Venezuela Breaks Diplomatic Ties with Panama

Amidst violent protests led by students throughout he nation, Venezuela has broke diplomatic and commercial relations with Panama. President Nicolas Maduro announced that he believes Panama was part of a "conspiracy" against Venezuela. The announcement and derision of the Panamanian government came during the celebration of the life of former Venezuelan president Hugo Chavez who died last year. Among the heated comments, Maduro proclaimed, "We're not going to let anyone get away with interfering with our fatherland, you despicable lackey, president of Panama." The comments and actions of Maduro come as Panama requested that the Organization of American States investigate Venezuela for its actions concerning the protests that have left 25 dead.