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Trump pleads with Venezuelan military to back Guaido

Russia to deliver humanitarian aid, says Maduro


February 20, 2019 00:00:00


BUENOS AIRES: People taking part in a demonstration called social organisations in front of the US embassy in Buenos Aires in support of Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro on Monday — AFP

MIAMI, Feb 19 (Agencies): President Donald Trump on Monday pleaded with Venezuela's military to support opposition leader Juan Guaido and issued a dire warning if they continue to stand with President Nicolas Maduro's government.

"You will find no safe harbor, no easy exit and no way out. You will lose everything," Trump said in a speech at Florida International University in Miami before large American and Venezuelan flags.

Trump added: "We seek a peaceful transition of power, but all options are open."

The Venezuelan military could play a decisive role in the stalemate but has largely remained loyal to Maduro.

Another report adds: Russia will deliver 300 tons of humanitarian aid to Venezuela, local media reported Monday, quoting Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

"We receive humanitarian support every day," Maduro was quoted as saying by Sputnik news agency at a meeting with scientists in Venezuela. Russia's aid will be delivered to the international airport of Caracas, the president added.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said on Thursday that Russia is ready to join mediation efforts to help end the Venezuelan crisis.

Russia supports the broadest contacts on the Venezuelan issue, Zakharova said.

Venezuela has been experiencing political tensions since Jan. 23 when National Assembly President Juan Guaido declared himself interim president and was recognized by the United States and some other countries.


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