NPR

U.S. Masses Aid Along Venezuelan Border As Some Humanitarian Groups Warn Of Risks

Some aid workers are being denounced as opposition activists and there are fears that all aid could be blocked. The situation could soon resemble a "medieval siege," warns an analyst in Caracas.
A volunteer carries a bag with U.S. humanitarian aid goods in Cúcuta, Colombia, along the border with Venezuela, on Feb. 8.

The U.S. effort to distribute tons of food and medicine to needy Venezuelans is more than just a humanitarian mission. The operation is also designed to foment regime change in Venezuela — which is why much of the international aid community wants nothing to do with it.

Humanitarian operations are supposed to be neutral. That's why the International Committee of the Red Cross, United Nations agencies and other relief organizations have refused to collaborate with the U.S. and its allies in the Venezuelan opposition who are trying to force President Nicolás Maduro from power.

"Humanitarian action needs to be last week in New York. "The needs of the people should lead in terms of when and how humanitarian assistance is used."

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