Venezuela once more in the grip of protests

Venezuela once more in the grip of protests
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By Catherine Hardy with REUTERS
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More clashes have broken out in Caracas as daily protests against the president descended into chaos.

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More clashes have broken out in Caracas as daily protests against the president descended into chaos.

Tear gas was fired as demonstrators ran for cover. A bus was set on fire.

What has the president said?

Speaking at a political rally, Nicolas Maduro blamed the head of the opposition-led National Assembly for all the violence.

He says the demonstrations amount to a violent effort to overthrow him.

The 54-year-old former bus driver says his opponents are seeking a coup with the support of the United States and encouragement of international media.

What has the opposition said?

They accuse Maduro of breaking up the protests violently.

Describing Maduro as a dictator who has wrecked the OPEC nation’s economy, they are seeking fresh elections, foreign humanitarian aid, freedom for hundreds of jailed activists and autonomy for the opposition-controlled legislature.

How long have the protests been going on?

Six weeks. Driven by anger over the country’s brutal economic crisis, they have left nearly 40 people dead.

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