Former Colombian paramilitary head Salvatore Mancuso testifies before the Special Jurisdiction for Peace via video from Georgia, US. (Screen capture / JEP)Mexico City, Mexico, May 16, 2023 (venezuelanalysis.com) – Venezuelan opposition figures reportedly conspired with Colombian paramilitaries to stage a coup d’etat and assassinate President Hugo Chávez. Petro has similarly denounced a coup plot by former Colombian security officials, mercenaries and paramilitary outfits. Human rights activists in Colombia have long denounced the closeness between Colombian state security forces and paramilitary outfits. The plot, known as “Operation Gideon”, counted on the support and blessing of high-profile Venezuelan opposition figures, despite denials from Guaidó.