Venezuela bans Flight from Europe and Columbia for the next 30 days

Venezuela has cancelled all flights from Europe and neighbouring Colombia in an effort to isolate the troubled South American country from the spread of the coronavirus, reports Joe Parkin Daniels. The ban will last 30 days.

Mass gatherings have also been banned, the country’s embattled president, Nicolás Maduro, said in a televised statement on Thursday. He described the measures as “preventative”.

Venezuela, which boasts the largest proven oil reserves on the planet, is mired in social and economic turmoil, with shortages in basic goods and medical supplies widespread and runaway hyperinflation.