rebuff

After the first boat strike, Maduro also sent a letter to his US counterpart calling for a meeting – an approach which has been rebuffed by the White House.

India was keen to build a military base on Assumption but was rebuffed.

Last year it faced controversy after accusations of cheating - which were later rebuffed - but it only helped to boost publicity, with a "ridiculous" number of entrants due to take part this year.

Ortega shared text messages showing the deputy tried to flirt with her and ask her out on dates, but she rebuffed him at every turn.

"They have rebuffed every opportunity to engage with us," he said.