USA, Argentina may impose Venezuela sanctions

Following a private meeting between US and Argentinian government representatives over the weekend, both countries are considering placing sanctions on Venezuela’s oil industry.

US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson made an official visit to Buenos Aires to discuss regional issues, including Venezuela’s continued destabilisation under President Nicolás Maduro. Speaking at a press conference with Argentina’s foreign affairs minister, Jorge Faurie, Secretary Tillerson said, “Imposing sanctions on oil or prohibiting US sales of products that come from Venezuela is something that we continue to consider.”

Secretary Tillerson also said that the governments were analysing the possible effects that these measures would have on Venezuelan citizens, as well as in the region.

“Argentina’s commitment to the recovery of democracy and the full validity of the institutions and structures on which a democratic regime is based is indeclinable,” Minister Faurie said.

The issue is expected to be discussed further today during Secretary Tillerson’s meeting with Argentinian President Mauricio Macri.