Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro issued a dire warning on Wednesday, stating he would call for a “new revolution” if provoked by “North American imperialism and fascist criminals.” His statement comes amid deadly protests triggered by a disputed presidential election, which the United States and several other countries have refused to recognize.
Maduro emphasized his reluctance to deviate from the revolutionary path set by his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, but affirmed that external pressure could force his hand. “I would not like to go to other ways of making revolution,” Maduro declared during a press conference in Caracas. “But if North American imperialism and fascist criminals force us, my pulse will not tremble to call the people to a new revolution with other characteristics.”
This declaration followed a call from US National Security spokesman John Kirby for Maduro to provide transparency regarding the election. Kirby underscored the international community’s waning patience, demanding that Venezuelan electoral authorities release detailed election data. “Our patience, and that of the international community, is running out,” Kirby stated during a White House briefing. He also expressed concern over reports of casualties, violence, and arrests, including warrants issued against opposition leaders.
Human Rights Watch (HRW) reported receiving 20 “credible reports” of deaths related to the protests. Juanita Goebertus, HRW Director for the Americas, confirmed that the organization is working to verify each case. Foro Penal, a local NGO, reported 11 fatalities, with casualties in Caracas, Zulia, Yaracuy, Aragua, and Tachira.
Despite these reports, the Venezuelan government has not released any information regarding civilian deaths.
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