Citibank to close key Venezuela payment account: Maduro

Caracas (AFP) – Citibank plans to close the account Venezuela uses to make international payments, President Nicolas Maduro said Monday, accusing the US-based bank of a “financial blockade.” 

“Citibank, with no warning or communication, says that it is going to close the Central Bank and Bank Of Venezuela account. That is what you call a financial blockade,” the embattled president said in televised remarks.

He said the move amounted to an “inquisition” by US President Barack Obama’s administration.