Thousands of people have taken to the streets in Venezuela in recent days to protest against Maduro's clinging to power after the election on July 28.
The regime-loyal electoral authority declared Maduro the winner, but the result is being questioned both within the country and by leaders around the world.
The Opposition Claims Election Victory
The anger against Maduro, who has been president since the death of his predecessor Hugo Chávez in 2013, has led to large-scale riots in the country. More than 2,000 demonstrators have been arrested, and according to human rights organizations, 22 people have been killed, reports The Guardian.
The opposition – led by María Machado – claims to have won the election with a large majority. Over the weekend, Machado appeared in the capital Caracas, carrying a flag with the text "Venezuela has won".
Maduro calls the opposition's move "a coup attempt" and has ordered the country's military to crack down.
You can be sure that we will pursue all criminals and fascists, as fascism will not take power in Venezuela. I am willing to do whatever it takes, and I count on you to ensure that order, law, and constitution prevail, he said to the forces.
"Seriously Concerned"
The statement has sparked widespread criticism. The EU says that the union is "seriously concerned" about the harassment of the opposition.
"The European Union urges the Venezuelan authorities to stop arbitrary arrests, repression, and violent rhetoric against members of the opposition and civil society, and to release all political prisoners," says EU Foreign Policy Chief Josep Borrell in a statement.
