Venezuela Cuts Ties with the U.S. as Maduro's Security to be Maintained by Russian Forces

According to Reuters, a Russian private military company has arrived in Venezuela to provide personal security for President Nicolas Maduro.

The agency cited two anonymous sources who reported that private military units have arrived in Caracas in recent days to carry out secret missions for Russia.

A third source confirmed this information but was unable to specify when the 'mercenaries' arrived and what their purpose is.

Notably, Maduro announced that he has severed ties with the United States and President Donald Trump, while maintaining relations in the fields of energy and economy. Venezuela will continue to sell oil to the U.S. if the latter agrees to purchase it.

Maduro also expressed willingness to meet with opposition leader Guaidó, who has declared himself the interim president.