Venezuela has announced the health of President Hugo Chávez has deteriorated in his recovery from recent cancer surgery. A government statement says Chávez has developed a “severe” new infection that has worsened his breathing. Last week, Venezuelan Vice President Nicolás Maduro repeated his warning that Chávez is “fighting for his life.” He has not been seen in public since winning re-election late last year.

Vice President Nicolás Maduro: “You all know why he didn’t take care of his health: because he gave his body and soul and forgot about his obligations to himself, so he could give everything to the people—work, life, housing, food, education, healthcare. That’s the truth. So they come and twist these things that are the truth. Our commander is sick because he gave his life for those who don’t have anything and never had anything. That’s the truth. He is battling for his life, for his health. And we are there with him.”