Venezuelan crisis defection

Venezuela's socialist government said on June 26 it had derailed a coup bid, claiming the United States, Colombia and Chile colluded in a military plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro and install a general and former defense minister in his place.    

Canada suspended operations at its embassy in Venezuela on June 2, saying the regime of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro regime would not renew visas for its diplomats.

Venezuelans have gathered for mass protests after opposition leader Juan Guaidó called for fresh demonstrations.

It comes the day after President Nicolás Maduro said he had stopped an "attempted coup" by the opposition.

"Today we continue," Mr Guaidó tweeted. "We will keep going with more strength than ever, Venezuela". Pro-government protests will also take place.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro warned on April 30 that those responsible for a military uprising against him would face "criminal prosecutions."