3 February

Massive numbers of anti-government protesters have taken to the streets in Venezuela in a bid to oust President Nicolas Maduro from power.

Tensions were rising in the South American country on Saturday when more than 100,000 people took part in anti-government rallies held at over 100 locations including the capital Caracas.

Opposition leader Juan Guaido, who is backed by the United States, has declared himself as interim leader of the country. In a speech he delivered in the capital on Saturday, Guaido unveiled a plan to ship food and medicine from Brazil and Colombia to address shortages of goods.

He urged military leaders to take part in his campaign and be part of the reconstruction of the country. Meanwhile, Maduro also addressed thousands of his supporters, urging opposition leaders to stop the US from creating confusion in Venezuela. He made a reference to Trump, saying that Venezuela is not going to give up and obey his orders as a free nation.

Anti-government demonstrations have spread from Caracas and now become nationwide despite Maduro's tough stance.—NHK