Opposition demonstrators take part in protests against the government of Nicolas Maduro

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Venezuela's opposition holds secret talks with military

As thousands of protesters took to the streets to call for the ouster of Nicolas Maduro, Venezuela’s opposition leader Juan Guaidó confirmed he’s held secret talks with senior factions of the military.

By James Blears

Venezuelan Congressional leader, Juan Guaidó, who declared himself the Interim President exactly one week ago, says he's already held in-depth talks with the country's military top brass.

As yet no major indications from them of a split that could lead to a rupture in loyalty from President Nicolas Maduro.

Thus far their bedrock support has provided Maduro a practical and guaranteed political lifeline for continued survival.

However, President Nicolas Maduro, who was re-elected last May, in a process boycotted by the Opposition, says he's prepared to hold talks with the Opposition on neutral ground, provided it's fairly conducted via the international media.

He's rejected an ultimatum from Britian, France, Germany, and Spain - from an international UN Security Council meeting - to announce a fresh Presidential Election within several days.

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