CRS Reviews Impact of Venezuela Sanctions Policy

The Congressional Research Service ("CRS") reviewed the impact of U.S. financial, sectoral, individual and governmental sanctions imposed on Venezuela.

In an In Focus Report, the CRS considered the Administration's easing of energy sanctions (the licenses were issued only through April) based on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and the political opposition signing the Barbados Accord "which included a roadmap toward holding competitive elections." The CRS stated that "the 118th Congress is closely monitoring the degree to which the Maduro government complies with the Barbados Accord linked to U.S. sanctions relief and could seek to modify U.S. sanctions policy."

The sanctions referenced in the report include Executive Orders and various acts designed to regulate oil and petroleum products, digital currency, arms, dual-use technology and financial services. The report stated that the effect of the sanctions to date remains uncertain.