UN warns Venezuela of ‘further sanctions’

BRUSSELS: The EU said yesterday it may impose further sanctions on Venezuela if it believes democracy is being undermined there, after its president called for elections next month that the main opposition has said it will boycott.

EU foreign affairs chief Federica Mogherini said she regretted the way the authorities under President Nicolas Maduro had called the May 20 presidential and legislative elections without consensus on the “conditions for a credible and inclusive electoral process”.

Venezuela has tumbled into an economic and social crisis, with millions suffering food and medicine shortages, hyperinflation and growing insecurity, which critics say is the result of the dysfunctional policies of Maduro’s government.

Maduro, who blames the downturn on an “economic war” led by the opposition and the US, is seeking re-election.

The main opposition coalition is boycotting the vote, and the country’s two most popular opposition leaders have been banned from competing.

“The EU will monitor closely the electoral process and related developments on the ground and stands ready to react through appropriate measures to any decision or action that might continue to undermine democracy, the rule of law and human rights situation,” Mogherini said. – Reuters