The violent scenes in Venezuela in recent days follow the launching of a campaign by extremist elements of Venezuela's opposition demanding the "ousting" of the democratically elected government. It is notable that even other sections of the opposition, including its recent presidential candidate, have distanced themselves from this (Venezuela braces for more violence – but it could work in Maduro's favour, 14 February).
The tragic killing of three Venezuelans, including both supporters and opponents of the government, has worrying echoes of what has occurred before in Venezuela, notably the coup d'etat of 2002. Then, hidden snipers fired on crowds of people in order to create social conflict and the conditions to justify a military coup. In addition, President Nicolás Maduro's announcement that the same pistol was used in the first two of the recent killings is thus deeply worrying.
Alvaro Sanchez
Charge d'affaires, Embassy of Venezuela
source Guardian
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