ADThe promise of enhanced economic pressure against Maduro comes at a time when Venezuela’s opposition is faltering. Meanwhile, fissures within the opposition are coming to light amidst recent controversies involving alleged abuses of power. The 19 Rio Treaty member nations have been treading cautiously in pursuing economic restrictions against Venezuela while vowing not to invoke a provision in the accord that authorizes them to pursue a military intervention. Despite repeated remarks from Rio Treaty members indicating they will not pursue a military response, Venezuelan leaders contend the signatories are plotting to overthrow Maduro and warning citizens that an intervention could be imminent. “The people should be prepared and alert on the streets,” Diosdado Cabello, head of Venezuela’s all-powerful National Constitutional Assembly, said Tuesday.

Source: Washington Post December 03, 2019 17:48 UTC