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US: Venezuela's Maduro Relinquishing Power Not About Punishment

Cindy Saine

   STATE DEPARTMENT - The U.S. Special Representative to Venezuela Elliot
   Abrams told reporters at the State Department that America is "ready
   for change in Venezuela," and that embattled President Nicolas Maduro
   leaving power is a critical part of the country being able to move
   forward toward free elections and a transition to democracy.

   But Abrams stressed "this isn't about punishment, this isn't about
   vengeance and we have tried to make that clear."

   Abrams said he has not yet seen any signs of a willingness by Maduro to
   negotiate a compromise where he voluntarily leaves power.

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