CARACAS, Venezuela (AP) — The Christmas spirit has yet to fully embrace Venezuela, despite President Nicolás Maduro's efforts to kickstart the festive season earlier this year. Caracas residents awoke to a towering Christmas tree in a popular public square, signaling the start of the holiday season, although the mood remains subdued.
Many Venezuelans associate Christmas with lavish shopping sprees and generous bonuses from employers, a stark contrast to the current economic hardships facing the country. In the past, employees would receive substantial year-end bonuses, often three times their monthly salary, leading to a flurry of spending and festive preparations.
