“They believe they are punishing us. Wiht each sanction we unite more,” Nicolas Maduro spoke on thursday about the latest measures ordered by the United States. The main response, though, came from the National Assembly (AN). parliament has approved a regulation that contemplates it harsh sanctions against opponents who call for or support economic measures against the Government. The so-called Organic Law of the Liberator simón Bolívar against the Imperialist Bloc and for the Defense of the Bolivarian republic provides for disqualification from holding public offices for up to 60 years, imprisonment for 25 to 30 years, confiscation of assets and even trials in absentia against adversaries of the Miraflores Palace. “Qwho accuse us of treasonwhen we stop believing that this country will be free”, replied the opposition leader, Maria Corina Machado. On November 22, the leader of Vente Venezuela was charged with this crime for supporting pressure from Washington.
The NA gave the green light to the initiative in just a week of discussions among Maduro’s colleagues and in response to the US crackdown on Caracas in recent weeks. The political change in washington,which at some point anticipates the next governance of the tycoon Donald Trumpwas verified through a series of coordinated actions. The White House recognized Edmundo González Urrutia as “president-elect” on July 28,while the Treasury Department expanded the number of front-line Venezuelan government officials subject to sanctions. Simultaneously occurring, the North American Congress is preparing to approve with bipartisan consensus a law that will allow Trump to double the economic pressure against the South American country.
“It’s a progressive law”Maduro said. The president of AN and one of the men closest to Maduro, Jorge Rodríguez, notably promoted this project which found only eager consensus. “There are times when countries have to make intricate decisions like the one we will take today, but the most critically important thing is that they are made with greatness of spirit. There is nervousness about what will be approved here today, said the pro-government MP Roy Daza, explaining the need for the initiative.
Rodríguez underlined the importance of the new law which allows state institutions to act without waiting for the court ruling regarding disqualification from holding public office. Article 11 provides for a prison sentence of between 25 and 30 years, plus a large fine.14 authorizes the expulsion from the territory of natural persons of foreign nationality involved in the punished activities. The actions are of an “imprescriptible” nature. Trials in absentia were approved in Article 18.
The media paper, electronic and also social networksthey were included in the new law to the extent that they spread expressions favorable to the measures adopted by Washington.
Day of mobilizations
The opposition is preparing a new presentation on Sunday in support of González Urrutia, who is exiled in Madrid. The protest, Machado said, is the beginning of a series of initiatives that aim to extend until January 10, the date on which the change of command must take place.
Madurismo also intends to return to winning on the streets next Sunday.The president himself called on his followers to leave their homes to “dance the drums and celebrate the four months of the great consolidated victory of the electoral process.”
According to Maduro, “sIf fascism says No to christmas!, the Venezuelan people say Yes to Christmas! Yes to the party; yes to bonuses; yes to the drum; yes to dance; yes to rumba; yes to peace; yes to life”
How do sanctions affect a country’s sovereignty and political stability, especially in the context of Venezuela?
Title: Sanctions and Sovereignty: An Engaging Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Elena Torres
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we’re diving deep into the recent developments in Venezuela, particularly regarding the sanctions imposed by the United States and the response from President Nicolas Maduro. Here to shed light on this complex issue is Dr.Elena Torres, a renowned political analyst specializing in Latin American politics. Thank you for joining us,Dr. Torres!
Dr. Elena Torres: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss these critical developments.
Time.news Editor: Let’s jump right in. President Maduro recently stated, “They believe they are punishing us. with each sanction, we unite more.” How do you interpret this sentiment, and what does it reveal about the government’s strategy?
Dr. Elena Torres: Maduro’s statement reflects a longstanding narrative among authoritarian leaders who frame external sanctions as an attack on national sovereignty. By claiming that the sanctions only strengthen their resolve,Maduro seeks to rally domestic support and justify his administration’s policies. This type of rhetoric can be quite effective in unifying his base by portraying sanctions not just as punitive measures but as imperialistic aggression.
time.news Editor: Interesting. The recent passing of the Organic Law of the Liberator Simón bolívar in the National Assembly marks a important escalation. This law aims to impose harsh sanctions on opponents who call for or support economic measures against the government. What implications does this have for the political landscape in Venezuela?
Dr. Elena Torres: This law is a crucial move in establishing a culture of fear among dissenters. It sends a clear message that speaking against the government, especially regarding economic sanctions or interventions, will have severe consequences. This tactic could stifle opposition severely, making it difficult for any organized challenges to emerge.The Maduro government is consolidating power and attempting to delegitimize any opposition, which could lead to increased polarization within the country.
Time.news Editor: We’ve seen this pattern before in other countries, where governments use sanctions as a scapegoat for economic troubles. Do you think this will lead to greater internal unrest, or could it unify the population against perceived outside threats?
Dr. Elena Torres: It’s a double-edged sword. While some segments of the population may rally around the government in response to external pressure, others, particularly those suffering from economic hardship, may grow increasingly disillusioned. The effectiveness of repression versus dissent largely depends on the ability of the opposition to mobilize and articulate an choice vision for Venezuela. If the opposition can effectively communicate that they offer a better path forward without siding with foreign powers, there’s a chance for substantial change. Otherwise,temporary unity against external threats may overshadow domestic grievances for a while.
Time.news Editor: The international community is watching these developments closely. How do you foresee the response from the United States and its allies in the face of these new laws?
Dr. Elena Torres: I expect that the U.S. will maintain or possibly escalate its sanctions, aiming to increase pressure on Maduro while further isolating his regime internationally. Sanctions frequently enough come with strategic conditions demanding reform; though,as Maduro seems resistant,this cycle may just deepen existing divisions. Allies in the region could face a dilemma—supporting humanitarian efforts without endorsing Maduro’s governance. It’s a nuanced balance that will require careful navigation.
Time.news Editor: Definitely a complex situation unfolding. As we wrap up, what should we be watching for in the coming weeks as this situation continues to develop?
Dr.Elena Torres: Keep an eye on the response from civil society and the opposition. Their strategies will play a crucial role in determining the trajectory of political unrest. Additionally, international reactions—especially from organizations like the OAS and the UN—will be significant in shaping the next steps for diplomacy and possible interventions. the contours of domestic power dynamics will also be important, particularly how the military responds to these policies and whether cracks appear within Maduro’s base of support.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Torres, for your insightful analysis on these pressing issues facing Venezuela. We appreciate your expertise and look forward to future conversations as this situation evolves.
Dr. Elena Torres: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure discussing these important topics with you.