Venezuela has been mired in difficult economic and political situations after opposition leader Juan Guaido declared himself interim president and was recognized by the United States and some other countries, arousing fear of foreign military intervention.

Nicolas Maduro was reelected in May 2018 and was sworn in as president on Jan. 10 for another six-year term.

Alleging that the Maduro administration is illegitimate, Guaido, who was the head of the National Assembly, declared himself interim president during an anti-government rally on Jan. 23.

The United States, among some other countries, has recognized Guaido's presidency, and US President Donald Trump has warned that "all options are on the table." Maduro, in response, announced the severing of diplomatic and political ties with the United States.