Venezuela in turmoil

The political crisis in Venezuela has escalated, after opposition leader Juan Guaidó declared himself the country’s interim leader on January 23 and urged President Nicolás Maduro to step down. Guaidó’s swearing-in as leader was supported the United States and his other allies, but Maduro retains the backing of China and Russia. Guaidó said Maduro’s January 10, 2019 inauguration for a second term is illegitimate.
Once among the richest people in South America, Venezuelans – soldiers included – have taken to the streets. They say it is more about survival than politics since they now face devastation caused by lack of living essentials, such as food and sanitary products.
Here is a closer look at the Venezuela crisis.