Doctors in Santo Domingo say they have put former Dominican Republic President Joaquin Balaguer on a respirator after he suffered internal bleeding.
Reports on the condition of the 95-year-old former president were contradictory Tuesday. A report saying Mr. Balaguer is in critical condition could not be confirmed.
The former president was hospitalized last Thursday due to stomach ulcers.
Mr. Balaguer ruled the Dominican Republic for 22 years, from 1966 to 1978 and again between 1986 and 1996. He left office for good amid allegations his 1994 election victory was rigged.
However, he has remained one of the country's most influential figures even in retirement.