Rival rallies held in Caracas as Venezuela crisis intensifies

YURI CORTEZ / AFP

Venezuelan security forces have been deployed in large numbers in Caracas ahead of pro and anti-government protests.

Supporters of opposition leader Juan Guaidó took to the streets to back his move to oust President Nicolás Maduro and call for fresh elections. Many were pushed back with riot police firing pepper spray at them.

Meanwhile, backers of Maduro also held rival demonstrations across the capital, with the leader thanking the army for staying loyal to him and defeating an attempted coup.

This comes after widespread power cuts affected much of Venezuela since Thursday.

More from International News

News

  • UAE intercepts 9 ballistic missiles, 109 drones

    The UAE air defences said it has intercepted 9 ballistic missiles detected in the region on Friday. Of the 112 drones detected, 109 were intercepted with 3 falling within the country's territory.

  • H.H. Sheikh Mohammed introduces new public safety law

    His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued a new law on Friday, aimed at strengthening public safety across Dubai, setting out stricter standards for venues, events and public spaces.

  • Malaysia’s PM condemns Iranian attack in call with UAE President

    UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed, on Friday, the latest developments in the region and the escalating military action that threatens regional and international security and stability.