Human Rights Groups Urge End to US Sanctions Following Venezuelan Quakes

While President Donald Trump pledged that his administration stands ready to assist, critics argue that existing economic restrictions fundamentally cripple the nation’s ability to mount an effective disaster response. Peace group CodePink stated that years of economic warfare have weakened Venezuela’s capacity to recover from crises, noting that current humanitarian exemptions for oil companies fail to address the broader needs of the population.

Mark Weisbrot, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, warned that the sanctions continue to deter international financial engagement, complicating emergency relief efforts. He pointed to historical data suggesting that previous sanctions significantly hindered access to essential food and medicine, contributing to a severe economic decline. Advocates are now calling for the immediate release of frozen Venezuelan funds to facilitate reconstruction and prioritize the survival of those trapped in the disaster zone.