Caracas, March 16 (teleSUR-RHC) Venezuelans took the streets of Caracas on Sunday to reject U.S. threats and to support a new new law passed to enable President Nicolas Maduro to respond to the latest aggression.

Thousands attended the march, which was addressed by President Maduro, who described it as highlighting the unity of the Venezuelan people in the face of such external threats.

The peaceful demonstration began around 10 a.m. in Plaza Bolivar, as the parliament was debating the new measure, which was backed by a majority of legislators.

President Maduro also welcomed the "support of the governments and peoples of the world" describing it as "a great victory for the defense of our sovereignty."

Regional blocs UNASUR and ALBA have voiced support for the Venezuelan government since U.S. President Barack Obama declared the Latin American country a “national security threat.”