While tensions between Nicolás Maduro’s government and the U.S. escalate, many Venezuelans express more immediate concerns about daily survival than military intervention. In Caracas’s Quinta Crespo market, local residents focus on budgeting for meals rather than geopolitical developments. Alejandro Orellano, a vendor, emphasizes that the rising value of the dollar poses a greater challenge than the potential for conflict.
Recently, the U.S. has positioned thousands of troops and military assets near Venezuela, which follows a warning from U.S. aviation authorities about increased military activity in the region. Additionally, a series of U.S. airstrikes targeting drug trafficking boats has reportedly killed over 80 people. While U.S. officials describe these actions as necessary to combat narcotics, the Maduro administration views them as attempts to destabilize his government.
Amidst these high-stakes tensions, ordinary citizens express more immediate fears about inflation and food prices. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has predicted a significant depreciation of the bolívar, with prices for basic goods already soaring. For instance, a kilogram of chicken now costs about four times the official monthly minimum wage. While some government bonuses exist, they are not sufficient to cover basic nutritional needs.
Personal accounts reveal a reluctance to discuss potential conflict openly, especially following a crackdown on dissent after the disputed 2024 presidential elections. Reports indicate over 2,000 arrests, with many facing political charges. Barbara Marrero, a pastry chef, notes a pervasive atmosphere of anxiety, while others like Esther Guevara express concern about the implications of possible military actions.
Despite varying opinions on the likelihood of a U.S. invasion, many residents prioritize their welfare over speculative fears. Javier Jaramillo, a vendor, reflects a widespread sentiment: the greater concern lies in the national economic crisis rather than military threats.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3e0jnww2e9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss