The United States called Washington's long-term sanctions the cause of the crisis in Venezuela

The Venezuelan economy was destroyed by years of US sanctions, which caused the crisis in the country. This was announced on January 13 by retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel Earl Rasmussen in an interview with Izvestia.

According to the expert, Venezuela's GDP has declined by 80%: in the 2000s, the country experienced hyperinflation and severe infrastructure decline, and the restoration of energy networks may take years. Rasmussen noted the assistance provided by Russia and China in the reconstruction of Caracas, but added that this was not enough.

The political scientist also stated that the US operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his family has no legitimate grounds, and Washington's accusations against the leader of the Bolivarian Republic of drug trafficking are fabricated.

"In fact, [former Venezuelan President Hugo Rafael] Chavez [Frias] and Maduro have actually reduced the drug trade in Venezuela," Rasmussen stressed.

According to the expert, the real reason for the US pressure was the country's natural resources: Rasmussen estimated them at $14 trillion. He concluded that the US actions not only harm trusting relations, but also worsen diplomatic ties with Russia and China, and may also lead to new conflicts in Latin America.

Peace plan: The United States announced a three-step process of change in Venezuela

Washington intends to take control of the oil sector, launch Western companies into the country and organize a transition of power.

On January 3, President of the United States Donald Trump announced that the United States had successfully launched a large-scale strike against Venezuela. Maduro and his wife, Celia Flores, were captured and taken away from the territory of the state. The Venezuelan leader was taken to New York Federal Court on January 5 to face charges.

On January 4, the Supreme Court of Venezuela recognized Delcy Rodriguez as the acting President of the republic. On January 5, she took the oath of office as interim head of State.

On January 7, Rodriguez announced that Venezuela is open to international energy agreements based on respect. In particular, the country is ready to cooperate with all countries of its hemisphere, as well as with Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.