CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — Venezuela's President Nicolás Maduro is overseeing a grand military parade celebrating Independence Day as the embattled socialist leader comes under mounting criticism for using brutal tactics to crush his opponents.

Friday's celebration follows the release of a scathing report by the United Nations' human rights watchdog that accuses government security forces of torture, sexual abuse and extrajudicial killings.

Maduro has maintained the military's backing amid a political standoff with opposition leader Juan Guaidó, who is trying to oust Maduro and has support from more than 50 nations, including the United States.

Guaido is calling on Venezuelans to take to the streets for huge demonstrations.

State TV shows Maduro regaling in his military might, applauding as soldiers march past, tanks roll by and fighter jets fly overhead.