The US Government is probably framing a plot in Venezuela, like a "slow-wick, soft coup," Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez Wednesday told foreign correspondents during a press conference at Ayacucho Hall, Miraflores presidential palace.

"To (US President) George W. Bush and to the masterminds of this slow-wick, soft coup: Sirs, forget about your plan here in Venezuela. What could eventually happen is a revolutionary outburst. We do not want it to happen. However, in that case, I would be at the forefront. If this ever happens -and I will make a great effort for this not to occur- the government would join the people and lead the revolutionary outburst. Therefore, you would rather stop it."

The head of state showed reporters a picture drawn by him, depicting a dynamite cartridge with a burning wick. The graphic, in his opinion, illustrated the ongoing plan he was making reference.

"We are succeeding in cutting the slow wick here, in blowing it out. However, should we fail to make it because they are putting plenty of money, holding meetings in Miami and elsewhere in Latin America, we are conducting intelligence and counter-intelligence works 24 hours around the clock, here in Latin America and even inside the United States."