Russia warns against foreign interference in Venezuela

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Russia on Monday warned against any foreign meddling in Venezuelan domestics.

Speaking to reporters in capital Moscow, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov called on foreign countries to abstain from interference in Venezuelan affairs, saying external meddling would make the situation worse.

Reiterating Russian support for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, Peskov said Russian authorities did not contact Juan Guaido, the leader of opposition-led National Assembly, or plans to do it.

The presidential spokesman called the reports on Russian bodyguards sent to Venezuela’s capital Caracass to ensure the security of Maduro “fake news”.

Venezuela has been rocked by protests since Jan. 10 when President Nicolas Maduro was sworn in for a second term following a vote boycott by the opposition.

The tension climbed across the South American country when Guaido self-proclaimed himself the interim president on Wednesday.

U.S. President Donald Trump recognized Guaido as president of Venezuela.

Argentina, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guatemala, Panama and Paraguay have followed suit while Bolivia and Mexico continue to recognize Maduro.

Russia and China both opposed the U.S. call to support Guaido, and condemned any international interference in the affairs of Venezuela. Turkey and Iran have also put their weight behind Maduro.