Venezuela Insists Hugo Chavez Is Making Progress

Almost fully animatronic?

Venezuela's vice president said Tuesday that President Hugo Chavez has been making progress in his treatment for a severe respiratory infection and asked questions of his aides during a visit in Cuba.

Vice President Nicolas Maduro said on television that he and other officials including Oil Minister Rafael Ramirez met with Chavez on Monday. Maduro said they provided him with an update on "the government in a new stage" and other matters.

"He asked our friend Rafael Ramirez about (certain) aspects, each one his element," Maduro said in a televised meeting with state governors. "Our commander is climbing the hill, he's advancing, and that fills us with great happiness."