‘It’s Time to Rise Up,’ Venezuelan General Tells Military Officers in Video

A Venezuelan general called on the country’s armed forces on Sunday to rise up against President Nicolas Maduro, who has relied on the backing of the military to hold on to power despite an economic collapse.

Venezuelan residents in Colombia protest against Nicolas Maduro's government in Medellin, Colombia, on May 1, 2019. David Estrada/Reuters

CARACAS—A Venezuelan general called on the country’s armed forces on Sunday, May 12, to rise up against Nicolas Maduro, who has relied on the backing of the military to hold on to power despite an economic collapse.

Ramon Rangel, who identified himself as an air force general, said the Venezuelan government is being controlled by the “communist dictatorship” in Cuba—a key Maduro ally.