Venezuela Cancels New Years

Will a “global outpouring of love” heal Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez? That’s what his recently-designated political successor called for as the country’s leader suffers “new complications” following his fourth cancer operation. In the meantime, Venezuela has canceled its New Year's celebration out of respect for its ailing leader. Vice President Nicolas Madura said Chávez was fighting a respiratory infection in the wake of surgery, adding that his condition is “delicate” and his current treatment is “not without risks.” Chávez’s allies have reportedly discussed the possibility that death or illness may prevent him from swearing in for his third six-year term on Jan. 10.