter and undisguised interference in the internal affairs of a sovereign state," it said.

Decision to send military specialists to Venezuela in accordance with law: Russia

Many regions in Venezuela including some areas in Caracas was hit by new blackout on Monday.

The power cut occurred at 1:28 pm in the capital and the entire city centre was out of electricity.

Shops were closed fearing looters, cellphone signals were also disrupted and television was blanked out.

This comes after weeks of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-maduro-government-shuts-schools-suspends-working-day-as-blackout-enters-second-day-202053">previous blackout which started around March 1</a>&nbsp;and lasted for a week. Many were affected during that time, several patients died, public transport came to a halt, water supplies were interrupted, forcing citizens to turn to sewage outflows and polluted water sources.

Few Venezuelans took to Twitter complaining about the blackout.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
I had to make a decision today: I could either go to the supermarket to buy food, or wait to see if there was another blackout. I ate something while I was out reporting ... the fridge is still empty ... good call, very bad way of living. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Venezuela?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Venezuela</a>
— Ana Vanessa Herrero (@AnaVHerrero) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnaVHerrero/status/1110363071577575425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Another <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/blackout?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#blackout</a> in Venezuela. This is beyond nightmare. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/apagon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#apagon</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/valencia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#valencia</a>
— J. Carolina MQ (@jekac_7) <a href="https://twitter.com/jekac_7/status/1110361929812455425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Another countrwide black out. 
 
I'm logging off to conserve battery. Plus who knows how long we'll have a connection.
— Joaco in Venezuela (@JoacoMachado) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoacoMachado/status/1110363903584657408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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A Venezuelan newspaper reported that the power was out at Venezuela's main international airport outside Caracas.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-accuses-us-of-financing-mercenary-plot-against-him-205158">President Nicolas Maduro</a>'s government blamed the power outage on an ''attack'' which targeted main hydroelectric plant Guri. It supplies power to 80 per cent of Venezuelans.

Many regions in Venezuela including some areas in Caracas was hit by new blackout on Monday. The power cut occurred at 1:28 pm in the capital and the entire city centre was out of electricity.

Many regions in Venezuela including some areas in Caracas was hit by new blackout on Monday. The power cut occurred at 1:28 pm in the capital and the entire city centre was out of electricity. Shops were closed fearing looters, cellphone signals were also disrupted and television was blanked out. This comes after weeks of the previous blackout which started around March 1 and lasted for a week. Many were affected during that time, several patients died, public transport came to a halt, water supplies were interrupted, forcing citizens to turn to sewage outflows and polluted water sources. Few Venezuelans took to Twitter complaining about the blackout. I had to make a decision today: I could either go to the supermarket to buy food, or wait to see if there was another blackout. I ate something while I was out reporting ... the fridge is still empty ... good call, very bad way of living. #Venezuela — Ana Vanessa Herrero (@AnaVHerrero) March 26, 2019 × Another #blackout in Venezuela. This is beyond nightmare. #apagon #valencia — J. Carolina MQ (@jekac_7) March 26, 2019 × Another countrwide black out. I'm logging off to conserve battery. Plus who knows how long we'll have a connection. — Joaco in Venezuela (@JoacoMachado) March 26, 2019 × A Venezuelan newspaper reported that the power was out at Venezuela's main international airport outside Caracas. President Nicolas Maduro's government blamed the power outage on an ''attack'' which targeted main hydroelectric plant Guri. It supplies power to 80 per cent of Venezuelans.

Several regions in Venezuela face new blackout

Russian air force planes carrying troops landed in Venezuela

The wife of Venezuelan <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-guaido-envoy-asks-spain-to-press-for-tougher-eu-sanctions-on-maduro-204762">opposition leader Juan Guaido</a> had a brief message for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-accuses-us-of-financing-mercenary-plot-against-him-205158">President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Saturday, following the arrest of her husband's chief of staff this week: "Enough already."

In an interview with Reuters in Peru, where she met with Venezuelan immigrants before a trip to the United States, Fabiana Rosales said the arrest of Roberto Marrero on terrorism accusations on Thursday was a "farcical" attempt by Maduro to break the opposition's morale.

"We are very clear about what our objective is and what our route is and this is part of their game (Nicolas Maduro's government), to put obstacles in the way that deviate us from our final goal but they have bumped into a generation that does not gives up," said Rosales, a 26-year-old journalist and opposition activist who is considered Venezuela's first lady by supporters.

Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January, when Guaido invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has been recognized by most Latin American and Western countries as Venezuela's rightful leader.

But Maduro retains control of state functions and the loyalty of the military top brass. A socialist, Maduro says Guaido is a puppet of the United States and is attempting to lead a coup against him to wrest control of the OPEC nation's oil reserves, the largest in the world.

Rosales said spies and pro-government armed groups known as "collectives" have long followed her and her husband, monitoring their movements and stalking their family members and friends.

Venezuela's foreign ministry did not answer phone calls seeking comment outside regular working hours on Saturday. Venezuelan authorities have accused Marrero of planning attacks against political figures and said an arms cache had been seized from his house.

Guaido, 35, told Reuters in an interview on Friday that he was prepared for more people in his team to be arrested, but thought Maduro's government had reached its final stage.

Rosales said she thought Maduro was too fearful to have Guaido himself arrested.

Rosales declined to comment on whom she plans to meet in the United States but said she has confirmed visits to New York City and Miami.

The wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido had a brief message for President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, following the arrest of her husband's chief of staff this week: "Enough already.

The wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaido had a brief message for President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday, following the arrest of her husband's chief of staff this week: "Enough already." In an interview with Reuters in Peru, where she met with Venezuelan immigrants before a trip to the United States, Fabiana Rosales said the arrest of Roberto Marrero on terrorism accusations on Thursday was a "farcical" attempt by Maduro to break the opposition's morale. "We are very clear about what our objective is and what our route is and this is part of their game (Nicolas Maduro's government), to put obstacles in the way that deviate us from our final goal but they have bumped into a generation that does not gives up," said Rosales, a 26-year-old journalist and opposition activist who is considered Venezuela's first lady by supporters. Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January, when Guaido invoked the constitution to assume an interim presidency, arguing Maduro's 2018 re-election was illegitimate. He has been recognized by most Latin American and Western countries as Venezuela's rightful leader. But Maduro retains control of state functions and the loyalty of the military top brass. A socialist, Maduro says Guaido is a puppet of the United States and is attempting to lead a coup against him to wrest control of the OPEC nation's oil reserves, the largest in the world. Rosales said spies and pro-government armed groups known as "collectives" have long followed her and her husband, monitoring their movements and stalking their family members and friends. Venezuela's foreign ministry did not answer phone calls seeking comment outside regular working hours on Saturday. Venezuelan authorities have accused Marrero of planning attacks against political figures and said an arms cache had been seized from his house. Guaido, 35, told Reuters in an interview on Friday that he was prepared for more people in his team to be arrested, but thought Maduro's government had reached its final stage. Rosales said she thought Maduro was too fearful to have Guaido himself arrested. Rosales declined to comment on whom she plans to meet in the United States but said she has confirmed visits to New York City and Miami.

'Enough already!' wife of Venezuelan opposition leader Guaido tells Maduro

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/venezuelas-maduro-accuses-us-of-financing-mercenary-plot-against-him-205158">Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro</a> said Saturday that his government captured the head of the Colombian criminal gang Los Rastrojos and linked the fugitive to alleged plans by an opposition party to carry out terrorist acts.

"We have captured the head of Los Rastrojos in Carabobo state, and he is providing testimony and evidence of who hired him and why they brought him to Venezuela," the president said during a meeting with thousands of his followers outside Miraflores presidential palace.

Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez identified on Twitter the captured crime boss as Wilfrido Torres Gomez, alias "Neco," wanted in Colombia for criminal acts in the region of Puerto Santander.

Rodriguez had previously told a press conference that several Central American paramilitaries entered Venezuela from Colombia on Feb. 23 amid the violence unleashed on the border when the opposition tried to bring humanitarian aid into the country.

Rodriguez linked those paramilitaries to Popular Will, the party of National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president of Venezuela on Jan. 23 and is accepted as such by around 50 countries.

Maduro said authorities located Torres Gomez thanks to tips provided by Roberto Marrero, Guaido's chief of staff, detained early last Thursday after his home was raided and military weapons and large amounts of cash were found.

About the accusations this Saturday, Guaido has said nothing as yet, though he did make light of the accusations against Marrero.

Venezuela has been going through a new stage of political crisis ever since Maduro was sworn in last January for a new term in office that is not recognized by the opposition or by much of the international community, and in response, Guaido proclaimed himself interim president.

Guaido on Saturday asked the militant opposition to remain "confident" and to stay "in the streets," upon completing the second month of his challenge to Maduro.

"I ask for your presence in the streets and an intangible: confidence, not in Juan Guaido, confidence in yourselves...and in what we are going to achieve," the opposition leader told a meeting with thousands of followers in the northeastern state of Anzoategui.

The United States, which has been at odds with Venezuela since Maduro's late predecessor and mentor, Hugo Chavez, took office in 1999, immediately recognized Guaido when he declared himself acting president.

Guaido has since been recognized by dozens of other countries, including much of Latin America and the major European powers with the exception of Italy.

Washington and its allies agree with the Venezuelan opposition that Maduro's re-election last May lacked legitimacy.

China, Russia and India are among the scores of nations that continue to recognize Maduro.

The ongoing political standoff comes amid a severe economic crisis in Venezuela marked by shortages of basic goods and hyperinflation.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Saturday that his government captured the head of the Colombian criminal gang Los Rastrojos and linked the fugitive to alleged plans by an opposition party to carry out terrorist acts.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro said Saturday that his government captured the head of the Colombian criminal gang Los Rastrojos and linked the fugitive to alleged plans by an opposition party to carry out terrorist acts. "We have captured the head of Los Rastrojos in Carabobo state, and he is providing testimony and evidence of who hired him and why they brought him to Venezuela," the president said during a meeting with thousands of his followers outside Miraflores presidential palace. Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez identified on Twitter the captured crime boss as Wilfrido Torres Gomez, alias "Neco," wanted in Colombia for criminal acts in the region of Puerto Santander. Rodriguez had previously told a press conference that several Central American paramilitaries entered Venezuela from Colombia on Feb. 23 amid the violence unleashed on the border when the opposition tried to bring humanitarian aid into the country. Rodriguez linked those paramilitaries to Popular Will, the party of National Assembly speaker Juan Guaido, who proclaimed himself acting president of Venezuela on Jan. 23 and is accepted as such by around 50 countries. Maduro said authorities located Torres Gomez thanks to tips provided by Roberto Marrero, Guaido's chief of staff, detained early last Thursday after his home was raided and military weapons and large amounts of cash were found. About the accusations this Saturday, Guaido has said nothing as yet, though he did make light of the accusations against Marrero. Venezuela has been going through a new stage of political crisis ever since Maduro was sworn in last January for a new term in office that is not recognized by the opposition or by much of the international community, and in response, Guaido proclaimed himself interim president. Guaido on Saturday asked the militant opposition to remain "confident" and to stay "in the streets," upon completing the second month of his challenge to Maduro. "I ask for your presence in the streets and an intangible: confidence, not in Juan Guaido, confidence in yourselves...and in what we are going to achieve," the opposition leader told a meeting with thousands of followers in the northeastern state of Anzoategui. The United States, which has been at odds with Venezuela since Maduro's late predecessor and mentor, Hugo Chavez, took office in 1999, immediately recognized Guaido when he declared himself acting president. Guaido has since been recognized by dozens of other countries, including much of Latin America and the major European powers with the exception of Italy. Washington and its allies agree with the Venezuelan opposition that Maduro's re-election last May lacked legitimacy. China, Russia and India are among the scores of nations that continue to recognize Maduro. The ongoing political standoff comes amid a severe economic crisis in Venezuela marked by shortages of basic goods and hyperinflation.

Venezuela arrests Colombian fugitive said linked to terror plot

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-creates-military-unit-to-protect-public-service-installations-203677">President Nicolas Maduro</a> on Saturday accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido.

"We have dismantled a plan organized personally by the diabolical puppet to kill me," Maduro told thousands of supporters in Caracas, referring to Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries.

He alleged that Colombia, Venezuela's US-aligned neighbour, was also involved, and said that an unidentified Colombian paramilitary chief had been captured in the country "and is giving testimony."

Maduro's government gave details of the alleged plot on state television, with Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez saying "hitmen" from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras had been recruited "using big sums of money" and sent to Colombia ahead of missions into Venezuela to carry out "targeted assassinations" and "sabotage."

Rodriguez accused Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, of receiving money from the United States and being a key organizer of the alleged operation.

Marrero, a 49-year-old lawyer, was arrested on Thursday in his Caracas home, triggering an outcry and demands he be immediately released by the US, the European Union and major Latin American countries that recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president.&nbsp;

He yelled out to a neighbour, an opposition lawmaker, that the SEBIN intelligence officers arresting him had planted two assault rifles and a grenade in his home.&nbsp;

Hours later, Maduro's government showed pictures of weapons it said it found an alleged Marrero was part of a "terrorist cell."

US ratchets up sanctions&nbsp;

Rodriguez played recordings he said were from WhatsApp conversations between Marrero and Guaido in which he said they discussed using Venezuelan funds blocked by US sanctions to finance armed groups with the support of Colombian President Ivan Duque.

The accusations were repeated shortly afterwards by Maduro as he addressed a crowd of thousands of supporters in the capital.

According to his government, the United States has seized $30 billion is Venezuelan assets, including money in bank accounts.

Rodriguez alleged funds in accounts in Bank of America and Banesco Panama were being used in the plot.

Guaido, the head of the opposition-run assembly, has asked the international community to keep up its pressure on Maduro's government.

The United States has ratcheted up successive rounds of sanctions on Venezuela, suspending visas for 300 Venezuelans deemed close to the regime and making it difficult for the state-run oil company PDVSA to operate or secure credit on the markets.

On April 28, the sanctions will jump up another level with an embargo on crude exports.

US President Donald Trump's administration has repeatedly warned Maduro to not arrest or intimidate Guaido or his aides, or else face unspecified consequences.

Trump has reiterated that "all options" -- implicitly including military action -- are on the table for dealing with Venezuela.

President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido.

President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday accused the United States of using frozen Venezuelan funds to bankroll mercenaries to assassinate him in a "plot" he said was directed by opposition leader Juan Guaido. "We have dismantled a plan organized personally by the diabolical puppet to kill me," Maduro told thousands of supporters in Caracas, referring to Guaido, who is recognized as interim president by more than 50 countries. He alleged that Colombia, Venezuela's US-aligned neighbour, was also involved, and said that an unidentified Colombian paramilitary chief had been captured in the country "and is giving testimony." Maduro's government gave details of the alleged plot on state television, with Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez saying "hitmen" from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras had been recruited "using big sums of money" and sent to Colombia ahead of missions into Venezuela to carry out "targeted assassinations" and "sabotage." Rodriguez accused Guaido's chief of staff, Roberto Marrero, of receiving money from the United States and being a key organizer of the alleged operation. Marrero, a 49-year-old lawyer, was arrested on Thursday in his Caracas home, triggering an outcry and demands he be immediately released by the US, the European Union and major Latin American countries that recognize Guaido as Venezuela's interim president. He yelled out to a neighbour, an opposition lawmaker, that the SEBIN intelligence officers arresting him had planted two assault rifles and a grenade in his home. Hours later, Maduro's government showed pictures of weapons it said it found an alleged Marrero was part of a "terrorist cell." US ratchets up sanctions Rodriguez played recordings he said were from WhatsApp conversations between Marrero and Guaido in which he said they discussed using Venezuelan funds blocked by US sanctions to finance armed groups with the support of Colombian President Ivan Duque. The accusations were repeated shortly afterwards by Maduro as he addressed a crowd of thousands of supporters in the capital. According to his government, the United States has seized $30 billion is Venezuelan assets, including money in bank accounts. Rodriguez alleged funds in accounts in Bank of America and Banesco Panama were being used in the plot. Guaido, the head of the opposition-run assembly, has asked the international community to keep up its pressure on Maduro's government. The United States has ratcheted up successive rounds of sanctions on Venezuela, suspending visas for 300 Venezuelans deemed close to the regime and making it difficult for the state-run oil company PDVSA to operate or secure credit on the markets. On April 28, the sanctions will jump up another level with an embargo on crude exports. US President Donald Trump's administration has repeatedly warned Maduro to not arrest or intimidate Guaido or his aides, or else face unspecified consequences. Trump has reiterated that "all options" -- implicitly including military action -- are on the table for dealing with Venezuela.

Venezuela's Maduro accuses US of financing mercenary 'plot' against him

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