Venezuela's Maduro readies security powers in case of feared US attack

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has signed a decree granting him additional security powers in case the US military enters the country, the nation's vice president, Delcy Rodriguez, said on Monday. The measure marks the latest escalation in tensions between the two countries, with Maduro publicly alleging that US President Donald Trump's administration is plotting to oust him. The decree would allow Maduro to mobilise armed forces throughout the country and give the military authority over public services and the oil industry. The US has deployed a fleet of warships through the Caribbean, which Washington says is to combat drug trafficking through the region. In recent weeks, the US has also struck several boats it claims were carrying illicit drugs from...