Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez says his country will not recognize Libya's opposition, calling the rebel Transitional National Council a “group of terrorists.”

Mr. Chavez on Monday praised Libyan leader Moammar Gadhafi and criticized other nations that have recognized the opposition council.

The Venezuelan president has repeatedly condemned the international military operation in Libya. NATO has enforced a no-fly zone and carried out airstrikes since March under a United Nations Security Council resolution to protect civilians from attacks by Mr. Gadhafi's forces.

More than 30 countries, including the United States, France and Britain, have recognized the opposition council as Libya's interim government.

Also Monday, France said it has released $259 million in frozen Libyan funds to the Transitional National Council for humanitarian needs.