President Maduro: Obama interfering with Venezuela's affairs

Newscast Media CARACAS—Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has accused U.S. President Barack Obama of promoting ongoing protests in the country, and of backing members of the opposition alleged to be behind violence.

In a communique, the Latin American leader demanded that the U.S. explain its motives in "financing, promoting and defending members of the opposition that promote violence against our country."

Maduro went on to denounce declarations made by Obama regarding the situation in Venezuela, saying that they presented a "gross interference in internal affairs."

The new accusations come amidst a spike in the unrest that has gripped Venezuela, with some six people killed since demonstrations mounted by the opposition turned violent last week.

Wednesday night saw sporadic clashes between demonstrators in the capital of Caracas, the majority of which are middle class students who are frustrated with the country’s sputtering economy and soaring crime rate, and are seeking a regime change.

Maduro, who was elected last year as the heir apparent following the death of long-time President Hugo Chavez, has accused the opposition of fomenting a coup and inciting violence.

Meanwhile, according to the Associated Press, the Venezuelan government has revoked press credentials from CNN, for the way it covered the political unrest on television, a day after the government threatened to kick the news network out of the country.

"We hope the government will reconsider its decision," CNN Español said in an on-air statement. "In the meantime, we will continue reporting on Venezuela in a just, accurate and balanced manner that characterizes us as a journalistic enterprise." Add Comments>>

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