Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced that authorities foiled a US-sponsored attempt to overthrow him.
In December, US President Barack Obama approved sanctions on Venezuela, targeting individuals who are allegedly responsible for human rights violations during February protests against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.
Maduro warned that the imposition of sanctions would worsen relations between the two countries, describing the move as imperialist and disrespectful. The president has also accused Washington of orchestrating several plots against Venezuela, claiming that the country's opposition is plotting a coup with US backing.
Maduro's announcement came on a day that saw opposition rallies take place in several major cities. At least eight people were wounded in the protests.
