Venezuela Live Aid: Concerts to take place in Colombia

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

ANKARA (AA) - A group of dueling concerts this week will play for the hearts and minds of Venezuelans, with one hoping to raise $100 million for those affected by the political and economic crisis.

A border concert organized by British billionaire Sir Richard Branson of Virgin Group fame will feature artists including Lele Pons, Juanes, J Balvin, Maluma, Ricardo Montaner, Luis Fonsi, Alejandro Sanz, Juan Luis Guerra, Carlos Vives and Fonseca.

“Our goal is to raise $100 million dollars in 60 days and reopen Venezuela´s border so humanitarian aid can finally reach those millions who need it the most,” according to the Venezuela Aid Live website.

"FANB [National Bolivarian Armed Forces of Venezuela], we ask that this #23F [Feb. 23] listen to the voice of people, people that you well know” suffering from the lack of food and medicines," tweeted opposition leader Juan Guaido on Tuesday. "Allow the entry of humanitarian aid and open the doors to a better future for all. Venezuela counts on you!"

Venezuelan Information Minister Jorge Rodriguez said Monday the government of Nicolas Maduro also plans to organize a "Megaconcert" on Feb. 22 - 23, on the Simon Bolivar bridge that connects Venezuela and Colombia, with the slogans of "War of Nothing" and "Hands off Venezuela."

On Feb. 6, the Maduro government blocked the bridge to prevent U.S. aid from entering.

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

Tensions rose when opposition leader Guaido declared himself acting president on Jan. 23, a move which was supported by the U.S. and many European and Latin American countries.

Turkey, Russia, China, Iran, Bolivia and Mexico have put their weight behind Maduro.