US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s “days are numbered” after deadly clashes over humanitarian aid.
“Picking exact days is difficult. I’m confident that the Venezuelan people will ensure that Maduro’s days are numbered,” Mr Pompeo told CNN.
Two people died in Saturday’s clashes between civilians and troops loyal to Mr Maduro, who blocks aid deliveries.
Self-declared interim President Juan Guaidó said Mr Maduro must resign.
Mr Guaidó also called on other nations to consider “all measures” to oust Mr Maduro after opposition-led efforts to bring in aid descended in the clashes.
Mr Guaidó marshalled volunteers to collect and transport the aid from Brazil and Colombia – but this set off fierce border clashes with soldiers, who opened fire using a mixture of live ammunition and rubber bullets.
US President Donald Trump says he has not ruled out an armed response.
On Sunday, the European Union joined the condemnation.
“We reject the use of irregular armed groups to intimidate civilians and lawmakers who have mobilised to distribute aid,” said EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini.
Mr Guaidó last month declared himself interim president and has since been recognised by more than 50 countries.
He argues that alleged irregularities with the nation’s 2018 election render Mr Maduro’s leadership illegitimate.
Mr Maduro, who is backed by key economic allies including Russia, Cuba and China, says he is the legitimate president.
He also warns that deliveries of foreign aid would open the way for US military intervention.