Venezuela expels U.S. diplomats

(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.

Listen to James Blear's report: