World

Russia condemns bid to 'usurp power' from Maduro

January 25, 2019 5:35 am

Russia has condemned foreign powers for backing a Venezuelan opposition leader who declared himself interim president, calling it a bid to “usurp power”.

Moscow said that the move violated international law and was a “direct path to bloodshed”.

Juan Guaidó declared himself interim leader on Wednesday – a move recognised by the US and several other nations.

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President Nicolás Maduro, who retains some other nations’ support, broke off relations with the US in response.

Mr Maduro has been in office since 2013. He was sworn in for a second term earlier this month, after winning a May 2018 election marred by an opposition boycott and widespread claims of vote-rigging.