Venezuela Roundup: U.S. sanctions reinstated, crypto for oil, HPV vaccines controversy

U.S. reinstates sanctions on Venezuela

Sanctions against Venezuela have returned with renewed force. The U.S. government announced on Wednesday the reinstatement of sanctions targeting the energy sector in Venezuela, citing the failure of the Chavista regime to deliver on its promise of holding free elections. According to Lagrada, the temporary six-month license (General License 44) granted by the U.S. for the country to sell oil and gas on international markets expired the same night as the announcement. The countdown to the final date for companies to fulfil their contracts has begun, with the deadline set for May 31st. After this date, all sales must be completed, and comprehensive isolation will resume. While the U.S. government acknowledges that President Nicolás Maduro has fulfilled some election-related promises, such as updating the census and voter registrations, the official American stance is that many promises remain unfulfilled.

India to curb Venezuelan crude imports

India is expected to stop importing Venezuelan crude once U.S. sanctions are reinstated. This comes as a result of Washington's decision to ease sanctions on Venezuelan oil trade for six months. This move makes India one of the largest buyers of Venezuelan crude, reports Trade Winds. US sanctions on Venezuela have been in existence since the Trump administration. In light of the escalating human rights violations and pervasive corruption under the leadership of Nicolás Maduro, who has held power since 2013, the Trump Administration broadened U.S. sanctions. These measures now encompass financial restrictions, sectoral sanctions, and penalties targeting the government.

HPV vaccines scarcity

Venezuela has failed to provide the promised HPV vaccines amidst the lack of adequate sex education. According to Medical Xpress, this has resulted in a lack of awareness and access to the vaccine, leading to a high rate of HPV infections and cervical cancer. Accurate health care data in Venezuela is scarce, rendering it nearly impossible to determine the prevalence of HPV infection or the extent of vaccination coverage, whether through private means or by non-governmental organisations. The World Health Organisation's estimates on HPV vaccine coverage leave a void where Venezuela is concerned. This comes back to the government's failure to prioritise sexual and reproductive health, along with economic challenges, as the contributors to this problem, adds Medical Xpress.

Crypto for oil sales

According to Reuters, Venezuela has turned to cryptocurrency for its oil sales following new sanctions imposed by the U.S., a development that raises concerns for many. The most recent update from the Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA indicates plans to further explore cryptocurrency transactions for oil exports. A report by Venezuelan opposition figure Leopoldo Lopez, in collaboration with Kristofer Doucette, highlights the importance for democratic authorities to address the misuse of Venezuelan cryptocurrency under Nicolás Maduro's administration. Doucette, a national security expert at Chainalysis, emphasized the necessity of implementing robust anti-money laundering measures.

Presidential elections audit

Venezuela has started audits for the upcoming presidential elections, with the programme running until August 5th. Prensa Latina reports that the first phase will end on May 10, and the elections are scheduled for July 28th. Both national authorities and international experts view this evaluation and control process as a cornerstone of the Venezuelan electoral system, acknowledged as one of the finest in both Latin America and the global arena.