Venezuela’s Latin American neighbors reiterated their opposition to U.S. military intervention in the country, an option diplomats say could undermine the regional coalition that is working to force Maduro out. Venezuela’s socialist government in 2013 left the treaty, a NATO-like agreement anchored by the United States that allows for mutual defense. Since Washington now recognizes Guaidó as Venezuela’s president, an official request from the National Assembly to defend against “a usurper” — as Guaidó has dubbed Maduro — could trigger the pact. The opposition bid to unseat Maduro last week fell apart after conspirators within the government whom Guaidó tried to lure apparently backed out. [How a plot filled with intrigue and betrayal failed to oust Venezuela’s president]Juan Guaidó, president of Venezuela's National Assembly, speaks May 4 in Caracas.

Source: Washington Post May 07, 2019 22:04 UTC