Bolton urges Venezuelan defense chief, key officials to oust Maduro

US National Security Advisor John Bolton called Tuesday on Venezuela's defense chief and other key officials to oust President Nicolas Maduro, warning them: "Your time is up."

Speaking amid a military uprising in Venezuela, Bolton reiterated that "all options are on the table" but said the main US objective remains "a peaceful transfer of power."

The United States has thrown its full support behind opposition leader Juan Guaido, who is recognized by Washington and more than 50 countries as Venezuela's interim president.

US President Donald Trump said in a tweet he was following the situation "very closely."

"The United States stands with the People of Venezuela and their Freedom!" he tweeted.

In comments to reporters at the White House, Bolton singled out Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, Supreme Court Chief Justice Maikel Moreno and presidential guard commander Ivan Hernandez Dala.

"As is known to the opposition all across Venezuela, they committed to support ousting Maduro," he ...