Patrick Esteruelas
Patrick Esteruelas
afraid against challenge chavez class few figures middle run visible
A lot of intellectuals, middle class and upper class, have been egging him on to run against Chavez. He is one of the few visible figures who has some clout, and he hasn't been afraid to challenge Chavez in the past.
almost armed branches designed efforts equipment line move purchases sale uniquely
This sale is in line with Venezuela's efforts to modernize many of branches in its armed forces. Many of these purchases are designed to move away from equipment that was almost uniquely sourced to the U.S.
chavez delivered expected feels message past plays seven uses whenever
Whenever Chavez feels threatened, he plays up the nationalist card. In the past seven years, whenever he feels that his message hasn't delivered the expected results, he uses the nationalism.
assuming round several victory
We've been assuming a first round victory for several months.
accept companies large majority oil potential prices remain reserves venezuela willing
A large majority of companies are willing to accept tighter terms. Venezuela has large untapped potential reserves and oil prices remain very high.
class darling elite fifties former middle opponent self weighed
He is weighed down by this transformation over the years from a self-described revolutionary and former opponent of the dictatorship of the fifties to ... the darling of the middle class and intellectual elite of Venezuela.
chavez financial reached
Chavez hasn't reached his financial limit, but he is nearing it.
chavez emerge influence issue leadership likely main overall prevail stronger terms watch
The main issue to watch is who is likely to emerge stronger and prevail in terms of overall influence and leadership in the region, be it Chavez or be it Bush.