Germany backs Venezuelan opposition leader Guaido

Germany's Foreign Minister Heiko Maas expressed his support Thursday for Venezuelan National Assembly President Juan Guaido, who has declared himself interim president of the South American country.

"Germany and the EU are not neutral. We support the National Assembly, which is elected by the people," Heiko Maas said in New York as quoted by the Foreign Ministry on Twitter.

Maas said Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has no "democratic legitimacy" as president.

"Together with its European partners, Germany calls for a peaceful political process and democratic re-elections," he added.

Earlier, Maas told Germany's public international broadcaster Deutsche Welle that they support Guaido, pointing out that they are on the side of the Venezuelan opposition leader.

Maas, who argued that Venezuela's electoral law was violated during the country's presidential polls last May, said Germany has called for fresh elections.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Washington recognizes Guaido as Venezuela's interim president.

Guaido's declaration was also quickly recognized by Canada and several fellow Latin American nations.

Maduro slammed the decision and said his country was cutting off diplomatic relations with the U.S., giving American diplomats 72 hours to leave the country.

He made the announcement while speaking to supporters who had gathered in front of the presidential palace in the capital Caracas.