In a recent televised statement, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro shifted blame onto the opposition and foreign sanctions for hindering the increase in income for Venezuelan workers. During his show “Con Maduro,” he accused “the perverse North American imperialism, at the request of the perverse Venezuelan oligarchy,” of requesting new sanctions on oil that were implemented on April 18.
Maduro claimed that these sanctions were aimed at obstructing the income of Venezuelan workers by $2 billion, thus preventing the planned benefits that were set to be announced on May 1. He referred to those who requested the sanctions as “the surnames,” insinuating that they were acting against the interests of the Venezuelan people.
This latest development adds to the ongoing political and economic turmoil in Venezuela, where hyperinflation and shortages of basic goods have plagued the country for years. The government led by Maduro has faced international criticism for its handling of the crisis, with many accusing the regime of corruption and human rights abuses.
As the situation in Venezuela continues to worsen, Maduro’s blaming of external factors for the country’s economic woes does little to address the root causes of the crisis. The Venezuelan people, already suffering from the effects of hyperinflation and instability, are left questioning the government’s ability to provide for its citizens.