Venezuelan government-opposition talks advance slowly

Significance

The talks have led to ‘partial agreements’ between President Nicolas Maduro and opposition leader Juan Guaido, but no immediate progress in securing the Maduro government’s goal of lifting US sanctions. Agreements include a joint government and opposition round table to address the national health crisis and a joint statement rejecting Guyana's claims to the Essequibo Delta.

Impacts

• There will be no rapid lifting of US sanctions.
• Agreements on health may facilitate a strengthening of the vaccine roll-out and humanitarian assistance.
• Aggressive language on both sides could undermine prospects for success.