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U.S. Says Venezuela Accusations 'Baseless and False'

The United States on Monday rejected as "baseless and false" accusations by Venezuela that it was aiding anti-government protests.

"We support human rights and fundamental freedoms -- including freedom of expression and of peaceful assembly -- in Venezuela as we do in countries around the world," State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.

"But as we have long said, Venezuela's political future is for the Venezuelan people to decide."

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro announced late Sunday the expulsion of three U.S. diplomats whom he accused of meeting with protest leaders under the guise of offering them visas.

"The allegations that the United States is helping to organize protesters in Venezuela is baseless and false," Psaki said.

She said the State Department had not been formally notified of the expulsions.

Source: Agence France Presse


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