Latin American nations denounce Venezuela crackdown

Eight Latin American nations, including Mexico, Argentina and Brazil, have collectively denounced Venezuela's "excessive use of force" against civilian protesters after the death toll from anti-government unrest in the country rose to 36. The group of nations, also including Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras and Paraguay, condemned the increase in violence in the oil-producing country and urged its government to respect the human rights of its citizens. "We condemn the excessive use of force by Venezuelan authorities against civilians who are protesting government measures that affect democratic stability and cause the loss of human life," the countries said, according to a statement from the Mexican government. More…