Detained in 2014 for leading a previous round of anti-government unrest, Mr Lopez said he had been released from house arrest by security forces adhering to an order from Mr Guaido. “I want to tell the Venezuelan people: This is the moment to take to the streets and accompany these patriotic soldiers,” Mr Lopez declared. A crowd that quickly swelled to a few thousand scurried for cover, reappearing later with Mr Guaido at a plaza a few blocks from the disturbances. There were also reports that 25 troops who had been with Mr Guaido fled to Brazil’s diplomatic mission. “The armed forces have taken the right decision,” said Mr Guaido.

Source: Irish Independent May 01, 2019 04:30 UTC