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OTTAWA – Venezuela’s embattled President Juan Guaidó said Canada’s support has been essential as he tries to take control of his country, but said more still needs to be done to restore democracy in his homeland.

Guaidó is recognized by the international community and by some elected officials inside Venezuela, but he doesn’t have the support of the country’s armed forces or courts, who remain loyal to Nicolás Maduro.

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Guaidó arrived in Ottawa on Monday after stops in both London and Paris trying to garner more support from the international community. Speaking through a translator, he acknowledged he could face difficulties returning to his country

“Everything is a risk in Venezuela,” he said.

He said many of his staff were in hiding as they fear arrest, but it was important to keep fighting for change.