Maduro Warns of ‘Nazi-Fascist’ Current in Ranks of Opposition

As violent right-wing attacks ramp up after more than 50 days of ongoing protests, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro warned of a Nazi-fascist current within the opposition, which Maduro's administration claims is aided and abetted by the United States in the name of toppling the leftist government.

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Appearing on his weekly Sunday broadcast, "Los Domingos con Maduro," the president said that the racist faction, based on “hatred and contempt,” involves leaders from the Democratic Unity Table, known by its Spanish acronym MUD, including the right-wing president of the National Assembly, Julio Borges.

Although 17 opposition parties have agreed to discuss the terms of a new constituent assembly called on by Maduro, groups aligned with MUD have refused to cooperate with the negotiations.

Condemning the aggression perpetrated by MUD leaders, Maduro stated, "It is one of the most horrifying things.” He called on both Venezuelans and the media alike to reject MUD’s actions and the violence that has "infected the souls of thousands of Venezuelans."

Maduro addresses the country, saying, "We will continue to act forcefully, with democratic authority, against the fascist violence that has been unleashed."

The Bolivarian leader also blamed U.S. President Donald Trump for instigating recent violent events in the country, saying, "(Trump) wants to take political control of Venezuela ... enough of imperialist aggression."

Maduro also decried Argentine President Mauricio Macri, who he described as the "protector father of the fascist, violent and coup-mongering right of Venezuela.”

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Finally, he denounced the recent attack against a young man in Caracas, who was set on fire by a hooded mob, for allegedly identifying with Chavismo.

"The crimes committed by these fascists are hate crimes, they are serious. Burning a person because they think he is Chavista is a crime of hatred and against humanity," declared Maduro.

In response to the violent protests, Maduro called for a "great national mobilization for peace" next Tuesday to reject "hate and fascist violence."

On Saturday, Venezuelan Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez reiterated the call for peace. Speaking at a community event, she said that the constituent assembly “is a choice for all Venezuelans who oppose violence, want peace for our children and want to defend the sovereignty of Venezuela against interventionist agents.”