The geopolitical state of play for Venezuela

Venezuela is shaping up to become a major geopolitical flashpoint, with both Russia and China opposing the U.S. stance in very strong terms.

The big picture: Along with a large chunk of the Western Hemisphere, the U.K. stands with the U.S. and has reportedly refused a request from the Maduro government to liquidate $1.2 billion of gold reserves held at the Bank of England.

Go deeper: Trump seizes chance to ratchet up pressure on Venezuela's Maduro