'Perfect storm' of Venezuela risks surround COVID-19

Significance

Washington is increasing pressure on President Nicolas Maduro at a time of heightened vulnerability for both the Venezuelan government and people. It is a risky strategy on political and public health grounds.

Impacts

• The US ‘carrot and stick’ approach is contradictory and encourages Maduro and his officials to hunker down.
• Without agreement on humanitarian aid or the lifting of US sanctions, Venezuelans face grave health risks.
• Falling remittances will deal a new blow to the tottering economy.