Venezuela’s economy is in tatters — and its border crisis could destabilize the region

Less than four months before crucial elections that may make or break its legislative advantage, the government of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has embarked on an effort to clamp down the country’s western border with Colombia.  The ultimate consequences of the “state of emergency” imposed on western border areas remain unclear, but the country's current situation threatens the rattle the overall stability of the region, particularly that of Colombia. More…