The GPM Global Forecast is a bi-weekly, members-only article series for 2017. It provides analysis and short-term forecasting on key military, political, and economic events around the globe.

Venezuela Takes another Step toward Civil War

The situation in Venezuela continues to deteriorate by the day. The severity of the country’s economic crisis is no secret: hyperinflation, shortages of basic goods and medicines, widespread unemployment, and a central government teetering on the brink of default. But now it’s the political crisis that is taking center stage. Months of protests have brought daily life to a grinding halt throughout the country; supporters from both sides are mobilizing en masse, clashing with each other and government forces. So far, over 75 people have been killed and hundreds injured.