Bay Area Venezuelans stand united with liberation movement

TAMPA, Fla. (FOX 13) - As Venezuela's opposition leader, Juan Guaido leads military uprisings against ousted president Nicolas Maduro, Venezuelans across the world, including in the Bay Area, are voicing their support.

"We're united as a Venezuela, over here, in the Tampa Bay area," said Ana Tague, who attended Tuesday evening's peaceful protest on Dale Mabry Highway.

In what's been their boldest move yet; groups of Venezuelan service members joined the opposition party and launched what they're calling Operation Freedom.

Protests at La Carlota airbase, in the capital city of Caracas, grew violent Tuesday as protestors clashed with soldiers still loyal to Maduro. Video shows an armored military vehicle plowing into protestors.

"There is no going back. It is time for Venezuela to get their freedom back," said Norma Reno, the president of CASA Venezuela Tampa Bay.

"My people are dying in the street," said Reno, who, like many, is horrified but proud for the relentless support of those fighting for change. "I am very scared, but also very happy."

U.S. officials have repeatedly expressed their support for interim president Juan Guaido.

National Security Adviser John Bolton alleged earlier Tuesday that Cuban troops were keeping Maduro in power in Caracas.

“It’s a very delicate moment,” Bolton said, adding that "all options" remained on the table, including, potentially a U.S. military intervention. “The president wants to see a peaceful transfer of power."

More protests are scheduled in Venezuela for Thursday.