Feb 19 (Reuters) - Venezuela's ruling party-controlled legislature on Thursday approved a limited amnesty bill that human rights organizations say falls short of offering relief for hundreds of political prisoners in the country.

WASHINGTON, Feb 18 (Reuters) - The top ⁠commander ⁠overseeing U.S. forces in Latin America, General ⁠Francis Donovan, and senior Pentagon official Joseph Humire made a surprise visit to Venezuela ​on Wednesday for security talks, U.S. officials said.

As U.S. sanctions ease and oil money begins to trickle back after Nicolás Maduro's removal, Venezuelans weigh hopes for recovery against the harsh reality of surviving on wages that barely cover food.

By Andrea Shalal WASHINGTON, Feb 19 (Reuters) - Venezuela's economic and humanitarian situation is "quite fragile," the International Monetary Fund said on Thursday, adding that it was seeing inflation estimated to be in the triple digits and a rapid depreciation of the currency.

President Donald Trump downplayed acting Venezuelan President Delcy Rodríguez's recent comment to NBC News that Nicolás Maduro is still the legitimate leader of Venezuela, telling reporters Monday that the response was one of political necessity.

The top U.S. military commander for Latin America has met with Venezuela’s acting president in Caracas as both sides discuss security and policy goals.

MADRID, Feb 20 (Reuters) - Spain's foreign minister urged the European Union on Friday to lift its sanctions on Venezuela's interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, after lawmakers in the South American country approved a limited amnesty bill for certain prisoners.

The bill may bring the release of hundreds of political prisoners. But many critics say the legislation, passed after major pressure from the Trump administration, raises concerns.

Nicolás Maduro is still the legitimate leader of Venezuela, the country's acting president said in an exclusive interview with NBC News.“I can tell you President Nicolás Maduro is the legitimate president.

Francisco D’Agostino, a Venezuelan businessman once sanctioned by the United States for helping Caracas evade oil restrictions, maintained a close relationship with disgraced American financier