This week Plugged In takes a look at the crisis in Venezuela. How did the once-wealthy South American country spiral to the edge of political and financial ruin? And who’s really in charge?
The United States has accused Venezuela’s former strongman Nicolas Maduro of blocking humanitarian aid to his desperately needy people. VOA’s Zlatica Hoke reports that while many call for Maduro to leave, he still enjoys the support of Cuba and Russia
Venezuelans fearful of taking to the streets again after past uprisings ended in violent crackdowns and bitter divisions must be prepared to risk it all again
In border areas, farmers can be even more exposed, regularly becoming the target of extortion by armed groups, engaged in running contraband or drug trafficking
The high cost of food in Venezuela and constant shortages have forced many Venezuelans to rummage through trash to find something to eat
The United Nations refugee agency estimates more than 3 million Venezuelans have left their homeland because of the political and economic turmoil there