US president Donald Trump has said he recognised Venezuela’s opposition leader as interim president.
Juan Guaidó declared himself the interim president, in a dramatic escalation of efforts to force out Nicolás Maduro, who has overseen the country’s slide into authoritarianism and economic ruin.
Mr Trump's response came came minutes after the 35-year-old declared himself as acting leader in Caracas.
Juan Guaidó declares himself Venezuela president.
“We’re not considering anything, but all options are on the table,” he told reporters at the White House when asked if he was considering sending the US military into Venezuela.
He added: "In its role as the only legitimate branch of government duly elected by the Venezuelan people, the National Assembly invoked the country's constitution to declare Nicolas Maduro illegitimate, and the office of the presidency therefore vacant.
"The people of Venezuela have courageously spoken out againstMaduro and his regime and demanded freedom and the rule of law."
Mr Trump also urged other governments to recognize Mr Guaidó , adding that he "will continue to use the full weight of United States economic and diplomatic power to press for the restoration of Venezuelan democracy."
Mr Trump continued by saying his administration will "continue to hold the illegitimate Maduro regime directly responsible for any threats it may pose to the safety of the Venezuelan people."
But Mr Maduro has said the government was breaking relations with the United States following Trump's backing.
Speaking to supporters outside the Miraflores presidential palace in Caracas, socialist leader Mr Maduro said he would give US diplomatic personnel 72 hours to leave Venezuela, which is suffering from a hyperinflationary economic collapse.
Tens of thousands of Venezuelans took to the streets in protest against President Maduro who was worn in for a second term earlier this month, after a poll considered a sham by many in the international community.
Police fired tear gas to disperse protesters in several areas, after a rally on Tuesday evening left a reported four people dead.
Mr Guaidó was quickly recognised by the US, Canada, Brazil, Colombia and other US allies.
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