(Vatican Radio) Venezuela is expelling three US diplomats, accusing them of fermenting
anti-government protests- something the US State Department is categorically denying.
Regional correspondent James Blears has the latest details about the ongoing conflict.
Venezuela's Foreign Minister Elias Jaua, says three US Consular staff have
misused visits to universities, encouraging anti-government protests by students.
The US State Department has reacted swiftly, calling these allegations totally baseless
and false. but stressing that the United States does support human rights, as well
as peaceful assembly and freedom of expression. US Secretary of State John Kerry
has already publically expressed deep concern for the current situation in Venezuela.
One
of the principal opposition leaders Leopoldo lopez, who's being sought by the police,
has called for a huge anti-government protest on Tuesday in the capital Caracas, and
is challenging the government to try to arrest him, because he's going to be leading
it. Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro is accusing the opposition of trying
to spark a coup. He also says he's going to stand his ground.