Russia shares Maduro's concern about his safety

By Elena Teslova

MOSCOW (AA) - Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has reason to worry about his life, said spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday.

"Regarding the statement of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro that he is concerned about his own security, how can he not be, when the representatives of the U.S. law enforcement structures officially and directly state that he must be replaced, that they do not recognize neither his presidential immunity nor his status," Maria Zakharova said at a news conference.

According to Zakharova, the danger of a military intervention in Venezuela remains in force and if it happens, it will result in humanitarian and migration crisis.

She also said new sanctions against the country's oil sector can lead to an ecological catastrophe as it is impossible to stop oil production within 24 hours.

Venezuela has been rocked by protests since Jan. 10, when Maduro was sworn in for a second term following a vote boycotted by the opposition.

Last week, Guaido, the leader of Venezuela’s opposition-led National Assembly, declared himself president, a move immediately supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, Canada and most Latin American nations.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro quickly shot back, cutting off diplomatic relations with Washington and accusing the U.S. of orchestrating a coup against his government.