A group of demonstrators and government supporters forced Thursday US Ambassador to Venezuela William Brownfield to stay in his car for 25 minutes following an meeting with Nueva Esparta Governor.

Demonstrators carrying placards that read "Respect Venezuela" and "Venezuela is not Iraq" blocked the access to the local government almost half an hour, Efe reported.

They also chanted slogans in favor of President Hugo Chávez and his political project, and against alleged US meddling into Venezuelan internal affairs.

As a result, Bownfield, who had met with Nueva Esparta Governor Morel Rodríguez, could not be on time for the opening of an Internet site with portals on the United States at the local Bar Association.

The ambassador's agenda included also a meeting with local businesspersons and a visit to a rehabilitation center for illicit drug abusers.