What Happened Following an executive order issued by U.S. President Donald Trump late Aug. 5, the United States has blocked the transfer of all property and interests in any property belonging to the Venezuelan government that is within the jurisdiction of the United States. The order also imposes sanctions "on persons who provide support to Nicolas Maduro and his illegitimate regime." Why It Matters The United States, with national security adviser John Bolton, the principal architect of the White House's strategy to force the Venezuelan president to step down, leading the charge, is doubling down on an economic coercion campaign with the intent of either compelling Maduro to accept an exit deal to pave the way for an election or improve the conditions for a coup.