Venezuelans Fear Hunger More Than US Military Action Amid Rising Tensions

Summary

While geopolitical tensions escalate between the United States and Venezuela, the mood on the streets of Caracas tells a different story. The US government recently deployed military assets, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, to the region and issued warnings that led to flight cancellations. Yet, for ordinary citizens, the looming threat of a US military action takes a backseat to a much more immediate enemy: hyperinflation and hunger.

In local markets like Quinta Crespo, vendors report that customers are scarce, not because of war panic, but because purchasing power has evaporated. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the Venezuelan bolívar is expected to lose 80% of its value this year, with inflation projections hitting 548%. Basic necessities are becoming luxuries; a single kilo of chicken now costs nearly four times the official monthly minimum wage.

Many residents express skepticism about an actual invasion, viewing the political maneuvering as noise compared to their daily struggle for survival. “What’s really troubling us is the rise of the dollar,” explains one market vendor. While the Maduro government urges citizens to prepare for foreign aggression, locals are more concerned with securing their next meal.

However, a climate of fear persists regarding free speech. Following mass arrests after the disputed 2024 elections, many Venezuelans are afraid to voice their true political opinions. While some quietly hope an intervention might bring regime change, the overwhelming sentiment is one of exhaustion. Whether facing power cuts or price hikes, the population remains focused on navigating an economic crisis that is literally “eating them alive,” regardless of the warships on the horizon.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c3e0jnww2e9o